The Mercedes M119 E42 engine is the junior V8 in the M119 family, intended to replace the long-obsolete M116, with a displacement of 4.2 liters. The development of the E42 was carried out on the basis of a five-liter engine, the cylinder diameter of which was reduced to 92 mm and a crankshaft was installed with a piston stroke reduced to 78.9 mm. The cylinder block is covered with adapted cylinder heads from the M119 E50, with a variable valve timing system on the intake shafts and hydraulic compensators.
Mercedes V8 family: M113 E43, M113 E50, M113 E55, M119 E42, M119 E50, M119 E60, M156, M157, M176, M177, M273, M278.
Specifications
| Production years | 1989-1999 |
| Displacement, cc | 4196 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 272 – 286 |
| Torque output, Nm | 400 – 410 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V8 |
| Block head | aluminum 32v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 92 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 78.9 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 – 11.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | on the intake |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mercedes S420 W140) — city — highway — combined |
16.5 8.8 12.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~400 000 |
| Weight, kg | 205 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mercedes CL-Class C140 in 1992 – 1999;
- Mercedes E-Class W124 in 1991 – 1995, E-Class W210 in 1995 – 1999;
- Mercedes S-Class W140 in 1991 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the M119 E42 engine
- One of the most reliable engines in its class rarely worries owners.
- The weak point of the motor is the timing chain, often it stretches to 120,000 km.
- The impressive weight of the power unit negatively affects the resource of its pillows.
- Often plastic connectors for oil supply to hydraulic lifters require replacement.
- On all E-class models, the engine compartment wiring cracks quite quickly.
Frequently asked questions about the Mercedes M119 E42
How much power does the Mercedes M119 E42 make?
The Mercedes M119 E42 develops 272 - 286 hp and 400 - 410 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mercedes M119 E42 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 6.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-40.
Does the Mercedes M119 E42 have a timing belt or chain?
The Mercedes M119 E42 uses a timing chain.
Is the Mercedes M119 E42 turbocharged?
No, the Mercedes M119 E42 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mercedes M119 E42 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mercedes M119 E42 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mercedes M119 E42 last?
The typical lifespan of the Mercedes M119 E42 is ~400 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mercedes M119 E42?
Mercedes S420 W140: city 16.5, highway 8.8, combined 12.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mercedes M119 E42 installed on?
Mercedes CL-Class C140 in 1992 - 1999; Mercedes E-Class W124 in 1991 - 1995, E-Class W210 in 1995 - 1999; Mercedes S-Class W140 in 1991 - 1998.
What are the common problems of the Mercedes M119 E42?
One of the most reliable engines in its class rarely worries owners. The weak point of the motor is the timing chain, often it stretches to 120,000 km. All known problems.
