The Mercedes — Benz M 130.923 is a 5,987 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a DOHC 32 — valve configuration with sequential multi — point fuel injection (SIMPLE) and variable intake manifold geometry (Twin — Port), delivering 270 kW (367 PS) and 540 Nm of torque. This naturally aspirated engine was engineered for high — speed stability and smooth power delivery in grand touring applications.
Fitted to the CL — Class (C215) and S — Class (W220), the M…
All production years (1998–2002) meet Euro 3 emissions standards .
The Mercedes-Benz M 130.923 is a 5,987 cc V8 petrol engine designed for flagship luxury coupes and sedans (1998–2002). It combines DOHC 32-valve architecture with variable intake geometry and sequential fuel injection to deliver balanced performance and refinement. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes smoothness and high-speed stability in premium driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,987 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 101.0 mm | |
Power output | 270 kW (367 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 540 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (SIMPLE) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | 10W-60 MB-Approval 229.3 | |
Dry weight | 215 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 130.923 was used across Mercedes-Benz's C215/W220 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the C215 and reinforced engine mounts in the W220-and from 2000 the facelifted W220 received updated ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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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 M 130.923 offers smooth, high-output performance but early models (1998–2000) had reliability concerns, particularly intake camshaft wear. Later revisions (post-2000) improved durability with updated materials and oil pump calibration. Well-maintained examples with regular servicing and correct oil (10W-60 MB-Approval 229.3) can be robust. Cold-start procedures and adherence to oil change intervals are critical for longevity.
The primary issues are intake camshaft lobe wear (especially pre-2000), Twin-Port intake actuator failure, ignition coil degradation, and oil leaks from valve and front covers. These are well-documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins. Secondary concerns include fuel injector coking and catalytic converter blockage due to high fuel consumption and infrequent highway driving.
This 6.0L V8 was used in the CL-Class (C215) CL 600 from 1999–2002 and the S-Class (W220) S 600 from 1998–2001. It was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications were Euro 3 compliant, with no Euro 4 version produced.
Limited tuning potential exists due to the naturally aspirated design. ECU remaps can yield modest gains (~15–25 kW) by optimizing fuel and ignition maps. Aftermarket upgrades like high-flow exhausts and intake systems offer minor improvements. However, the engine's strength lies in refinement, not high-RPM output, so significant power increases require forced induction, which is complex and costly.
Fuel consumption is high due to displacement and weight. In an S 600 (W220), typical use is ~17.5 L/100km (city) and ~10.2 L/100km (highway), or about 16 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures often range between 12–17 mpg (UK) depending on driving style. Highway cruising is more efficient than urban use due to the engine's mid-range torque characteristics.
Yes. The M 130.923 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. Chain maintenance and proper lubrication are essential—any unusual front-end noise should be investigated immediately to prevent engine seizure.
Mercedes-Benz specifies 10W-60 oil meeting MB-Approval 229.3. Use only high-quality synthetic oils designed for high-load petrol engines. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil selection ensures adequate camshaft lubrication and reduces wear in the timing chain system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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