Track Tested: 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

This is the car that started the whole "four-door coupe" thing. Seemed like a strange idea at the time, but now the Mercedes-Benz CLS is the old-timer of the low-roof sedan crowd.

Still looks good though, and when you stuff AMG's 6.2-liter V8 under its hood the CLS feels good too. The standard CLS550 is no slouch, but the AMG setup turns the CLS into the low-slung street sleeper that its design has always promised. Just look at these numbers and see for yourself.

Full test numbers and photo gallery after the jump.

Vehicle: 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

Odometer: 6068
Date: 12/09/08
Driver: Josh Jacquot

Specifications:

Drive Type: rear wheel drive
Transmission Type: 7-speed Automatic
Engine Type: V8
Displacement (cc / cu-in): 6208cc (379cu-in)
Redline (rpm): 7,000
Horsepower (hp @ rpm): 507 @ 6800
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm): 465 @ 5200
Brake Type (front): ventilated disc
Brake Type (rear): ventilated disc
Steering System: speed-proportional power steering
Suspension Type (front): multi-link
Suspension Type (rear): multi-link
Tire Size (front): 255/35ZR19 (96Y)
Tire Size (rear): 285/30ZR19 (98Y)
Tire Brand: Pirelli
Tire Model: PZero Rosso
Tire Type: performance
Wheel Size:   19 X 8.5 front - 19 X 9.5 rear
Wheel Material (front/rear):  alloy  
As tested Curb Weight (lb):   4,210

Test Results:

0 - 30 (sec): 2.2
0 - 45 (sec): 3.3
0 - 60 (sec): 4.6
0 - 75 (sec): 6.5
1/4 Mile (sec @ mph): 12.8 @ 112.7    
0-60 with 1-ft Rollout (sec): 4.3
30 - 0 (ft): 29
60 - 0 (ft): 114
Braking Rating:   Very Good
Slalom (mph): 65.3
Skid Pad Lateral acceleration (g): .84
Handling Rating: Good
Db @ Idle: N/A
Db @ Full Throttle: N/A
Db @ 70 mph Cruise: N/A

Acceleration Comments: Monster torque and instant throttle response means "pedaling" this beast is a must off the line. Traction control does almost as well without any of the careful footwork.

Braking Comments: Solid and consistent pedal response - impressive for a large sedan, but typical of AMG.

Handling Comments: (Skidpad) Easy to balance on the throttle. Good balance and response for such a large sedan. (Slalom) Best slalom run w/suspension in softest setting, otherwise it was too stiff and easily upset.