Understanding the Different Types of Mercedes Benz Engines

Table of Contents

Understanding the Different Types of Mercedes-Benz Engines: Specs, Benefits & Where to Buy

Mercedes-Benz is known worldwide for engineering excellence, innovation, and luxury performance. But when it comes to replacing or upgrading your Mercedes engine, it’s important to understand the different types of Mercedes-Benz engines available. Understanding the Different Types of Mercedes Benz Engines

Whether you are in the market for a petrol, diesel, hybrid, or performance-tuned AMG engine, this guide will walk you through all you need to know—everything from full specifications, performance benefits, and what each engine type is best suited for. Most importantly, if you are interested in buying a replacement Mercedes engine, you’re in the correct place.

We stock and supply a massive range of reconditioned, low-mileage, and used Mercedes-Benz engines—by all types of engines.

1. Introduction to Mercedes-Benz Engine Technology

Mercedes-Benz built a variety of engines to please every type of driver—from efficient diesels to the high-performance twin-turbo AMG beasts. Every engine family is designed with precision, utilizing the best in German auto technology to provide durability, efficiency, and performance.

No matter whether you are replacing a bad engine, restoring a vintage Mercedes, or looking to boost performance, knowing about engine types is the starting point for making the correct decision.

We have petrol, diesel, hybrid, and AMG engines for virtually all Mercedes models for the last 25 years, all warranted and to fit.

2. Mercedes Petrol Engines

What Are Petrol Engines?

Mercedes petrol engines are known for their silky smooth running, higher RPM range, and responsive throttle response. They’re favorite among individuals looking for a silent, responsive, and powerful drive, especially for city driving and short trips.

Common Petrol Engine Families:

M102 / M103 / M104 (Legacy Inline Engines)

Found in older models like W124, W201
Inline-4 and Inline-6 configurations
Naturally aspirated, 90–220 hp

M112 / M113 (Early Modern V6/V8)

Found in models like W210, W211, SLK
V6 and V8 choices with solid reliability
2.6L to 5.0L, 170–302 hp

M272 / M273

Found in C-Class, E-Class, ML-Class (2005–2011)
Better fuel injection and emissions
M272: V6 | M273: V8
Issues known: balance shaft wear (resolved in later versions)

M274 / M276 (Turbo Modern Engines)

Used from 2012 and later in C, E, GLC, CLS, etc.
M274: 2.0L Inline-4 Turbo, 181–211 hp
M276: 3.0L V6 Biturbo, 245–333 hp
Efficient and powerful

M256 (Newest Inline-6 Turbo)

Used in S-Class, E-Class (W223, W213)
3.0L Inline-6 with EQ Boost (Mild Hybrid)
362–435 hp

Benefits of Mercedes Petrol Engines:

Quieter and smoother
Ideal for city driving
Sporty performance and higher RPM
Ideal for mid-size and lighter models

3. Mercedes Diesel Engines

What Are Diesel Engines?

Mercedes-Benz diesel engines are built for longevity, long-distance travel, and torque-packed performance. They’re popular in SUVs, saloons, and commercial vehicles where fuel efficiency and hauling power are a requirement.

Common Diesel Engine Families:

OM611 / OM646

Inline-4, used in early 2000s C-Class and E-Class
Up to 150 hp, reliable and fuel-efficient

OM651 (Most Prevalent Modern Diesel)

Inline-4, turbocharged
Utilized in W204, W212, W205, W213
2.1L and 2.2L versions, 136–204 hp
Popular and ubiquitous

OM642

3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel
In ML, GLE, E-Class, S-Class
190–258 hp
Ideal for towing, long trips

OM656 (Latest Generation Diesel)

3.0L Inline-6 Turbo, used in S-Class and GLE
286–340 hp
Lower emissions with AdBlue systems

Advantages of Mercedes Diesel Engines:

Excellent fuel economy
High torque capacity
Long engine lifespan
Perfect for long trips or towing

4. Mercedes Hybrid & Electric Engines

Mercedes is shifting fast towards electrification with the addition of mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and full EVs throughout its lineup.

EQ Boost (Mild Hybrid)

Fitted to M256 petrol and OM656 diesel engines
48V electric motor improves performance and eradicates lag
Improves fuel efficiency

Plug-in Hybrid (EQ Power)

Internal combustion + electric motor two-power setup
Fitted to C300e, E300e, S560e
Electric-only range of 20–30 miles

Fully Electric (EQ Models)

EQC, EQE, EQS
Not an engine replacement option (electric drivetrain)

While we don’t stock EV motors at present, we do stock replacement engines for hybrid-compatible Mercedes models like the E300e and C300e.

5. AMG Performance Engines

For performance drivers, Mercedes-AMG engines are the pinnacle of hand-tuned German engineering. Each AMG engine is hand-assembled by one engineer and delivers higher horsepower, torque, and sound.

Well-known AMG Engines:

M113K (5.4L Supercharged V8)

E55 AMG, CLS55
469 hp, 700 Nm torque

M156 (6.2L Naturally Aspirated V8)

E63 AMG, C63 AMG (2007–2014)
457–518 hp

M157 / M177 / M178 (4.0L–5.5L Biturbo V8s)

E63, S63, G63
Up to 603 hp

M139 (2.0L Turbocharged I4)

Applied in A45 AMG, CLA45 AMG
World’s most powerful 4-cylinder production engine (421 hp)

We do sell AMG engines, reconditioned engines, low-mileage used engines with warranty and support for compatibility tests.

6. Analysis of Engine Code & What It Represents

Mercedes codes on the engines are significant when buying an alternate engine. Here’s one way of interpreting them:

“M” = Petrol Engine (e.g., M274)
“OM” = Diesel Engine (e.g., OM651)
“Hybrid” / EQ Power models with M or OM codes prefixed to electric modules

To identify your engine:

Check your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
Examine the engine cover or logbook
Inquire with our support team with your registration or chassis number

7. Mercedes Engine Specs by Popular Models

Mercedes C-Class (W204 / W205 / W206)

Petrol: M274, M264
Diesel: OM651, OM654
AMG: M177, M139

Mercedes E-Class (W212 / W213)

Petrol: M274, M276, M256
Diesel: OM651, OM654
AMG: M177, M256 Hybrid

Mercedes S-Class (W222 / W223)

Petrol: M276, M256
Diesel: OM656
AMG: M177, M178

Mercedes GLE / ML-Class

Petrol: M276, M278
Diesel: OM642, OM656
AMG: M157, M177

We stock all engine types for these models—tested, warranted, and ready to dispatch or fit.

8. Benefits of Buying a Replacement Mercedes Engine

It’ll cost you thousands less than buying a new car to have your engine replaced. It’s more eco-friendly, as well, and gets your trusty car back on the road for years to come.

Why Buy with Us?

✅ Engines thoroughly tested
✅ 3–12 month guarantee options
✅ Fast UK & international shipping
✅ Fitting assistance given by experts
✅ Huge stock across all Mercedes models

We provide:

Used Mercedes Engines – Cheap with decent mileage
Reconditioned Mercedes Engines – Reconditioned to near new condition
Low-Mileage Imported Engines – Japan/Germany, typically under 50k miles

9. Do You Buy New, Used, or Reconditioned?

Option	Description	Pros	Best For
Used	Pulled out of running cars	Affordable	Budget repairs
Reconditioned	Refinished using new parts	Reliable & tested	Long-term ownership
Low Mileage	Imported with low wear	Long life, excellent value	Premium quality

We help you select the best for your budget, car use, and expectations.

10. Where to Buy Mercedes Engines (We Sell Them!)

Want to buy a Mercedes-Benz engine? We make it simple:

How We Help:

Search by engine code or model
Get compatibility recommendations
Order online or over the phone
Get it shipped or installed locally

Our inventory includes:

M271, M272, M274, M276
OM651, OM642, OM656
AMG M177, M157, M178
And dozens more

11. Conclusion

From race-honed diesels to rumbling AMG V8s, Mercedes-Benz engines have something to suit every motorist. Understanding how the fuels, technology, and usage change will allow you to find the perfect engine for your requirements—and we can help.

If you’re an automobile enthusiast, a mechanic, or merely a regular driver who wants to restore your vehicle, we have the right engine at the right price—with shipping and guarantee to top it off.

Ready to Buy a Mercedes Engine?

📞 Call us now or 📧 email for a quote — we just need your car registration or engine code to get started.

✅ Happy with thousands of customers
✅ UK & international delivery
✅ Petrol, diesel & AMG engines are now in stock

Toyota 1VD-FTV Engine Review

Yanmar 8LV Diesel Marine Engines

Ford Automatic Transmissions For Sale

Chevrolets Engines For Sale

Mercedes M278 Engine