Overview and Legacy of the Mercedes-Benz M275 V12 Engine Used in the S600 Sedan

Overview of the Mercedes-Benz M275 V12 Engine

The Mercedes-Benz M275 is a 6.0 liter twin-turbocharged V12 gasoline engine produced from 2002 to 2016. Also known by its internal code M275, this powerful engine was exclusively used in the Mercedes-Benz S600, SL600, CL600, and Maybach 62 models during its production run.

Featuring a 60° V-angle, the M275 has a die-cast aluminum engine block with Nikasil coated cylinder walls. It utilizes a split-pin forged crankshaft, forged aluminum pistons, and forged connecting rods. The cylinder heads are double overhead camshaft (DOHC) with 4 valves per cylinder.

Some key specifications of the M275 V12 engine include:

• Displacement: 6.0 liters (5,980 cc)
• Bore x Stroke: 82 mm x 87 mm
• Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
• Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
• Fuel System: ME 2.1 engine management system, twin turbochargers, multi-point fuel injection
• Maximum Power: 510 hp at 5,000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 612 lb-ft from 1,800-3,500 rpm

Performance of the Mercedes-Benz M275 Engine

With its large displacement and forced induction from twin turbochargers, the M275 V12 delivers immense power and torque. In the Mercedes-Benz S600, this engine launches the heavy sedan from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The tremendous low-end torque provides incredible passing power.

The twin turbochargers spool up quickly to eliminate turbo lag. Peak torque kicks in at just 1,800 rpm. The M275 maintains peak torque output from 1,800 rpm all the way up to 3,500 rpm, providing a wide power band.

This engine has a 7,200 rpm redline, though power starts to taper off past 5,000 rpm. The M275 provides smooth, linear power delivery befitting a V12 luxury flagship. It pulls effortlessly to high speeds while cosseting occupants in refinement.

Technology of the M275 V12

The M275 utilizes advanced technology to optimize performance and efficiency. It has a die-cast aluminum engine block with Silitec cylinder liners. The crankcase features stiffening ribs to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness.

The cylinder heads have cross-flow cooling channels integrated into the intake ports to lower charge air temperature. This improves combustion and allows more aggressive turbo boosting.

Other tech highlights include:

• CAMTRONIC - Continuously variable intake valve timing improves torque and efficiency.
• Two-stage resonance intake manifold - Boosts low-end torque.
• MAP-controlled oil pump - Reduces parasitic losses.
• Knock sensors - Allow the ECU to optimize ignition timing and prevent detonation.
• Oxidation catalytic converter integrated in each cylinder head - Quicker light-off for reduced emissions.

Refinement and Reliability

With its 60° bank angle, the M275 has perfect primary balance that eliminates rocking vibrations. This makes it one of the smoothest V12 engines ever produced.

The exhaust manifolds are cast iron to manage heat stress. The engine also has liquid-to-liquid intercoolers integrated into the intake manifold to efficiently cool charge air.

While the M275 is a sophisticated, hand-built engine, it is designed for everyday use. Many examples have achieved over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The M275 proves a V12 can be smooth, powerful, and reliable.

The Mercedes-Benz S600 with M275 V12 Engine

The pinnacle of the M275 engine was its application in the Mercedes-Benz S600 luxury sedan. This range-topping S-Class model provided uncompromising performance, refinement, and prestige.

Signature Luxury and Technology

As the flagship Mercedes sedan, the S600 came loaded with technology and amenities. Some highlights include:

• Radar-based DRIVER ASSIST autonomous driving aids
• MAGIC BODY CONTROL adaptive hydro-pneumatic suspension
• Heated/ventilated multi-contour massaging seats
• Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system
• Soft-close doors, trunk, and sunroof
• Bi-xenon Intelligent Light System headlamps

The lavish interior featured premium leather upholstery with aluminum and wood accents. The S600 pampered occupants with the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and safety.

Effortless Performance

The M275 V12 gave the heavy S600 sports car-like performance. The 6.0 liters of displacement and 612 lb-ft of torque catapulted this large sedan from 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds. Passing power was seemingly endless.

The 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission delivered smooth, quick shifts. The AIRMATIC air suspension kept the ride comfortably composed during aggressive driving. Massive 14.2” front brakes provided strong stopping power.

The S600 didn’t beat around the bush - it delivered its abundance of power directly on demand. Yet it remained refined, neverraising its voice. This was first-class power delivery.

The V12 Luxury Experience

The S600 provided an unmatched luxury experience centered around its silky V12 engine. The engine's smoothness, instant throttle response, and mellifluous exhaust note defined the S600’s character.

Owners praised the seemingly endless refinement at any speed. The S600 cosseted passengers in its rich, leather-lined cabin as the V12 whisked them along in near silence.

While a beast of an engine lay underhood, the S600 conveyed that power with sophistication. It offered relaxed, dignified cruising in total comfort - punctuated by thunderous acceleration when desired.

The Legacy of the Mercedes-Benz M275 Engine

The M275 expanded on the heritage of Mercedes-Benz V12 engines dating back nearly 100 years. It continued a legacy of smooth, strong, sophisticated twelve-cylinder motors.

This engine demonstrated Mercedes' mastery of powertrain engineering, producing huge power from 6 liters while meeting emissions standards. The M275 elevated V12 performance and refinement to new heights.

Though V12 production recently ended, the M275 remains a pinnacle of luxury motoring. Mercedes-Benz sedans powered by this engine are modern classics cherished by enthusiasts. For many, the M275 represents the ultimate aspirational engine.

Its performance, sophistication and melodious soundtrack leave a lasting imprint. The Mercedes-Benz M275 is an automotive masterwork - a symphony of engineering honoring a venerable V12 lineage while progressing it into the 21st century.

FAQs

What is the displacement of the M275 V12 engine?

The M275 has a displacement of 6.0 liters or 5,980 cc.

What models used the M275 V12 engine?

The M275 engine was used exclusively in high-end Mercedes-Benz models including the S600, SL600, CL600, and Maybach 62.

What type of fuel injection does the M275 V12 have?

The M275 uses a multi-point port fuel injection system with six intake manifold-mounted fuel injectors per cylinder bank.

What is the compression ratio of the M275 engine?

The M275 has a compression ratio of 9.0:1.

How much torque does the M275 V12 produce?

The M275 generates a maximum of 612 lb-ft of torque from 1,800 to 3,500 rpm.