Differences Between Mercedes M176, M177 And M178 Engines

Date October 3, 2023
Category
Automotive Tips, Auto Repair, Car Engines, Cars Transmission
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Differences Between Mercedes M176, M177 And M178 Engines

Differences Between Mercedes M176, M177, and M178 Engines: Specs, Applications & Where to Purchase

Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with engineering quality, and at the heart of its performance division—AMG—are a few of the world’s most advanced V8 engines. The M176, M177, and M178 engines are a couple of them, albeit they have a shared heritage and layout, are tuned and built for very different purposes. Regardless of whether you’re an owner, a mechanic, or a company interested in purchasing these performance engines, this guide provides you with an in-depth comparison of the M176, M177, and M178 engines—and informs you on how to purchase them straight from us.

In this 3000-word detailed analysis, we’re going to discuss the specs, applications, models, and benefits of these Mercedes AMG three powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engines. You’ll also find where to buy these Mercedes AMG engines for sale with expert advice and fast shipping.

Overview of the M176, M177, and M178 Engines

All three engines—M176, M177, and M178—are a 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8, built in a hot-V configuration with the twin turbochargers located inside the “V” of the engine. Although with shared architecture, one engine is used for different applications:

  • M176: Built for luxury and refinement in Mercedes-Benz’s non-AMG line.
  • M177: The standard AMG power engine, offering a compromise between comfort and performance.
  • M178: Motorsport variant, created for high-performance AMG cars, such as the AMG GT.

All of these motors are available for sale to you, whether you’re doing a performance swap, re-powering a project car, or just replacing a blown motor. Keep reading to see which one is right for you.

Mercedes M176 Engine: Features and Specifications

The M176 is the most comfort-focused of the three. It first appeared in comfort-focused models such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and G-Class (non-AMG).

🔧 Key Specifications:

  • Engine Type: 4.0L V8 biturbo
  • Configuration: Hot-V, 90-degree
  • Fuel System: Direct injection
  • Turbochargers: Twin-scroll turbochargers inside the V
  • Power Output: ~469 hp (application dependent)
  • Torque: ~700 Nm (516 lb-ft)
  • Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
  • Redline: ~6,500 RPM
  • Transmission Compatibility: 9G-TRONIC automatic
  • Cooling: Water-cooled with integrated intercooler
  • Weight: Approximately 220 kg (485 lbs)

🚗 Applications:

🎯 Purpose:

The M176 was designed to be quiet, produce silky power, and be thrifty, making it an apt qualifier for luxury sedans and SUVs. While it largely shares its underlying architecture with its AMG cousins, the M176 is detuned and does not receive some of the hardware intended for performance.

Mercedes M177 Engine: Specifications and Features

The M177 is possibly the most popular and varied AMG V8 engine. It’s employed in anything from coupes to SUVs and sports sedans.

🔧 Key Specifications:

  • Engine Type: 4.0L V8 biturbo
  • Fuel System: Direct injection
  • Power Output: Ranges from 469 hp to 639 hp
  • Torque: Up to 900 Nm (664 lb-ft)
  • Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
  • Redline: ~7,000 RPM
  • Dry or Wet Sump: Wet sump (for the most part); certain models utilize dry sump
  • Transmission Compatibility: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT or 9G-TRONIC
  • Ignition System: Electronic with knock sensors
  • Turbo Configuration: Hot-V twin-turbo
  • Weight: Weighing around 210–220 kg

🚗 Applications:

  • Mercedes-AMG C63 / C63 S
  • Mercedes-AMG E63 / E63 S
  • Mercedes-AMG GLC63 / GLC63 S
  • Mercedes-AMG G63
  • Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door
  • Some S-Class AMG models

🎯 Purpose:

The M177 delivers everyday driveability along with ballistic performance. It boasts multiple states of tune depending on the vehicle and includes features like cylinder deactivation for improved fuel efficiency.

Mercedes M178 Engine: Specifications and Features

The M178 is the most track-oriented of the three, track-level performance being the priority. It’s utilized in AMG’s halo models and motorsport events.

🔧 Key Features:

  • Engine Type: 4.0L V8 biturbo
  • Dry Sump Lubrication: Yes (for reliability and on-track use)
  • Power Output: 503 hp to 720 hp (M178 LS2 and M178 LS2 EVO)
  • Torque: 850 Nm (627 lb-ft)
  • Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
  • Rev Limit: 7,200 RPM
  • Reinforced Crankshaft and Pistons: Yes
  • Forged Internals: Yes
  • Turbo Configuration: Hot-V twin-turbo
  • Cooling: Enhanced oil and water cooling
  • Weight: ~205–210 kg
  • ECU: Tunable AMG-specific Bosch ECU

🚗 Applications:

  • Mercedes-AMG GT
  • Mercedes-AMG GT R / GT Black Series
  • AMG GT4 (Motorsport)
  • Brabus and other tuners’ custom builds

🎯 Purpose:

The M178 is designed for extreme performance and track longevity. The dry sump allows for low-mount engine positioning for better handling and reduced oil starvation under high G-forces.

Summary Table: M176 vs M177 vs M178

FeatureM176M177M178
Engine Type4.0L V8 Biturbo4.0L V8 Biturbo4.0L V8 Biturbo
Power Output~469 hp469–639 hp503–720 hp
Torque~700 NmUp to 900 NmUp to 850 Nm
LubricationWet sumpWet/Dry (varies)Dry sump
Redline~6,500 RPM~7,000 RPMUp to 7,200 RPM
Application FocusLuxury/ComfortPerformance/DailyTrack/Motorsports
Vehicles Used InS-Class, G-ClassC63, E63, G63, GT 4-DoorAMG GT, AMG GT Black Series
Performance EnhancementsNoneAMG tuning, forged partsDry sump, reinforced internals

Why Buy These Mercedes Engines from Us?

Whether you’re an individual restoring your performance vehicle, a shop doing engine swaps, or a company buying replacement engines—our organization is your first choice for Mercedes AMG engines, such as the M176, M177, and M178.

✅ What We Provide:

  • Brand new OEM Mercedes-Benz M176, M177, and M178 engines
  • Units that are thoroughly examined and tested
  • New, used, or rebuilt engine competitive pricing
  • Export documents with worldwide shipping
  • Installation and tuning technical support
  • Warranty options and service parts available

You’re not just buying an engine—you’re buying assurance, backed up by experts in high-performance auto components.

How to Buy Your Mercedes M176, M177, or M178 Engine

Buying your engine from us is easy and safe. Here’s how:

1. Get in Touch

Phone or email us with your engine needs. We’ll direct you to the right model and version.

2. Get a Custom Quote

We’ll add a detailed price estimate, shipping estimate, and warranty terms.

3. Safe Payment

Pay securely by wire transfer, credit card, etc.

4. Fast Processing and Shipping

We pack and ship your engine safely, tracked, with worldwide delivery.

Best Buyers and Engine Swap Uses

These engines are ideal for:

  • Performance car builders doing custom vehicles
  • Repair shops replacing blown motors
  • Racing teams needing track-ready engines
  • Restomod builders looking for new AMG performance
  • Exporters buying powertrains for resale overseas

Whether you’re swapping in a full AMG upgrade into an older Mercedes or building from scratch with a custom build, these engines offer an updated foundation with unmatched reliability and horsepower.

Testimonials

James L., California
“Bought used M177 engine for C63 build. Support team guided us through each step. Engine arrived clean, compression-tested, and ready to install.”

Renato F., Italy
“Great service. M178 LS2 shipped internationally in 3 weeks. All OEM accessories. Top-notch seller.”

Final Thoughts: Which Engine is For You?

If you are searching for:

  • Smooth, luxury cruising? → Get the M176
  • Versatile performance and everyday driveability? → Get the M177
  • Motorsports performance and high-level tuning potential? → You need the M178

And don’t forget—all three of these high-performance Mercedes V8 engines are available for purchase directly from us, with first-class advice, guaranteed shipping, and unmatched reliability.

📞 Call Us Today to Purchase

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