The Mercedes — Benz M 279.982 is a 5,980 cc, 60° V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust, and multi — point fuel injection. Delivering 463 kW (630 PS) in standard form and up to 537 kW (730 PS) in AMG variants, it powered the brand’s flagship luxury sedans and coupes with effortless performance and supreme refinement.
Fitted exclusively to the W222 S — Cl…
All production years meet Euro 6 standards (EU6b threshold from 2015) (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Mercedes-Benz M 279.982 is a 5,980 cc 60° V12 naturally aspirated engine engineered for ultra-luxury applications (2012–2019). It combines DOHC architecture with dual variable valve timing to deliver smooth, vibration-free power and exceptional refinement. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it represents the final evolution of Mercedes’ naturally aspirated V12 lineup before the shift to electrified powertrains.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
Power output | 463–537 kW (630–730 PS) | |
Torque | 830–1,000 Nm @ 2,800–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 (EU6b from 2015) | |
Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit with electric water pump | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Dual roller chain (primary and secondary), hydraulic tensioners | |
Oil type | MB 229.51 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 241 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 279.982 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W222/R231 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-cooling system tuning in the SL-Class and acoustic dampening in the S-Class-and from 2015 the W222 S-Class facelift introduced updated ECU calibrations, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 279.982's primary reliability risk is camshaft adjuster gear wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for sustained highway cruising. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2017 indicated a notable share of pre-2016 engines requiring adjuster replacement before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalyst failures linked to fuel trim errors from cam timing drift. Extended idling and delayed oil changes increase wear on the timing chain and hydraulic tensioner, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2012-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M 279.982 is generally robust with strong build quality, but early models (2012–2016) are prone to camshaft adjuster gear wear. Later revisions (post-2016) feature reinforced components that significantly improve durability. Consistent maintenance, timely oil changes with MB 229.51 spec oil, and use of premium fuel are essential for long-term reliability in this flagship V12.
The most documented issues are camshaft adjuster gear wear (especially pre-2016), carbon buildup in the intake tract due to MPI, coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housing, and high-pressure fuel pump wear. These are confirmed in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and technical reports for the W222 and R231 platforms.
The M 279.982 was used exclusively in AMG 65-series performance-luxury models including the W222 S-Class (S 65 AMG), R231 SL-Class (SL 65 AMG), and Z222 Maybach S-Class (Maybach S 650). It was phased out in 2019 with the introduction of the M278-based hybrid V12 in the S 680.
Yes, but with limitations. ECU remapping can yield +40–60 kW on naturally aspirated engines, though gains are modest compared to turbo engines. Supporting modifications like exhaust and intake upgrades can enhance responsiveness. However, aggressive tuning increases stress on the valvetrain and fuel system, so conservative tuning is advised, especially on pre-2016 units.
Fuel consumption is typical for a large V12 in a performance-luxury vehicle. In an S 65 AMG (W222), expect ~19.5 L/100km (city) and ~11.2 L/100km (highway), or approximately 14 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary with driving style, but 12–15 mpg UK is common. The MPI system contributes to smooth operation but is less efficient than direct injection.
Yes. The M 279.982 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. This makes timely inspection and replacement of timing components—especially the cam adjuster gears—critically important given the engine's complexity and repair cost.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting MB 229.51 standard. This low-ash, high-shear-stability oil is essential for protecting the hydraulic tensioners, VVT actuators, and timing chain. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually to maintain engine health and prevent premature wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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