2007 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

We note the huge disparity in engine output between the S63's 518 bhp and the CDI's 235 bhp. But because of the immediacy and efficacy of the turbodiesel's torque-its almost 400 lb-ft peaks at 1600 rpm-the S320 CDI is by no means left in the dust, especially when the road begins to snake and the newly revised 4Matic all-wheel-drive system does its job. This system is now fitted with a planetary-type center differential that permanently sends 45 percent of the engine's power to the front wheels and the rest to the rear. Traction issues are met with an integrated multi-plate clutch and all the familiar electronic aids.

Both cars emanate the security, exquisite engineering and sybaritic comfort of Mercedes' flagship, and both are chock-a-block with the requisite S-Class goodies, including Mercedes' spectacular Airmatic air suspension system. Both, however, do not deliver equally outstanding fuel mileage. The S63 AMG gets around 15 mpg combined, while the S320 CDI achieves a remarkable 27. It takes the S320 longer to reach 60 mph (about 7.3 seconds) than the S63 (about 4.4 seconds), but at optimum consumption, the diesel is able to run for more than 620 miles without stopping for fuel. Remind you of a certain tortoise and hare?

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Agent63 - 3/28/2007 11:10:19 AM

0 Boost

LS600 may be nice but it's no S-Class. Just remember the S-Class is the benchmark in the full size luxury segment. Don't forget which car was first fitted with ABS, 3 point seat belts, as well as SAT-NAV.

Also the LS caters to the mature crowd so why on earth would they want a F model to begin with? If the LS is as comfortable as it is, why would they add sports suspension and more power when power is already sufficient. Consumers in this segment will most likely not care about performance.

-Agent63

Will_ - 3/28/2007 12:58:04 PM

+1 Boost

Thanks for your redundant refresher course on the history of the S-Class.

And don't rule out an LS-F. Lexus is looking to compete with their German rivals on all fronts now more than ever. I expect to see not only the M3-competing IS-F, but an M5 and an S AMG competitor as well. Rest assured there will be no Lexus SUV "F" models thoug...

Agent63 - 3/28/2007 2:28:30 PM

-2 Boost

Oh ladies, this is the US Market of course they have the loyal fan base. Can it dominate in a world scale? No. Lexus should create a proper 2 door sports car then lets talk about the "F" performance models. The SC needs to go. I have lots of hope for the SC to come back strong though and they should, to make this competition even better.

In a world wide scale the Germans will always be favored. Only in the US Lexus is highly regarded more than anyplace on earth.

I don't doubt Toyota can bring out great cars for Lexus. The Supra was a hell of a performer with great looks. Toyota should help push the development of a new Lexus sports car!

Rupert - 3/28/2007 2:35:01 PM

0 Boost

A Lexus sports car is needed to boost the image, I think. They have the engines, they have floorplans, just give us a good manual, a decent auto too and rakish but not too outlandish styling.

Anthony - 3/28/2007 5:38:20 PM

+2 Boost

Agent63,

So you want more Toyota involvement in Lexus affairs?

I call BS.

"In a world wide scale the Germans will always be favored."

I have seen you make this statement before. It is that same type of thinking that made Lexus shoot up to the top in North America in the first place.

Agent63 - 3/28/2007 10:07:52 PM

+1 Boost

How about world wide? :)

Agent63 - 3/29/2007 3:12:20 AM

+1 Boost

I get deboosted for praising Toyota ??. The Lexus fans don't like the fact that they were once rebadged. I guess it is an embarrassment.

Rupert - 3/28/2007 12:09:29 PM

+1 Boost

We don't get 4matic in the Uk on any M-Bs bar the M, GL and R class.
But the 320cdi is a very good engine.

Rupert - 3/28/2007 12:11:15 PM

+4 Boost

and 518 bhp in the S63!