The Mercedes-Benz R-Class Long (V251) AMG R 63, produced from January 2006 to June 2007, represented the high-performance variant of the first-generation R-Class. Positioned as a luxury performance crossover, the R 63 aimed to blend the practicality of a spacious wagon with the exhilarating performance typically associated with Mercedes-Benz’s AMG division. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase version, offering increased rear passenger legroom, primarily targeted towards markets where chauffeur-driven comfort was valued. This model was primarily sold in Europe and North America, attempting to carve a niche between traditional SUVs and luxury sedans.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R-Class |
| Generation | R-Class Long (V251) |
| Type | AMG R 63 V8 (510 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT |
| Start of production | January, 2006 |
| End of production | June, 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 24.1 l/100 km (9.8 US mpg, 11.7 UK mpg, 4.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 16.3 l/100 km (14.4 US mpg, 17.3 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp, 213.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 264.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 510 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 630 Nm @ 5200 rpm (464.66 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 156.980 |
| 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 | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2385 kg (5258.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2950 kg (6503.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5165 mm (203.35 in.) |
| Width | 1922 mm (75.67 in.) |
| Height | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3215 mm (126.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Rear track | 1652 mm (65.04 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). Internal Combustion engine. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 265/45 R20Rear wheel tires: 265/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 20Rear wheel rims: 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the R 63 is the M 156.980 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a hallmark of AMG’s engineering prowess, featured an all-aluminum block and heads, a forged crankshaft, and pistons. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produced 510 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 630 Nm (464.66 lb-ft) of torque at 5200 rpm. The engine’s high-revving nature and linear power delivery were key characteristics. Paired with the engine was the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, specifically tuned by AMG with their SPEEDSHIFT functionality. This transmission offered quicker shift times and a more responsive feel compared to the standard 7G-TRONIC. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The R 63 offered a unique driving experience for a vehicle of its size. The powerful V8 engine provided brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.8 seconds – and a satisfying exhaust note. While the R-Class’s considerable weight (2385 kg / 5258 lbs) limited outright agility, the AMG-tuned suspension and all-wheel-drive system provided a surprisingly composed and stable ride. Compared to the standard R-Class models with smaller engines (like the R320 CDI or R350), the R 63 offered a dramatically different level of performance. The 7G-TRONIC transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as fuel-efficient as the manual transmissions available on some other R-Class variants. The gear ratios were optimized for acceleration rather than maximizing fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R 63 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, befitting its AMG status. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a sunroof. Standard safety features included ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included rear-seat entertainment, parking assist, and upgraded interior trim options. The extended wheelbase “Long” version provided significantly more rear legroom, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing passenger comfort. The interior design was largely consistent with other Mercedes-Benz models of the era, emphasizing a blend of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The R 63 featured a fully independent suspension system, with double wishbones at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Air suspension was standard, allowing for adjustable ride height and improved comfort. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The AMG-tuned braking system offered improved fade resistance compared to the standard R-Class brakes. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The R 63 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the engine and performance were widely praised, the R-Class’s unconventional styling and high price tag were points of contention. Some critics found the vehicle’s size and weight to be detrimental to its handling, while others appreciated its unique blend of practicality and performance. Compared to other high-performance SUVs and wagons of the time, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo or the BMW X5 M, the R 63 offered a different proposition – a more spacious and comfortable vehicle, but perhaps lacking the same level of sporting prowess. Fuel economy was predictably poor, reflecting the large displacement V8 engine.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz R 63, despite its limited production run (2006-2007), has gained a following among enthusiasts. The M 156 engine is renowned for its reliability and durability, and the R 63’s unique combination of space, luxury, and performance makes it a desirable used car. Maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream vehicles, due to the AMG-specific components and the complexity of the vehicle. However, well-maintained examples continue to command a premium in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a distinctive and capable luxury crossover.
