The Mercedes — Benz M116.983 is a 4,520 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1971 and 1981. It belongs to the M116 engine family, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per bank, hemispherical combustion chambers, and twin Zenith 40TIX/2 or Solex 4A1 DVG carburettors. Delivering 160 kW (218 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 340 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, it provided smooth, effortless power delivery for grand touring applications.
Fitted primarily to the W10…
Production years 1971–1981 comply with pre-Euro emissions standards as defined under ECE Regulation 15 (Revision 01). Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Type Approval records confirm conformity for UK-market variants.
The Mercedes-Benz M116.983 is a 4,520 cc V8 petrol engine developed for luxury grand touring applications (1971–1981). It features SOHC valvetrain architecture with twin-carburettor induction, delivering smooth power delivery and mechanical refinement. Designed prior to modern emissions regulations, it balances period-correct performance with long-term durability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,520 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, SOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 76.0 mm | |
Power output | 160 kW (218 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
Torque | 340 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Twin Zenith 40TIX/2 or Solex 4A1 DVG carburettors | |
Emissions standard | Pre-regulatory (ECE R15-01) | |
Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (duplex), front-mounted | |
Oil type | SAE 20W-50 mineral (API SF/CC) | |
Dry weight | 225 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M116.983 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W108/W109/W116/R107 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensing partnerships. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds for saloon versus coupe applications-and from 1976 the updated W116.028 series adopted revised valve train components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M116.983's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Internal Mercedes-Benz service reports from 1977 noted increased chain noise in pre-1976 units exceeding 100,000 km, while VCA inspection records show a notable share of emissions-related failures linked to carburettor imbalance in vintage vehicles. Extended oil change intervals and use of incorrect viscosity oils accelerate wear, making adherence to factory service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1971-1981) and UK DVSA vintage vehicle inspection statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M116.983 is mechanically robust when properly maintained. Early models (1971-1975) had timing chain tensioner issues, but post-1976 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes with SAE 20W-50, carburettor servicing, and cooling system maintenance are essential. Well-kept examples can exceed 200,000 km with minimal issues.
Key issues include timing chain tensioner wear (especially pre-1976), carburettor imbalance due to worn Zenith/Solex units, cooling system leaks, and hydraulic tappet noise. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service literature and addressed through OEM-recommended updates and maintenance procedures.
The M116.983 was used in the W108/W109 300SEL 4.5 (1971–1973), W116 450SE/450SEL (1973–1981), and R107 450SL/450SLC (1973–1980). It was not used outside of these flagship saloon and coupe applications. No cross-manufacturer applications exist for this variant.
Limited tuning potential exists. Performance upgrades include high-flow air filters, tuned exhaust manifolds, and modified camshafts. Carburettor swaps (e.g., triple Webers) are possible but require custom manifolds. ECU tuning is not applicable—ignition is distributor-based. Realistic gains are +20–30 PS with supporting modifications.
Factory figures indicate ~15.0 L/100km (18.8 mpg UK) in combined driving. Real-world consumption ranges from 14.0–18.0 L/100km (15–20 mpg UK) depending on driving style and vehicle condition. Carburettor tune and tyre pressure significantly affect efficiency.
No. The M116.983 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails, piston-to-valve contact is unlikely, reducing risk of catastrophic internal damage. However, immediate repair is still advised to prevent secondary damage from incorrect valve timing.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 20W-50 mineral oil meeting API SF/CC standards. Modern synthetic blends with equivalent viscosity are acceptable if compatible with vintage engine materials. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or annually to ensure optimal lubrication of the timing chain and hydraulic tappets.
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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