The Mercedes — Benz M 113.981 is a 5,439 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2008. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), multi — point fuel injection (EZL), and a die — cast aluminium block and head. This high — performance V8 delivers 265 kW (360 PS) at 5,850 rpm and 510 Nm of torque, engineered for dynamic power delivery and luxury refinement.
Fitted primarily to the W220 S — Class and R230 SL — Class models—such as the S500 and SL500—the M 11…
Production years 2004–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6241).
The Mercedes-Benz M 113.981 is a 5,439 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for luxury and performance sedans and coupes (2004–2008). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC valvetrain design to deliver smooth power and reduced vibration. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances high performance with mechanical efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,439 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 96.9 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 265 kW (360 PS) @ 5,850 rpm | |
Torque | 510 Nm @ 2,700–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (EZL control) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain (DOHC) | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SL/CD) | |
Dry weight | 202 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 113.981 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220 and R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning for automatic transmission variants in the R230 and revised exhaust routing in the W220-and from 2006 the facelifted W220 models adopted the M273 engine, creating direct interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 113.981's primary reliability risk is camshaft and follower wear under sustained high-RPM use, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 150,000 km without oil service. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2006 noted measurable cam lobe degradation in urban-driven S500s, while VCA field data links a significant portion of high-mileage W220/R230 failures to intake vacuum leaks. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality increase fuel system wear, making fluid maintenance and inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2004-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008-2018). 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
Yes, the M 113.981 is known for mechanical simplicity and durability when properly maintained. Its V8 layout and DOHC design contribute to smooth operation and longevity. However, camshaft wear and intake leaks can occur if oil and fuel systems are not serviced regularly. Engines with documented service history often exceed 200,000 km.
The main issues are camshaft/follower wear from delayed oil changes, intake manifold vacuum leaks, timing chain tensioner failure, and valve cover oil seepage. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins and owner maintenance logs.
The M 113.981 was used in the W220 S-Class (S500) and R230 SL-Class (SL500) from 2004 to 2008. It was replaced by the M273 engine in later S-Class models. No other manufacturers used this engine.
Limited tuning potential exists. Modifications include performance camshafts, high-flow exhaust manifolds, and intake upgrades. Some owners retrofit throttle-body spacers or cold-air intakes. Realistic gains are +15–25 kW with supporting mods. Over-revving beyond 6,500 rpm risks valve float and follower damage.
In a W220 S500, typical consumption is ~14.2 L/100km (city) and ~8.5 L/100km (highway), or about 23 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style and mechanical condition, but expect 20–25 mpg (UK) on mixed roads.
Yes. The M 113 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons can contact open valves, resulting in bent valves or damaged pistons. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mercedes specifies SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SL/CD standards. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km to protect the camshaft and timing chain. Modern API SM/CF 10W-40 oils are acceptable if seals are in good condition. Always use high-quality oil to support the EZL injection system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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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
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