The Mercedes-Benz M 119.982 is a 5,987 cc, V12 petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It powered the high-performance AMG variants of the W140 S-Class and C140 CL-Class, delivering exceptional refinement and power. Featuring a DOHC 48-valve configuration with sequential multi-point fuel injection, it produced 350 kW (476 PS) and 580 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h time of under 6 seconds.
Fitted exclusively to the S 600 AMG (W140) and CL 600 AMG (C140), the M 119.982 was engineered for grand touring performance and luxury. Its smooth power delivery and high-speed stability made it ideal for long-distance driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, meeting Euro 2 standards across all markets.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear in early production units, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 01.0188/95. This issue stemmed from inadequate lubrication during cold starts and extended oil intervals. In 1995, AMG revised the oil gallery design and introduced a high-volume oil pump to improve upper-end lubrication.
Production years 1993–1998 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.982 is a 5,987 cc V12 petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury performance (1993–1998). It combines DOHC 48-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, high-output power. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions, it balances grand touring refinement with AMG-tuned performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 78.1 mm | |
| Power output | 350 kW (476 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (KE-Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | 20W-50 (MB 229.1) | |
| Dry weight | 248 kg |
The naturally aspirated V12 provides linear power delivery ideal for high-speed cruising but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft wear and chain tensioner degradation. MB 229.1-spec 20W-50 oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection of the upper valvetrain. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure rapid oil pressure build-up to the camshafts. The KE-Motronic system requires periodic airflow meter calibration to maintain fuel metering accuracy. Post-1995 models feature revised oil galleries and high-volume pumps; pre-1995 units should have the upgrade per Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0188/95. Catalytic converters require lead-free fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent thermal degradation.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0188/95). Supersedes ACEA B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all production years (1993–1998) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1994).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35012, A35104, SIB 01.0188/95
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.982 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W140/C140 platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed exclusively for AMG high-performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W140 and modified intake manifolds in the C140-and from 1995 the updated oil gallery system improved lubrication, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35050). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for M119 series). Pre-1995 models have silver cam covers with ribbed valve covers; post-1995 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from standard M119: M 119.982 features AMG-specific intake manifold, red-painted valve covers, and unique ECU calibration. Service parts require production date verification - oil pumps for pre-1995 engines are incompatible with post-1995 revisions due to gallery redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0188/95).
The M 119.982's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1996 noted a significant number of pre-1995 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while AMG workshop data links a portion of high-idle instability to airflow meter drift. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase valvetrain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1994-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M119982-AM650.
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
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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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