One way to upgrade power on a (non-amg) M278 is to retrofit AMG turbos into the M278 engine. VRP is also reporting that some M278 turbos are actually able to be hybridized to M157 hybrid sizes. Let’s discuss this popular upgrade, what is needed on the tuning side and how much power you can expect.
- Fitment: M278 (E63/S63/GL/ML)
- Typical gains: +140 whp on 93; +160–375 whp with upgraded HPFP and support mods
- We offer custom hardware + calibration packages tailored for your setup (turbos, calibration & HPFP).
[Request a Quote →]
People on MB World report they bolt up directly and just need a tune to work and also routing of liquid cooling. One issue to anticipate is the M157 turbos have coolant hoses, and the M278 turbos just use the oil cooling. Reports are they work pretty well and are still a bit small for the M278 engine as referenced in the build the fastest CLS550 thread and M157 vs M278 thread on mbworld. Of course things like cooler spark plugs and reports of needing the AMG fuel pump are provided by G. You don’t actually need to reroute liquid cooling in every situation. Just like some 157, 278 engines come with split cooling (turbo/engine), some 278s have liquid cooling turbos from MB.
Required
There are several reports, shop reports, and part breakouts that list broken coolant lines, coolant lines, etc.
Often you can find new or like new turbos from AMG cars who have gone to upgraded aftermarket turbos. Which offer more power at the expense of driving less like a NA.
Common questions
Do I need stronger engine internals?
For mild / moderate boost (less than your platform’s limit), stock internals suffice. For record jumps you may want to consider our end-game upgrade.
Heat management?
Targets & safeguards consider IAT/EGT; we recommend fresh plugs and healthy cooling before tuning, however WMI kit, and upgraded cooling will help keep power levels high during successive pulls.
Off-road use?
All calibrations are for closed-course/off-road use only.
