The Mercedes-Benz M 176.980 is a 3,982 cc, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2019. It powered high-performance AMG models including the C 63 AMG, E 63 AMG, and GT, delivering 350 kW (476 PS) and 650 Nm of torque. Featuring a 90° V8 configuration, DOHC 32-valve layout, and direct fuel injection, it introduced a hot-V turbo layout for improved throttle response and compact packaging.
Fitted exclusively to AMG performance vehicles, the M 176.980 was engineered for aggressive power delivery and track-focused dynamics. Emissions compliance was achieved via close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 6 standards for all production years, as confirmed by VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly under sustained high-load operation. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 05 16, is often linked to fuel quality and extended service intervals. Later production engines (post-2017) received revised fuel pump calibration and enhanced cooling strategies to improve durability.
All production years 2014–2019 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Mercedes-Benz M 176.980 is a 3,982 cc 90° V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine developed for high-performance AMG applications (2014–2019). It combines dual overhead camshafts and 32-valve architecture with direct fuel injection and a hot-V turbo layout to deliver rapid throttle response and motorsport-inspired performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it represents the first generation of Mercedes-AMG's downsized, turbocharged V8 engines.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (hot-V layout) | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 350 kW (476 PS) @ 5,500–6,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 1,750–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (BorgWarner, hot-V configuration) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | 5W-40 MB 229.5 | |
| Dry weight | 187 kg |
The twin-turbo V8 delivers aggressive throttle response ideal for performance driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5-compliant 5W-40 oil to prevent turbo bearing and HPFP wear. 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-load operation demands premium unleaded (RON 98) to prevent detonation. Post-2017 engines feature improved HPFP cooling; pre-2017 units should be monitored for fuel pressure faults per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 16. 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 07 05 16). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2014–2019) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A176400).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A176400, A176401, A176405, SIB 07 05 16
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
ISO 1585:1992 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of net power
The Mercedes-Benz M 176.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W205/W213/C190 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W205 and revised intake manifolds in the W213-and from 2018 the facelifted W205 adopted the M177 variant with updated cooling, 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 A176400). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M176 series). All models have black cam covers with "63 AMG" badging and polished intake manifolds. Critical differentiation from M177: M176.980 has lower boost pressure (1.5 bar vs 1.8 bar) and different ECU calibration. Service parts require chassis number verification—HPFP units for pre-2017 engines are incompatible with post-2017 revisions due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 05 16).
The M 176.980's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in track or high-load use. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 2016 reported a notable share of pre-2017 engines requiring HPFP 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 turbo and fuel system stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2014-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M176980.
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