The Mercedes-Benz M116.963 is a 4,243 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1998. It features a 90-degree V8 configuration, single overhead camshafts (SOHC), and 16-valve design with Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 continuous fuel injection. In standard tune it delivered 210 kW (286 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, offering refined performance and smooth power delivery for grand touring applications.
Fitted to flagship models such as the W140 S-Class, W124 400E, and C140 CL-Class, the M116.963 was engineered for effortless cruising and passenger comfort. It met emissions requirements through three-way catalytic converters and oxygen sensor feedback control, enabling compliance with Euro 1 and early Euro 2 standards depending on model year. The engine's cast-iron block and conservative tuning contributed to long-term durability under regular maintenance.
One documented concern is premature camshaft and follower wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 23 0102, is attributed to marginal oil supply to the upper valvetrain under sustained high-load conditions. Later revisions introduced improved oil gallery drilling and revised follower materials to enhance longevity.
Production years 1991–1994 meet Euro 1 standards; 1995–1998 models meet early Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3345).
The Mercedes-Benz M116.963 is a 4,243 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for luxury sedans and coupes (1991–1998). It combines Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection with SOHC valvetrain architecture to deliver smooth, linear power and long-distance refinement. Designed to meet Euro 1 and early Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances relaxed performance with mechanical reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,243 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, SOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 78.9 mm | |
| Power output | 210 kW (286 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 continuous fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (pre-1995); early Euro 2 (1995–1998) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (MB 229.1) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.1-specified oil to prevent camshaft and follower wear. High-RPM operation increases thermal load, so cooling system maintenance (radiator, thermostat, hoses) is critical. Cold starts should avoid immediate high load to ensure full oil pressure to upper valvetrain. The LH-Jetronic system requires precise fuel quality (RON 95 minimum) to maintain throttle response and prevent injector coking. Pre-1995 engines should be inspected for cam lobe wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 23 0102; later units benefit from improved oil gallery revisions.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 (10W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 23 0102). Compatible with ACEA A2 standards.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to pre-1995 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3345). Early Euro 2 compliance applies to 1995–1998 models.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across production run; no market-specific derating documented.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33061, SIB 23 0102
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3345)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M116.963 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W140/W124 platforms with longitudinal mounting and reserved for 400-series high-comfort applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the W140 and revised exhaust routing in the W124-and from 1995 the updated W140 facelift adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the oil pan rail (Mercedes-Benz TIS A33061). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('E' for M116 V8). Pre-1995 models feature black cam covers with Mercedes-Benz lettering; post-1995 units retain similar styling with updated emissions labels. Critical differentiation from M119: M116.963 has a 4.2L displacement and SOHC layout, while M119 is a 6.0L DOHC unit. Service parts require model-year verification—camshaft kits for pre-1994 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to oil gallery updates (Mercedes-Benz SIB 23 0102).
The M116.963's primary reliability risk is camshaft and follower wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or poorly maintained examples. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1995 noted a significant number of pre-1994 engines requiring valvetrain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVLA data links a portion of classic car MOT failures to exhaust system degradation in modified examples. Extended oil intervals and low-octane fuel increase wear and combustion stress, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1991–1998) and UK DVLA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M116963.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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