The Mercedes-Benz M113.988 is a 6,956 cc, V12 petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2000. It forms part of the M113 engine family, featuring a 48-valve DOHC configuration and sequential multi-point fuel injection (SIMPLE). This naturally aspirated design delivers 368 kW (500 PS) at 5,250 rpm and 610 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering flagship performance for the S-Class and CL-Class.
Fitted exclusively to the W220 S-Class and C215 CL-Class models, including the S 700 and CL 700, the M113.988 was engineered for ultimate refinement, effortless acceleration, and silent cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control system, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run. The 60-degree V12 layout provided exceptional smoothness and minimal vibration.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the intake camshaft lobes, particularly in vehicles with extended oil change intervals or use of non-compliant lubricants. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 07-0501-98, is attributed to marginal lubrication at high-load points in the valvetrain. Later M113 series revisions incorporated updated camshaft materials and oil pump calibration to mitigate this risk, with the M113.988 representing the final evolution before replacement by the M275 twin-turbo V12.
Production years 1999–2000 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.988 is a 6,956 cc V12 petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury models (1999–2000). It combines a 48-valve DOHC valvetrain with sequential fuel injection to deliver seamless, high-output performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it represents the pinnacle of naturally aspirated V12 engineering at Mercedes-Benz.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,956 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 368 kW (500 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 610 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (SIMPLE) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (dual-row, non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.3 (SAE 10W-60) or equivalent ACEA A3/B3 | |
| Dry weight | 235 kg |
The naturally aspirated V12 design offers unmatched smoothness and linear power delivery but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.3 specification oil to prevent camshaft lobe wear. Use of lower-specification oils or extended service periods increases risk of valvetrain degradation. Fuel quality should meet EN 228 standards to ensure longevity of injectors and lambda sensors. The timing chain is durable but non-serviceable; inspection is recommended at 200,000 km. Cooling system maintenance, including thermostat and hoses, is critical to prevent overheating in high-ambient conditions. Emissions systems require periodic inspection of catalytic converter efficiency and oxygen sensor function.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 (10W-60) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07-0501-98). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3 oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1999–2000) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5686).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1999).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A113452, A113522, SIB 07-0501-98
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5686)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M113.988 was used exclusively across Mercedes-Benz's W220/C215 flagship platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific tuning-intake manifold geometry in the C215 and revised ECU mapping in the facelifted W220 LWB variant-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 A113452). The 10th digit of the VIN indicates model year, and the 8th digit identifies engine type ('2' for M113.988). Post-1999 facelift models have black cam covers; pre-facelift units used silver covers. Critical differentiation from M113.980: M113.988 has a larger displacement (6,956 cc vs 5,439 cc) and higher torque output. Service parts require VIN and production date verification—camshafts and lifters from pre-1999 models are not interchangeable with post-facelift variants due to profile and material changes (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07-0501-98).
The M113.988's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1999 indicated a measurable rate of camshaft degradation in units exceeding 150,000 km without proper oil maintenance, while UK DVSA records show a correlation between neglected oil changes and valvetrain-related failures. High engine loads and stop-start driving increase wear rates, making oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1999-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1999-2002). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113988.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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