Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

In the relatively small universe of luxury sports cars, few names generate as much enthusiasm from drivers as the one made up of three letters -- AMG. The in-house performance tuner and race car arm for Mercedes-Benz, AMG (which stands for Aufrecht Melcher Grossaspach, after its two founders as well as the town of Aufrecht's birth) has lately lent is magic to an increasing number of cars from the German automaker's stable of production vehicles.

One of the latest AMG-tweaked cars to roll into showrooms is the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG luxury sedan, which was introduced in 2007 as a replacement for the automaker's E55 AMG. And like the vehicle it replaced, the E63 featured a dynamic engine and aerodynamic styling courtesy of AMG.

At the heart of the E63 is a hunky yet aesthetically sleek 6.3-liter, 32-valve, naturally aspirated V8 engine that produces 507 horsepower. The engine is linked to AMG's Speedshift 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission.

The E63 is also equipped with an AMG sports suspension, high-performance AMG brakes, and unique exterior and interior styling.

AMG-designed exterior features include a new front apron with lateral air outlets, a rear apron, side skirts, dual twin chromed tailpipes, titanium grey 18-inch light-alloy five-spoke wheels, rear spoiler, and streamlined contours, all of which give the E63 a more aerodynamic and visceral appearance.

The sport-tuned suspension includes AMG shock absorbers and stabilizers, which provide precise and responsive handling. Larger, internally ventilated composite brake discs provide improved stopping power.

Inside, the E63 is a stunner, as expected in a car of this caliber. Ergonimically designed AMG leather sports seats with body-hugging side bolsters provide comfort and maximum support even at the highest speeds. The interior also features an ergonomic steering wheel equipped with audio controls and shift panels, so drivers could easily shift gears. An easy-to-read three-dial instrument cluster and brushed stainless steel sports pedals with non-slip rubber black pads also help spruce up the interior.

Other standard features included rack-and-pinion power steering, anti-lock brakes, a power sunroof, power windows, power door locks, dual front and side airbags, adaptive cruise control, and a 12-speaker Harmon/Kardon premium stereo system with a CD player, a CD changer, and satellite radio. A nagivation system was among the options.