The Mercedes-Benz M 119.980 is a 6,000 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 1991 and 2002. It powered the brand's flagship grand tourers and luxury sedans, featuring a naturally aspirated design with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 32 valves. Delivering 235 kW (320 PS) in standard tune, it provided smooth high-speed performance and refined cruising capability.
Fitted to high-end models including the W140 S-Class, R129 SL-Class, and C140 CL-Class, the M 119.980 was engineered for effortless power delivery and long-distance comfort. Its design prioritized smoothness and quiet operation, with precise fuel injection and ignition systems ensuring stable combustion. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed-loop lambda control and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in early production units, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, noted in Mercedes Technical Service Bulletin 07.0026/01, is attributed to marginal lubrication at the cam lobes under high-load conditions. Later revisions incorporated updated oil gallery drilling and hardened camshaft surfaces to improve durability.
All production years 1991–2002 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.980 is a 5,987 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for luxury grand tourers (1991–2002). It combines naturally aspirated breathing with precise electronic fuel injection to deliver linear power and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances high-speed performance with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.9 mm × 102.2 mm | |
| Power output | 235 kW (320 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 3,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME2.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (SOHC-style drive with DOHC cams) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 MB 229.1 | |
| Dry weight | 228 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but demands consistent use of high-octane fuel (RON 98) to prevent knock and maintain valve train longevity. SAE 10W-40 MB 229.1 oil is essential due to its shear stability and anti-wear additives protecting camshafts under sustained load. Oil changes should not exceed 15,000 km or 24 months to prevent sludge and cam wear. The ME2.1 fuel system requires periodic injector cleaning to maintain idle stability. Pre-1995 engines should be inspected for camshaft wear per Mercedes SIB 07.0026/01; updated hard-faced cams and revised oil passages were introduced mid-cycle to enhance durability. Cooling system integrity is critical—leaks or thermostat faults can lead to overheating due to high thermal load.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/01). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1991–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting RON 95 minimum (Mercedes TIS Doc. A36011).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35720, A36011, SIB 07.0026/01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020: Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W140, R129, and C140 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened accessory drives in the R129 and reinforced engine mounts in the W140-and from 1996 the facelifted W140 models adopted revised intake manifolds and updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mercedes TIS A35720). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for M119 series). Pre-1995 engines have silver cam covers with "600" badging; post-1996 units feature revised intake plenum and updated ME2.1 ECU. Critical differentiation from M137: M119 uses a single throttle body with sequential injection, while M137 (V12) has dual throttle bodies. Service parts require model-year verification—camshafts and timing components for pre-1995 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to hard-facing updates (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/01).
The M 119.980's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage luxury use. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 1998 noted a significant number of pre-1995 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate cooling system failures as a leading cause of overheating-related breakdowns. Extended service intervals and poor coolant maintenance increase wear and thermal stress, making fluid and oil discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1991-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M119980.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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