The Aston Martin M159 is a 6,208 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2019. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 48 — valve architecture, and Bosch MED17 engine management, delivering 420 kW (571 PS) and 630 Nm of torque. This high — capacity engine was derived from the Mercedes — Benz M275 AMG platform, modified for longitudinal mounting and acoustic tuning in Aston Martin grand tourers.
Fitted to the DBS, Vanquish, and One — 77 hyperca…
Production years 2011–2019 meet Euro 5 standards .
The Aston Martin M159 is a 6,208 cc V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine adapted from the Mercedes-AMG M275 platform (2011–2019). It combines DOHC 48-valve architecture with Bosch MED17 engine management to deliver smooth, high-capacity power and acoustic refinement. Designed to meet Euro 5, it balances grand touring comfort with high-performance capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 6,208 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 82.0 mm | |
Power output | 420 kW (571 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 630 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch MED17 port and direct injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.9:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin Longlife-12 (SAE 5W-50) | |
Dry weight | 247 kg |
The Aston Martin M159 was used across Aston Martin's DB and Vanquish platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the DBS and tuned exhaust manifolds in the One-77-and from 2014 the facelifted Vanquish adopted revised camshaft profiles and ECU calibration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins and ETK parts catalogues.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M159 is a robust naturally aspirated V12 with strong build quality. No widespread reliability issues have been reported, though pre-2014 models may develop intake carbon buildup if used primarily for short trips. Regular maintenance, use of RON 95+ fuel, and adherence to 12,000 km oil changes with OEM-specified oil ensure long-term durability.
The most documented issues are intake valve carbon buildup, high-pressure fuel pump wear, and minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. Coolant leaks from the water pump have been noted in high-mileage units. These are addressed in Aston Martin service information bulletins and field engineering updates.
The M159 powers the DBS (2011–2012), Vanquish (2012–2018), and One-77 (2011–2013). It is derived from the Mercedes-AMG M275 but modified for Aston Martin applications. No non-Aston Martin applications exist. All models are Euro 5 compliant.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M159 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
In the Vanquish, combined consumption is ~15.2 L/100km (18.6 mpg UK), with city driving reaching ~19.0 L/100km (15.0 mpg). Highway efficiency improves to ~11.8 L/100km (23.9 mpg). Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style. Expect 15–20 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions.
Yes. The M159 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner per service schedule is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Aston Martin specifies SAE 5W-50 synthetic oil meeting Aston Martin Longlife-12 standards. Oil must be changed every 12,000 km or 12 months. Using correct oil ensures proper high-RPM lubrication and reduces intake carbon formation in this port+direct injected engine.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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