The Mercedes — Benz M113.995 is a 4,966 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2006. It features a 90 — degree V8 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and sequential multi — point fuel injection. This engine delivers 225 kW (306 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 460 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing strong linear power delivery ideal for grand touring applications.
Fitted to models such as the W211 E — Class (E500), W220…
Production years 2001–2003 meet Euro 3 standards; 2004–2006 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M113.995 is a 4,966 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for luxury sedans and coupes (2001–2006). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with acceptable emissions for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,966 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 96.9 mm × 84.0 mm | |
Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 460 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2004); Euro 4 (2004–2006) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | MB 229.3 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 220 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M113.995 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/W220/R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the W220 and tuned intake manifolds in the R230-and from 2004 the facelifted W211 models adopted revised camshaft sprockets, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M113.995's primary reliability risk is camshaft sprocket wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in cold climates and short-trip driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2005 indicated a notable share of pre-2004 engines requiring sprocket replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link timing-related failures to extended oil intervals. Cold-start cycles and infrequent oil changes increase chain and sprocket stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2001-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M113.995 delivers smooth V8 performance and is generally robust when properly maintained. Early models (2001–2003) are prone to camshaft sprocket wear, but post-2004 revisions significantly improved durability. Regular oil changes with MB 229.3 5W-40 oil and timely replacement of known wear items (coils, intake actuators) ensure long-term reliability.
Key issues include camshaft sprocket wear (especially pre-2004), intake manifold runner actuator failure, ignition coil degradation, and valve cover oil leaks. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins. Secondary air pump failures and thermostat issues are also reported but less critical.
The M113.995 was used in the W211 E500 (2001–2006), W220 S500 (2001–2005), and R230 SL500 (2002–2006). It replaced the M113.970 and was succeeded by the M113.996. All applications are longitudinal front-engine layouts with 7G-Tronic or 5G-Tronic transmissions.
Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remaps can yield +15–25 kW gains safely by optimizing fuel and ignition maps. However, the naturally aspirated design limits major power increases without forced induction. Cold-air intakes and exhaust upgrades offer minor improvements. Always maintain factory cooling and oiling systems when modifying.
Expect 14–16 L/100 km (17–20 mpg UK) in city driving and 9–11 L/100 km (26–31 mpg UK) on highways. Combined consumption typically ranges 11–13 L/100 km (22–26 mpg UK). Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style, given the V8's appetite for throttle. Using premium fuel (98 RON) can improve efficiency and responsiveness.
Yes. The M113.995 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. This underscores the importance of timely maintenance and immediate attention to any timing-related noises or faults.
Mercedes-Benz specifies 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.3 (or newer) standard. Use only high-quality synthetic oil designed for high-performance petrol engines and change it every 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil selection is critical for camshaft sprocket lubrication and long-term reliability.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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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