Top 5 Most Powerful Mercedes Cars Ever Built
The Evolution of Power in Mercedes-AMG
The automotive world has long been engaged in a battle for supremacy, not just between electric and internal combustion engines, but also in the realm of horsepower. While the shift to electric vehicles is inevitable, the pursuit of more power has taken on a life of its own. In 2005, the SLR McLaren from Mercedes-Benz delivered an impressive 617 hp and 575 lb-ft of torque from a supercharged V8 engine. Fast forward two decades, and the C63 AMG compact super-sedan now boasts 671 hp from a complex plug-in hybrid system. This is just the beginning of a trend that has seen Mercedes-AMG models reach unprecedented levels of performance.
Today, there are Mercedes-AMG models with over 1,000 horsepower, and even the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GT XX all-electric hypercar is expected to surpass 1,341 hp. The question remains: do we really need such extreme power? For most, the answer is no, but for Mercedes-AMG customers, horsepower is a key selling point. After all, it's a luxury automaker in the car-selling business, so chasing higher horsepower figures is a logical move.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most powerful Mercedes-AMG models that have emerged in this era of electrification.
Mercedes-AMG One (1,063 HP)
The Mercedes-AMG One is a marvel of engineering, drawing inspiration from Formula 1 technology. It features a 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine, borrowed directly from Merc’s F1 cars, producing 574 hp at 9,000 rpm. An electric motor assists the turbocharger, reducing lag, while another motor adds 163 hp. Two additional motors on the front axle contribute another 163 hp each, resulting in a total of 1,063 hp.
Despite its impressive numbers, the AMG One is far from perfect. Top Gear tested the vehicle and called it unfinished, citing discomfort and noise. Chris Harris, a respected automotive journalist, was also unimpressed by what he described as the company’s biggest undertaking in its history. While the AMG One excels on the track, its performance numbers fall short compared to other high-performance cars like the Ferrari F80, which delivers more power and faster acceleration.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance 4-Door Coupe (831 HP)
For those seeking F1-inspired technology in a more practical form, the AMG GT 63 S E Performance 4-Door Coupe is a compelling choice. It delivers 831 hp and 1,032 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 2.8 seconds. The car combines a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 with a 201-hp electric motor on the rear axle, creating a complex plug-in hybrid system.
What makes this model stand out is its unique setup, including a 9-speed automatic transmission for the V8 and a separate 2-speed transmission for the electric motor. AWD is also available, making it a versatile option for both track and road use. However, the battery is small, offering only about one mile of range, which limits its practicality as a pure EV.
Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance Roadster (805 HP)
The latest SL-Class continues the legacy of powerful grand tourers. The SL 63 S E Performance Roadster offers 805 hp and an impressive 1,047 lb-ft of torque. It shares many components with the 4-door coupe version, including a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 paired with a 201-hp electric motor. The 4.8-kWh battery provides a 7-mile EV-only range, making it a viable option for short trips.
Despite being less powerful than the 4-door coupe, the roadster still achieves 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds. Its top speed of 196 mph is impressive, though it may be excessive for an open-top vehicle. Still, the combination of performance and luxury makes it a standout in the AMG lineup.
Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance (791 HP)
The S 63 E Performance is another example of how Mercedes-AMG has transformed the luxury-oriented S-Class into a high-performance machine. It features a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 and a 188-hp electric motor on the rear axle, delivering 791 hp and 1,055 lb-ft of torque. The car can accelerate to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph.
Inside, the S 63 E Performance maintains the luxurious feel of the S-Class, with premium materials, advanced tech, and ample comfort. The 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster provide a modern driving experience. While the 10.4-kWh battery offers a 16-mile EV-only range, it’s primarily useful for short trips around the neighborhood.
Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ Dynamic Plus (751 HP)
For those looking for an all-electric alternative, the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ Dynamic Plus is a strong contender. It features a 118-kWh battery, providing a range of 315 miles. The dual-motor drivetrain delivers 649 hp, or 751 hp with boost enabled, making it one of the fastest electric vehicles on the market.
The EQS 53 also boasts a massive Hyperscreen, spanning 56 inches, with stunning visuals thanks to OLED technology. While it lacks the traditional luxury of the S 63, it offers a cutting-edge driving experience with instant acceleration and a sleek design. Overall, it represents the future of high-performance electric vehicles.