2008 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG

2008 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 2008 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG
Rants and Raves

ERIK JOHNSON

Man, what a mile-eater. I used the S63 mostly as long-distance transport to a long-weekend's retreat in northern Michigan, and it's clear that that is the task to which this car is most suited. Even with the sport suspension and huge AMG wheels, the ride was never even close to harsh, even on the ragged strip of asphalt that passes for I-75.

Once Up North, the two lanes were long, straight, and relatively well-kept, and both myself and my passengers were delighted by the active, massaging front seats; the incredible-sounding harman/kardon stereo; and the privacy afforded by all the electronic window and sunroof shades in the rear. But I would never allow any of this to overshadow the 6.2-liter V-8, a motor of which I will never grow tired. Torque, power, and grins; no matter which 63-series AMG I'm piloting, I know copious amounts of all three are on tap.

TOM ADAMS

I had the pleasure of driving the CL63 AMG last week and thought driving could not be more pleasurable. Now, after driving its four-door sibling, I would say being driven around could not be more pleasurable. The S63 has large rear doors that open to spacious seating. The comfort from up front is found to a lesser degree in the rear. There's no massage or HVAC/Audio controls like in the S550, but that's OK--it is big and roomy and that is enough. All the things I wrote about the CL63 apply here: wonderful powerplant, thoughtfully laid out controls and instruments, yards of luxury. The satellite signal seemed to be more sensitive to tree branches and buildings than other cars I've driven. I lost the signal quite often driving down leafy lanes. The bits of plastic that aren't hidden by leather and wood look as cheap as in the Hyundai. The rear cup holders are an example. Can't Mercedes use titanium or mahogany?

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