The Mercedes-Benz M113.987 is a 5,439 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2005. It features a 32-valve DOHC configuration with sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) and was engineered for executive and grand touring applications. This naturally aspirated design delivers 225 kW (306 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 460 Nm of torque at 2,700–4,250 rpm, providing strong low-end pull and smooth throttle response.
Fitted primarily to the W220 S-Class and C215 CL-Class models—including the S500 and CL500—the M113.987 was designed for refined performance and passenger comfort. Its engineering emphasizes smoothness and emissions compliance, meeting Euro 3 standards through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. The engine’s compact 90-degree V8 layout enabled efficient packaging in longitudinal front-engine platforms.
One documented service concern involves premature wear of the intake camshaft in early production units, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 01.0-887/04, is attributed to marginal oil film strength at high-load cam lobe points. In 2002, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated oil pump calibration were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.987 is a 5,439 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury executive vehicles (2001–2005). It combines 32-valve DOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and dependable performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances refinement with responsive drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,439 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 460 Nm @ 2,700–4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.3 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 design provides strong low-end torque ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft wear. MB 229.3 (10W-40) oil is critical due to its high-shear stability protecting cam lobes under sustained load. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates carbon buildup on intake valves. The ME-SFI system demands fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent injector clogging. Post-2002 models feature hardened camshafts; pre-2002 units benefit from inspection per SIB 01.0-887/04. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda sensor function and avoidance of leaded fuel.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 (10W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0-887/04). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all M113.987 models (2001–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across production run (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2002).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A113700, A113715, SIB 01.0-887/04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5686)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M113.987 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220/C215 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the S-Class and tuned engine mounts in the CL-Class-and from 2002 the facelifted W220 models adopted revised camshafts, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A113705). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M113 series). Pre-2002 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-2002 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M113.986: M113.987 has identical displacement but different cam timing and ECU mapping. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts before 08/2002 are incompatible with later units due to material upgrade (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0-887/04).
The M113.987's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on pre-2002 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2004 indicated a notable share of early engines requiring camshaft replacement before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a moderate rate of emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor degradation in fleet-operated vehicles. Extended idling and low-RPM operation increase lobe stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2001-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2001-2006). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113987.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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