The Mercedes-Benz M 152.980 is a 6,208 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It powered high-performance AMG models including the C 63 AMG, E 63 AMG, and SLS AMG, delivering 350 kW (476 PS) and 600 Nm of torque. Featuring a 90° V8 configuration, DOHC 32-valve layout, and direct fuel injection, it was the final evolution of Mercedes-AMG's naturally aspirated V8 lineage before transitioning to turbocharging.
Fitted exclusively to performance-oriented AMG vehicles, the M 152.980 was engineered for high-revving power delivery and motorsport-inspired responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved via dual close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards for all production years, as confirmed by VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901.
One documented reliability concern is premature exhaust camshaft wear, particularly under sustained high-RPM operation. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 11 05 13, is often linked to oil starvation at the upper camshaft galleries during aggressive driving. Later production engines (post-2014) received revised oil gallery drilling and upgraded camshaft materials to improve durability.
All production years 2012–2017 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Mercedes-Benz M 152.980 is a 6,208 cc 90° V8 naturally aspirated engine developed for high-performance AMG applications (2012–2017). It combines dual overhead camshafts and 32-valve architecture with direct fuel injection to deliver high-revving power and track-focused responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it represents the peak of Mercedes-AMG's naturally aspirated V8 engineering.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,208 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 102.2 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 350 kW (476 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | 5W-40 MB 229.5 | |
| Dry weight | 200 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers high-revving performance ideal for track use but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5-compliant 5W-40 oil to prevent camshaft wear and sludge buildup. Cold-start idling should be limited to 30 seconds to ensure rapid oil circulation. The direct injection system is sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves, requiring periodic cleaning. High-RPM operation demands premium unleaded (RON 98) to prevent detonation. Post-2014 engines feature improved oil gallery flow; pre-2014 units should be monitored for camshaft wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 05 13. Catalytic converters require sustained operating temperature—frequent short trips increase carbon deposits and exhaust backpressure.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 05 13). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2012–2017) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A152200).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A152200, A152201, A152205, SIB 11 05 13
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 152.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/W212/C197 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W204 and revised intake manifolds in the W212-and from 2015 the facelifted W205 adopted the M177 twin-turbo V8, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Mercedes-Benz TIS A152200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M152 series). All models have black cam covers with "63 AMG" badging and polished intake manifolds. Critical differentiation from M156: M152.980 has revised cylinder heads and updated Bosch MED17 ECU calibration. Service parts require chassis number verification—camshafts for pre-2014 engines are incompatible with post-2014 revisions due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 11 05 13).
The M 152.980's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in track or high-RPM use. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 2014 reported a notable share of pre-2014 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in city-driven vehicles. High-temperature cycles and extended idling increase cam and lifter stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M152980.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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