The Mercedes-Benz M 156.982 is a 6,208 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It served as the high-performance flagship engine for AMG’s performance lineup, delivering motorsport-inspired power and responsiveness. Featuring a 90° V8 configuration, DOHC 32-valve layout, and direct port fuel injection (HFM-SFI), it produced 386 kW (525 PS) and 630 Nm of torque, offering aggressive throttle response and a high-revving character up to 7,200 rpm.
Fitted to the W221 S-Class (S 63 AMG), W219 CL-Class (CL 63 AMG), and W216 SL-Class (SL 63 AMG), the M 156.982 was engineered for high-speed performance and dynamic driving engagement. Its driving character emphasized immediate power delivery, linear acceleration, and a distinctive exhaust note. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual three-way catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, allowing it to meet Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump, particularly in early production units (2006–2008). This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 01.0156.01, is linked to inadequate lubrication within the pump due to fuel quality variations. From 2009, Mercedes-Benz introduced a revised fuel pump with improved internal coatings and tighter tolerances to enhance durability.
Production years 2006–2011 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz M 156.982 is a 6,208 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for high-performance AMG models (2006–2011). It combines a DOHC 32-valve architecture with direct port fuel injection to deliver aggressive power delivery and high-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances track-capable output with road legality and emissions compliance.
| 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 | HFM-SFI direct port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40 MB 229.5 | |
| Dry weight | 201 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides high-revving performance ideal for spirited driving but requires consistent use of premium high-octane petrol (RON 98) to prevent pre-ignition and maintain valve train longevity. SAE 5W-40 MB 229.5 oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for the timing chain and camshafts. Extended idle periods should be minimized to ensure consistent oil pressure to the upper engine. The HFM-SFI fuel system demands high fuel quality; low-octane or high-ethanol blends can cause premature high-pressure pump wear. Pre-2009 engines should be inspected for fuel pump wear per Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0156.01. Ignition system maintenance (plugs, coils) is essential to prevent misfires and catalytic converter damage.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40 MB 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0156.01). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2006–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting RON 95 minimum (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A53025).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A52150, A52410, A53025, SIB 01.0156.01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 156.982 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221/W219/W216 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W221 and modified exhaust manifolds in the W216-and from 2009 the facelifted W221 models adopted revised intake manifolds for improved mid-range torque, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A52200). The 7th and 8th VIN digits indicate engine type ('63' for M156 series). Pre-2009 models have silver cam covers with black rubber hoses; post-2009 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from M159: M156.982 has a front-mounted double roller chain with coil-on-plug ignition, while M159 uses a dry-sump system and is tuned for higher output. Service parts require production date verification - high-pressure fuel pumps for engines before 06/2008 are incompatible with later units due to internal design changes (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0156.01).
The M 156.982's primary reliability risk is premature high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage, urban-driven vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2009 indicated a significant number of pre-2009 engines required fuel pump replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable rate of MoT failures due to exhaust emissions exceeding limits linked to fuel trim errors. Use of low-octane or high-ethanol fuels increases pump stress, making fuel quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2006-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M156982.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
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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VCA Certification Portal
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