The Mercedes — Benz M 156.982 is a 6,208 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It served as the high — performance flagship engine for AMG’s performance lineup, delivering motorsport — inspired power and responsiveness. Featuring a 90° V8 configuration, DOHC 32 — valve layout, and direct port fuel injection (HFM — SFI), it produced 386 kW (525 PS) and 630 Nm of torque, offering aggressive throttle response and a high — revving character up t…
Production years 2006–2011 meet Euro 4 emissions standards .
The Mercedes-Benz M 156.982 is a 6,208 cc V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for high-performance AMG models (2006–2011). It combines a DOHC 32-valve architecture with direct port fuel injection to deliver aggressive power delivery and high-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances track-capable output with road legality and emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 6,208 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 102.2 mm × 94.6 mm | |
Power output | 386 kW (525 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
Torque | 630 Nm @ 5,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | HFM-SFI direct port fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double roller chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 201 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 156.982 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221/W219/W216 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the W221 and modified exhaust manifolds in the W216-and from 2009 the facelifted W221 models adopted revised intake manifolds for improved mid-range torque, creating minor service part differences. 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 156.982 is a high-performance naturally aspirated V8 with strong mechanical design, but early models (2006–2008) are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear. Later revisions (post-2009) significantly improved durability. With meticulous maintenance, including regular oil changes with MB 229.5 spec oil and use of high-octane fuel, well-maintained examples can exceed 180,000 km. Neglect, especially with fuel quality and coolant, leads to expensive repairs.
The primary issues are premature high-pressure fuel pump wear (pre-2009), vacuum leaks from deteriorating intake hoses, ignition system failures (coils, plugs), and coolant leaks from heater lines and the thermostat housing. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and are typical of high-mileage AMG engines from this era. Regular inspection of hoses and electrical components is essential.
The M 156.982 powered the AMG variants of the 2000s. It was used in the W221 S-Class (S 63 AMG), W219 CL-Class (CL 63 AMG), and W216 SL-Class (SL 63 AMG). All applications met Euro 4 emissions standards. No external manufacturers licensed this engine.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M156982 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.
Fuel consumption is very high by modern standards. In an S 63 AMG (W221), expect ~18.5 L/100km (city) and ~11.0 L/100km (highway), approximately 15.3 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style. The large displacement and performance tuning result in significant fuel use, especially in urban conditions.
Yes. The M 156.982 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons can collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. While the front-mounted double roller chain is robust, any signs of chain rattle or tensioner failure must be addressed immediately to prevent engine destruction.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 specification. This oil is critical for protecting the timing chain and high-RPM valve train, especially in pre-2009 engines. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year, whichever comes first, to ensure optimal lubrication and prevent premature wear.
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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