The Mercedes-Benz Viano (W639) 3.5i V6 24V, produced from 2007 to 2010, 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: An 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 258 horsepower output, was positioned as the performance-oriented option within the Viano range, offering a more spirited driving experience than the diesel-powered variants commonly found in Europe.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Viano 3.5i V6 lies the M 272 E 35 engine, a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 producing 258 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2500 and 5000 rpm. This engine, characterized by its smooth operation and responsive power delivery, is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 199 km/h (123.65 mph). While fuel economy isn’t a strong point – averaging 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg) combined – the V6 provides ample power for carrying passengers and cargo. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio of 7.8 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 5.9 kg/Nm contribute to a reasonably engaging driving experience for a vehicle of its size and type. The engine utilizes multi-port manifold fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its efficiency and performance.
Design & Features
The Mercedes-Benz Viano W639 is a four-door minivan with seating for five passengers. Its design prioritizes practicality and space, offering a generous 430-liter (15.19 cu. ft.) trunk volume. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4748 mm (186.93 in.) in length, 1901 mm (74.84 in.) in width, and 1875 mm (73.82 in.) in height – provide a substantial footprint, but the “compact” wheelbase helps with maneuverability in urban environments. The interior of the Viano 3.5i V6 is typically well-appointed, featuring comfortable seating, quality materials, and a range of convenience features. Standard equipment often included air conditioning, power windows, and a radio/CD player. Safety features, such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), were also standard, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to passenger protection. The Viano’s suspension consists of an independent coil spring setup at the front and a semi-independent coil spring arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The vehicle’s hydraulic power steering contributes to ease of handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viano |
| Generation | Viano (W639) |
| Type | 3.5i V6 24V (258 Hp) Automatic compact |
| Start of production | October, 2007 |
| End of production | August, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.3 l/100 km (14.4 US mpg, 17.3 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 284 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 199 km/h (123.65 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 2500-5000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 2500-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 272 E 35 |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.9 l (10.46 US qt | 8.71 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2005 kg (4420.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2770 kg (6106.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 765 kg (1686.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| 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 (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz Viano (W639) 3.5i V6 offered a compelling combination of space, luxury, and performance in the European MPV market. While not available in the US, it represented a sophisticated alternative to more utilitarian vans, appealing to buyers who prioritized comfort and refinement alongside practicality.
