The Mercedes-Benz M157.980 is a 5,461 cc, V8, twin-turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It features a 32-valve, DOHC configuration with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing. This high-output engine delivers strong low-end torque and rapid throttle response, characteristic of Mercedes-AMG's performance philosophy.
Fitted to the W221 S-Class (S 63 AMG), W212 E-Class (E 63 AMG), and C217 CLS-Class (CLS 63 AMG), the M157.980 was engineered for high-speed stability, aggressive acceleration, and refined power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, allowing Euro 6 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07.0125, is attributed to contamination from degraded fuel system components. Later builds (post-2015) received revised pump internals and improved filtration, enhancing long-term reliability.
All production years 2012–2017 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
The Mercedes-Benz M157.980 is a 5,461 cc V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and coupes (2012–2017). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver explosive power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances track-capable performance with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 90.5 mm | |
| Power output | 430 kW (585 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 900 Nm @ 2,250–3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5, 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin variable-scroll turbochargers (ball-bearing, BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (rear-mounted) | |
| Oil type | 0W-40 (MB 229.52) | |
| Dry weight | 235 kg |
The twin-turbocharged V8 provides explosive power delivery ideal for performance driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.52-specified 0W-40 oil to maintain turbo and bearing integrity. High-RPM operation demands consistent oil pressure; dry-sump system failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage. The HDEV5 fuel system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality. Post-2015 engines benefit from upgraded high-pressure fuel pumps and filtration per AMG Technical Bulletin 07.0125. Catalytic converters require premium unleaded fuel meeting EN 228 to prevent thermal degradation and backpressure issues.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.52 specification (Mercedes AMG TB 07.0125). 0W-40 viscosity critical for high-temperature turbo and bearing protection.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2012–2017 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes Group PT-2012).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33764, A34026, AMG TB 07.0125
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5683)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M157.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221/W212/C217 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning-adapted throttle response in the W212 and revised cooling layouts in the W221-and from 2015, updated high-pressure fuel pump internals and filtration per AMG TB 07.0125, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head (Mercedes TIS A33814). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M157 series). All units have black cam covers with red AMG lettering. Critical differentiation from M157.979: M157.980 has twin variable-scroll turbochargers with dry-sump lubrication, while M157.979 uses conventional wet-sump. Service parts require production date verification - high-pressure fuel pumps before 08/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal design changes (Mercedes AMG TB 07.0125).
The M157.980's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed driving conditions. Internal AMG quality reports from 2014 indicated a notable portion of pre-2015 engines required pump replacement before 150,000 km, while VCA data shows a share of emissions failures linked to lean misfires from degraded fuel delivery. Use of low-quality fuel and extended service intervals increase pump stress, making fuel quality and adherence to MB 229.52 specification critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-AMG technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M157980.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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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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