Mercedes-Benz has been at the forefront of automotive engineering for over a century, and their car engines are a cornerstone of this legacy. From pioneering diesel technology to developing high-performance gasoline powertrains, Mercedes-Benz engines are synonymous with innovation, reliability, and driving excellence. This article delves into the rich history of Mercedes-Benz car engines, exploring their evolution and impact on the automotive world.
The story of Mercedes-Benz car engines, particularly diesel, is deeply rooted in the innovations of Rudolf Diesel. While he first demonstrated compression ignition in 1893, it was Mercedes-Benz that truly championed and refined diesel technology for passenger vehicles. In 1926, following the merger of Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft and Benz & Cie., Daimler-Benz AG embarked on a journey that would redefine automotive powertrains. Their initial focus was on a six-cylinder inline diesel engine for heavy trucks, a precursor to the passenger car revolution.
However, Mercedes-Benz engineers understood that adapting diesel engines for passenger cars required significant refinement. It took almost a decade of rigorous testing and development before they deemed a diesel engine worthy of the Mercedes-Benz badge. The result was unveiled in 1936 with the Mercedes-Benz 260D. This groundbreaking model featured a 2.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, incorporating overhead valves and delivering a maximum output of 45 horsepower. While seemingly modest by today’s standards, its fuel efficiency was revolutionary, achieving almost 25 miles per gallon compared to the gasoline equivalent’s 18 mpg. This marked the dawn of diesel passenger cars and cemented Mercedes-Benz’s position as a pioneer.
The introduction of Mercedes-Benz diesel power to the United States began in 1949 with the 170D. Equipped with a 1.7-liter inline-four engine producing 38 horsepower and 71 lb-ft of torque, the 170D laid the foundation for future diesel models in the American market. Its successor, the 1954 Mercedes-Benz 180D, boasted a slightly larger 1.8-liter engine (later upgraded to 2.0L) and the innovative “Ponton” unibody design, further enhancing its appeal and modernity. Power was incrementally increased to 40 hp and 75 lb-ft of torque, reflecting continuous engine development.
The late 1950s saw the arrival of the 1958 Mercedes-Benz 190D in the US market. This model featured an all-new 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 50 horsepower and 80 lb-ft of torque. As the model years progressed, so did the engine displacements and power figures. For the 1966 model year, the “Fintail” body style 190D was rebranded as the 200D, now packing a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 55 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque. A significant milestone was reached when Mercedes-Benz offered an automatic transmission for the 200D, improving driving comfort and broadening its market appeal. Further engine development led to the 220D in 1968, featuring a 2.2-liter engine (60 hp, 93 lb-ft), and the 240D in 1974, with a 2.4-liter engine (65 hp, 101 lb-ft), demonstrating a steady increase in engine size and performance throughout the 1960s and early 1970s.
The Diesel Proliferation of the 1970s
The 1973 oil crisis dramatically altered the automotive landscape. With fuel efficiency becoming a paramount concern, demand for diesel vehicles surged. Mercedes-Benz, already a leader in diesel technology, was perfectly positioned to capitalize on this shift. In 1975, they introduced the 300D, featuring a groundbreaking five-cylinder diesel engine, a world-first for passenger cars. This 3.0-liter engine produced 80 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque, offering a compelling blend of performance and economy. The 300D, alongside the updated four-cylinder 240D, became central to Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings. Engine power for the 300D inline-five was later increased to 88 horsepower, further refining its performance.
The late 1970s and early 1980s witnessed a golden era for Mercedes-Benz diesel engines, particularly in the United States. The company developed US-specific models, including the 1978 300CD, the world’s first diesel-powered coupe, and the 300SD, the first diesel S-Class. The 300SD was particularly noteworthy as it debuted turbocharging for Mercedes-Benz diesel engines. Its brand-new 3.0-liter five-cylinder turbodiesel engine generated an impressive 121 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, allowing the luxurious S-Class to achieve 0-60 mph in a respectable 14 seconds.
With models like the 300CD Turbodiesel, 300D Turbodiesel, and 300SD Turbodiesel, Mercedes-Benz was tailoring its offerings to the specific demands of the US market more than ever before. By 1982, diesel models accounted for nearly 80 percent of Mercedes-Benz USA’s sales, highlighting the immense popularity of their diesel car engines in America.
Mercedes-Benz continued to expand its diesel lineup in the 1980s. The “Baby Benz,” predecessor to the C-Class, joined the range for the 1984 model year. Initially launched with a four-cylinder diesel engine, the 190D was upgraded in 1986 to a 2.5-liter inline-five engine producing 90 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged version followed in 1987, boosting output to 122 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, catering to drivers seeking enhanced performance in a compact package.
1986 also saw the introduction of another US-exclusive S-Class diesel, the 300SDL. This model featured a larger turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, displacing 3.0 liters and generating 150 horsepower and 201 lb-ft of torque. The engine evolution continued with the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 350SDL, specifically made for the US export market. It was equipped with a 3.5-liter inline-six turbodiesel engine, further increasing torque to 229 lb-ft while horsepower slightly decreased to 136 hp. In the full-size class, the 300D 2.5-liter turbo was eventually replaced in 1995 by the E300D and then the E300DT, the latter boasting a powerful 174 horsepower and 244 ft-lb of torque, showcasing the continuous pursuit of power and refinement in Mercedes-Benz diesel engines.
Mercedes-Benz also recognized the growing demand for versatility, and their diesel station wagons carved a significant niche in the 1980s. The 1980 300TD, equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-five naturally aspirated engine, was the first to make its mark. A turbocharged version followed in 1981, carrying over to subsequent generations and further solidifying the appeal of diesel power in practical wagon models.
The Modern Era of Mercedes-Benz Engines
The 21st century marked another era of innovation for Mercedes-Benz car engines. For the 2007 model year, a significant shift occurred as Mercedes-Benz replaced their successful diesel inline-six engine configuration with a V6 layout. This also coincided with the introduction of common-rail direct injection technology in the US market, operating at an impressive 29,000 psi. This CDI (Common-rail Direct Injection) technology significantly improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced engine refinement. The CDI engine also paved the way for diesel power in Mercedes-Benz SUVs in the US, with the 2007 ML320 CDI, GL320 CDI, and R320 CDI all featuring a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine producing 215 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque.
The 2007 model year was also pivotal as Mercedes-Benz chose the US for the global premiere of their pioneering BlueTEC diesel technology. The E320 BlueTEC, producing 210 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, was voted the 2007 World Green Car for its exceptionally low emissions. BlueTEC technology effectively addressed NOx and particulate emissions, meeting stringent BIN5 standards and reinforcing Mercedes-Benz’s position as a leader in clean diesel passenger vehicles across all fifty US states.
A wave of BlueTEC SUVs followed in 2009, all featuring the next generation of BlueTEC technology with AdBlue exhaust gas aftertreatment. The ML320 BlueTEC, GL320 BlueTEC, and R320 BlueTEC, all equipped with the same V6 turbodiesel as the E320 BlueTEC (210 hp, 398 lb-ft), showcased the brand’s commitment to expanding clean diesel technology across its model range. The fuel efficiency of these SUVs was remarkable for their class, with the popular ML320 BlueTEC achieving 20 mpg and the GL320 BlueTEC achieving 19 mpg, making the latter the most fuel-efficient full-size SUV on the market at the time. In 2010, Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles returned to the US market with the introduction of the BlueTEC-equipped Sprinter Van, further demonstrating the versatility and reach of their advanced diesel technology.
The 2013 launch of the GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC marked the return of a Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder diesel engine to the US after nearly three decades. Mercedes-Benz already boasted the most extensive diesel lineup of any automaker in the US, and the arrival of the 2014 E250 BlueTEC, featuring a second four-cylinder diesel engine, further solidified their commitment to diesel technology in the American market.
2014 BlueTEC Lineup Highlights:
- E250 BlueTEC
- E250 BlueTEC 4MATIC
- GLK250 BlueTEC 4MATIC
- ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
- GL350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
- Sprinter Van
- Sprinter V6 Van
A Look Back: Mercedes-Benz U.S. Diesel Model Sales History
| Model Year | Model | Generation | Configuration | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1949 – 1953 | 170D | W136 | 1.7L I4 | 38 / 40 | 71 / 74 |
| 1952 – 1953 | 170DS | W191 | 1.7L I4 | 40 | 74 |
| 1953 – 1955 | 170SD | W136 | 1.7L I4 | 40 | 74 |
| 1954 – 1962 | 180D | W120 | 1.8L I4 / 2.0L I4 | 40 / 43 / 48 | 75 / 80 |
| 1958 – 1961 | 190D | W121 | 1.9L I4 | 50 | 80 |
| 1966 – 1968 | 200D | W110 | 2.0L I4 | 55 | 87 |
| 1968 – 1973 | 220D | W110 | 2.2L I4 | 60 | 87 |
| 1974 – 1976 | 240D | W115 | 2.4L I4 | 65 | 101 |
| 1975 – 1976 | 300D | W115 | 3.0L I5 (First 5-cylinder) | 80 | 127 |
| 1977 – 1984 | 240D | W123 | 2.4L I4 | 65 / 72 | 101 |
| 1977 – 1981 | 300D | W123 | 3.0L I5 | 80 / 88 | 126 |
| 1978 – 1980 | 300SD (U.S. Only) | W116 | 3.0L I5 turbo (First turbo) | 111 / 121 | 168 / 170 |
| 1978 – 1981 | 300CD (U.S. Only) | C123 | 3.0L I5 | 78 / 84 | 115 / 120 |
| 1980 – 1985 | 300TD Wagon | S123 | 3.0L I5 | 80 / 88 | 126 |
| 1981 – 1985 | 300SD-T (U.S. Only) | W126 | 3.0L I5 turbo | 121 / 125 | 170 / 184 |
| 1982 – 1985 | 300CD-T | C123 | 3.0L I5 turbo | 120 | 170 |
| 1982 – 1985 | 300DT | W123 | 3.0L I5 turbo | 121 / 125 | 170 / 184 |
| 1984 – 1985 | 190D 2.2 | W201 | 2.2L I4 | 73 | 96 |
| 1986 – 1987 | 300SDL-T (U.S. Only) | W126 | 3.0L I6 turbo | 150 | 201 |
| 1986 – 1989 | 190D 2.5 | W201 | 2.5L I5 | 90 | 114 |
| 1986 – 1987 | 300DT | W124 | 3.0L I6 turbo | 143 | 197 |
| 1986 – 1987 | 300DT Wagon | S124 | 3.0L I6 turbo | 143 | 197 |
| 1987 – 1987 | 190D 2.5T | W201 | 3.0L I6 turbo | 122 | 166 |
| 1991 – 1993 | 300D 2.5 | W124 | 2.5L I5 turbo | 121 | 165 |
| 1991 – 1991 | 350SDL-T (U.S. Only) | W126 | 3.5L I6 turbo | 148 | 229 |
| 1991 – 1991 | 350SD-T (U.S. Only) | W126 | 3.5L I6 turbo | 134 | 229 |
| 1992 – 1995 | 300SD / S350DT | W140 | 3.5L I6 turbo | 148 | 229 |
| 1994 – 1995 | E300D | W124 | 3.0L I6 (First 4-valve) | 134 | 155 |
| 1996 – 1997 | E300D | W210 | 3.0L I6 | 134 | 155 |
| 1998 – 1999 | E300DT | W210 | 3.0L I6 turbo | 174 | 244 |
| 2005 – 2006 | E320 CDI | W211 | 3.2L I6 turbo | 201 | 369 |
| 2007 – 2008 | ML320 CDI | W164 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 215 | 398 |
| 2007 – 2008 | GL320 CDI | X164 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 215 | 398 |
| 2007 – 2008 | R320 CDI | V251 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 215 | 398 |
| 2007 – 2009 | E320 BlueTEC | W211 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 210 | 398 |
| 2009 – 2009 | ML320 BlueTEC | W164 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 210 | 398 |
| 2009 – 2009 | 2009 GL320 BlueTEC | X164 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 210 | 398 |
| 2009 – 2009 | R320 BlueTEC | V251 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 210 | 398 |
| 2010 – Pres. | Sprinter V6 | NCV3 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 188 | 325 |
| 2010 – 2011 | ML350 BlueTEC | W164 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 210 | 400 |
| 2010 – 2012 | GL350 BlueTEC | X164 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 210 | 400 |
| 2010 – 2012 | R350 BlueTEC | V251 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 210 | 400 |
| 2011 – 2013 | E350 BlueTEC | W212 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 210 | 400 |
| 2012 – 2013 | S350 BlueTEC | V221 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 240 | 455 |
| 2012 – Pres. | ML350 BlueTEC | W166 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 240 | 455 |
| 2013 – Pres. | GL350 BlueTEC | X166 | 3.0L V6 turbo | 240 | 455 |
| 2013 – Pres. | GLK250 BlueTEC | X204 | 2.1L I4 turbo | 200 | 369 |
| 2014 – Pres. | E250 BlueTEC | W212 | 2.1L I4 turbo | 195 | 369 |
| 2014 – Pres. | E250 BlueTEC 4MATIC | W212 | 2.1L I4 turbo | 195 | 369 |
| 2014 – Pres. | Sprinter | NCV3 | 2.1L I4 turbo | 161 | 265 |
This historical overview showcases Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to engine innovation and their enduring legacy in both diesel and gasoline car engine technology. From pioneering diesel passenger cars to embracing modern emission control technologies like BlueTEC, Mercedes-Benz continues to set benchmarks in engine performance, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
