The Mercedes-Benz Viano (W639) 3.5i V6 18V, produced between 2004 and 2007, represents a significant offering in the premium multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment. While not officially sold in the United States during its production run, the Viano was a popular choice in Europe as a more luxurious and refined alternative to standard vans, bridging the gap between commercial vehicles and passenger-focused people carriers. The “compact” designation refers to the shorter wheelbase version of the W639, offering increased maneuverability compared to the extended-length models. This particular variant, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, aimed to deliver a blend of performance and comfort for families and business users alike.
Mercedes-Benz Viano (W639) 3.5i V6: A Detailed Overview
The W639 Viano was the successor to the Vito and V-Class, representing a move upmarket in terms of interior quality, features, and overall refinement. It was designed to appeal to buyers who needed the space and practicality of a van but desired the comfort and prestige associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand. The 3.5i V6 model, with its naturally aspirated engine, was positioned as the performance-oriented option within the Viano range, offering a more spirited driving experience than the diesel-powered variants.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Viano 3.5i V6 lies the M 112 E 37 engine, a 3.7-liter (3724 cm3 or 227.25 cu. in.) naturally aspirated V6. This engine produces 231 horsepower (Hp) at 5600 rpm and 345 Newton-meters (254.46 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2500 and 4500 rpm. The engine’s configuration – a 60-degree V-angle with three valves per cylinder – contributes to its smooth operation and relatively high power output for its displacement, achieving 62 Hp per liter. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.5 seconds. The Viano 3.5i V6 boasts a maximum speed of 199 km/h (123.65 mph). Despite its performance capabilities, fuel economy is relatively modest, with combined fuel consumption rated at 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg or 21.9 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Mercedes-Benz Viano W639 is a four-door minivan, seating up to five passengers. Its design emphasizes practicality and space, with a large interior volume optimized for passenger comfort and cargo capacity. The “compact” version measures 4748 mm (186.93 in.) in length, 1901 mm (74.84 in.) in width, and 1875 mm (73.82 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 3200 mm (125.98 in.). The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 2770 kg (6106.8 lbs), allowing for a substantial payload of 785 kg (1730.63 lbs).
Features of the Viano 3.5i V6 typically included comfortable seating, air conditioning, and a high-quality audio system. Safety features, standard for the period, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels, with disc brakes on the rear. The suspension system consists of independent coil springs at the front and a semi-independent coil spring setup at the rear, providing a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The steering utilizes a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion system. The vehicle rides on 225/55 R17 tires mounted on 7.5J x 17 alloy wheels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viano |
| Generation | Viano (W639) |
| Type | 3.5i V6 18V (231 Hp) Automatic compact |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.9 l/100 km (13.1 US mpg, 15.8 UK mpg, 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 199 km/h (123.65 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 345 Nm @ 2500-4500 rpm (254.46 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 112 E 37 |
| Engine displacement | 3724 cm3 (227.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.9 l (10.46 US qt | 8.71 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2770 kg (6106.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 785 kg (1730.63 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4748 mm (186.93 in.) |
| Width | 1901 mm (74.84 in.) |
| Height | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
The Mercedes-Benz Viano W639 3.5i V6, while not a common sight in the US market, offered a compelling combination of space, luxury, and performance for European buyers. It remains a notable example of Mercedes-Benz’s ability to create versatile vehicles that cater to a wide range of needs.
