The 3.0 L (2,960 cc) M104 featured KE-Jetronic fuel injection, cylinder specific ignition-timing, variable valve timing and under-piston cooling jets.

AMG later conceded that since the engine was hand modified, power outputs could vary slightly from 276 to 287 hp (206 to 214 kW; 280 to 291 PS).

Ssangyong (South Korean brand) made a 3.6 litre variant of the M104 inline-six engine based on the 2.8 litre model, producing 248 hp (185 kW; 251 PS) or 276 hp (206 kW; 280 PS) on earlier versions, for its Chairman model, a full-size luxury sedan.

Chinese car Roewe R95L which based on SsangYong Chairman also uses a 3.6 litre version of the M104 engine.

Turbocharger kits were offered for both the M103 and M104 engines by Turbo Technics, Mosselman, Lotec, MAD Modify, Turbobandit and other tuners.

These conversions typically raised engine output to between 300 and 800 PS (221 and 588 kW; 296 and 789 hp), depending on Boost Target.