The Mercedes-Benz M272.982 is a 3,498 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It features variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, sequential multi-point fuel injection, and an aluminium block and head, delivering smooth power delivery and refined operation. In standard tune it produced 180 kW (245 PS), with higher-output versions reaching 200 kW (272 PS) and torque outputs between 310–350 Nm, making it ideal for mid-size luxury applications.
Fitted to models such as the W211 E-Class, W203 C-Class, and R230 SL-Class, the M272.982 was engineered for balanced performance and refinement, offering linear throttle response and low noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Emissions compliance was achieved through dual three-way catalytic converters and lambda control, allowing Euro 4 certification across its production run. The engine's compact 60-degree V6 layout enabled longitudinal mounting in rear-wheel-drive architectures.
One documented concern is premature inlet cam follower wear, which in some cases led to valve train noise and misfires. This issue, highlighted in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 230070/08, is linked to lubrication starvation under high-temperature conditions and extended oil change intervals. From 2008, revised cam follower materials and updated oil pump designs were introduced to improve oil pressure stability and component durability.
All production years (2005–2011) meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Mercedes-Benz M272.982 is a 3,498 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for mid-size luxury models (2005–2011). It combines variable valve timing with sequential multi-point injection to deliver smooth power delivery and linear throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances refinement with performance in rear-wheel-drive platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve with dual VVT | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.9 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 180–200 kW (245–272 PS) | |
| Torque | 310–350 Nm @ 2,500–5,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (ME 2.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, mechanical coolant pump | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted), interference design | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 provides smooth, linear power ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5 oil to prevent cam follower wear. The dual VVT system enhances efficiency and emissions but is sensitive to oil pressure degradation. Extended idling in hot climates should be avoided to reduce thermal stress on the inlet cam train. Post-2008 models feature updated oil pumps and cam followers with improved wear resistance; pre-2008 units benefit from proactive inspection or upgrade. The interference valvetrain increases risk of internal damage in the event of timing chain failure, making regular inspection and timely replacement critical.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 230070/08). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3 and formulated for high-temperature stability.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all model years (2005–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 200 kW output requires premium fuel (RON 98) and full engine warm-up (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. 640.00-E-120600).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 640.00-E-120100, 640.00-E-120300, SIB 230070/08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test method for fuel consumption in urban traffic
The Mercedes-Benz M272.982 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W211/W203/R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Ferrari under engine partnership agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the E-Class and revised intake manifolds in the SL-Class-and from 2008 the facelifted E-Class W211 LCI adopted the M272DE35 with updated cam followers, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Ferrari's 4.3L V8 units to share valve train technology. 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 640.00-E-120900). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M272 series). Pre-2008 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-2008 units use gloss black. Critical differentiation from M272DE35: Original M272.982 uses Bosch ME 2.1 ECU with 104-pin connector, while M272DE35 uses ME 2.1.8 with 120-pin. Service parts require production date verification - inlet cam followers for pre-2008 models are incompatible with later units due to material and profile redesign (Mercedes-Benz SIB 230070/08).
The M272.982's primary reliability risk is inlet cam follower wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments and urban driving. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2009 indicated a notable share of pre-2008 engines requiring cam follower replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased misfire-related MOT failures linked to valve train wear in poorly maintained units. Extended oil intervals and high ambient temperatures increase wear risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2008-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M272982.
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