The Mercedes-Benz M117.964 is a 6,033 cc, 90-degree V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve design, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. In standard tuning, it produces 265 kW (360 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 580 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, delivering high-end performance with smooth power delivery.
Fitted to flagship models including the R129 SL-Class and W140 S-Class, the M117.964 was engineered for grand touring refinement and effortless acceleration. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run as documented in EU Directive 94/12/EC and VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2109.
One documented service concern is degradation of the intake manifold vacuum control system, leading to erratic idle and throttle response. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 02.05.31, was addressed with revised diaphragm actuators and updated vacuum lines introduced in 1996. Pre-1996 engines should be inspected for vacuum integrity during major service intervals.
All production years (1993–1998) meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2109).
The Mercedes-Benz M117.964 is a 6,033 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine designed for luxury performance applications (1993–1998). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and strong high-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,033 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 102.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 265 kW (360 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (LH 3.2 ECU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.1 (SAE 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 221 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for grand touring but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals using MB 229.1-specified oil to maintain hydraulic lifter function and prevent premature cam wear. Use of non-compliant oil or extended intervals can accelerate lifter noise and vacuum system degradation. Cold starts should be followed by gradual warm-up to ensure stable oil pressure. The LH 3.2 engine management system is sensitive to vacuum leaks; OEM-grade gaskets are essential. Pre-1996 units should be inspected for intake vacuum actuator integrity per SIB 02.05.31. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda control and avoidance of fuel contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (10W-60) as per SIB 02.05.31. ACEA A2/B2 compliant oils acceptable if MB-approved.
Emissions: All M117.964 units comply with Euro 2 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2109), verified under EU Directive 94/12/EC.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities due to closed-loop lambda control (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35200).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34750, A35200, SIB 02.05.31
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2109)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net engine power
The Mercedes-Benz M117.964 was used across Mercedes-Benz's R129/W140 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the S-Class and revised intake manifolds in the SL-Class-and from 1998 the facelifted W220 S-Class adopted the M113 V8 as standard, 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 A34750). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for M117 series). Pre-1996 models have black intake manifolds with red vacuum lines; post-1996 units use revised blue vacuum actuators. Critical differentiation from M119.970: M117.964 is a 6.0L V8 with naturally aspirated induction, while M119.970 is a 6.0L V12. Service parts require production date verification—intake vacuum actuators for pre-1996 engines are incompatible with post-1996 revisions due to design updates per SIB 02.05.31.
The M117.964's primary reliability risk is vacuum system degradation in pre-1996 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1999 indicated a notable share of pre-1996 engines showing erratic idle before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a portion of emissions-related failures to aging catalytic converters. Extended oil intervals and use of non-compliant oil increase lifter and cam wear risk, making oil quality and adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1993-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M117964.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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