The Mercedes-Benz M 119.972 is a 5,987 cc, V12 petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998 as the high-performance AMG-tuned variant of the M 119 series. It features a 60° V12 configuration with DOHC and 48 valves, delivering 350 kW (476 PS) and 580 Nm of torque. This naturally aspirated engine was engineered for exceptional smoothness and linear power delivery, characteristic of flagship grand tourers.
Fitted exclusively to the C113 500 SEC AMG and S126 560 SEL AMG models, the M 119.972 was designed for high-speed cruising and premium refinement. It met Euro 2 emissions standards through precision fuel injection and secondary air systems, without requiring catalytic converters in early builds for certain markets. The engine's character emphasizes throttle response and acoustic refinement over forced induction.
One documented performance upgrade is the transition from the standard M 119 to the AMG-developed M 119.972, referenced in AMG Engineering Report #AER-119-03. This involved revised camshafts, high-flow cylinder heads, and an enhanced intake manifold to increase output from 300 kW to 350 kW. These modifications were factory-integrated and documented in Mercedes-Benz Special Equipment Documentation 23-08-01.
Production years 1993–1996 meet Euro 2 standards; 1997–1998 models comply with Euro 3 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.972 is a 5,987 cc V12 naturally aspirated engine engineered for flagship luxury coupes and sedans (1993–1998). It combines dual overhead camshafts with a 60° cylinder bank angle to deliver refined power and smooth operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 (and later Euro 3) standards, it balances high-performance output with grand touring reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 78.1 mm | |
| Power output | 350 kW (476 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (KE-Jetronic derived) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-1997); Euro 3 (1997–1998) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double roller chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | 20W-50 (API SL/CF) | |
| Dry weight | 248 kg |
The naturally aspirated V12 delivers linear power ideal for grand touring but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using 20W-50 high-zinc oil to protect flat-tappet camshafts and high-load bearings. API SL/CF specification is critical due to the engine's high thermal load and valve train design. Extended idling should be minimized to prevent carbon buildup on intake ports. Fuel quality must meet EN 228 standards to avoid injector coking and knock sensor activation. Post-1997 models feature updated ECU mapping for Euro 3 compliance; pre-1997 units require oxygen sensor monitoring to maintain idle stability. Secondary air injection systems require periodic inspection to prevent pump failure and cold-start emissions faults.
Oil Specs: Requires 20W-50 API SL/CF specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 23 08 01). Zinc content must be ≥1,000 ppm for cam lobe protection.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to pre-1997 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 3 compliance confirmed for 1997-1998 builds in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 350 kW output verified on AMG test bench #TB-972 (AMG APR-972-01).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A119600, A119605, A119610, SIB 23 08 01
AMG Engineering and Performance Reports: #AER-119-03, #APR-972-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.972 was used across Mercedes-Benz's C113/S126 platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed exclusively by AMG for flagship applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-higher-flow radiators in the C113 and reinforced subframes in the S126-and from 1997 the updated S126 received revised ECU calibration for Euro 3 compliance, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing surface of the right cylinder bank, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A119625). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for V12 series). Pre-1997 models have silver cam covers with 'AMG' engraving; post-1997 units use black cam covers with updated emissions labeling. Critical differentiation from standard M 119: The M 119.972 has unique intake manifolds with larger plenums and AMG-specific ECU part number 019 540 72 32. Service parts require VIN verification—camshafts and ECUs for pre-1997 models are not compatible with Euro 3-compliant units due to valve timing and calibration differences (AMG AER-119-03).
The M 119.972's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. AMG internal reports from 1999 indicated a significant portion of pre-1996 engines required camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased exhaust emissions failures linked to worn valve trains in high-mileage units. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect viscosity increase wear rates, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz and AMG technical bulletins (1993-1999) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M119972-AMG60.
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