The Mercedes — Benz M177.981 is a 3,982 cc, twin — turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It was developed as a high — performance powerplant for AMG models, featuring a 90° V8 configuration, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivered 375 kW (510 PS), with peak torque of 700 Nm, providing strong low — end thrust and high — RPM performance suitable for track and grand touring applications.
Fitted to perform…
All production years 2014–2020 meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7892).
The Mercedes-Benz M177.981 is a 3,982 cc twin-turbocharged V8 engine engineered for high-performance AMG applications (2014–2020). It combines DOHC architecture with CGI direct injection and hot-V turbocharger layout to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive throttle characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances track-ready performance with everyday drivability in luxury performance vehicles.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 375 kW (510 PS) @ 5,500–6,250 rpm | |
Torque | 700 Nm @ 1,750–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch ME 17.8.10 CGI direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (integrated into cylinder heads, 'hot-V' layout) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, duplex chain) | |
Oil type | 5W-40 MB 229.5 | |
Dry weight | 187 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M177.981 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W222/W205/W213 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the W222 and revised intake manifolds in the W213-and from 2017 the updated fuel pump and lubrication revisions in later builds, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M177.981's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation in pre-2017 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2018 noted a significant number of early engines requiring pump replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show elevated emissions-related failures in AMG models with deferred maintenance. Extended oil intervals and use of non-compliant oils increase wear rates, making oil quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2014-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2022). 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 M177.981 offers exhilarating power and robust construction, but pre-2017 units are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear if maintenance is deferred. Later revisions (post-2017) with updated pump and lubrication show improved durability. Engines maintained with regular 15,000 km oil changes using 5W-40 MB 229.5 oil can reliably exceed 200,000 km.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure (especially pre-2017), turbo wastegate rattle, cooling system leaks, and ECU communication faults. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and technical forums. Regular inspection and use of correct fluids mitigate most risks.
The M177.981 was used in the W205 C-Class (C 63 AMG), W213 E-Class (E 63 AMG), and W222 S-Class (S 63 AMG) from 2014 to 2020. It was exclusive to high-performance AMG variants and not used in standard or licensed to other manufacturers.
Yes. The twin-turbo V8 responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically yield +50–80 kW safely. Upgraded turbos, intercoolers, and exhaust systems allow further gains. However, fuel pump and injector limits must be considered. Most owners balance performance with reliability, avoiding excessive over-boosting.
Expect 14–18 L/100km (20–13 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway efficiency improves to ~11 L/100km (~21 mpg UK), while city driving can exceed 22 L/100km (<11 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style and vehicle weight.
Yes. The M177 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Regular inspection of the duplex chain and tensioners is essential to prevent failure.
Mercedes-Benz specifies 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This high-performance oil is critical for maintaining lubrication under high-RPM and high-load conditions. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually to prevent turbo and fuel pump wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with MERCEDES-BENZ or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialMERCEDES-BENZ documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.