The Mercedes-Benz M117.963 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), four valves per cylinder, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. In standard form, it delivers 298 kW (405 PS) at 5,250 rpm and 580 Nm of torque at 3,750 rpm, offering effortless power delivery and exceptional refinement for flagship luxury applications.
Fitted exclusively to the W220 S-Class Pullman and select high-end limousines, the M117.963 was engineered for ultimate smoothness, quiet operation, and dignified performance. It prioritizes imperceptible power build-up and cabin silence, meeting Euro 3 emissions standards through precise air-fuel ratio control and secondary air injection during cold start. This engine was reserved for the most exclusive variants, emphasizing ride comfort and executive-level isolation.
One documented reliability concern is premature camshaft wear in early production units, particularly under low-speed urban operation. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 05 01, stems from inadequate lubrication at the camshaft journals during cold starts. In 2000, revised camshafts and updated oil pump calibration were introduced to improve oil flow and reduce wear incidence.
Production years 1998–2000 meet Euro 3 standards; 2001–2002 models comply with Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Mercedes-Benz M117.963 is a 5,987 cc V12 naturally aspirated engine designed for flagship luxury sedans (1998–2002). It combines DOHC 48-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver seamless, vibration-free performance. Engineered to meet Euro 3 (and later Euro 4) standards, it balances supreme refinement with emissions compliance through advanced combustion management and secondary air injection systems.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 298 kW (405 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2001); Euro 4 (2001–2002, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.3 or 229.5 specification (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 258 kg |
The naturally aspirated V12 provides seamless power delivery ideal for luxury transport but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Mercedes-Benz 229.3/229.5–compliant 10W-60 oil to prevent camshaft wear. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure rapid oil pressure build-up to upper valvetrain components. The timing chain system is robust but early units (pre-2000) are prone to wear if oil maintenance is deferred. Spark plug replacement must follow OEM torque and seating procedures to prevent cylinder head thread damage. Post-2000 revisions include improved oil feed geometry and updated cam profiles to enhance durability.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 or 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 01). Not compatible with lower-viscosity or non-approved oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2001 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). Some 2001–2002 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent with standard fuel (RON 95) but benefits from RON 98 for sustained high-load operation (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A006020).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A006010, A006015, SIB 07 05 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
DIN 70020:2004 Road Vehicles — Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M117.963 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220 platform with longitudinal mounting and reserved exclusively for Pullman-length luxury limousines. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and dual-bank exhaust manifolds in the S 600 Pullman-and from 2001 the facelifted S 600 Pullman LWB adopted revised throttle mapping, 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 A006030). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('7' for M117 series). Pre-2000 models have silver cam covers with black valve stem seals; post-2000 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M119.970: M117.963 has shorter stroke and distinct intake manifold geometry. Service parts require production date verification — camshafts and oil pumps for engines before 06/2000 are incompatible with later units due to internal revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 01).
The M117.963's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in low-speed urban operation. Internal Mercedes data from 2001 reported a notable share of pre-2000 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of MOT emissions failures to misfire-related faults in high-mileage V12s. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase valvetrain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M117963.
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