The Mercedes — Benz M 273.967 is a 5,461 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust, and electronic direct port fuel injection. In standard tune it delivered 225 kW (306 PS) and 460 Nm of torque, offering smooth power delivery and strong mid — range performance.
Fitted to key luxury and performance models including the W221 S — Class, W212 E — Class, and W164 ML — Class, the M 27…
Production years 2006–2008 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2011 models may have partial Euro 5 compliance depending on market .
The Mercedes-Benz M 273.967 is a 5,461 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for luxury and executive vehicles (2006–2011). It combines direct port injection with dual variable valve timing to deliver smooth power and responsive mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and select Euro 5) standards, it balances refinement with performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 96.9 mm × 92.4 mm | |
Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 460 Nm @ 2,700–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Electronic direct port injection (HFM-SFi) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2009); partial Euro 5 depending on market | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (dual adjusters) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 202 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M 273.967 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W221, W212, and W164 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened accessory drives in the W212 and reinforced engine mounts in the W164-and from 2009 the facelifted W221 models adopted revised camshaft adjusters, 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 273.967 offers smooth performance and solid build quality, but early models (2006–2008) are prone to camshaft adjuster gear wear. Later revisions (post-2009) feature improved hardened gears, significantly enhancing durability. With regular maintenance and correct oil (MB 229.5 5W-40), well-maintained units can reliably exceed 200,000 km.
The most documented issues are camshaft adjuster gear wear (causing rattles and fault codes), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, intake manifold runner binding, and coolant pump bearing failure. These are confirmed in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and field reports, with the adjuster issue being the most critical.
This 5.5L V8 was used in several key models: S 350 (W221), E 350 (W212), ML 350 (W164), and R 350 (W251), primarily from 2006 to 2011. It was not licensed to other manufacturers and was succeeded by the M 276 V6 in most applications.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M273967 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.
Moderate for a V8. In a W221 S 350, combined consumption is approximately 10.5 L/100 km (26.9 mpg UK), with city driving around 13.0 L/100 km and highway as low as 8.5 L/100 km. Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style, but expect 22–28 mpg UK under mixed conditions.
Yes. The M 273 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. While chain failure is rare, cam adjuster wear can cause timing misalignment, so early diagnosis of rattles or fault codes is essential.
Mercedes-Benz specifies SAE 5W-40 oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This low-SAPS formulation is critical for protecting the camshaft adjusters and hydraulic lifters. Oil changes should be performed every 15,000 km or annually to maintain component longevity and prevent sludge buildup.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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