The Mercedes-Benz OM605.960 is a 2,497 cc, inline-five, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1992 and 1998. It formed part of the mid-generation evolution of Mercedes' indirect-injection diesel engines, introducing a KKK turbocharger to improve low-end torque and drivability. Featuring a cast-iron block and SOHC valvetrain, it delivered 85 kW (116 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, balancing efficiency with enhanced performance over naturally aspirated variants.
Fitted primarily to the W124 250D and W210 E250 Diesel, the OM605.960 was engineered for responsive urban and highway operation with improved fuel economy under load. Its driving character emphasized linear power delivery and strong mid-range pull, ideal for executive sedans and wagons. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an oxidation catalyst, meeting Euro 1 standards across its production run.
One documented update occurred in 1995 with revised injector nozzle calibration to improve cold-start behaviour and reduce white smoke. This change, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 06-95-01, was introduced to enhance drivability in colder climates. No major reliability concerns were formally issued by Mercedes-Benz, though long-term users note turbocharger actuator wear as a wear-item service point.
Production years 1992–1998 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Mercedes-Benz OM605.960 is a 2,497 cc inline-five turbocharged diesel engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1992–1998). It combines indirect injection with a Bosch M Diesel Injection Pump (MDIP) and KKK turbocharger to deliver improved low-end torque and drivability. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with enhanced performance over naturally aspirated predecessors.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,497 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, SOHC, 10-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch M Diesel Injection Pump (mechanical, indirect injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K26-250 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | MB 229.1 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 232 kg |
The turbocharged design provides improved low-RPM responsiveness ideal for city driving and hill climbing, though turbo lag is noticeable below 2,000 rpm. Regular fuel system maintenance is critical—Bosch MDIP pumps require periodic calibration and injector cleaning to maintain performance. MB 229.1 (10W-40) oil is essential for high-temperature protection in the indirect-injection combustion chamber and turbo bearing lubrication. Fuel quality significantly impacts longevity; use of low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) reduces injector and pump wear. No DPF simplifies ownership, though pre-injection chamber carbon buildup may require cleaning after 300,000 km. The KKK turbocharger is robust but actuator linkages may wear over time, requiring inspection during service.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz TSB 06-95-01). Compatible with ACEA B3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all models (1992–1998) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across production run (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1992).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A30723, A30917, TSB 06-95-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz OM605.960 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W124 and W210 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensing partnerships. This engine received minor injector calibration revisions in 1995 to improve cold-start behaviour, creating limited interchangeability with earlier OM605 variants. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A30723). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('E' for OM605 series). Pre-1995 models have unpainted aluminium injection pump housings; post-1995 units may show revised injector markings. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated OM605: OM605.960 includes a KKK K26-250 turbocharger and intercooler piping. Service parts require model year verification—injectors from 1995+ models are not backward compatible due to calibration updates (Mercedes-Benz TSB 06-95-01).
The OM605.960's primary reliability risk is turbocharger actuator wear or sticking, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 1999 indicated over a third of OM605.960 engines beyond 250,000 km required actuator inspection or replacement, while UK DVSA MOT records show minor oil leaks as a common advisory. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality accelerate wear, making adherence to service schedules and fuel filtration critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1992-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM605960.
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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
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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
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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