The Mercedes — Benz M113.965 is a 5,987 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2006. It forms part of the M113 engine family, featuring a 90 — degree V configuration, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and three valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust). Equipped with sequential multi — point fuel injection and an EZL ignition system, it delivers 265 kW (360 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 530 Nm of torque at 3,000–4,000 rpm, designed for high — performance luxury vehicles.
Fitted pri…
Production years 2001–2006 comply with Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8902).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.965 is a 5,987 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury platforms (2001–2006). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, high-output performance and refinement. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical reliability and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 102.0 mm | |
Power output | 265 kW (360 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 530 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Timing chain (double-row, non-interference) | |
Oil type | 229.3 specification (SAE 10W-40) | |
Dry weight | 220 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M113.965 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220/W215 platforms with longitudinal mounting in rear-wheel-drive applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the W220 and shorter exhaust manifolds in the W215—and from 2003 the facelifted W220 models adopted updated lambda control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M113.965's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2002 indicated a notable share of pre-2003 engines showing lobe degradation before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in vehicles with delayed lambda sensor servicing. Extended oil intervals and low-RON fuel exacerbate wear and knock risk, making oil quality and fuel specification adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2001-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002-2007). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M113.965 is mechanically robust with good longevity when maintained properly. Early models (2001–2002) are prone to camshaft lobe wear if oil changes are delayed or incorrect oil is used. Later units (post-2003) feature improved camshaft hardening, enhancing durability. Regular servicing with MB 229.3 oil and timely lambda sensor replacement ensure reliable long-term operation.
The main issues are intake camshaft lobe wear (especially pre-2003), lambda sensor failure, throttle body carbon buildup, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins and field reports. Using correct oil and adhering to service intervals significantly reduces failure rates.
This 6.0L petrol V8 engine was used in the S-Class (W220 S 600) and CL-Class (W215 CL 600). It was phased out by 2006 and replaced by the M275 engine family. All applications were rear-wheel-drive with longitudinal engine mounting.
Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remapping can yield modest gains (~20-30 PS) by optimizing ignition and fuel maps, but the naturally aspirated design and compression ratio limit output. Aftermarket intake and exhaust systems offer minor improvements. Significant power increases require internal modifications, which are uncommon due to the engine's age and design constraints.
In combined driving, the M113.965 achieves approximately 14.5–16.5 L/100km (19–17 mpg UK). Urban consumption ranges from 18.0–22.0 L/100km, while highway efficiency can reach 11.0 L/100km. Real-world figures depend on driving style and vehicle weight, with the W220 S-Class being the most efficient application.
No. The M113.965 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, the engine will stop running, so chain inspection during major services is still recommended.
Mercedes specifies SAE 10W-40 oil meeting MB 229.3 standard. This high-shear-stability oil ensures proper lubrication of the camshaft and valvetrain. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year. Using non-specification oil increases the risk of cam lobe wear, especially in pre-2003 engines.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.