Developed in 1989, the first iteration of the M119 family of engines sits between the sports M119 E60 AMG and M199 E63 AMG and the younger M119 E42. This engine, which has a five-liter displacement, is intended to replace the outdated M117. The new power unit had light-alloy pistons, forged connecting rods, and an aluminum cylinder block with a 90° camber. Two heads of the same material, two camshafts, and sixteen valves each cover the block. The M119 cylinder head makes use of hydraulic valve clearance compensators and a variable valve timing system on the intake shafts.
M113 E43, M113 E50, M113 E55, M119 E42, M119 E50, M119 E60, M156, M157, M177, M273, and M278 are all members of the V8-family.
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
Owners are rarely concerned about one of the most dependable engines in its class.
The timing chain, which frequently extends to 120,000 kilometers, is the motor’s weak point.
The resource of its pillows is adversely affected by the power unit’s remarkable weight.
Oil supply plastic connectors for hydraulic lifters frequently need to be replaced.
The engine compartment wiring on all E-class models is prone to rapid cracking.