Mercedes-Benz M278 Engine Review

Date September 11, 2023
Category
Auto Repair, Automotive Tips, Car Engines, Cars Transmission
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Mercedes-Benz M278 Engine Review

Mercedes-Benz M278 Engine Review – Buy the M278 V8 Twin-Turbo Engine Online Today

The Mercedes-Benz M278 engine is a giant’s achievement of performance, efficiency, and durability on a refined twin-turbocharged V8 platform. Whether you are shopping for a replacement engine for your luxury sedan or SUV or simply a car enthusiast seeking high-end German performance, the M278 is a top-tier choice. M278 Engine Review

1. Mercedes-Benz M278 Engine Overview

The Mercedes-Benz M278 is a twin-turbo V8 gasoline engine introduced in 2010 during the brand’s transition to solely fuel-efficient, though powerful, engine designs. It was designed to replace naturally aspirated M273 V8 engines and was a leap in fuel economy, emissions management, and performance. M278 Engine Review

The M278 is part of Mercedes’ BlueDIRECT family of engines, with direct fuel injection, twin turbocharging, and variable valve timing for optimum power delivery and improved environmental performance. M278 Engine Review

2. Mercedes-Benz M278 Engine Specifications

SpecificationDetail
Engine TypeV8 Biturbo (Twin-Turbocharged)
Displacement4.7 liters (4663 cc)
Configuration90° V8
Bore x Stroke92.9 mm × 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio10.5:1
Fuel InjectionDirect Injection (BlueDIRECT)
TurbochargersTwin-turbo, intercooled
Power Output402–449 hp (model dependent)
Torque443–516 lb-ft
Engine CodeM278.920, M278.929, M278.931
ValvetrainDOHC, 32 valves
CoolingWater-cooled
Emissions StandardEuro 5/6 (dependent on year)

3. Key Features of the M278 Engine

Twin-Turbo Performance

Perhaps the single most significant improvement over its M273 predecessor is the inclusion of twin turbochargers. This enables the M278 to generate enormous low-end torque and deliver power smoothly across the whole RPM range. M278 Engine Review

BlueDIRECT Injection System

Mercedes’ BlueDIRECT technology employs piezoelectric injectors and stratified combustion technology to enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions, without compromising performance. M278 Engine Review

Lightweight Construction

Made of aluminum alloy with steel cylinder liners cast in, the M278 is strong but light, and helps to lower vehicle weight and enhance balance.

Start/Stop Function

To enhance fuel efficiency in city driving, the M278 has automatic start/stop technology incorporated into it.

4. M278 Performance and Driving Experience

The M278 is a great drive. There’s 402-449 hp and 443-500+ lb-ft of torque, depending on the model you choose, so you get savage acceleration with silken delivery.

It powers a range from executive sedans through to performance SUVs and is the perfect compromise between comfort and outright power. With intelligent turbocharging and high-fuel efficiency controls, it’s as much at home on high-speed highway cruising as on high-performance driving. M278 Engine Review

5. Most Popular Cars Fitted with the M278

If you’re wondering whether the M278 is fitted in your Mercedes-Benz or not, here are the most popular models which have this engine:

  • Mercedes-Benz S550 (W221, W222)
  • Mercedes-Benz CLS550 (W218)
  • Mercedes-Benz E550 (W212)
  • Mercedes-Benz GL550 (X166)
  • Mercedes-Benz ML550 (W166)
  • Mercedes-Benz SL550 (R231)
  • Mercedes-Benz GLE550 (W166 facelift)

All these vehicles utilize to their full potential the power and smoothness of the M278 engine.

6. Reliability and Maintenance Overview

The M278 is generally a long-lasting and reliable engine, if properly maintained. As with all modern turbo engines, regular maintenance is unavoidable, however. M278 Engine Review

General Maintenance Tips:

  • High-quality synthetic oil, change every 5,000–7,500 miles
  • Spark plugs every 60,000–80,000 miles
  • Cooling systems in good condition, and regular turbocharger inspection
  • Premium fuel only (91 octane or better)

Known Problems (and Solutions):

  • Premature wear on timing chain tensioners—many of our remanufactured engines have upgraded components.
  • Oil cooler leaks—solved in our remanufacturing process.
  • Carbon build-up—routine intake cleaning prevents this.

7. Why Buy a Remanufactured M278 Engine?

A remanufactured engine is excellent value. We completely disassemble, inspect, clean, and rebuild the M278 engine to OEM-spec standards or better for like-new performance. M278 Engine Review

Benefits of Buying Remanufactured:

  • Cost-saving alternative to buying new
  • Environmentally responsible (recycled core)
  • Restores original performance
  • Warranty protected
  • Quality guaranteed and inspection tested

8. Our M278 Engines for Sale

We offer high-quality remanufactured and tested Mercedes-Benz M278 engines with complete disclosure of specification, performance, and origin. M278 Engine Review

Engine Variants Available:

  • M278.920 – installed in S550, CLS550
  • M278.929 – E550, CLS550
  • M278.931 – GL550, GLE550, SL550

Why Buy from Us?

  • Each engine is compression tested, leak tested, and balanced
  • Warranty included (call us for coverage details)
  • Quick nation-wide and world-wide shipping available
  • Lowest price and best customer service
  • Cores available in case you are replacing a damaged engine

9. Shipping, Warranty, and Customer Support

Fast Secure Shipping

We ship throughout the United States, Canada, and overseas. Engines are boxed appropriately to arrive in good condition. M278 Engine Review

Warranty Coverage

Our M278 engines come with a standard warranty that covers workmanship and material defects. Extended warranties are also offered.

Trust Our Support

Still not sure which M278 setup is right for your car? Our knowledgeable staff members are here on the phone, email, or live chat to walk you through the whole process. M278 Engine Review

10. Ordering Your M278 Engine

Ordering is simple:

  1. Call us with your VIN and make of vehicle to confirm fitment
  2. Select from remanufactured or used M278 engines
  3. Receive a shipping quote
  4. Place your order
  5. Have your engine shipped directly to your auto shop or doorstep

We offer secure payment processing and can help schedule installation referrals in most locations.

11. Conclusion

The Mercedes-Benz M278 engine is a top-notch powerplant that offers excellent performance, refined operation, and long-term durability when well maintained. Whether replacing an old engine or upgrading your car, the M278 is still one of the most reliable twin-turbo V8s available.

We supply only high-quality M278 engines, remanufactured to high specifications and backed by warranty. With our technical support expertise, shipping, and satisfaction guarantee, you can confidently purchase your M278 engine.

Require Expert Help in Buying Your M278 Engine?

Call us today and let our experts help you choose the best engine for your Mercedes-Benz!

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