The Mercedes-Benz M119.971 is a 6,009 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1998. It features a 32-valve, DOHC configuration with Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection and electronic ignition. This high-revving engine delivers smooth power delivery and refined performance, characteristic of Mercedes-Benz's flagship grand tourers of the era.
Fitted to the W140 S-Class (S 600), R129 SL-Class (SL 600), and C140 CL-Class (CL 600), the M119.971 was engineered for effortless cruising, luxury, and strong mid-range torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, allowing Euro 2 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 07.0123, is attributed to inadequate lubrication under sustained high-RPM operation. Later revisions improved oil flow and bearing materials, enhancing durability in post-1995 builds.
All production years 1991–1998 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M119.971 is a 6,009 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for flagship luxury sedans and coupes (1991–1998). It combines 32-valve DOHC architecture with Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, high-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances grand touring refinement with strong, linear power delivery.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,009 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 106.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 298 kW (402 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic continuous injection | |
| 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 | 20W-50 (MB 229.1) | |
| Dry weight | 228 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides linear power delivery ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.1-specified 20W-50 oil to prevent camshaft wear. High-RPM operation demands consistent oil pressure; oil starvation can accelerate lobe wear. The LH-Jetronic system is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks and aging sensors. Pre-1995 engines should have upgraded camshafts and bearings per Mercedes SIB 07.0123. Catalytic converters require unleaded fuel meeting EN 228 to prevent thermal degradation and backpressure issues.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes SIB 07.0123). 20W-50 viscosity critical for high-temperature bearing protection.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1991–1998 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes Group PT-1995).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33750, A34021, SIB 07.0123
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M119.971 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W140/R129/C140 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning-adapted throttle response in the R129 and revised cooling layouts in the W140-and from 1995, updated camshaft profiles and bearing materials per SIB 07.0123, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing engine block near the timing cover (Mercedes TIS A33801). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M119 series). Pre-1995 units have silver cam covers with black valve seals; post-1995 revisions use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M119.970: M119.971 has Bosch LH-Jetronic injection with twin distributors, while M119.970 uses KE-Jetronic. Service parts require production date verification - camshafts before 08/1995 are incompatible with later units due to profile and material changes (Mercedes SIB 07.0123).
The M119.971's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-RPM operation. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 1994 indicated a significant portion of pre-1995 engines required cam replacement before 180,000 km, while VCA data shows a notable share of emissions failures linked to misfires from worn lobes. Sustained high speeds and extended oil intervals increase lobe and follower stress, making oil quality and adherence to MB 229.1 specification critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1991-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M119971.
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
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)
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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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VCA Certification Portal
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