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…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M116.981 delivers smooth V12 performance and is generally robust when properly maintained. Early models (1998–1999) are prone to camshaft lobe wear, but post-2000 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 lobe wear (especially pre-2000), 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 M116.981 was used exclusively in the W140 S-Class (S600, 1998–2002) and C140 CL-Class (CL600, 1998–2002). It replaced the M119.980 and was succeeded by the M275 twin-turbo V12. All applications are longitudinal front-engine layouts with 5G-Tronic transmission.
Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remaps can yield +20–35 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 18–22 L/100 km (13–16 mpg UK) in city driving and 12–15 L/100 km (19–24 mpg UK) on highways. Combined consumption typically ranges 15–18 L/100 km (16–19 mpg UK). Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style, given the V12's appetite for throttle. Using premium fuel (98 RON) can improve smoothness and responsiveness.
Yes. The M116.981 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 lubrication and long-term reliability.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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