The Mercedes — Benz M117.963 is a 5,987 cc, V12 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a 60 — degree V12 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and sequential multi — port fuel injection. In standard form, it delivers 298 kW (405 PS) at 5,250 rpm and 580 Nm of torque at 3,750 rpm, offering effortless power delivery and exceptional refinement for flagship luxury applications.
Fitted exclusively to…
Production years 1998–2000 meet Euro 3 standards; 2001–2002 models comply with Euro 4 depending on market .
The Mercedes-Benz M117.963 is a 5,987 cc V12 naturally aspirated engine designed for flagship luxury sedans (1998–2002). It combines DOHC 48-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver seamless, vibration-free performance. Engineered to meet Euro 3 (and later Euro 4) standards, it balances supreme refinement with emissions compliance through advanced combustion management and secondary air injection systems.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 79.0 mm | |
Power output | 298 kW (405 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
Torque | 580 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2001); Euro 4 (2001–2002, market-dependent) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 258 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M117.963 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W220 platform with longitudinal mounting and reserved exclusively for Pullman-length luxury limousines. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and dual-bank exhaust manifolds in the S 600 Pullman-and from 2001 the facelifted S 600 Pullman LWB adopted revised throttle mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M117.963 offers exceptional refinement and smooth operation, but early models (1998–2000) are prone to camshaft wear if maintenance is delayed. Later revisions (post-2000) significantly improved durability with updated oil delivery. When maintained with correct oil (10W-60 MB 229.3/229.5) and regular servicing, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 km.
Key issues include premature camshaft wear (especially pre-2000), intake manifold runner flap failure, ignition coil degradation, and oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and confirmed through technical workshop data. Proper maintenance greatly reduces occurrence.
This 6.0L V12 was used exclusively in the long-wheelbase S 600 Pullman (W220). It was not offered in standard S-Class or non-limousine variants. All applications are from 1998–2002 and meet Euro 3 or Euro 4 emissions depending on production date. Due to its rarity, it remains a flagship engine for high-end chauffeur-driven transport.
Yes, though gains are more limited than turbocharged engines. ECU remapping can yield +20–35 kW by optimizing throttle response and fuel curves. Supporting modifications like high-flow exhaust and cold-air intake enhance results. However, due to its naturally aspirated design, significant power increases require forced induction or internal upgrades. Tuning is rare due to the engine's niche application and cost of ownership.
Moderate for a high-performance V12. In the S 600 Pullman (W220), typical consumption is ~18.5 L/100km (city) and ~11.2 L/100km (highway), or about 15 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary with driving style, but expect 13–17 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions. Regular fuel (RON 95) is sufficient, though RON 98 improves high-RPM performance and smoothness.
Yes. The M117 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. While the chain system is durable, any unusual noise from the front of the engine should be investigated immediately to prevent costly repairs.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 10W-60 oil meeting MB 229.3 or 229.5 standards. This high-viscosity oil is critical for maintaining oil film strength in the high-load valvetrain and preventing camshaft wear. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually to ensure optimal protection, especially given the engine's use in low-speed, high-idle limousine applications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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