The Mercedes-Benz R-Class AMG R 63, produced from January 2006 to June 2007, represented the high-performance variant of the W251 R-Class luxury crossover. Positioned as the flagship model, it aimed to blend the practicality of a spacious six-seater with the exhilarating performance typically associated with Mercedes-AMG. This vehicle was primarily marketed in North America and Europe, offering a unique proposition in a segment that was still developing. The R 63 distinguished itself with a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine, a sophisticated 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, and the renowned 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R-Class |
| Generation | R-Class (W251) |
| 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 | 6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| 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 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 218.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 270.4 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 | 2330 kg (5136.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2900 kg (6393.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 433 l (15.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2407 l (85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4930 mm (194.09 in.) |
| Width | 1922 mm (75.67 in.) |
| Height | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2980 mm (117.32 in.) |
| Front track | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1652 mm (65.04 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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, 391.16 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 365.76 mm |
| 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, also found in other AMG models of the era, is renowned for its immediate throttle response and robust power delivery. It features a cast aluminum block with silicon-aluminum alloy cylinder liners, a forged crankshaft, and lightweight connecting rods. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Producing 510 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 464 lb-ft of torque at 5200 rpm, the M 156 provides substantial performance for the relatively large R-Class body. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle.
Power is transmitted to all four wheels via the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, developed by Mercedes-Benz, offers smooth and quick shifts, and features AMG SPEEDSHIFT functionality for more aggressive gear changes. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The R 63 delivers a surprisingly agile driving experience for a vehicle of its size and weight. The powerful V8 engine provides effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.9 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC transmission contributes to smooth and responsive gear changes, while the 4MATIC system ensures confident handling in all weather conditions. Compared to the standard R-Class models with smaller engines, the R 63 offers a significantly more engaging and dynamic driving experience. However, the trade-off is increased fuel consumption and a firmer ride due to the sport-tuned suspension.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG R 63 came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Exterior features included AMG-specific body styling, including unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, and various customization options through the AMG Performance Studio.
Chassis & Braking
The R 63 features a fully independent suspension system with air suspension on both the front and rear axles. This system provides a comfortable ride while also allowing for adjustable ride height and damping settings. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger rotors and upgraded calipers compared to the standard R-Class models. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercedes-Benz R 63 was a niche vehicle that received mixed reviews. Critics praised its powerful engine and engaging driving dynamics, but questioned its practicality and high price tag. Compared to other high-performance SUVs and crossovers of the time, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the R 63 offered a unique blend of luxury, space, and performance. However, its fuel economy was significantly lower than many of its competitors. The R 63 was positioned above the R 500 and R 350 models in the R-Class lineup, offering a substantial performance upgrade but at a considerable cost.
Legacy
The AMG R 63 was a relatively short-lived model, with production ending in 2007. However, it has gained a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique combination of attributes. The M 156 engine is known for its durability and reliability, although maintenance costs can be high. On the used car market, the R 63 commands a premium price compared to other R-Class models, reflecting its rarity and performance potential. While not a mainstream success, the R 63 remains a distinctive and desirable vehicle for those seeking a high-performance luxury crossover.
