The Mercedes — Benz M 119.982 is a 5,987 cc, V12 petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It powered the high — performance AMG variants of the W140 S — Class and C140 CL — Class, delivering exceptional refinement and power. Featuring a DOHC 48 — valve configuration with sequential multi — point fuel injection, it produced 350 kW (476 PS) and 580 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h time of under 6 seconds.
Fitted exclusively to the S 600 AMG (W140) and CL 600 AMG (C140), the M 119.…
Production years 1993–1998 meet Euro 2 standards .
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.982 is a 5,987 cc V12 petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury performance (1993–1998). It combines DOHC 48-valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, high-output power. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions, it balances grand touring refinement with AMG-tuned performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 78.1 mm | |
Power output | 350 kW (476 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 580 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (KE-Motronic) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 248 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 119.982 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W140/C140 platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed exclusively for AMG high-performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W140 and modified intake manifolds in the C140-and from 1995 the updated oil gallery system improved lubrication, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The M 119.982's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 1996 noted a significant number of pre-1995 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while AMG workshop data links a portion of high-idle instability to airflow meter drift. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase valvetrain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. 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 119.982 delivers smooth power and luxury refinement, but early models (1993–1994) had reliability concerns, especially camshaft wear. Later revisions (post-1995) improved lubrication with a high-volume oil pump and revised galleries, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Regular servicing and using correct oil (20W-50 MB 229.1) greatly aid longevity.
The biggest issues are camshaft wear (leading to ticking noises or failure), airflow meter drift causing idle instability, and intake vacuum leaks. Other concerns include oil leaks from gaskets and occasional throttle body carbon buildup. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and AMG workshop records.
This 6.0L V12 was used exclusively in AMG-tuned flagship models. It appeared in the S 600 AMG (W140) and CL 600 AMG (C140) from 1993 to 1998. All units were Euro 2 compliant and featured AMG-specific tuning, intake, and badging.
Limited tuning potential exists due to its naturally aspirated design. ECU remaps can yield +15–25 kW by optimizing fuel and ignition maps, but gains are modest. Aftermarket headers and exhausts offer minor improvements. Major power increases require forced induction, which is complex and not OEM-supported. Most owners preserve originality.
Fuel consumption is high due to engine size and weight. In an S 600 AMG (W140), typical usage is ~18 L/100 km (city) and ~12 L/100 km (highway), or about 15–20 mpg UK. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 12–18 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy M 119.982.
Yes. The M 119 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. That's why chain maintenance and oil system integrity are critical—any abnormal noise should be investigated immediately.
Mercedes-Benz specifies 20W-50 oil meeting MB 229.1 specification. Always use a high-quality mineral or semi-synthetic oil suitable for high-performance petrol engines and change it every 15,000 km or annually to ensure proper camshaft lubrication and prevent wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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