The Mercedes-Benz M116.980 is a 4,244 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a 90-degree V8 configuration, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 32-valve design with sequential multi-port fuel injection. In standard tuning, it produces 205 kW (279 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 410 Nm of torque at 3,500–4,000 rpm, delivering smooth, linear power ideal for grand touring applications.
Fitted to flagship models including the W220 S Class and W210 E Class, the M116.980 was engineered for refinement and effortless performance, prioritizing low-end torque and quiet operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 3 standards across its production run as documented in EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456.
One documented service concern is degradation of the intake manifold gasket material under prolonged heat exposure, leading to vacuum leaks and lean-running conditions. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 12.04.21, was addressed with revised high-temperature gasket compounds introduced in 2000. Pre-2000 engines should be inspected for intake seal integrity during major service intervals.
All production years (1998–2002) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Mercedes-Benz M116.980 is a 4,244 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine designed for luxury and performance sedans (1998–2002). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances refinement with regulated emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,244 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 205 kW (279 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (ME 2.1 ECU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.3 (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals using MB 229.3-specified oil to maintain hydraulic lifter function and prevent premature cam wear. Use of non-compliant oil or extended intervals can accelerate lifter noise and intake gasket degradation. 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; OEM-grade gaskets are essential. Pre-2000 units should be inspected for intake manifold gasket integrity per SIB 12.04.21. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda control and avoidance of fuel contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 specification (10W-60) as per SIB 12.04.21. ACEA A3/B3 compliant oils acceptable if MB-approved.
Emissions: All M116.980 units comply with Euro 3 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456), verified under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities due to closed-loop lambda control (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35102).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34701, A35102, SIB 12.04.21
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net engine power
The Mercedes-Benz M116.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W210/W220 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the S-Class and revised intake manifolds in the E-Class-and from 2002 the facelifted W211 E-Class adopted the M112 V6 as standard, 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 A34701). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for M116 series). Pre-2000 models have black intake manifolds with red gasket seals; post-2000 units use revised black gaskets. Critical differentiation from M113.970: M116.980 is a 4.3L V8 producing 279 PS, while M113.970 is a 5.0L V8 producing 306 PS. Service parts require production date verification—intake manifold gaskets for pre-2000 engines are incompatible with post-2000 revisions due to material updates per SIB 12.04.21.
The M116.980's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket degradation in pre-2000 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2003 indicated a notable share of pre-2000 engines showing vacuum leaks before 180,000 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 lifter and cam wear risk, making oil quality and adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2004-2014). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M116980.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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