Power for the few

Clearly there are people who want the massive grunt and status associated with the legendary performance badge. For such there is the 5.5-litre V8 biturbo powered brute and Merc have done a lot to make it as quick as possible.

Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG (V221) 2013, Lack: diamantsilber metallic, Ausstattung: Leder PASSION Exklusiv schwarz, Zierteile: Carbon, AMG Performance Package

For example, the implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy reduces the weight of the S63 AMG by up to 100 kilograms compared to the predecessor model. That sounds very impressive, but assuming it needs at least a driver – probably middle-aged and a tad overweight – you are still left trying to throw around a two-ton car. The laws of physics teach us that this is not going to be easy and by the time it has been achieved, even if only to a degree, that super comfy S-class has got a touch hard.

The engineering is impressive and the weight saving was achieved largely thanks to the use of AMG forged light-alloy wheels, a lightweight lithium-ion battery and a weight-optimised AMG high-performance composite brake system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin of the S-Class, including the roof and the front end of the body, is made of aluminium. Installing a spare wheel recess made of carbon fibre reduced the weight by a further four kilograms. The S63 AMG claims acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 4.4 seconds, and the top speed is 250km/h.

This is possible due to an output of 430 kW and a torque of 900Nm and it must be fantastic to say you drive a vehicle this powerful. However, I would be very happy with a nice comfy S350 for work days as well as an A 45 AMG for playtime. All for about the same price.