At the 61st International Motor Show (IAA), Mercedes AMG is presenting two fascinating high-performance vehicles: the ML 63 AMG and the “Vision R 63 AMG”. Both world premieres underscore the unique status of the “performance division” of the DaimlerChrysler Group and its expertise in developing exceptional vehicles and powerful engines.

The ML 63 AMG sets new standards for sporty off-roaders. With the 375 kW/510 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, the new flagship model of the M Class takes up pole position in its segment and sets a new standard for the sporty off-road vehicles. The powerful heart of a high-performance sports car beats under the bonnet of the ML 63 AMG. The completely new and 100 per cent AMG-specific 6.3-litre V8 engine provides an output of 375 kW/510 hp at 6,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 630 Nm at 5,200 rpm; with the world’s highest specific output and torque figures for a naturally-aspirated eight-cylinder engine in series production, the new AMG unit is a real powerhouse.

The unique combination of a high-rpm design and large engine displacement brings together the best of two worlds: excitingly high rpm and at the same time powerful torque at low engine speeds. A high level of agility and dynamic responsiveness at all engine speeds brings home to the driver of the ML 63 AMG the emphatically sporty character of the new AMG V8 engine.

Peak values in displacement and power output

Among the direct competitors, there is no other off-roader that provides a greater engine displacement or output than the new ML 63 AMG. The 6.3-litre V8 engine allows driving performance at the sportscar level: This flagship AMG model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in only 5.0 seconds; the top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited). Compared with the predecessor model ML 55 AMG with 255 kW/347 hp and 510 Nm, the new ML 63 AMG offers 46 per cent more power and 23 per cent more torque.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC with three gearshift programmes

The powerful flagship model of the M Class features an AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission with seven gears and a DIRECT SELECT gearshift lever close to the steering wheel. Three driving programmes specially tailored to the sporty power delivery of the AMG V8 engine allow the driver to take full advantage of the output available. Accessible via a switch in the centre console, the driving programmes “S” (Sport), “C” (Comfort) and “M” (Manual) each have different gearshift characteristics.

As in a Formula One race car, the seven gears can be shifted by means of buttons on the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel. The permanently engaged all-wheel drive of the ML 63 AMG was also designed to be emphatically sporty: In the interest of maximum agility and curve dynamics, the immense power of the V8 engine is distributed to the front and rear axles in the ratio of 40 : 60. A strengthened powertrain guarantees optimal power transmission and the typical Mercedes reliability.

AMG sports suspension and high-performance brake system

The AMG sports suspension based on the AIRMATIC package allows high curve speeds, precise turn-in ability, low body roll and, simultaneously, a high comfort level during long-distance trips. The air suspension has AMG-specific spring struts and the specially tuned ADS adaptive damping system. A level control automatically lowers the body at high speeds.

The ML 63 AMG rolls along on polished, 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in the five-spoke design. Equipped with 295/45 R 19 wide-base tyres all around, the wheel-tyre combo not only makes for a brawny appearance but also ensures a sporty road feel. As an option, AMG offers high-polished 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in the five-spoke design with 295/40 R 20 wide-base tyres. Behind the AMG light-alloy wheels, the AMG high-performance brake system guarantees the shortest possible stopping distances with its large, internally ventilated, perforated disk brakes.

Distinctive appearance with AMG styling and fender extensions

Broad, brawny, crouching and ready to pounce -- one look is enough to make you aware of the new ML 63 AMG’s exceptional character. The powerful design of this high-performance off-roader is characterized by distinctive AMG styling with front and rear apron, the AMG-specific radiator grille, fender extensions, stainless-steel running boards with rubber studs and darkened glass covers on the taillights. The AMG sports exhaust system with chromed twin tailpipes underscores the power and dynamism of the flagship M Class model both visually and acoustically.

Dynamically furnished interior with exclusive standard equipment

Sportiness is the dominant characteristic in the interior of the ML 63 AMG too. The exclusive interior appointments include AMG sports seats with nappa leather upholstery, Alcantara inserts in the shoulder area, a multi-contour function and seat heating, the AMG ergonomic leather upholstered steering wheel with gearshift buttons, the AMG door sills, and stainless-steel sports pedals with rubber studs. The AMG instrument cluster with its AMG-specific lettering, red needles and 320-km/h speedometer dial makes a dynamic impression as well.

The ML 63 AMG meets the highest standards in regard to safety as well. Its standard equipment includes the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, the crash-responsive NECK-PRO headrests in the first row of seats, adaptive two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, front sidebags, windowbags, as well as seat belt tensioners and belt force limiters at all seats. Following the world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main, the ML 63 AMG will be launched on the market in the second quarter of 2006.

“Vision R 63 AMG”: Grand Sports Tourer made by Mercedes-AMG

An advanced prototype close to series-production standard, the “Vision R 63 AMG” provides a preview of an extremely dynamic interpretation of the new Mercedes-Benz R Class, the Grand Sports Tourer. Powered by the completely new, 100 per cent AMG-specific 6.3-litre V8 engine with an output of 375 kW/510 hp and a maximum torque of 630 Nm, the “Vision R 63 AMG” promises an unprecedented combination of unrivalled, sporty driving enjoyment, generous interior dimensions and maximum comfort for up to six passengers.

Appearing at the same time as the new Mercedes-Benz R Class, which will celebrate its world premiere in a short-wheelbase version at the IAA, the “Vision R 63 AMG” plays the role of the sporty, dynamic trendsetter with its long wheelbase, avant-garde exterior styling and extravagant interior layout.

The Grand Sports Tourer from Mercedes AMG makes its unique status in the automotive market clear at the very first glance. Externally, the powerful show car differs from the series-production version of the R Class in many important details. The body of the “Vision R 63 AMG” glistens in a dark titanium grey, with all the trim elements glimmering in a matt version of the same titanium colour. The newly designed front and rear aprons in the typical AMG look, the bi-xenon headlamps with titanium-coated reflectors and the chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system convey an impression of pure dynamism. Featuring the same matt titanium paintwork as the other trim, the 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in the five-spoke design with 265/40 R 21 wide-base tyres all around lend the almost 5.2-metre-long Grand Sports Tourer a distinctive profile. Behind the spokes of the AMG light-alloy wheels, one finds the substantial AMG high-performance braking system that guarantees the shortest possible stopping distances.

Sportscar performance in the “Vision R 63 AMG”

The new AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine enables driving performance at the level of purebred sportscars. With its 375 kW/510 hp output and 630 Nm of torque, the newly developed high-displacement AMG eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine allows supreme performance and dynamics. It accelerates the “Vision R 63 AMG” to 100 km/h in about five seconds and gives it a maximum speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Power is transmitted by an AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission with steering-wheel gearshift buttons and a DIRECT SELECT gearshift lever. The combination of permanently engaged all-wheel drive with a power distribution of 40 : 60 between the front and rear axle, AMG sports chassis and AIRMATIC air suspension with the adaptive damping system allows maximum driving safety and -- depending on the buttons pushed by the driver - either a dynamic or a more comfortable driving style.

Roomy interior with exquisite appeal

The interior of the “Vision R 63 AMG” features generous proportions, a stylish colour scheme and an air of supreme luxury. The two-colour nappa leather in titanium/black, the AMG sports seats in the first two rows, the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles and the AMG instrument cluster all convey a sporty flair. To match the exterior styling of the showcar, all the interior trim is in the matt titanium grey colour - rounded out by piano black trim elements on the front centre console.

The passengers in the second and third rows can select their own entertainment programme with the installed DVD player. Integrated into the headrests of the front seats are four seven-inch TFT flat panel monitors. To help ensure perfect comfort and a relaxed ride, the “Vision R 63 AMG” provides two fold-down tables for the single middle seats as well as the multi-zone THERMOTRONIC system, which guarantees all six passengers pleasant climate control while travelling.