The Mercedes-Benz M 156.980 is a 6,208 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It served as the high-performance naturally aspirated powerplant for AMG models, featuring a 90° V8 layout with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 32 valves. In standard tune, it delivered 386 kW (525 PS), with torque output of 630 Nm, providing aggressive throttle response and track-capable performance.
Fitted to the W221 S-Class, W219 CL-Class, and C219 CLK-Class AMG variants, the M 156.980 was engineered for high-speed stability and dynamic driving. Its design emphasized high-RPM power delivery and acoustic character, with individual throttle bodies per cylinder and dry-sump lubrication on select applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi-point fuel injection and dual catalytic converters, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft adjuster (phaser), which can lead to timing misalignment and engine damage. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07.0026/05, is attributed to oil flow restriction and vane wear under sustained high-RPM operation. Later production revisions introduced updated adjuster vanes and revised oil feed geometry to improve durability.
All production years 2006–2011 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Mercedes-Benz M 156.980 is a 6,208 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2006–2011). It combines naturally aspirated breathing with individual throttle bodies to deliver aggressive power and track-focused dynamics. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances high-RPM performance with street usability.
| 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 | 386 kW (525 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 630 Nm @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME2.1 with individual throttles) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (SOHC-style drive with DOHC cams) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40 MB 229.5 | |
| Dry weight | 208 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides aggressive, high-RPM power ideal for performance driving but demands high-octane fuel (RON 98) to prevent knock and maintain valve train longevity. SAE 5W-40 MB 229.5 oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives protecting the high-lift camshafts. Oil changes should not exceed 15,000 km or 24 months to prevent sludge and cam adjuster wear. The ME2.1 fuel system with individual throttle bodies requires periodic cleaning to maintain throttle response. Pre-2009 engines should be inspected for cam adjuster integrity per Mercedes SIB 07.0026/05; updated vanes and oil feeds were introduced mid-cycle to enhance durability. Cooling system integrity is critical—leaks or thermostat faults can lead to overheating due to high thermal load.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/05). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models (2006–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting RON 95 minimum (Mercedes TIS Doc. A36015).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35724, A36015, SIB 07.0026/05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
DIN 70020: Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M 156.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221, W219, and C219 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W221 and shortened accessory drives in the C219-and from 2009 the facelifted W221 models adopted revised intake manifolds and updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mercedes TIS A35724). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M156 series). Pre-2009 engines have silver cam covers with "63 AMG" badging; post-2009 units feature revised intake plenum and updated ME2.1 ECU. Critical differentiation from M157: M156 uses individual throttle bodies with naturally aspirated design, while M157 (twin-turbo V8) has a different intake manifold and turbochargers. Service parts require model-year verification—cam adjusters and timing components for pre-2009 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to vane and oil feed updates (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/05).
The M 156.980's primary reliability risk is camshaft adjuster wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage performance use. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2009 noted a significant number of pre-2009 engines requiring adjuster replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate cooling system failures as a leading cause of overheating-related breakdowns. Extended service intervals and poor coolant maintenance increase wear and thermal stress, making fluid and oil discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2006-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M156980.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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