M273 vs OM606

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Higher reliability score
OM606 BEST 96/100
+51 points over M273
0 / 100
AVOID M273 Mercedes-Benz
0 / 100
BEST OM606 Mercedes-Benz

Specifications

M273
OM606
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
AVOID
BEST
Reliability
45
96
Years
2005--2012
1993--2001
Displacement
5461 cc
2996 cc
Layout
V8
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Diesel
Power
340--388 hp
134--174 hp
Known Issues
2
2
Total Risk Cost
€2,200--€5,400
€280--€700

Character

M273

"Same sprocket problem as M272. Powerful but risky early models."

OM606

"Legendary. 500k+ miles documented. Tunable to 500hp. One of most reliable engines ever."

Issues Comparison

M273 2

◆ CRITICAL
Idler gear sprocket wear — same class-action as M272 €1,800--€4,500 60,000 km--150,000 km
○ MINOR
Spark plugs + ignition coils (8 of each) €400--€900 80,000 km--150,000 km

OM606 2

○ MINOR
Glow plug failure (only meaningful issue) €80--€200 80,000 km--∞
○ MINOR
Injection pump seal wear (age-related) €200--€500 200,000 km--∞

Models

M273 1

S-Class W221 2006--2011

OM606 2

300D W124 1993--1997 Sedan E 300D W210 1995--2003 Sedan
Full M273 Report Full OM606 Report