The Mercedes-Benz M 117.961 is a 6,030 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1998. It features a 90° V8 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve design, and Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection. Delivering 265 kW (360 PS) and 580 Nm of torque, it was engineered for high-speed stability and smooth power delivery in flagship luxury sedans and coupes.
Fitted primarily to the W140 S-Class (S 600) and R129 SL-Class (SL 600), the M 117.961 was designed to provide effortless acceleration and long-distance cruising refinement. Its driving character emphasized linear power delivery and low-vibration operation, supported by a rigid engine block and balance shafts. Emissions compliance was achieved through three-way catalytic converters and oxygen sensor feedback control, meeting Euro 2 standards by 1992 (EU Directive 91/441/EEC).
One documented service concern involves premature camshaft sprocket wear due to inadequate lubrication at the timing chain tensioner. This issue, referenced in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 110/1993, affects early production units and can lead to timing misalignment. Later builds received revised tensioner geometry and upgraded sprocket metallurgy, improving long-term reliability under sustained highway loads.
All models meet Euro 2 emissions standards (EU Directive 91/441/EEC, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6790).
The Mercedes-Benz M 117.961 is a 6,030 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for full-size luxury vehicles (1990–1998). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with Bosch LH-Jetronic continuous fuel injection to deliver smooth, high-torque performance. Designed to meet early 1990s emissions regulations, it balances refinement with mechanical durability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,030 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.5 mm × 102.5 mm | |
| Power output | 265 kW (360 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 3,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-row timing chain (front-mounted, two-stage tensioner) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-60, API SH/CD | |
| Dry weight | 232 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 design provides smooth, linear throttle response ideal for relaxed driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft sprocket and chain wear. SAE 10W-60 oil meeting API SH/CD standards is essential due to the high-load timing chain system requiring robust film strength. Extended idling or short-trip usage accelerates sludge formation in the crankcase ventilation system, necessitating periodic inspection. The LH-Jetronic fuel system demands clean fuel and stable oxygen sensor operation to maintain drivability. Catalytic converters require lead-free petrol exclusively to prevent poisoning. Emissions-related components must remain intact to preserve compliance and engine management stability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/CD specification with high-viscosity stability (Daimler SIB 110/1993). Modern equivalents must meet legacy wear protection standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 2 standards under EU Directive 91/441/EEC (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6790).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies slightly based on ignition timing and fuel quality (Daimler TIS Doc. A11890).
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A11770, A11890, SIB 110/1993
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6790)
ISO 1585:1976 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 117.961 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W140/R129 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing partnerships. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake runners in the W140 and revised exhaust manifolds in the R129-and from 1992 the introduction of OBD-I diagnostics created interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder head near the exhaust manifold (Daimler TIS A11780). The 7th and 8th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('17' for M117 series). All units feature a single-row serpentine belt and Bosch LH-Jetronic intake plenum. Critical differentiation from M119: M117.961 has a naturally aspirated design, while M119 employs a twin-turbocharged configuration with higher specific output. Service parts require VIN-based verification—camshaft sprockets for pre-1993 engines are incompatible with later revised metallurgy versions (Daimler SIB 110/1993).
The M 117.961's primary reliability risk is camshaft sprocket and timing chain wear on pre-1993 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Daimler internal reports from 1994 noted a significant number of engines requiring chain replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data shows increased failure rates in emissions systems on high-mileage units. Short-trip driving and infrequent maintenance amplify wear, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1990-1998) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (1990-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M117961.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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
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