The Mercedes-Benz E-Class T-modell (S212) facelift, specifically the AMG E 63 V8 (557 Hp) 4MATIC variant with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission, represents the pinnacle of performance within the E-Class wagon lineup produced between April 2013 and July 2016. Positioned as the flagship, this model combined the practicality of a station wagon with the exhilarating power of a hand-built AMG V8 engine. It catered to buyers seeking a high-performance vehicle capable of both spirited driving and everyday utility. This iteration of the E63 wagon was exclusively offered with all-wheel drive (4MATIC) and the seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class T-modell (S212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | AMG E 63 V8 (557 Hp) 4MATIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Start of production | April, 2013 |
| End of production | July, 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 246 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 285.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 369.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 557 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102 Hp/l |
| Torque | 720 Nm @ 1750-5250 rpm (531.04 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 157.981 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2580 kg (5687.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4904 mm (193.07 in.) |
| Width | 1873 mm (73.74 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.75 m (38.55 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). Internal Combustion engine. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×26 mm |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 255/35 ZR19 Rear wheel tires: 285/30 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 9J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the AMG E 63 T-modell lies the M157.981 5.5-liter V8 engine. This engine is hand-assembled at the Mercedes-AMG facility in Affalterbach, Germany, adhering to the company’s “one man, one engine” philosophy. It features twin turbochargers, direct fuel injection, and a sophisticated cylinder deactivation system (AMG Cylinder Management) to improve fuel efficiency. The cylinder deactivation system shuts down cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 during cruising, reducing fuel consumption without significantly impacting performance. The engine produces 557 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a substantial 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) of torque available from 1750 to 5250 rpm. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT seven-speed automatic transmission utilizes a wet multi-plate clutch instead of a traditional torque converter, resulting in quicker and more direct gear changes. This transmission features paddle shifters for manual control and various driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, and Race, each altering shift points and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG E 63 T-modell delivers exhilarating performance. The combination of the powerful V8 engine, all-wheel drive, and the quick-shifting MCT transmission allows for a 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 3.6 seconds. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. While the automatic transmission is exceptionally capable, it doesn’t quite match the engagement of a dual-clutch transmission. The air suspension in the rear provides a comfortable ride quality, even with the sportier suspension settings. Compared to the standard E-Class wagons or even the E 350 variants, the E 63 offers a significantly more aggressive driving experience, prioritizing performance over fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG E 63 T-modell came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including AMG-specific body styling (front and rear aprons, side skirts), AMG wheels, a sport exhaust system, and a luxurious interior. Inside, the standard equipment included sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather, AMG carbon fiber trim, and a flat-bottom steering wheel. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control), and various customization options through the AMG Performance Studio.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the E 63 T-modell was specifically tuned to handle the increased power output. It featured a stiffer suspension setup compared to standard E-Class wagons, along with larger stabilizer bars. The rear suspension incorporated air springs, providing adjustable ride height and damping. Braking duties were handled by high-performance ventilated disc brakes with AMG-branded calipers. The front brakes measured 360x36mm, while the rear brakes were 360x26mm. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) was standard, ensuring optimal stopping performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG E 63 T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and practicality. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy were noted drawbacks. Compared to other high-performance wagons, such as the Audi RS6 Avant and the BMW M5 Touring (not officially sold in the US during this generation), the E 63 offered a unique blend of power, luxury, and usability. The RS6 Avant was often considered more focused on outright performance, while the E 63 prioritized a more refined driving experience.
Legacy
The M157 engine, while powerful, has demonstrated some susceptibility to head bolt issues in certain production years. Regular maintenance and oil changes are crucial for long-term reliability. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission, while offering quick shifts, can require more frequent servicing than a traditional automatic transmission. Today, the S212 E 63 T-modell remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a high-performance wagon with a luxurious interior and a potent V8 engine. Its combination of practicality and performance ensures its continued relevance for years to come.
