A bargain performer (uh-huh) at $136,245.


In the convoluted hierarchy that constitutes the Mercedes-Benz model lineup, the S63 AMG makes sense as the bargain performance version of the S-class topliner.

The S63 AMG runs 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and rips through the quarter-mile in 13.0 seconds at 110 mph, all for the comparatively low base price of $130,775. (Yes, and we do mean comparatively.) Against that, the twin-turbo V-12 S600 covers those benchmarks in 4.2 seconds and 12.6 seconds at 115 mph, but it costs $147,975. If that’s not enough speed or money, the über-S-class, the S65 AMG, starts at $189,575, matches the S600’s 0-to-60 time, and records a 12.4-second quarter-mile at 118 mph.

Of course, the S63 looks the part, with typically stylish AMG body modifications and gorgeous 20-inch wheels shod with suitably low-profile 35-series Pirelli P Zeros. Inside, it features a special AMG steering wheel with aluminum shifter paddles and heavily bolstered AMG sport seats. Alcantara and leather cover almost every surface, convincing occupants that the car costs money with a capital M.

The S63 sounds wonderful, too, thanks to the now ubiquitous AMG 6.2-liter V-8, which growls malevolently under hard throttle. It’s not as swift as the S600 and S65 at covering 30-to-50- and 50-to-70-mph passing, but times of 2.7 and 3.4 seconds, respectively, are still obscenely quick. The sport-tuned suspension gives up some ride quality compared with the S600 and S550, but the upside is that one can make this big car dance in the twisties. Braking, too, is impressive, with the 70-to-0-mph stop taking 159 feet.

But no matter how well the S63 performs, there was this nagging question: Do we really need a sporty version of the planet’s best luxury car? The S550 is so good and so capable that we kept thinking the raison d’être for the S63, other than as a profit center, is to show other Mercedes drivers that, well, you’re even better off then they are. In this day and age, when too much is never enough, the S63 serves a useful function, as it also delights the stockholders and management of Daimler AG.


2008 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

The Highs: Looks great, reeks of money, performs superbly.

The Lows: The ride can be harsh, hugely expensive.



VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan

PRICE AS TESTED: $136,245 (base price: $130,775)

ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection
Displacement: 379 cu in, 6208cc
Power (SAE net): 518 bhp @ 6800 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 465 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 7-speed automatic with manumatic shifting

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 124.6 in Length: 205.0 in Width: 73.7 in Height: 58.0 in
Curb weight: 4910 lb

C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 4.5 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 10.8 sec
Zero to 150 mph: 27.3 sec
Street start, 5–60 mph: 4.9 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 13.0 sec @ 110 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 155 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 159 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.88 g

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city driving: 11 mpg
C/D observed: 12 mpg


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M

I don't like the S63 and prefer the S600 with AMG-kit by far.

Title... says c63... do i need new glasses or this an S class i'm seeing

Marcus is suffering from C63 fever.

Ooops...can someone change it to S63? Thanks.

M

Extremely good looking sedan,saw a S65 the other day and i was shocked at how well that car looks and sound

Heh,nice AMG package and wheels..6,3L V8 under the hood,0-60 in 4,5..there is alot to like about this car and very few things to dislike .Anyway,it will turn heads in traffic for sure and it will destroy in drag races but it´s not a car for my taste..

The new S 63 looks fantastic to me. I really love this car.

But also the normal S class is very nice and it feels good to drive with it. =)

What's this I hear of harsh rides in the C63 and now the S63? An AMG should be both comfortable yet sporty IMO.

Anyhow, I'll get an S500 over this S63 anyday, it just makes more sense.

Done!