All models were gasoline powered, and utilized a single overhead camshaft with 2 valves per cylinder and Bosch Jetronic fuel injection.

This was enough to propel the 1,575 kg (3,472 lb) saloon to a top speed of 205 km/h (127 mph).

This engine and its twin, the 116.981 remained in production until 1980 when it was replaced by its larger 3.8 litre variant.

Early models came with a single row timing chain until 1983[1] and were plagued with chain failure problems which Mercedes-Benz would repair free of charge, changing the timing chain to a dual row thus resolved the problem making these engine as durable and reliable as any other Mercedes V8.

It featured 9.0:1 compression and had from 204–231 PS (150–170 kW; 201–228 hp) depending on year and export market.