Mercedes S‑Class A217 Engines — The Complete UK Guide
Every engine fitted to the first‑ever S‑Class convertible since 1972 — from the M276 V6 to the M278 and M177 V8s, the M157 AMG V8, and the M279 V12 flagship. Real UK costs, honest failure data, and the engine that defines open‑top luxury. Backed by 1,250+ real UK enquiries in 2025 [MB‑VERIFIED].
Explore A217 Engines
Mercedes S‑Class A217 Engine Codes — The Complete Database
Every engine fitted to the A217 Convertible specifically — including the pre‑ and post‑facelift engine changes that define this grand tourer's ownership story.
Overview
Mercedes S‑Class A217 — Overview
The A217 is the convertible version of the S‑Class Coupé, unveiled at the 2015 International Motor Show Germany and produced until August 2020.
It is the first S‑Class convertible since 1972, featuring lightweight reinforcements to maintain driving dynamics similar to the coupé. Based on the W222 S‑Class platform, the A217 was offered with a range of V6, V8, and V12 engines including AMG variants, with a 2017 facelift introducing new 4.0‑litre V8s. The A217 has no direct successor, making it a one‑generation model.
Key Facts
Platform
W222 (Mercedes‑Benz S‑Class platform)
Predecessor
None (first S‑Class convertible since 1972)
Successor
None (one‑generation model)
Sibling body styles in this generation
C217 (coupé)
Market Intelligence
The A217 S‑Class Convertible generated significant UK engine enquiry demand in 2025 [MB‑VERIFIED], concentrated on the M278/M176 V8 and AMG V8 variants as these grand tourers enter their second decade.
Best & Worst Engines
Best Petrol Overall
M176 (S 560, 2017–2020)
““The 4.0‑litre biturbo V8 replaced the M278 with improved efficiency and responsiveness — 469 PS and 700 Nm deliver effortless grand‑tourer performance. It’s the sweet spot of the A217 range.” Who it’s for: Buyers who want V8 refinement without AMG running costs.”
Who it's for:
Highest Risk
M157 (AMG S 63, 2015–2017)
““The 5.5‑litre biturbo V8 has known turbocharger and cooling system issues — owners report needing to replace multiple components to keep it reliable. The M177 that replaced it is a better bet.” Who it’s for: Buyers who understand the risks and have full service history.”
Who it's for:
Most Expensive Failure
M279 (AMG S 65)
““The 6.0‑litre V12 biturbo is the ultimate A217 engine — but the most punishing to repair. With just 630 PS and 1,000 Nm, the sheer complexity and rarity of this engine make a full replacement a five‑figure event.” Who it’s for: Collectors with deep pockets who want the V12 experience.”
Who it's for:
Best Value
M278 (S 500, 2015–2017)
““The 4.7‑litre biturbo V8 delivers 455 PS of effortless power with better fuel economy than the AMG variants. It’s the refined V8 choice without the AMG price premium.” Who it’s for: Buyers who want V8 power without the running costs of the M157/M177.”
Who it's for:
Most Overlooked
M276 (S 400 4MATIC)
““Often overshadowed by the V8 models, the 3.0‑litre biturbo V6 delivers 367 PS with lower running costs and better fuel economy. It’s the most sensible A217 engine choice.” Who it’s for: Buyers who want A217 ownership without the V8 tax.”
Who it's for:
Mercedes S‑Class A217 — Ownership Economics
The A217 rule
A £6,500 M176 recon against a £35,000 A217 sits at 19% — safe. A £11,000 M177 recon against a £50,000 AMG S 63 is 22% — still safe. A £15,000 M279 recon against a £70,000 AMG S 65 is 21% — viable if you’re in V12 territory. Our 70% Mercedes threshold is rarely crossed on A217s with strong values, but running costs — especially on AMG variants — tell a different story. Service history is everything.
Key Takeaways
Which A217 Costs Least To Own?
M276 (S 400 4MATIC) — lower running costs, proven V6.
Which A217 Costs Most To Own?
M279 (AMG S 65) — V12 complexity, turbocharger, and parts availability.
Which A217 Is Best Value?
M176 (S 560) — modern V8 refinement without the AMG running costs.
Common Problems
A217 Engine Replacement Costs — By Engine and Condition
No Generation variance from the Engine Page baseline figures — A217 Convertible shares engine‑bay access with its C217 Coupé sibling, so costs are inherited directly per the Authority Model, with no divergence note required.
Core Variants
Core Variants
Petrol Variants
Scope note: All variants listed are A217 Convertible only. C217 Coupé shares most of these engines but is covered on its own Generation Page, since fitment and labour access vary slightly by body style.
Market Intelligence
Most Requested E90 Engines (2025)
- 1.1. M176 (S 560) — pattern data [PATTERN DATA]
- 2.2. M177 (AMG S 63, 2017–2020) — pattern data [PATTERN DATA]
- 3.3. M278 (S 500) — pattern data [PATTERN DATA]
Most Requested E90 Variants
- 1.1. S 560
- 2.2. AMG S 63
- 3.3. S 500
Average E90 Replacement Cost
£3,500–£6,500 reconditioned, supply only [MB‑QUOTE]
Most Common E90 Failures
- 1.1. M278/M176 turbo cooling pipe failure (S 500 / S 560)
- 2.2. M157 turbocharger & cooling system issues (AMG S 63, 2015–2017)
- 3.3. M276 cooling system wear (S 400 4MATIC)
Mercedes S 560 A217 (M176)
3
enquiries
Mercedes AMG S 63 A217 (M157)
2
enquiries
Mercedes AMG S 65 A217 (M279)
1
enquiry
FAQ
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