The Mercedes-Benz M272.978 is a 5,461 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2015. It features a naturally aspirated design with multi-point fuel injection and double overhead camshafts (DOHC) per bank. In standard tune it delivers 285 kW (388 PS) and 530 Nm of torque, primarily used in luxury and performance-oriented vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the W221 S-Class, R230 SL-Class, and C219 CLS-Class, the M272.978 was engineered for smooth, effortless power delivery and high-speed cruising refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and oxygen sensor feedback, enabling Euro 4 compliance for all production years depending on market specifications.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, noted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 12-05-01/11. This issue can lead to incorrect valve timing, front-end rattle, and in severe cases, internal engine damage. From 2009, revised tensioner components and updated guide rails were introduced alongside improved oil flow design to enhance reliability.
All production years (2006–2015) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Mercedes-Benz M272.978 is a 5,461 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury applications (2006-2015). It combines variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts with sequential multi-point injection to deliver linear power delivery and strong low-to-mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances refinement with responsive performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 285 kW (388 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 2,800–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME 9.7 control system) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (dual-row, front-mounted, tensioner-prone) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for relaxed cruising and highway stability but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5 specification oil to prevent timing chain wear. Use of non-compliant oil can accelerate degradation of the chain tensioner and guide system. The front-mounted dual-row timing chain is prone to tensioner failure; any rattle on cold start should prompt inspection per SIB 12-05-01/11. Fuel quality is critical—premium unleaded (RON 98) is recommended to maintain knock sensor margins and prevent long-term combustion chamber deposits. Post-2009 revisions improved tensioner durability and oil flow to critical components.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 12-05-01/11). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: All production models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Full output requires RON 98 fuel (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A31059).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31059, A31204, SIB 12-05-01/11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Mercedes-Benz M272.978 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221/R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised exhaust manifolds in the R230 and modified intake routing in the C219-and from 2009 the facelifted W221 models adopted updated engine management and tensioner hardware, 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 exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A31104). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('2' for M272 series). Pre-2009 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2009 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M272.965: Original M272.978 has 5.5L displacement with specific intake plenum and ECU calibration, while M272.965 is a 4.7L variant with different bore and stroke. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 09/2008 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner and guide rail redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 12-05-01/11).
The M272.978's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles and those with extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2010 indicated over 16% of pre-2009 units required chain or tensioner service before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable share of emissions-related MOT failures linked to cam timing faults. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2007-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M272978.
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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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