The Mercedes-Benz M116.965 is a 4,243 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a 90-degree V8 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. In standard form, it delivers 225 kW (306 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 410 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, offering strong mid-range pull and smooth high-RPM performance ideal for grand touring applications.
Fitted to models including the W220 S-Class and W210 E-Class, the M116.965 was engineered for refined power delivery and quiet operation. It prioritizes linear throttle response and engine smoothness, meeting Euro 3 emissions standards through precise air-fuel ratio control and secondary air injection during cold start. This engine was reserved for top-tier variants such as the S 430 and E 430, emphasizing comfort and effortless acceleration.
One documented reliability concern is premature camshaft wear in early production units, particularly under short-trip driving conditions. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 05 01, stems from inadequate lubrication at the camshaft journals during cold starts. In 2000, revised camshafts and updated oil pump calibration were introduced to improve oil flow and reduce wear incidence.
Production years 1998–2000 meet Euro 3 standards; 2001–2002 models comply with Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Mercedes-Benz M116.965 is a 4,243 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine designed for luxury sedans (1998–2002). It combines DOHC 32-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, refined performance. Engineered to meet Euro 3 (and later Euro 4) standards, it balances power delivery with emissions compliance through advanced combustion management and secondary air injection systems.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,243 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2001); Euro 4 (2001–2002, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.3 or 229.5 specification (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides linear power delivery ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Mercedes-Benz 229.3/229.5–compliant 10W-60 oil to prevent camshaft wear. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure rapid oil pressure build-up to upper valvetrain components. The timing chain system is robust but early units (pre-2000) are prone to wear if oil maintenance is deferred. Spark plug replacement must follow OEM torque and seating procedures to prevent cylinder head thread damage. Post-2000 revisions include improved oil feed geometry and updated cam profiles to enhance durability.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 or 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 01). Not compatible with lower-viscosity or non-approved oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2001 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Some 2001–2002 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent with standard fuel (RON 95) but benefits from RON 98 for sustained high-load operation (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A004020).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A004010, A004015, SIB 07 05 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
DIN 70020:2004 Road Vehicles — Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M116.965 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220/W210 platforms with longitudinal mounting and reserved exclusively for 430-badged luxury models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the S-Class and compact intake manifolds in the E-Class-and from 2001 the facelifted S 430 adopted revised throttle mapping, 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 A004030). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('6' for M116 series). Pre-2000 models have silver cam covers with black valve stem seals; post-2000 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M113.960: M116.965 has shorter stroke and distinct intake manifold geometry. Service parts require production date verification — camshafts and oil pumps for engines before 06/2000 are incompatible with later units due to internal revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 01).
The M116.965's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip driving. Internal Mercedes data from 2001 reported a notable share of pre-2000 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of MOT emissions failures to misfire-related faults in high-mileage V8s. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase valvetrain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M116965.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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