The Mercedes-Benz M116.981 is a 5,987 cc, V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a 60-degree V12 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), three valves per cylinder, and sequential multi-point fuel injection. In standard application it delivered 270 kW (367 PS) at 5,250 rpm and 540 Nm of torque at 3,750 rpm, providing smooth, effortless power delivery characteristic of flagship luxury sedans.
Fitted exclusively to the W140 S-Class (S600) and C140 CL-Class (CL600), the M116.981 was engineered for ultimate refinement and silent operation at cruising speeds. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual catalytic converters and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 3 certification in European markets while maintaining the hallmark V12 smoothness expected in the S-Class lineup.
One documented reliability concern is premature camshaft wear, identified in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07/1999 (No. 116.012). This issue stems from inadequate lubrication to the camshaft lobes during cold-start conditions and extended oil change intervals. In 2000, Mercedes-Benz introduced revised camshaft profiles and updated oil pump calibration to improve longevity across the V12 engine family.
Production years 1998–2000 meet Euro 3 standards; 2001–2002 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6890).
The Mercedes-Benz M116.981 is a 5,987 cc V12 naturally aspirated engine engineered for flagship luxury sedans (1998–2002). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver imperceptible power delivery and near-silent operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes refinement and low-vibration performance over outright efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 36-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 79.7 mm | |
| Power output | 270 kW (367 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 540 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (1998–2000); Euro 4 (2001–2002) | |
| 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 | 278 kg |
The naturally aspirated V12 provides seamless, vibration-free power ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.3 5W-40 oil to prevent camshaft wear. Cold-start idling should be limited to reduce wear on the front-mounted timing chain and camshaft lobes. The ME-SFI system demands high-octane unleaded fuel (98 RON) to maintain optimal combustion and prevent long-term deposits. Post-2000 models feature revised camshaft profiles and oil pump calibration; pre-2000 units should be inspected per SIB 07/1999. Dual catalytic converters require periodic inspection to ensure proper emissions control and prevent exhaust restriction.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07/1999). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2001 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6890). 2001–2002 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across markets with premium fuel (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A30215).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A30130, A30215, SIB 07/1999
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6890)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M116.981 was used exclusively across Mercedes-Benz's W140/C140 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W140 and tuned exhaust manifolds in the C140-and from 2001 the facelifted W140 models adopted revised camshaft profiles, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A30190). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('V' for M116 series). Pre-2000 models have silver valve covers with ribbed design; post-2000 units use revised camshaft profiles. Critical differentiation from M119.981: M116.981 has 6.0L displacement with 270 kW output, while M119.981 is a 6.0L twin-turbo variant producing 300 kW. Service parts require production date verification - camshafts for engines before 06/2000 are incompatible with later units due to design revision (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07/1999).
The M116.981's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in cold climates and extended oil interval conditions. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2001 indicated a notable share of pre-2000 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records link timing-related failures to extended oil intervals. Cold-start cycles and infrequent oil changes increase cam and lifter stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M116981.
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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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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