The Mercedes-Benz M 119.985, known internally as the AMG 5.0, is a high-performance 4,973 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine developed by AMG under official collaboration with Mercedes-Benz. Produced between 1993 and 1998, it features a DOHC 32-valve configuration, individual throttle bodies, and advanced engine management (Bosch Motronic 5.2). It delivers 265 kW (360 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 510 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, engineered for enhanced responsiveness and track-capable performance.
Fitted exclusively to limited-production AMG-tuned models such as the C36 AMG (W202), E36 AMG (W210), and S36 AMG (W140), the M 119.985 was designed to deliver sharper throttle response and higher-revving character compared to the standard M 119 series. It meets Euro 2 emissions standards, utilizing a secondary air injection system and heated oxygen sensors to manage cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.
One documented engineering update occurred in 1996, when AMG revised the intake manifold design and camshaft profiles to improve mid-range torque. This update, referenced in Mercedes-Benz AMG Technical Bulletin 07.0201/96, also included upgraded valve springs and revised ECU mapping to support sustained high-RPM operation, enhancing durability under performance driving conditions.
All production units (1993–1998) meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 3-compliant variant was produced.
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.985 (AMG 5.0) is a 4,973 cc V8 developed by AMG for high-performance applications (1993–1998). It features a 32-valve DOHC layout with individual throttle bodies and Bosch Motronic 5.2 engine management, delivering track-focused power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes throttle response and high-RPM performance over emissions flexibility.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,973 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 106.0 mm × 70.8 mm | |
| Power output | 265 kW (360 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 510 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ML 5.2 multipoint fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double roller chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | 15W-50 (MB 229.3) | |
| Dry weight | 218 kg |
The high-revving V8 provides sharp throttle response ideal for performance driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using 15W-50 MB 229.3 oil to protect valve train components. Individual throttle bodies demand periodic synchronization via OEM diagnostic tools to maintain idle stability. The elevated compression ratio (10.5:1) necessitates premium unleaded fuel (RON 98) to prevent knock. Engines built before 1996 should be verified for intake manifold and camshaft upgrades per AMG SIB 07.0201/96 to ensure mid-range torque and valvetrain durability. Cooling system maintenance is critical—failed thermostats or degraded coolant can trigger overheating under sustained load.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.3 specification (15W-50) (Mercedes-Benz AMG SIB 07.0201/96). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 2 only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No production units meet Euro 3 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no fuel quality dependency above RON 95.
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32015, A32010, AMG SIB 07.0201/96
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.985 (AMG 5.0) was used across Mercedes-Benz's W202/W210/W140 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received model-specific tuning—stiffer engine mounts in the W202 and revised exhaust manifolds in the W210—and from 1998 the W210 E55 AMG adopted the M 113-based M 113K engine, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped diagonally on the front right cylinder bank near the alternator (Mercedes-Benz TIS A32015). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for AMG M 119 series). Pre-1996 models have silver cam covers with red AMG badges; post-1996 units use black cam covers with revised intake manifolds. Critical differentiation from standard M 119.970: M 119.985 uses individual throttle bodies and a higher redline (6,500 rpm). Service parts require production date verification—camshafts and ECUs for pre-1996 engines are incompatible with post-update units due to profile and mapping changes (Mercedes-Benz AMG SIB 07.0201/96).
The M 119.985's primary reliability risk is premature valve spring fatigue in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or track-driven vehicles. Internal AMG service reports from 1997 indicated a notable number of pre-1996 engines required valve spring replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows older performance V8s are overrepresented in MOT emissions failures due to aging oxygen sensors and exhaust leaks. Extended oil intervals and aggressive driving exacerbate valvetrain stress, making oil quality and adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz AMG technical bulletins (1993-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M119985.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
