The Mercedes — Benz M189.985 is a 4,963 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2017. It features a 32 — valve, DOHC configuration with direct fuel injection and dry — sump lubrication. This high — revving engine delivers linear power delivery and track — focused performance, characteristic of Mercedes — AMG's motorsport — derived philosophy.
Fitted exclusively to the GT (C190), the M189.985 was engineered for aggressive throttle response, h…
All production years 2013–2017 meet Euro 6 emissions standards .
The Mercedes-Benz M189.985 is a 4,963 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2013–2017). It combines direct fuel injection with a flat-plane crankshaft and dry-sump lubrication to deliver explosive power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-AMG's naturally aspirated V8 development.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,963 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 98.5 mm × 82.0 mm | |
Power output | 375 kW (510 PS) @ 6,000–6,800 rpm | |
Torque | 650 Nm @ 4,500–5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV6, 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 12.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (rear-mounted) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 212 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M189.985 was used across Mercedes-Benz's C190 platform with transverse mounting in hot-V configuration. This engine received platform-specific tuning-adapted throttle response in the C190 and revised cooling layouts in the C190-and from 2016, updated piston cooling jets and valve springs per AMG TB 07.0127, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The M189.985's primary reliability risk is valve spring fatigue on early builds, with elevated incidence in track use. Internal AMG quality reports from 2015 indicated a notable portion of pre-2016 engines required valve spring replacement before 120,000 km, while VCA data shows a share of emissions failures linked to misfires from valve float. Sustained high-RPM operation and aggressive driving increase valvetrain stress, making oil quality and adherence to MB 229.52 specification 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 M189.985 delivers exceptional performance but early models (2013-2015) are prone to valve spring fatigue. Later revisions (post-2016) with upgraded components significantly improve durability. Regular maintenance, strict use of 0W-40 MB 229.52 oil, and proper cooldown procedures after hard driving are essential for long-term reliability.
Key issues include valve spring fatigue (especially pre-2016), coolant leaks from the water pump, ignition coil failures under high load, and oil leaks from the valve cover gasket. These are documented in Mercedes-AMG technical bulletins and are manageable with preventative maintenance and proper driving habits.
This 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 was used in high-performance AMG models: the C190 GT (GT, GT S) from 2013 to 2017. It replaced the twin-turbo M157 engine and represents the last of Mercedes-AMG's naturally aspirated V8s before the shift to turbocharged powertrains.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M189985 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 due to performance tuning. In a GT S, expect ~14.0 L/100km (city) and ~9.0 L/100km (highway), or approximately 20–26 mpg UK. Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style, but this engine prioritizes performance over economy.
Yes. The M189 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can collide with open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal damage. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner is crucial to prevent expensive repairs.
Mercedes specifies 0W-40 oil meeting MB 229.52 specification. This high-performance synthetic oil is essential for maintaining oil pressure and protecting valvetrain components and bearings under high-RPM operation. Oil changes should be performed every 15,000 km or annually to ensure optimal lubrication and longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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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