The Mercedes — Benz M 278.928 is a 5,461 cc, 90° V8 petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2017. It features twin — turbocharging, direct fuel injection (BlueDIRECT), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard tuning, it delivered 340 kW (462 PS) and 700 Nm of torque, providing strong low — end response and high — speed performance.
Fitted to flagship models including the W221 S — Class, W212 E — Class, and C217 CLS — Class, the M 278.928 was engin…
All production years 2011–2017 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Mercedes-Benz M 278.928 is a 5,461 cc 90° twin-turbocharged V8 engineered for high-performance luxury applications (2011–2017). It combines direct injection with twin-scroll turbocharging to deliver responsive power and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with drivability in longitudinal mounting configurations.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 90.5 mm | |
Power output | 340 kW (462 PS) @ 5,250–6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 700 Nm @ 1,800–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (BlueDIRECT), multi-point injection (port) for cold starts | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin parallel turbochargers (BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Dual chain (short-block to cylinder heads) | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 0W-40) | |
Dry weight | 212 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 278.928 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221, W212, and C217 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-adaptive throttle response in the S-Class and revised torque delivery in the CLS-Class-and from 2013, minor internal revisions improved fuel pump durability, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 278.928's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in sustained highway driving conditions. Internal Daimler reports from 2013 indicated a significant portion of pre-2013 engines required pump replacement before 140,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows fuel system faults among the top engine-related MOT advisories for W212 E 550 models. Prolonged high-RPM operation and infrequent oil changes increase pump drive stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2011–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2023). 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 M 278.928 is a high-performance twin-turbo V8 with strong build quality, but pre-2013 models are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear if oil changes are delayed. Later revisions improved durability, so well-maintained engines can exceed 180,000 km. Using MB 229.51 oil and adhering to 15,000 km service intervals is essential for longevity.
The primary issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear (causing hard starts and misfires), oil leaks from ageing valve cover gaskets, and ignition coil failures leading to misfires. Throttle body actuator faults and spark plug degradation are also frequent. These are documented in Mercedes service bulletins and technical forums.
This 5.5L twin-turbo petrol was used in several flagship models: S-Class (W221) S 550 (2011–2013), E-Class (W212) E 550 (2011–2016), CLS-Class (C217) CLS 550 (2011–2017), and GL-Class (X164) GL 550 (2012–2015). All models meet Euro 5 emissions standards.
Yes, the M 278.928 responds well to ECU remapping, typically yielding +50–80 kW by optimizing boost, ignition timing, and fuel delivery. Supporting modifications like intercooler and exhaust upgrades enhance results. Tuning should not compromise fuel pump oil pressure requirements. Stage 1 tunes are common and generally reliable on stock internals.
Moderate for a twin-turbo V8. In an E 550 (W212), combined consumption is ~10.8 L/100km (~26 mpg UK). City driving may reach 14–17 L/100km (~20–14 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve ~9.0 L/100km (~31 mpg). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 15–26 mpg (UK) in mixed conditions.
Yes. The M 278 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. Chain maintenance is critical—any unusual noise from the front of the engine should prompt immediate inspection.
Mercedes specifies SAE 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-detergent formulation protects the high-pressure fuel pump and maintains engine cleanliness. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge and wear in critical hydraulic components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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