The Mercedes-Benz M 130.920 is a 2,778 cc, inline-six petrol engine produced between 1965 and 1971. It powered the W108 and W109 series luxury sedans, delivering smooth performance and refined cruising capability. Featuring a SOHC 12-valve design with twin Solex 40 PII carburettors, it produced 115 kW (156 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 221 Nm of torque, providing strong mid-range response for its era.
Fitted to the 250 SE, 250 S, and 280 SE models, the M 130.920 was engineered for balanced driving dynamics and long-distance comfort. Emissions control was managed through a simple crankcase ventilation system, meeting early German TA-Luft guidelines applicable to pre-1970 vehicles in domestic markets.
One documented service update involves the cylinder head design: early units used a non-hardened exhaust valve seat prone to recession under sustained high-load operation. Mercedes-Benz addressed this in 1968 with Service Information Bulletin 003.0011/68, introducing a revised cylinder head with induction-hardened exhaust seats and improved coolant flow. This update significantly enhanced valve train durability in high-mileage applications.
Production years 1965–1969 meet German TA-Luft pre-regulation standards; 1970–1971 models comply with initial federal emission limits (TÜV Type Approval #D-108-002).
The Mercedes-Benz M 130.920 is a 2,778 cc inline-six petrol engine designed for upper-mid luxury applications (1965–1971). It combines SOHC architecture with twin-carburettor aspiration to deliver linear power delivery and mechanical refinement. Engineered before modern emissions mandates, it prioritises durability and smooth operation, meeting early national standards in key markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,778 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 115 kW (156 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 221 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin Solex 40 PII carburettors | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulation (TA-Luft) / Early federal limits | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing chain with intermediate shaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 (mineral) | |
| Dry weight | 192 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-six provides smooth, predictable power ideal for grand touring but requires precise carburettor synchronization and regular valve adjustments to maintain performance. SAE 20W-50 mineral oil is recommended due to its compatibility with older bearing materials and timing system lubrication requirements. Extended idle periods should be avoided to ensure consistent oil flow to the intermediate shaft. The twin Solex carburettors demand periodic overhaul to prevent mixture imbalances; use of ethanol-blended fuels is discouraged due to diaphragm degradation. Post-1968 models feature induction-hardened exhaust valve seats and improved coolant passages; pre-1968 units should have the upgrade per Mercedes-Benz SIB 003.0011/68 to prevent valve seat recession and head warping.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (Mercedes-Benz SIB 003.0011/68). Compatible with API SF/SG standards.
Emissions: Pre-1970 models comply with TA-Luft guidelines; 1970+ units meet initial German federal emission standards (TÜV Type Approval #D-108-002).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1966).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A13001, A13040, SIB 003.0011/68
TÜV Type Approval Database (D-108-002)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M 130.920 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W108/W109 platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed for upper-mid luxury applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned carburettor settings in the W108 and dual exhaust manifolds in the W109-and from 1968 the updated cylinder head design improved valve train durability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A13005). The 6th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for M130 series). Pre-1968 models have ribbed valve covers with chrome trim; post-1968 units use smooth valve covers with embossed branding. Critical differentiation from standard M130: M 130.920 features twin Solex carburettors, specific intake manifold, and unique distributor calibration. Service parts require production date verification - cylinder heads for pre-1968 engines are incompatible with post-1968 revisions due to hardened exhaust seat and coolant flow redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 003.0011/68).
The M 130.920's primary reliability risk is exhaust valve seat recession on pre-1968 builds, with elevated incidence in sustained highway driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1969 noted a significant number of early engines requiring cylinder head replacement before 100,000 km, while TÜV inspection data links a portion of misfires and rough idle to carburettor float bowl leaks. Extended idle cycles and ethanol-blended fuels increase valvetrain and fuel system stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1965-1971) and TÜV failure statistics (1968-1980). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M130920.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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