The volume M117 4.5 V8 is characterized as a relaxed, tall-geared highway cruiser (around 24.5 mph per 1,000 rpm) rather than a sprinter, with excellent engine braking. Its rated power is a point of dispute in the threads roughly 180 hp, with claims of 190 hp and a well-documented drop to 160 hp for the final 1980 model year before the switch to the 3.8L.
M117 4.5 V8: highway cruiser, tall gearing, and shrinking power
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W116) · mechanical