The Mercedes-Benz M 119.974 is a 6,000 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1998. It powered high-performance luxury models in the S-Class, SL, and CL lineups, featuring a DOHC 32-valve configuration with multi-point fuel injection. This naturally aspirated engine delivered smooth power delivery and high-speed refinement, with output rated at 298 kW (402 PS) and 570 Nm of torque.
Fitted to flagship models including the W140 S 600, R129 SL 600, and C140 CL 600, the M 119.974 was engineered for effortless cruising and strong high-end performance. Emissions compliance was achieved via three-way catalytic converters and lambda control, meeting Euro 2 standards for petrol engines in its primary production years.
One documented service concern is premature wear in the hydraulic valve lifters, which can result in tapping noises and reduced valve timing precision. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 07 05 94, is often linked to extended oil change intervals or use of non-compliant lubricants. Later production engines (post-1995) received revised lifter materials and updated oil gallery designs to improve durability.
Production years 1991–1996 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 119.974 is a 5,987 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for flagship luxury vehicles (1991–1998). It combines dual overhead camshafts and 32-valve architecture with sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and high-speed refinement. Designed to meet Euro 2 and later Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances performance with drivability in grand touring applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 106.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 298 kW (402 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 570 Nm @ 3,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (KE3-Jetronic derivative) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1991–1996); Euro 3 (1997–1998) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double roller chain (front-mounted, duplex design) | |
| Oil type | 20W-50 MB 229.1 | |
| Dry weight | 218 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers linear throttle response ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.1-compliant 20W-50 oil to prevent hydraulic lifter wear and sludge buildup. Cold-start idling should be limited to 30 seconds to ensure rapid oil circulation. The KE3-based fuel system is sensitive to poor fuel quality, requiring premium unleaded (RON 98) to maintain combustion stability. Post-1995 engines feature improved lifter materials; pre-1995 units should be inspected for lifter noise per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 94. Catalytic converters require full operating temperature to function efficiently—short trips increase carbon deposits and exhaust backpressure.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 94). Supersedes ACEA B3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1991–1996 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 3 compliance confirmed for 1997–1998 builds in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A119600).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A119600, A119601, A119605, SIB 07 05 94
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.974 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W140/R129/C140 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W140 and revised intake manifolds in the R129-and from 1996 the facelifted W140 received updated emissions controls, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the oil pan rail (Mercedes-Benz TIS A119600). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for M119 series). Pre-1995 models have silver cam covers with "600" badging; post-1995 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M119.970: M119.974 has larger throttle body (80mm vs 70mm) and revised ECU calibration. Service parts require chassis number verification—lifter kits for pre-1995 engines are incompatible with post-1995 revisions due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 94).
The M 119.974's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lifter wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 1996 reported a significant share of pre-1995 engines requiring lifter replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase lifter and cam wear, making oil quality and interval adherence 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 M119974.
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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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