The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is powered by a new 5.5-liter biturbo V8 that features twin turbo-chargers, direct fuel injection, multi-spark ignition and an ECO Stop/Start function. Compared to the new 4.6-liter biturbo, the S63 AMG powerplant makes use of more displacement (a larger cylinder bore and longer crankshaft stroke), higher turbocharger boost (14.2 lbs. boost vs. 12.9 lbs. boost), and slightly lower compression (10.0:1 vs. 10.5:1).
In comparison to its predecessor, reduced displacement is more than offset by the power boost of its twin turbochargers - one for each bank of cylinders. Identified inside the company as the M157, the new AMG twin-turbo V8 produces 536 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque and can accelerate from 0-60 in just 4.4 seconds. With the optional AMG Performance Package, these figures increase to 563 hp and 664 lb-ft, and the 0-60 time drops to 4.3 seconds.
Even with its high performance, the S63 AMG is more fuel efficient, thanks in part to an innovative ECO Stop/Start system. When the AMG model stops in "D" or "N" with the brake pedal depressed in "Controlled Efficiency" transmission mode, the engine is automatically turned off to save fuel. As soon as the driver releases the brake, the engine computer decides which piston is in the best position for first ignition, and the direct fuel injection and multi-spark systems work with a starter motor to re-start the engine almost instantly. With estimated fuel economy figures of 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, the Gas Guzzler Tax no longer applies to the S63 AMG.
MCT Sports Transmission
The high-performance 2012 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Sedan also features a cutting-edge AMG transmission. With a start-up clutch that replaces the torque converter, the new seven-speed MCT sports transmission provides the direct feedback of a manual transmission with the total convenience of an automatic, offering impressive versatility and even faster shift times. Thanks to its low rotational mass, the start-up clutch helps the transmission respond instantaneously and dynamically, with no slip.
SPLITVIEW Dual-Content Viewscreen
The 2012 S-Class sedans are also available with an innovative SPLITVIEW dual-content viewscreen, which allows the driver and front passenger to view two different programs on the same screen at the same time. For example, the driver can be viewing the navigation system, while on the very same display screen, the passenger (looking from a different angle) is watching a movie.
Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG: Review (2/2)| Specifications | |
| Key: AT - automatic transmission, MT - manual transmission, F/R/AWD - front/rear/all wheel drive | |
| Powertrain | |
| Type | V8, Twin-Turbo |
| Displacement | 333 cu in (5461 cc) |
| Power | 536 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| 563 hp @ 5500 rpm (w/ AMG Performance Package) | |
| Torque | 590 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm |
| 664 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (w/ AMG Performance Package) | |
| Redline | 6500 rpm |
| Driveline | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | 7 Speed Double-Clutch Automatic |
| Brakes & Tires | |
| Brakes Front - Rear | Ventilated Discs - Ventilated Discs |
| Tire Size Front - Rear | 255/35 R20 - 275/35 R20 |
| Exterior Dimensions & Weight | |
| Length | 206.7 in |
| Width | 73.7 in |
| Height | 58 in |
| Curb Weight | 4786 lbs |
| Performance | |
| 0-60 mph | 4.4 s |
| 4.3 s (w/ AMG Performance Package) | |
| 1/4 Mile | n/a |
| 60-0 Braking | n/a |
| Top Speed | 155 mph |
| 186 mph (w/ AMG Performance Package) | |
| Fuel Economy | |
| EPA Fuel Mileage - City/Highway | 15/23 mpg |
| Origin & Price | |
| Origin | Germany |
| Base Retail Price (MSRP) | n/a |
