The Mercedes — Benz M 177.980 is a 3,982 cc, twin — turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It served as the high — performance AMG powerplant for select GT and sedan models, featuring a hot — V layout with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 32 valves. In standard tune, it delivered 450 kW (612 PS), with peak torque of 850 Nm, providing explosive throttle response and track — focused dynamics.
Fitted to the C190 GT, W222 S — Class, and C217 CLS AMG variants, the…
All production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5684).
The Mercedes-Benz M 177.980 is a 3,982 cc twin-turbo V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2015–2020). It combines hot-V architecture with direct injection to deliver track-capable power and responsive dynamics. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances extreme performance with street legality.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Hot-V V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 450 kW (612 PS) @ 5,500–6,250 rpm | |
Torque | 850 Nm @ 2,500–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Spray-guided direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (BorgWarner), chargecooled, mounted inside V bank | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (SOHC-style drive with DOHC cams) | |
Oil type | SAE 0W-40 MB 229.5 | |
Dry weight | 187 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 177.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's C190, W222, and C217 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W222 and shortened accessory drives in the C190-and from 2017 the facelifted C190 models adopted revised intake manifolds and updated engine management, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 177.980's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage performance use. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2018 noted a significant number of pre-2017 engines requiring fuel pump 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 (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M 177.980 offers exhilarating performance but early models (2015-2017) are prone to high-pressure fuel pump issues if maintenance is delayed. Later units (post-2017) with reinforced pumps and updated controls are significantly more durable. When maintained with correct oil (0W-40 MB 229.5) and regular coolant service, these engines can reliably exceed 120,000 km.
Primary issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure (especially pre-2017), cooling system failures (water pump, thermostat), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, and intake manifold runner binding. These are documented in Mercedes technical bulletins and field service reports from the 2010s.
This 4.0L twin-turbo V8 was used exclusively in AMG models: the C190 AMG GT (GT S, GT C, GT R), W222 S-Class (S 63 AMG), and C217 CLS-Class (CLS 63 AMG). Production spanned from 2015 to 2020, with minor updates in 2017 improving intake and engine management systems. It was not used in any other Mercedes or third-party vehicles.
Yes. ECU remapping can yield gains of 50-80 kW by optimizing boost, fuel, and ignition maps. Some owners add larger intercoolers and exhausts for further gains. However, the high-pressure fuel system and turbochargers are near their limits in stock form, so significant power increases require upgraded internals. Most tuning is done conservatively to maintain reliability.
Fuel consumption is very high by modern standards. In the AMG GT S, typical usage is ~24 L/100km (city) and ~14 L/100km (highway), or about 11.8 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 11-13 mpg (UK) in mixed conditions. High-octane fuel (RON 98) is required for optimal performance.
Yes. The M 177 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. While chain durability is generally good, any signs of timing noise or wear should be investigated immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.
Mercedes specifies SAE 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 specification. Use of high-quality synthetic oil is critical to protect the turbocharged valvetrain and maintain viscosity under high thermal load. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 24 months to prevent sludge and turbo degradation, especially in early production engines.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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