The Mercedes-Benz M113.993 is a 5,461 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It features a 90-degree V8 configuration, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust. In standard tuning, it delivers 258 kW (351 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 510 Nm of torque at 2,700–4,000 rpm, providing strong mid-range performance for grand touring applications.
Fitted to high-performance models including the W220 S Class, W211 E Class, and R230 SL, the M113.993 was engineered for smooth power delivery and long-distance refinement. It meets Euro 4 emissions standards through multi-point electronic fuel injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and dual three-way catalytic converters, ensuring compliance in European markets through its production run.
One documented service concern is premature camshaft wear observed in select 2006–2008 builds, addressed in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 23/2009. The issue was linked to marginal oil flow at the camshaft journals under sustained high-load conditions. A revised oil gallery design and updated camshafts were implemented from 2009 onward, improving durability in later production units.

Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2011 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.993 is a 5,461 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for luxury and performance sedans and coupes (2006–2011). It combines dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing to deliver linear power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 and later Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 258 kW (351 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 2,700–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (ME 2.1 ECU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2011) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 212 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals using MB 229.5-specified oil to prevent camshaft wear. Use of non-compliant oil or extended intervals can accelerate wear in pre-2009 engines due to marginal oil pressure at the cam journals. Cold starts should be followed by gradual warm-up to ensure stable oil pressure. The ME 2.1 engine management system is sensitive to vacuum leaks and requires OEM-grade gaskets. Post-2009 engines feature revised oil galleries and camshafts; pre-2009 units should be inspected per SIB 23/2009. Catalytic converters require regular full-load operation to prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (5W-40) as per SIB 23/2009. ACEA A3/B4 compliant oils acceptable if MB-approved.
Emissions: Euro 4 applies to 2006–2009 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2010–2011 units in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities due to closed-loop lambda control (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35104).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34712, A35104, SIB 23/2009
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net engine power
The Mercedes-Benz M113.993 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/W220/R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the S-Class and revised intake manifolds in the SL-Class-and from 2009 the updated W221 S-Class adopted the M152 successor with direct injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-right cylinder bank near the alternator (Mercedes-Benz TIS A34712). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M113 series). Pre-2009 engines have silver cam covers with black valve cover gaskets; post-2009 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M113.996: M113.993 produces 351 PS, while M113.996 (AMG) produces 388 PS. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts and oil pumps for pre-2009 engines are incompatible with post-2009 revisions due to internal oil gallery updates (Mercedes-Benz SIB 23/2009).
The M113.993's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in pre-2009 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2010 indicated a notable share of pre-2009 engines showing wear before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a portion of emissions-related failures to aging catalytic converters. Extended oil intervals and use of non-compliant oil increase wear risk, making oil quality and adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2006-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M113993.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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