The Mercedes — Benz M113.989 is a 5,439 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2006. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per bank with multi — point fuel injection (Bosch ME — Motronic) and delivers 265 kW (360 PS) at 5,750 rpm and 510 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm. Its high — output character and smooth delivery made it ideal for high — performance luxury sedans and coupes, offering strong acceleration and refined cruising capabilities.
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Production years 2002–2006 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (EU Directive 98/69/EC, Annex I); exact compliance varies by market and model year.
The Mercedes-Benz M113.989 is a 5,439 cc V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance luxury vehicles (2002–2006). It combines SOHC architecture with Bosch ME-Motronic electronic fuel injection to deliver responsive power delivery and drivability. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances performance with serviceability for mixed driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,439 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, SOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 265 kW (360 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
Torque | 510 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch ME-Motronic multi-point fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (EU Directive 98/69/EC) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain (SOHC) | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CD | |
Dry weight | 208 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M113.989 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220 and C215 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-fuel mixture tuning in the C215 for smoother idle and revised exhaust manifolds in the W220-and from 2003, the W220 models received minor emissions revisions, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M113.989's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with irregular maintenance. Internal Mercedes-Benz service reports from 2003–2007 noted a significant number of engines requiring camshaft replacement before 180,000 km, while field data from German TÜV inspections show increased failure rates in high-mileage examples. Extended oil intervals and infrequent warm-up cycles increase wear, making oil quality and operating habits critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2002-2006) and German TÜV inspection statistics (2003-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Yes, when properly maintained. The M113.989 is a robust V8 with strong build quality, but it is sensitive to oil maintenance. Engines with regular 15,000 km oil changes using SAE 10W-40 API SL/CD oil often exceed 250,000 km. The main risk is camshaft wear if service intervals are extended. With disciplined upkeep, it remains a durable and smooth powerplant for daily driving.
The most common issues are camshaft and lifter wear due to oiling concerns, ME-Motronic fuel system drift from ageing components, coolant leaks from thermostat housing, and vacuum system degradation. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service literature and remain the primary focus during restoration or high-mileage servicing.
The M113.989 was used in select W220 and C215 AMG models from 2002 to 2006. It powered the W220 S 55 AMG and C215 CL 55 AMG. It was not used in diesel or smaller chassis. Each application had specific tuning and emissions equipment, so parts compatibility must be verified by VIN and production date.
Limited tuning potential exists. The SOHC design allows for mild performance gains via exhaust upgrades, high-flow air filters, and ECU remapping. Some enthusiasts install performance camshafts or Weber carburettors, but these are non-OEM conversions. The stock internals are durable, but the engine’s design prioritizes refinement over high output, so major power increases require extensive modification.
Fuel economy is modest by modern standards. In a W220 S 55 AMG, expect 16–20 L/100km (18–14 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising at 100 km/h yields ~13.0 L/100km (~22 mpg UK). The ME-Motronic system is reliable but not highly efficient. Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style and vehicle condition.
No. The M113.989 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, chain failure can still cause stalling and secondary issues, so regular inspection is advised despite the safer design.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CD standards. Modern synthetic oils with equivalent viscosity and additive packages are acceptable. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually to protect the camshaft and lifters. Always use high-quality oil to ensure proper upper valvetrain lubrication.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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