The first version in the M119 family of engines, developed in 1989 and occupying a place between the younger M119 E42 and the sports M119 E60 AMG and M199 E63 AMG. The purpose of this engine is to replace the ancient M117 with a displacement of 5 liters. The new power unit used an aluminum cylinder block with a camber of 90°, light-alloy pistons, forged connecting rods. The block is covered with two heads of the same material, two camshafts and 16 valves each. The M119 cylinder head uses a variable valve timing system on the intake shafts and hydraulic valve clearance 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 | 4973 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp/rpm | 320/5600 326/5700 347/5750 |
| Torque output, Nm/rpm | 470/3900 480/3900 480/3750 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V8 |
| Block head | aluminum 32v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 96.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 85 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 11.2 (AMG) |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | at the intake |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 8.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mercedes S-Class S500 1997) — city — highway — combined |
17.2 10.0 11.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~450 000 |
| 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;
- Mercedes SL-Class R129 in 1989 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the M119 E50 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 E50
How much oil does the Mercedes M119 E50 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 8.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-40.
Does the Mercedes M119 E50 have a timing belt or chain?
The Mercedes M119 E50 uses a timing chain.
Is the Mercedes M119 E50 turbocharged?
No, the Mercedes M119 E50 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mercedes M119 E50 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mercedes M119 E50 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mercedes M119 E50 last?
The typical lifespan of the Mercedes M119 E50 is ~450 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mercedes M119 E50?
Mercedes S-Class S500 1997: city 17.2, highway 10.0, combined 11.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mercedes M119 E50 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; Mercedes SL-Class R129 in 1989 - 1998.
What are the common problems of the Mercedes M119 E50?
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.
