The Mercedes-Benz M 139.980 is a 1,991 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2025. It holds the distinction of being the world's most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine at launch, featuring a hot-V turbocharger layout, direct fuel injection, and twin-scroll turbocharging. In its highest-output AMG trim, it produces 310 kW (421 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, enabling sub-4-second 0–100 km/h acceleration in compact performance models.
Fitted to the A 35, A 45 S, CLA 35, and CLA 45 S models, the M 139.980 was engineered for high-revving performance and track capability. Its design emphasizes thermal efficiency, rapid turbo response, and linear power delivery, ideal for hot hatches and coupes. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP standards across its production run, with all variants certified under UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682.
One documented concern is early high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under aggressive driving conditions, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07.0126/20. This issue, affecting select 2019–2020 production units, stemmed from elevated thermal loads on the pump’s internal cam follower. From 2021, revised materials and cooling protocols were implemented to enhance durability.
All production years (2019–2025) meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Mercedes-Benz M 139.980 is a 1,991 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance compact models (2019–2025). It combines a hot-V turbocharger layout with direct injection and twin-scroll technology to deliver extreme power density and throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances track-ready performance with road legality and durability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 98 RON min, 100 RON recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (hot-V layout) | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 285–310 kW (387–421 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 480–500 Nm @ 5,000–5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled (dual-circuit) | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (hot-V, exhaust manifold-integrated) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted, reinforced) | |
| Oil type | 0W-40 or 5W-40 (MB 229.52) | |
| Dry weight | 156 kg |
The hot-V turbocharged inline-four delivers race-derived performance but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.52-specified oil to ensure longevity of the high-pressure fuel pump and turbocharger. 0W-40 or 5W-40 viscosity is critical due to high thermal loads and bearing speeds. Extended high-RPM operation without cooldown increases turbo and HPFP stress. Fuel quality (minimum 98 RON, 100 RON recommended) is essential to prevent knock and protect the high-compression design. Post-2021 engines feature upgraded HPFP components per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07.0126/20; pre-2021 units should be inspected under high-load conditions. Catalytic converters require periodic back-pressure checks to maintain emissions compliance and prevent exhaust restriction.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.52 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07.0126/20). Compatible with ACEA C5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all models (2019–2025) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 310 kW output requires 100 RON fuel (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. 27-7005).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 27-7005, 07.70-P-1005-01, SIB 07.0126/20
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 139.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W177/C118 platforms with transverse mounting and reserved for AMG 35/45 variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-higher boost in the W177 A 45 S and revised intake in the C118 CLA 45 S-and from 2025 the next-generation AMG 45 models will adopt the M 133 EVO, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Mercedes-Benz TIS 27-7005). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for AMG petrol series). All units have black cam covers with red AMG lettering. Critical differentiation from M 133: M 139.980 has a hot-V turbocharger with exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head, while M 133 uses a conventional side-mounted turbo. Service parts require production date verification - high-pressure fuel pumps for engines before 07/2021 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07.0126/20).
The M 139.980's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for track or aggressive driving. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2021 noted a notable share of pre-2021 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 80,000 km, while VCA records show a small but significant number of emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor faults from rich-running conditions. Extended high-RPM operation without cooldown and low-RON fuel increase HPFP and turbo stress, making fuel quality and operational discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2019-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M139980.
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