The Mercedes-Benz M272.967 is a 5,461 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2017. It features a naturally aspirated design with multi-point fuel injection (M272.967 variant), DOHC valvetrain, and 32-valve configuration. Delivering 285 kW (388 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 530 Nm of torque at 2,800–4,800 rpm, it was engineered for high-performance refinement in executive and luxury platforms.
Fitted to the W221 S-Class, W216 CLS-Class, and C219 CLS-Class, the M272.967 provided smooth power delivery suitable for both relaxed cruising and spirited driving. Emissions compliance was achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run. Its longitudinal mounting facilitated integration into rear-wheel-drive and 4MATIC configurations.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain guides, particularly in high-mileage units subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 01.03-S-02-002, is attributed to oil degradation and reduced hydraulic pressure affecting chain tensioner operation. A revised guide and tensioner assembly was introduced in 2012, improving long-term durability.
All production years (2007–2017) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7891).
The Mercedes-Benz M272.967 is a 5,461 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for longitudinal rear-wheel-drive platforms (2007–2017). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver refined performance and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it supports both standard and 4MATIC drivetrains across executive and luxury models.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 90.5 mm | |
| Power output | 285 kW (388 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 2,800–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (ME 7.9.10) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Twin-row chain (guide wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 215 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 design provides smooth throttle response ideal for relaxed driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain guide wear. MB 229.5 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection of hydraulic components under thermal stress. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate oil degradation, increasing risk of chain system failure. The ME 7.9.10 engine management system requires OEM-compliant diagnostics for adaptation resets. Post-2012 models benefit from an upgraded guide and tensioner; pre-2012 units should be inspected per Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.03-S-02-002. Catalytic converter longevity depends on fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.03-S-02-002). Not compatible with lower-tier ACEA A1/B1 oils.
Emissions: All models (2007–2017) meet Euro 4 certification (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7891). No Euro 5 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades 95 RON and above (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A32014).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31076, A31548, SIB 01.03-S-02-002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7891)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M272.967 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221, W216, and C219 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the S 550 and revised intake manifolds in the CLS 550-and from 2012 the facelifted W221 models adopted updated timing components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A31204). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M272 series). Pre-2012 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic timing covers; post-2012 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M272.968: M272.967 features a twin-row timing chain and lacks camshaft variators. Service parts require production date verification—guides and tensioners for engines before 06/2012 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.03-S-02-002).
The M272.967's primary reliability risk is timing chain guide wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2013 indicated a significant portion of pre-2012 engines required guide replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in short-trip-driven vehicles. Extended oil intervals and cold-start cycles increase wear, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2008-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M272967.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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