Mercedes E63 AMG (2009) first pictures

By Ben Pulman

First Official Pictures

31 March 2009 17:54

No, this is not an April Fool’s bad joke – this really is a 6.2-litre V8 super saloon packing 518bhp launched amid the credit crunch. Welcome to the Mercedes E63 AMG.

Right, with 518bhp and 465lb ft, enough to match up with the XFR’s 503bhp and 461lb ft. The engine is in the same state of tune that you’ll find in the SL63 AMG, and the drop-top also donates its seven-speed automatic which features a wet clutch rather than the tradtional torque convertor so the gearbox is more efficient and more responsive.

The seven-speed ‘box can also blip the throttle on downshifts, swap the cogs in 100 milliseconds, and it has a launch control function. It’s enough for the E63 to each 62mph in 4.5 seconds, but as ever it hits a 155mph limiter if you keep your foot planted.

But Merc is more proud of the improved fuel consumption figure, claiming the E63 is now nearly 12% more economical thanks to an on-demand fuel system and energy recupertion under braking. Pity the extra 12% still only equates to 22.4mpg, but that is better than every other 500bhp super-saloon.

The E63 also features a new 56mm wider front axle with steel spring struts, the back has an AMG-tweaked air-suspended rear and there’s also AMG’s Ride Control sports suspension system with electronically controlled dampers with Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus modes.

Of course. There’s a more direct steering set-up, a three-stage ESP system, 18-inch wheels, a bulging bodykit, LED daytime headlights and sports seats covered in Nappa leather.

And if you want more then you can spec the Performance Package that comes with 19-inch wheels, stiffer suspension, a proper locking rear differential and a little lip spoiler on the boot.

The E63 will go on sale in the UK this August, priced from around £67,000.

By Ben Pulman