The Mercedes-Benz E-Class T-modell (S212) AMG E 63, produced from 2010 to April 2011, represents the high-performance estate variant of the W212 E-Class. Positioned as the flagship of the E-Class wagon lineup, it combined the practicality of a station wagon with the potent performance of Mercedes-AMG’s naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine. This model catered to buyers seeking a vehicle capable of both spirited driving and accommodating substantial cargo. It was a direct competitor to high-performance estates from brands like Audi and BMW, offering a unique blend of luxury, space, and exhilarating power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class T-modell (S212) |
| Type | AMG E 63 V8 (525 Hp) AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | April, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 18.8 l/100 km (12.5 US mpg, 15 UK mpg, 5.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg, 22.1 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 299 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp, 280.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 336.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 525 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 630 Nm @ 5200 rpm (464.66 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 156.984 |
| Engine displacement | 6208 cm3 (378.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 102.2 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt, 7.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal, 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4895 mm (192.72 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1512 mm (59.53 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1180 mm (46.46 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×26 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 255/40 R18, Rear wheel tires: 285/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 9J x 18, Rear wheel rims: 9.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the AMG E 63 T-modell is the M 156.984 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a hallmark of AMG’s engineering prowess during this period, featured a cast aluminum block with silicon-aluminum alloy cylinder liners. It employed a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produced 525 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 630 Nm (464.66 lb-ft) of torque at 5200 rpm. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed automatic transmission, a wet-clutch transmission, was specifically tuned for rapid and precise gear changes. Unlike traditional torque converter automatics, the MCT system offered a more direct connection to the engine, enhancing responsiveness and contributing to the car’s sporty character.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG E 63 T-modell delivered exhilarating performance. The combination of the powerful V8 engine and the quick-shifting MCT transmission resulted in a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.4 seconds and a electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, coupled with a sophisticated suspension system, provided excellent handling and stability. While not as overtly aggressive as some of its competitors, the E 63 offered a refined yet potent driving experience. The automatic transmission, while quick, wasn’t always as intuitive as a dual-clutch system in certain driving scenarios, but it provided a comfortable and convenient driving experience for everyday use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG E 63 T-modell came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments included AMG sport seats upholstered in premium leather, AMG-specific instrumentation, and a sport steering wheel. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and a host of safety features. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring), and upgraded interior trim options. The overall interior design emphasized a blend of luxury and sportiness, reflecting the car’s dual character.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the AMG E 63 T-modell was specifically tuned to handle the engine’s substantial power. It featured an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, with air suspension on the rear axle providing adjustable ride height and damping. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measured 360×36 mm, while the rear brakes were 360×26 mm. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking maneuvers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG E 63 T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, responsive transmission, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that its fuel economy was relatively poor, as expected for a high-performance V8 engine. Compared to the standard E-Class wagon models, the AMG E 63 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a substantial price premium. Compared to rivals like the Audi RS6 Avant and the BMW M5 Touring, the E 63 offered a slightly more refined and luxurious experience, while perhaps lacking the ultimate track-focused performance of some competitors.
Legacy
The M 156 engine, found in the AMG E 63 T-modell, is regarded as a robust and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. While the engine’s age means that maintenance costs can be higher than for more modern vehicles, it remains a popular choice among enthusiasts. The AMG E 63 T-modell has become a sought-after vehicle in the used car market, appealing to buyers who appreciate its combination of performance, practicality, and luxury. Its status as a relatively rare and collectible model further enhances its desirability.
