Mercedes’ AMG tuning division is always bragging about the amount of power its cars produce and now the SL63 AMG has an increased power of 577bhp shouldn’t come as a surprise. It also features a limited-slip differential as standard. The 5.5 litre V8 engine has been retuned and as you start the engine the extraordinary bark from the quad exhausts makes the SL63 sound as good as ever. The gain is not limited to power as there is an extra 100Nm of torque, totalling to 900Nm. The benchmark 0-62mph time has also been improved, now it’ll do it in 4.1 seconds. That makes the twin-turbo V12-powered SL65 AMG look even more outmoded – it’s only one-tenth-of-a-second quicker to 62mph than the SL63, yet it costs more than £50,000 extra.
The limited-slip diff was previously offered as part of the AMG Performance Pack with an additional cost of £12,350 to the buyers but now it is inclusive along with the power boost. There is no change in price though as it stays the same at £112,510. The slip diff is an essential for any serious driver as it makes the car less likely to under steer. These differences make the SL63 better value than the SL65. The optional ceramic brakes have enough power to pull you back against your seat.
The SL63 is the best handling model in this class. As ever Porsche 911 Carerra S Cabriolet leads the way for handling and costs £20,000 less. The seven-inch infotainment system is awesome and is controlled by a small dial. It has lots of buttons for drivers to play around with suspension. The SL63 AMG is still a wonderful vehicle as it has fantastic design and build quality and the ride comfort and refinement for which Mercedes vehicles are known. Mercedes SL63 leads the way with brilliant performance and great long-distance comfort.
