M166 vs M112/M113
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
M112/M113
BEST
92/100
+37 points over M166
0
/ 100
CAUTION
M166
Mercedes-Benz
0
/ 100
BEST
M112/M113
Mercedes-Benz
Specifications
M166
M112/M113
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
CAUTION
BEST
Reliability
55
92
Years
1997--2004
1997--2006
Displacement
1598 cc
3199 cc
Layout
I4
V6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
82--102 hp
218--306 hp
Known Issues
1
3
Total Risk Cost
€500--€1,200
€950--€2,850
Character
M166
"W168 A-Class. Infamous moose test rollover era. Engine itself is adequate but head gasket failures common. Oil leaks. Not a strong Mercedes engine. Better to look at M271 successor."
M112/M113
"Last simple MB V6/V8. Over-engineered. Cheap to maintain. 250k+ km."
Issues Comparison
M166 1
▲ HIGH
Head gasket failure
M112/M113 3
● MODERATE
Air suspension / Airmatic failure (S/ML models)
○ MINOR
Spark plugs + ignition coils (V6/V8)
○ MINOR
Coolant system: thermostat + expansion tank