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 M 177.980 was engineered for maximum performance and acoustic intensity. Its design emphasized compact packaging and rapid turbo response, with hot-V cylinder head/turbo integration, direct fuel injection (up to 350 bar), and dry-sump lubrication ensuring consistent oil pressure under high lateral loads. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced lambda control and dual catalytic converters, meeting Euro 6 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump, which can lead to fuel delivery faults and engine stalling. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07.0026/07, is attributed to mechanical stress and fuel quality sensitivity in high-pressure GDI systems. Later production revisions introduced reinforced pump internals and updated control algorithms to improve durability.
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 twin-turbo hot-V V8 provides explosive, low-end torque ideal for track and performance driving but demands high-octane fuel (RON 98) to prevent knock and maintain injector cleanliness. SAE 0W-40 MB 229.5 oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear protection for turbo and bearing systems. Oil changes should not exceed 15,000 km or 24 months to prevent sludge and turbo degradation. The spray-guided injection system requires periodic cleaning to maintain combustion efficiency. Pre-2017 engines should be inspected for high-pressure fuel pump integrity per Mercedes SIB 07.0026/07; updated pumps with reinforced internals were introduced mid-cycle to enhance durability. Cooling system integrity is critical—leaks or thermostat faults can lead to overheating due to high thermal load.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/07). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all models (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5684).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting RON 95 minimum (Mercedes TIS Doc. A36017).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35726, A36017, SIB 07.0026/07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5684)
DIN 70020: Engine Power Measurement Standard
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.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Mercedes TIS A35726). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M177 series). Pre-2017 engines have silver cam covers with "63 AMG" badging; post-2017 units feature revised intake plenum and updated ECU. Critical differentiation from M176: M177 uses twin-turbocharging with hot-V layout, while M176 (biturbo V8) has a different intake manifold and chargecooling system. Service parts require model-year verification—fuel pumps and turbo components for pre-2017 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to internal reinforcement and control updates (Mercedes SIB 07.0026/07).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M177980.
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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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