The Mercedes — Benz M 137.980 is a 5,987 cc, V12 petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a DOHC 48 — valve configuration with sequential multi — point fuel injection (SIMPLE) and dual ignition coils per cylinder bank, delivering 368 kW (500 PS) and 610 Nm of torque. This naturally aspirated engine was engineered for flagship refinement and effortless high — speed performance in grand touring applications.
Fitted to the S — Class (W220) and CL — Class (C215), t…
All production years (1998–2002) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Mercedes-Benz M 137.980 is a 5,987 cc V12 petrol engine designed for flagship luxury sedans and coupes (1998–2002). It combines DOHC 48-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and supreme refinement. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes smoothness and high-speed stability in premium driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 79.0 mm | |
Power output | 368 kW (500 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
Torque | 610 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (SIMPLE) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | 10W-60 MB-Approval 229.3 | |
Dry weight | 268 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 137.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220/C215 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the C215 and reinforced engine mounts in the W220-and from 2000 the facelifted W220 received updated ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 137.980's primary reliability risk is premature intake camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1999 indicated a significant share of pre-2000 engines requiring cam replacement before 140,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage vehicles. Short trips and delayed oil changes increase cam and chain stress, making oil quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2006). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M 137.980 offers smooth, high-output performance but early models (1998–2000) had reliability concerns, particularly intake camshaft wear. Later revisions (post-2000) improved durability with updated materials and oil pump calibration. Well-maintained examples with regular servicing and correct oil (10W-60 MB-Approval 229.3) can be robust. Cold-start procedures and adherence to oil change intervals are critical for longevity.
The primary issues are intake camshaft lobe wear (especially pre-2000), ignition coil degradation, intake manifold flap cracking, and oil leaks from valve and front covers. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins. Secondary concerns include fuel injector coking and catalytic converter blockage due to high fuel consumption and infrequent highway driving.
This 6.0L V12 was used in the S-Class (W220) S 600 from 1998–2002 and the CL-Class (C215) CL 600 from 1999–2002. It was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications were Euro 3 compliant, with no Euro 4 version produced.
Limited tuning potential exists due to the naturally aspirated design. ECU remaps can yield modest gains (~15–25 kW) by optimizing fuel and ignition maps. Aftermarket upgrades like high-flow exhausts and intake systems offer minor improvements. However, the engine's strength lies in refinement, not high-RPM output, so significant power increases require forced induction, which is complex and costly.
Fuel consumption is very high due to displacement and weight. In an S 600 (W220), typical use is ~18.5 L/100km (city) and ~10.8 L/100km (highway), or about 15 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures often range between 12–16 mpg (UK) depending on driving style. Highway cruising is more efficient than urban use due to the engine's low-RPM torque characteristics.
Yes. The M 137.980 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. Chain maintenance and proper lubrication are essential—any unusual front-end noise should be investigated immediately to prevent engine seizure.
Mercedes-Benz specifies 10W-60 oil meeting MB-Approval 229.3. Use only high-quality synthetic oils designed for high-load petrol engines. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil selection ensures adequate camshaft lubrication and reduces wear in the timing chain system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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