The Mercedes — Benz M272.980 is a 3,498 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2017. It features a naturally aspirated design with multi — point fuel injection (M272.980 variant), DOHC valvetrain, and 24 — valve configuration. Delivering 165 kW (224 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 2,400–5,000 rpm, it was engineered for balanced performance and refinement in executive and luxury platforms.
Fitted to the W211 E — Class, W219 CLS — Class, and W220 S — Class, the M27…
All production years (2006–2017) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7892).
The Mercedes-Benz M272.980 is a 3,498 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for longitudinal rear-wheel-drive platforms (2006–2017). 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 | 3,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 165 kW (224 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 300 Nm @ 2,400–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (ME 7.9.10) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
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 | 165 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M272.980 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211, W219, and W220 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the E 350 and revised intake manifolds in the CLS 350-and from 2011 the facelifted W211 models adopted updated timing components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M272.980'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 2012 indicated a significant portion of pre-2011 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 (2007-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2011-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M272.980 offers smooth performance and refinement, but early models (2006–2010) are prone to timing chain guide wear. Later revisions (post-2011) improved component durability. When maintained with regular oil changes using MB 229.5 (5W-40) oil, these engines can reliably exceed 180,000 km. Avoid extended service intervals to prevent premature wear.
The most documented issues include timing chain guide wear, idle instability due to throttle body carbon buildup, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, and ignition coil failures. These are confirmed in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and field reports. Preventive maintenance significantly reduces failure rates.
The M272.980 was used in the W211 E-Class (E 350), W219 CLS-Class (CLS 350), and W220 S-Class (S 350) from 2006 to 2017. It was not shared with other Daimler Group brands. All models meet Euro 4 emissions standards as verified by VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7892.
Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remaps can yield modest gains (~5–10 kW) by optimizing fuel and ignition maps, but the naturally aspirated design and DOHC valvetrain limit significant power increases. Aftermarket intake or exhaust upgrades offer minimal returns. Best suited for reliability-focused ownership rather than performance tuning.
Moderate for a V6. In the E 350 (W211), combined consumption is approximately 9.5 L/100km (~30 mpg UK). Highway driving improves to ~7.2 L/100km (~39 mpg UK), while urban cycles may reach 13.0 L/100km (~22 mpg UK). Real-world economy depends on driving style, but expect 25–35 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions.
Yes. The M272.980 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact is likely, resulting in severe internal damage. Immediate attention to any timing rattle or oil maintenance lapse is critical to avoid costly engine repairs.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This low-SAPS formulation ensures compatibility with emissions systems and protects the timing chain system. Change oil every 15,000 km or annually, whichever comes first, to maintain engine longevity and prevent sludge buildup.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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