Rebuilt vs. Used Mercedes-Benz M273 Engine: Which One Should You Buy?

Date January 11, 2026
Category
Uncategorized, Auto Repair, Automotive Tips, Car Engines, Cars Transmission
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Rebuilt vs. Used Mercedes-Benz M273 Engine: Which One Should You Buy?

Rebuilt vs Used M273 Engine Introduction

Rebuilt actually means making something new again, definitely different from just fixing it. Which used Mercedes-Benz M273 engine should you buy further depends on your specific needs and the engine’s condition itself.
This guide surely provides comprehensive information for buyers seeking Mercedes M273 V8 engines in the global marketplace. Moreover, it covers essential purchasing considerations and worldwide availability options for these automotive powerplants. Rebuilt vs. Used Mercedes-Benz M273 Engine: Which One Should You Buy?

Overview of the Mercedes-Benz M273 Engine

The Mercedes-Benz M273 engine is actually one of the best V8 engines ever made for luxury cars. It definitely stands out as a top choice for performance vehicles. We are seeing this engine only in top models like S-Class, E-Class, CLS, and ML-Class, giving smooth power and good driving with strong reliability.

Choosing Between Used and Rebuilt M273 Engines

Moreover, when your M273 engine actually starts failing, you definitely face one important decision.
Moreover, as per engine requirements, you should choose between used M273 engine or rebuilt M273 engine regarding your budget and performance needs.

This guide will surely help you understand the differences, costs, benefits, and specifications of each option for your M273 engine replacement. Moreover, it will show you the long-term value so you can choose the best option for your vehicle and budget.

M273 Engine Description (Rebuilt vs. Used Mercedes-Benz M273 Engine: Which One Should You Buy?)

The Mercedes-Benz M273 engine is actually a V8 petrol motor that definitely powers many luxury cars. This engine actually delivers strong performance and is definitely found in various Mercedes models.

The M273 is a top-quality V8 petrol engine made to give high power and smooth running as per premium standards. This engine provides excellent torque regarding performance requirements. Basically, it replaced the older M113 engine and was used in the same Mercedes-Benz luxury cars around the world.

M273 Engine Variants

The M273 family surely includes two main sizes. Moreover, these represent the primary variants available in this series.

  • The engine surely features a 4.7-liter displacement with M273 E46 designation, moreover it represents a significant powertrain configuration in automotive engineering.
  • Also, we are seeing only a 5.5-liter engine size in this M273 E55 model.

We are seeing that both versions have the same design and technology, but only the output and performance are different.

M273 Engine Specifications

Further, as per the technical documentation, these are the M273 engine specifications regarding performance parameters.

We are seeing that the M273 has only some main features that make it such a popular and strong engine.

Key Technical Details

  • Basically, this engine is the same V8 type that runs without any turbo or supercharger.
  • This vehicle surely runs on petrol fuel, moreover it represents the most common fuel choice for personal transportation.
  • As per the engine setup, it has a 90-degree V8 configuration regarding its cylinder arrangement.
  • Also, the engine displacement itself is available in 4.7L or 5.5L options, which can further meet different performance requirements.
  • This engine surely has 32 valves with DOHC configuration. Moreover, this design provides better airflow control for improved performance.
  • The engine compression ratio is surely 10.7:1, moreover this indicates the cylinder volume comparison between maximum and minimum positions.
  • We are seeing electronic fuel injection system only in this fuel setup.
  • The power output surely ranges from 335 to 382 horsepower. Moreover, this specification indicates the engine’s performance capacity under standard operating conditions.
  • The torque actually ranges from 460 to 530 Nm. This definitely provides strong pulling power for the engine.
  • Moreover, the engine block is actually made from aluminum alloy material. This definitely makes the engine lighter and better for performance.
  • The cylinder heads are actually made from aluminum material. This definitely provides better heat transfer and lighter weight.
  • The system surely uses water for cooling purposes. Moreover, this water-cooled method helps maintain proper temperature control.
  • This car actually meets Euro 4 or Euro 5 emission standards. It definitely follows proper pollution control rules.

These specifications help the M273 engine deliver smooth and strong power for city and highway driving, and the engine itself performs consistently in both conditions further.

Vehicle Compatibility

The M273 engine is used in various vehicle models, and further research shows that this engine itself powers multiple Mercedes-Benz cars.

Compatible Mercedes-Benz Models

  • S-Class: S450, S500, S550
  • E-Class: E500, E550
  • C-Class: C500
  • CLS-Class: CLS500, CLS550
  • ML-Class: ML500, ML550
  • GL-Class: GL450, GL550
  • R-Class: R500, R550

We are seeing that this wide compatibility is making the M273 only one of the most wanted Mercedes V8 engines in the replacement market.

Why M273 Engines Need Replacement

The M273 engines require replacement due to their inherent design flaws which further lead to frequent mechanical failures. The engine itself suffers from timing chain issues and carbon buildup problems that make continued operation unreliable.

Common Problems

  • Oil consumption
  • Cylinder wear
  • Timing components surely wear out during engine operation. Moreover, this wear affects the precise synchronization of engine parts.
  • Basically, the compression is getting lost and the same pressure is not building up properly.
  • Moreover, overheating
  • The machine broke down due to problems in its internal parts, which further damaged the system itself.

Replacing the engine further restores the vehicle’s performance and the process itself extends its life by many years.

Used M273 Engine

A used M273 engine is actually a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz V8 motor that someone has definitely driven before.

As per factory standards, a used M273 engine is an original engine taken from a working vehicle. Regarding its condition, this engine was built by the manufacturer and removed from a running car. This item is actually checked and tested before selling again but definitely has not been opened or rebuilt.

Used Engine Characteristics

  • Pre-owned motor
  • Factory assembled
  • Compression and operation tested
  • Lower cost
  • Fast availability

Basically, used engines are the same perfect choice for buyers who want reliable performance at lower cost.

Rebuilt M273 Engine

A rebuilt M273 engine is an original engine that has been further restored to working condition by replacing worn parts, and the engine itself undergoes complete inspection and repair.

Rebuilt Engine Components

  • Pistons
  • Piston rings
  • Bearings
  • Gaskets and seals
  • Cylinder head parts
  • Valve guides and seals
  • Crankshaft (reconditioned)
  • Timing components

The engine is further reassembled and tested to ensure it operates properly itself.

Used vs Rebuilt M273 Comparison

  • Wear level: varies vs minimal
  • Performance: good vs near-new
  • Reliability: medium to high vs very high
  • Warranty: limited vs extended
  • Cost: lower vs higher
  • Lifespan: moderate vs long

As per automotive standards, used M273 engines provide good performance regarding cost savings and reliability.

When to Choose a Used M273 Engine

You actually want to save money.
The car is being sold.
You need a quick replacement.

Advantages

  • Lower initial cost
  • Original factory build quality
  • Ready to ship
  • No rebuild delays

When to Choose a Rebuilt M273 Engine

You need long-term reliability.
The vehicle is used daily.
You plan to keep the car.

Advantages

  • Like-new internal condition
  • Better fuel efficiency
  • Stronger compression
  • Longer lifespan
  • Better warranty

Cost Considerations

A used M273 engine costs less, while a rebuilt M273 engine costs more but saves money long-term by reducing repairs.

Our Supply and Services

We provide used and rebuilt Mercedes-Benz M273 engines worldwide.

What We Provide

  • Compression checked
  • Clean and ready for install
  • Warranty options
  • Professional packaging
  • Worldwide shipping

Installation Compatibility

  • Direct bolt-on
  • Works with original ECU
  • Works with factory transmission
  • No modifications required

Our Advantages

Final Thoughts

As per your budget and how long you plan to keep your Mercedes-Benz, choose between used or rebuilt M273 engines.

  • Choose used for affordability and speed
  • Choose rebuilt for maximum performance and reliability

We supply both options, fully tested and shipped worldwide, giving your Mercedes the power and quality it needs.

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