Thursday 13th October 2016

Mercedes E63 AMG: Spotted

Unsure about a 4WD, turbocharged E63? Try this!

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The new Mercedes-AMG E63 isn't far off now, the media tests looming and excitement building about the latest generation of super saloons. Not a lot is known about the car yet, but it will feature the new 'hot-V' twin-turbo V8 and 4WD seems likely. Given the standard set by both the C63 and GT expectations are very high for the E63, so bring on those first drives!

Pics aren't great; car looks to be though!

But the new car will be a different kind of E63 to previous models, more configurable and more tech heavy than before. So what better time to celebrate the old version?

Moreover, the appeal of a big saloon with a great naturally aspirated engine and two-wheel drive will never be lost on us. They were exciting cars new, and are arguably even more so with the knowledge that they won't happen again.

Of course an E63 estate would have been nice to feature, but the spec of this saloon more than makes up for it. 'Performance Pack' is the key one in this car's list of features; back then that meant a bump for that glorious M156 6.2 V8 from 525hp to 550hp plus a mechanical limited-slip diff. It would have been a pricey option back then - and is consequently hard to find now - but well worth seeking out. If it's anything like a Performance Packed C63 of the same era, it makes the car more engaging and more dynamically capable beyond simply the obvious benefits.

This E63 has plenty of other desirable options too, including some additional carbon, a seat upgrade, a Harman Kardon stereo and a sunroof. In 2011 - just five years ago, remember - it cost the first owner £87,000. Today, with 27,000 miles and a full Mercedes-Benz service history, this E63 is for sale at £26,000. Which looks like an absolute bargain.

6.2 litres. In an E-Class.

As only a generation (and a facelift) behind new, this will still feel like a modern car. Largely because it is, after all. But that's supplemented by a fantastically traditional big-cube V8 and staunchly rear-driven dynamics. Sounds like quite a good combination, doesn't it?

Now, as then, the AMG faces quite a few rivals for those after something large, fast and luxurious. An M5 is the obvious choice, but at this money you're stuck between very nice examples of the V10 car or high mileage versions of the twin-turbo V8. As for the Jaguar XFR, the Mercedes may have found an equal in terms of depreciation! Both lower mileage pre-facelift and revised cars with more miles are available for the same money. Finally, if a naturally aspirated engine is a must, the odd Maserati Quattroporte can be found as well.

Arguably though none of those cars detracts from the E63's considerable appeal. What more could you want from a big sports saloon? Better fuel consumption? Drive it less. Otherwise it looks pretty compelling. Enjoy the big V8s while it's still possible!

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MERCEDES-BENZ E63 AMG
Engine: 6,208cc, V8
Transmission: 7G-Tronic automatic, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 525@6,800rpm (standard car)
Torque (lb ft): 460@5,200rpm (standard car)
MPG: 22.4
CO2: 295g/km
First registered: 2011
Recorded mileage: 27,000miles
Price then: c. £87,000
Price now: £26,000

See the original advert here

[bigmuzzie]

Those seats are an "upgrade" - I'd hate to see the normal ones then.
It maybe just me but no matter what they do the E-class never seems to achieve the 'sporty' look of the C and S class, looks more like Grandad in M&S sports wear.