Ever wonder what happens when a team of brilliant, slightly unhinged engineers are given a blank check and a sophisticated executive sedan? You get the Mercedes-AMG E63. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement—a vehicle that has consistently redefined what a four-door saloon can be. It’s the ultimate paradox on wheels, widely considered the best super sedan for its ability to blend daily usability with face-melting track capability. For anyone seeking a detailed AMG E63 S Review, understanding the intricacies of its design, engineering, and raw emotion reveals why the Mercedes-AMG E63 continues to be a benchmark. It’s a machine that delivers on its promise of staggering Mercedes E63 horsepower and handling that defies physics.
Unpacking the Beast: What Defines the Mercedes-AMG E63?
So, what’s the secret sauce? What makes the Mercedes-AMG E63 more than just a fast E-Class? It’s a holistic approach to performance, where every component is re-engineered with one goal in mind: to dominate.
A Symphony of Power: The M177 V8 Engine
At the very soul of the modern Mercedes-AMG E63 is the legendary, handcrafted M177 V8 engine. This 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged powerhouse is a masterpiece built on AMG “One Man, One Engine” philosophy, where a single technician assembles the entire engine from start to finish. According to Mercedes-AMG official specifications, the E63 S variant churns out an incredible 603 horsepower and a colossal 627 lb-ft of torque (Mercedes-AMG USA). This translates to breathtaking performance, propelling the sedan from 0 to 60 mph in a supercar-rivaling 3.3 seconds. But it’s not just about the numbers. The E63 AMG exhaust sound is a visceral experience—a deep, menacing roar that builds to a thunderous crescendo, a perfect soundtrack for its aggressive character.
Master of Traction: AMG 4MATIC+ with Drift Mode
Harnessing over 600 horsepower is no small feat. That’s where AMG advanced AMG 4MATIC+ Drift Mode all-wheel-drive system comes in. Think of it as the car brain, constantly analyzing conditions to send power where it’s needed most. This fully variable system can seamlessly shift from a 50/50 front-to-rear torque split for maximum grip to 100% rear-wheel drive. What truly sets it apart is the infamous “Drift Mode.” With the press of a few buttons, you can completely decouple the front axle, turning this all-weather weapon into a pure, tire-shredding rear-wheel-drive monster. It’s the perfect answer for purists who worried that all-wheel drive would dilute the fun.
Executive Luxury Meets Track-Ready Interior
Step inside the Mercedes-AMG E63, and you’re greeted by an interior that perfectly balances E-Class luxury with AMG performance focus. The cabin is a sanctuary of high-quality materials, from Nappa leather to carbon fiber and brushed aluminum. The E63 AMG interior features are purpose-built, with deeply bolstered AMG sport seats that hold you snugly in place during high-G cornering and a thick, flat-bottomed AMG Performance steering wheel. The massive dual-screen MBUX infotainment system provides intuitive control over everything, including exclusive AMG displays that show performance data like G-forces and engine output. It’s a cockpit designed for both comfortable cross-country cruises and intense track sessions.
Aggressive Elegance: Exterior Design
The exterior of the Mercedes-AMG E63 is a masterclass in understated aggression. It maintains the elegant lines of the E-Class but adds a healthy dose of muscle. The signature Panamericana grille, with its vertical slats, immediately signals its performance pedigree. Wider fender flares, more aggressive front and rear bumpers, and the quad trapezoidal exhaust outlets all hint at the immense power within. It’s a design that commands respect without shouting, a true “sledgehammer in a tuxedo.”
A Legacy of Power: The E63 Historical Journey
The Mercedes-AMG E63 didn’t just appear out of nowhere. It stands on the shoulders of giants, a culmination of decades of AMG obsession with putting massive engines in mid-size sedans.
The Genesis: Early AMG E-Class Forerunners
Long before the official E63 badge, there was the W124 “Hammer”—a 1980s E-Class sedan into which AMG famously shoehorned a massive V8. It was an audacious move that set the template for the super sedan. This was followed by the W210 E55 AMG in the late 90s, the first V8-powered E-Class officially sold under the Mercedes-AMG partnership, solidifying the formula.
The M156 Era: W211 E63 AMG (Naturally Aspirated Glory)
The first car to bear the E63 AMG name arrived with the W211 generation in 2006. It was powered by the legendary M156, a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8, the first engine designed from the ground up by AMG. Renowned for its razor-sharp throttle response and a soul-stirring exhaust note, this raw, rear-wheel-drive machine became an instant icon among enthusiasts.
Turbocharged Evolution: W212 E63 AMG (The Rise of the ‘S’ and AWD)
The W212 generation marked a pivotal shift. The E63 transitioned to a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged M157 V8, bringing a massive leap in power and torque. This era also introduced the even more potent “S” model and, crucially, the option of 4MATIC all-wheel drive. While some purists were initially skeptical, the improved traction and blistering acceleration were undeniable.
Modern Dominance: W213 E63 AMG (The 4.0L Bi-Turbo and 4MATIC+)
This brings us to the current W213 E63 AMG, the most technologically advanced and powerful iteration to date. Featuring the potent 4.0-liter twin-turbo M177 V8 engine and the brilliant AMG 4MATIC+ Drift Mode system as standard, this generation perfected the E63 formula. It seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology, unparalleled luxury, and mind-bending performance into one incredible package.
Driving Dynamics: Beyond the Numbers
The spec sheet of the Mercedes-AMG E63 is impressive, but it only tells half the story. The real magic happens when you’re behind the wheel.
AMG Ride Control+: Adapting to Every Road
The secret to the E63 dual personality lies in its AMG Ride Control+ adaptive air suspension. This system is a marvel of engineering, allowing you to switch between a comfortable, compliant ride for daily driving and a firm, buttoned-down setup for carving up a racetrack. It constantly adjusts the damping at each wheel, ensuring the car remains composed and stable, whether you’re navigating city potholes or hitting an apex at triple-digit speeds.
Steering and Braking: Precision and Stopping Power
The steering in the Mercedes-AMG E63 is precise and communicative, giving you the confidence to place this big sedan exactly where you want it. Complementing its go-power is equally impressive stop-power. The massive brakes, with six-piston calipers up front, provide immense and fade-free stopping force. For the ultimate in performance, optional carbon ceramic brakes offer even greater durability under extreme track use.
The Thrill of the Drive: Performance Package Enhancements
While the standard E63 is already a monster, the E63 S Performance Package (which became the standard for the “S” model in many markets) unlocks its full potential. This includes features like dynamic engine mounts that stiffen under load to improve handling response, a higher top speed limiter, and unique styling touches. It’s a package designed for those who demand the absolute best in performance.
E63 AMG in the Real World: Ownership and Practicality
So, can you actually live with a 600-horsepower super sedan every day? Absolutely.
Daily Driver or Weekend Warrior?
This is where the Mercedes-AMG E63 truly shines. It’s a car that can handle the Monday morning commute in quiet comfort and then transform into a track-day hero on Saturday. And for those who need even more practicality, there’s the E63 AMG Wagon. This long-roof variant offers all the performance of the sedan with a cavernous cargo area, making it arguably the ultimate do-it-all vehicle for the driving enthusiast. It’s a real-life example of having your cake and eating it too.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
Let’s be realistic: a high-performance V8 is going to be thirsty. The official EPA ratings for the E63 AMG fuel economy hover around 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway (fueleconomy.gov). Of course, dip into that glorious power, and you’ll see those numbers drop. Ownership costs are also higher than a standard E-Class, with premium fuel, expensive performance tires, and specialized AMG servicing being part of the package.
Addressing Concerns: Mercedes-AMG E63 Common Problems
While the Mercedes-AMG E63 is a robustly engineered machine, it’s not immune to issues. Like any complex, high-performance vehicle, some Mercedes-AMG E63 common problems reported by owners over the years include accelerated tire and brake wear (a natural consequence of its performance) and occasional electronic gremlins. The key to a healthy ownership experience is diligent, preventative maintenance performed by qualified technicians.
The Competition: E63 AMG vs M5 and Others
The super sedan segment is a battlefield of titans, and the E63 has always had a formidable arch-rival.
Head-to-Head: E63 AMG vs M5
The rivalry between the E63 AMG vs M5 is the stuff of automotive legend. For decades, these two German juggernauts have battled for supremacy. The BMW M5 is often lauded for its clinical precision and agile handling. In contrast, the Mercedes-AMG E63 is typically seen as the more characterful and brutish of the two, with its thunderous V8 and more dramatic personality. As noted in a comparison by Car and Driver, the choice often boils down to personal preference: “The M5 is a scalpel, the E63 S is a sledgehammer” (Car and Driver, 2021). Both are phenomenal machines, representing the pinnacle of their respective brands’ engineering prowess.
Other Contenders: Audi RS6/RS7, Porsche Panamera
Beyond BMW, the E63 faces stiff competition from the Audi RS6 Avant (and its sleek RS7 Sportback sibling) and the Porsche Panamera Turbo S. The Audi offers incredible all-weather performance with its Quattro system and a stunning interior. The Panamera, with its sports car DNA, delivers an even sharper driving experience, albeit at a higher price point.
The Road Ahead: Future Developments for the Mercedes-AMG E63
The automotive world is changing, and even the mighty Mercedes-AMG E63 is not immune to the winds of electrification.
The End of an Era: The Last V8 E63
The current W213 E63 AMG holds a special, if bittersweet, distinction: it is the last V8 E63 that will feature a pure internal combustion V8 engine. This marks the poignant E63 AMG V8 End of Era. As global emissions regulations tighten, the era of the big, unassisted V8 is drawing to a close, making these final models instant classics and highly desirable for collectors.
Electrification Takes Hold: The Next-Gen E63 AMG Hybrid
The future is hybrid. The next-generation Mercedes-AMG E63 will adopt a high-performance plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain under AMG’s “E Performance” banner. While details are still emerging, it’s expected to pair a smaller internal combustion engine (likely an inline-six) with a powerful rear-axle electric motor. This Next-Gen E63 AMG Hybrid, likely badged as the E63 S E Performance, is projected to deliver even more horsepower and instantaneous electric torque, promising a new level of performance. The challenge for AMG will be to manage the added weight and engineer a sound and feel that lives up to the V8 legacy.
Preserving the Legacy: Used E63 AMG Buying Guide Considerations
As the AMG Electrification Strategy unfolds, interest in the V8-powered E63 models will undoubtedly grow. A good Used E63 AMG Buying Guide will be essential for prospective buyers. Key advice includes getting a thorough pre-purchase inspection from an AMG specialist, verifying the maintenance history, and budgeting for the higher running costs associated with these incredible machines.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Mercedes-AMG E63
The Mercedes-AMG E63 is more than just a car; it’s a legend. For decades, it has stood as a monumental achievement in automotive engineering, flawlessly blending executive luxury with the heart and soul of a supercar. From the raw, naturally aspirated V8s of the past to the technologically advanced, twin-turbocharged W213 E63 AMG of today, it has never failed to deliver an exhilarating and unforgettable driving experience. As we stand on the cusp of a new hybrid era, the legacy of the V8-powered Mercedes-AMG E63 as the definitive super sedan—the ultimate sledgehammer in a tuxedo—is forever cemented.
Mercedes-AMG E63 FAQs
Question: What is the Mercedes E63 Horsepower?
Answer: The current Mercedes-AMG E63 S delivers an impressive 603 horsepower from its 4.0-liter twin-turbo M177 V8 engine. This immense power allows the best super sedan to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.3 seconds, showcasing its formidable performance capabilities.
Question: How does AMG 4MATIC+ Drift Mode work in the Mercedes-AMG E63?
Answer: AMG 4MATIC+ Drift Mode allows the driver to completely decouple the front axle of the Mercedes-AMG E63, sending 100% of the engine’s power to the rear wheels. This enables controlled oversteer and thrilling drifts on a track, combining the benefits of all-wheel-drive traction with pure rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
Question: What are common issues or Mercedes-AMG E63 common problems?
Answer: Typical Mercedes-AMG E63 common problems often relate to high running costs, including accelerated tire and brake wear due to its high-performance nature. Some owners might also experience minor electronic glitches, common in modern, tech-laden vehicles. Regular, specialized maintenance is crucial for longevity.
Question: What is the difference between the Mercedes-AMG E63 vs M5?
Answer: The Mercedes-AMG E63 vs M5 rivalry showcases two distinct philosophies. The E63 often boasts a more aggressive V8 character and exhaust note, while the M5 is known for its clinical precision and agility. Both are top-tier super sedans, with the choice often coming down to personal driving preference.
Author Bio:
Johnathan Miles is an automotive journalist and performance driving enthusiast with over 15 years of experience. He has contributed to several leading automotive publications, specializing in German performance vehicles. With a background in mechanical engineering, Johnathan combines technical expertise with a passion for the art of driving to provide in-depth, engaging, and trustworthy analysis.
Disclaimer:
The information presented in this article is based on extensive research from publicly available data, manufacturer specifications, and reputable automotive publications as of late 2024. All information is provided for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, vehicle specifications and market trends are subject to change. Readers are encouraged to consult official sources and conduct their own research before making any purchasing decisions.
You can refer to more:
- Official Mercedes-AMG E-Class Sedan : Direct source for current model specifications, features, and the official configurator for the Mercedes-AMG E63.
- Car and Driver Mercedes-AMG E63 S Review : Provides an authoritative, in-depth expert review with performance data and comparisons, often including E63 AMG vs M5 insights.
- EPA Fuel Economy Ratings for Mercedes-AMG E63 S : Official government data on fuel consumption for the Mercedes-AMG E63, useful for understanding E63 AMG fuel economy.
- Mercedes-AMG “One Man, One Engine” Philosophy : Explains the unique craftsmanship and heritage behind the M177 V8 engine and other AMG powerplants.
