M273 vs M112/M113
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
M112/M113
BEST
92/100
+47 points over M273
0
/ 100
AVOID
M273
Mercedes-Benz
0
/ 100
BEST
M112/M113
Mercedes-Benz
Specifications
M273
M112/M113
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
AVOID
BEST
Reliability
45
92
Years
2005--2012
1997--2006
Displacement
5461 cc
3199 cc
Layout
V8
V6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
340--388 hp
218--306 hp
Known Issues
2
3
Total Risk Cost
€2,200--€5,400
€950--€2,850
Character
M273
"Same sprocket problem as M272. Powerful but risky early models."
M112/M113
"Last simple MB V6/V8. Over-engineered. Cheap to maintain. 250k+ km."
Issues Comparison
M273 2
◆ CRITICAL
Idler gear sprocket wear — same class-action as M272
○ MINOR
Spark plugs + ignition coils (8 of each)
M112/M113 3
● MODERATE
Air suspension / Airmatic failure (S/ML models)
○ MINOR
Spark plugs + ignition coils (V6/V8)
○ MINOR
Coolant system: thermostat + expansion tank