At the heart of the expanding AMG range of Mercedes cars is its own 6.2-litre V8 employing just high revs and natural aspiration to achieve 525bhp and up to 465lb.ft of torque. According to AMG, this engine has "a higher specific output and specific torque than any other series-produced naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine in the world" and after the
Paris Motor Show is available under the ample bonnets of both the CL-Class and the S-Class.
Naturally, performance is brisk, with both cars claimed to hit 62mph from rest in just 4.6 seconds; that's despite not inconsiderable kerb weights. Drag racing is hardly what these cars are about and in-gear acceleration should be even more bombastic. Top speeds are electronically reined in to 'just' 155mph.
Channelling all those horses to the rear wheels is the advanced 'AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC' automatic gearbox. Its three modes (Sport, Comfort or Manual) have different shift speeds and by selecting either mode the throttle map and active suspension control are also adjusted. The latter features an AMG-fettled version of the Mercedes-Benz Active Body Control system (ABC), which is said to virtually eliminate body roll, as well as pitch in acceleration and deceleration.
That's probably just as well, as the 63 AMG models are equipped with serious anchors. Monster composite brake discs are feature all-round, with a new 'twin sliding calliper' design utilised at the front. AMG has based the control of this system on the 'ADAPTIVE BRAKE' system.
A new design of alloy is fitted, with 19-inch the standard size and 20-inch as an option. The CL 63 AMG we saw in Paris had real presence thanks in part to these wheels. Other cosmetic changes include muscular flared wheelarches, new bumpers front and rear (with four exhausts of course), a new grille design, side vents and even tweaks to the headlights. It really does make the regular CL-Class look a little feminine in comparison. The S 63 AMG is less of an extrovert, but you'll still know to get out of its way on the Autobahn!
Buyers will love the interior just as much, thanks to bespoke AMG items, such as leather sports seats and an unusual analogue clock and loads more to let you know that this is no ordinary Merc.
The CL and S 63 AMG models will be launched in January, with the latter available in regular or long wheelbase variants.
Shane O' Donoghue - 5 Oct 2006