The Mercedes-Benz M 156.983 is a 6,208 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. Developed by Mercedes-AMG, it features a 90° V8 configuration with DOHC 32-valve architecture and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivered 386 kW (525 PS) at 6,800 rpm and 630 Nm of torque at 5,200 rpm, providing high-revving performance and motorsport-inspired responsiveness.
Fitted to flagship AMG models including the C 63, E 63, and CLS 63, the M 156.983 was engineered for high-performance driving dynamics and track capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual three-way catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 4 compliance across all markets with lead-free fuel meeting EN 228 standards.
One documented engineering update involves the crankshaft main bearing design: early 2006–2007 units used bi-metal bearings prone to fatigue under sustained high-RPM operation. Mercedes-Benz addressed this in 2008 with Service Information Bulletin 01.0195/08, introducing tri-metal main bearings with improved oil retention and load distribution. This update significantly enhanced long-term crankshaft support in high-mileage or track-driven applications.
Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2011 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Mercedes-Benz M 156.983 is a 6,208 cc naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2006–2011). It combines DOHC 32-valve architecture with dry-sump lubrication to deliver high-revving power and track-ready reliability. Designed to meet Euro 4/5 emissions standards, it balances motorsport-derived engineering with road compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,208 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 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 (HFM-SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2011, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-50 (MB 229.5) | |
| Dry weight | 201 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers high-RPM power ideal for performance driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent main bearing wear and chain tensioner degradation. MB 229.5-spec 5W-50 oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection of the dry-sump system. Extended idling should be minimized to maintain oil pressure and cooling efficiency. The HFM-SFI fuel system requires periodic airflow meter calibration to maintain metering accuracy. Post-2008 models feature tri-metal main bearings and revised oil passages; pre-2008 units should have the upgrade per Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0195/08. Catalytic converters require lead-free fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent thermal degradation.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0195/08). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2006–2009 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). 2010–2011 models meet Euro 5 in applicable markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-2007).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35020, A35110, SIB 01.0195/08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M 156.983 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W204/W212 platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed exclusively for AMG high-performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W204 and modified intake manifolds in the W212-and from 2008 the updated main bearing system improved crankshaft durability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A35060). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M156 series). Pre-2008 models have silver cam covers with ribbed valve covers; post-2008 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from standard M156: M 156.983 features AMG-specific intake manifold, red-painted valve covers, and unique ECU calibration. Service parts require production date verification - main bearing sets for pre-2008 engines are incompatible with post-2008 revisions due to tri-metal construction and oil feed redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.0195/08).
The M 156.983's primary reliability risk is main bearing wear on pre-2008 builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-RPM use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2009 noted a significant number of pre-2008 engines requiring crankshaft and bearing replacement before 120,000 km, while AMG workshop data links a portion of high-idle instability to airflow meter drift. Extended idling and aggressive driving cycles increase valvetrain and bearing stress, making oil quality and interval adherence 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 M156983.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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