The Amg E63 Estate Wagon stands as a testament to automotive excellence, blending exhilarating performance with everyday practicality. For those in the know, the E-Class Wagon has long been synonymous with all-wheel drive capability and exclusive appeal, attracting a discerning clientele. Within this niche market, the AMG variant elevates the wagon to new heights, creating a vehicle that is both a family-friendly hauler and a track-ready machine.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon boasts an impressive demographic, drawing in customers with some of the highest median household incomes within the brand. A significant portion of these buyers reside in affluent areas, with 23% located between the New York and Boston metropolitan areas and another 22% in California. For over half a decade, Mercedes-Benz has enjoyed a unique position, unchallenged by German competitors in this specific vehicle class and size within the US market.
However, the customer base for the high-performance AMG E63 Estate Wagon is even more exclusive. As the spiritual successors to the legendary single S124 AMG Hammer wagon, meticulously crafted at AMG’s independent U.S. headquarters in Westmont, IL, near Chicago in 1986, each generation of AMG E63 Estate Wagon models has been a special order in the U.S. market. Sales have consistently remained in the triple digits, highlighting the rarity and bespoke nature of these vehicles. Mercedes-Benz proudly acknowledges this select group of owners, recognizing their appreciation for unparalleled performance and distinctive style.
Bernie Glaser, General Manager of Product Management at Mercedes-Benz USA, emphasizes this proud American tradition: “We’re proud of our American tradition of selling both the E-Class Wagon and its AMG high-performance variant. Our ability to offer an AMG E-Class Wagon with standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive since 2014 has significantly enhanced our unique position, both in terms of performance capability and also for winter weather conditions in northern markets.”
To truly appreciate the current marvel, let’s delve into the details of the 2018 AMG E63 S Wagon and trace the lineage of its predecessors, each contributing to the legacy of the original AMG Hammer Wagon.
2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon: The Pinnacle of Performance Wagons
The 2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon seamlessly integrates the advanced connectivity and Intelligent Drive functions found in the E-Class sedan and wagon range, including a suite of available Intelligent Drive systems. Beyond technology, it remains a practical, family-oriented wagon, offering a generous 35 cubic feet (SAE) of trunk space behind the second row. The versatility is further enhanced by a 40:20:40 split rear seatback, allowing for flexible cargo and passenger configurations.
With a starting price of USD $106,950 (excluding a $995 destination and delivery charge), the 2018 E63 S Wagon is not just luxurious but also remarkably capable. It can effortlessly accommodate a second set of tires, along with essential track tools and a jack, making it ready for both family trips and track days. It unequivocally holds the title of the quickest and fastest wagon in the world, boasting an estimated 0-60 mph acceleration in a mere 3.4 seconds and an electronically limited maximum track speed of 180 mph. Adding to its performance pedigree, a German journalist recently clocked an astounding lap time of 7:45.19 on the legendary Nordschleife circuit at the Nürburgring.
Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo Engine: The Heart of the Beast
At the core of the AMG E63 Estate Wagon lies a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine. This powerhouse utilizes twin-scroll turbochargers strategically positioned within the “hot inside V” between the cylinder banks. This innovative design minimizes turbo lag and pressure loss, ensuring instantaneous power delivery. Producing a staggering 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of peak torque, sustained across a broad 2,500-4,500 rpm range, the AMG V8’s roar is undeniably exhilarating. While the sound might thrill driving enthusiasts, AMG Cylinder Management technology subtly contributes to fuel efficiency when maximum power isn’t demanded.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed Transmission and 4MATIC+: Precision and Control
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission is engineered for rapid and responsive gear changes. It employs a wet clutch instead of a conventional torque converter, facilitating exceptionally short shift times and rapid multiple downshifts. The E63 S Wagon is exclusively equipped with the groundbreaking AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. This intelligently designed system seamlessly blends the advantages of different drive configurations, allowing for fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles. This ensures optimal traction, even at the limits of grip, while maintaining exceptional driving stability and handling confidence across diverse road conditions – be it dry pavement, rain-soaked roads, or snow-covered surfaces. The transition between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive is imperceptible, thanks to its intelligent integration within the vehicle’s overall system architecture.
An electromechanically controlled coupling variably connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle. The optimal torque distribution is continuously calculated based on driving conditions and driver inputs. Consequently, the performance wagon can transition seamlessly from traction-focused all-wheel drive to a purely rear-wheel drive experience. Beyond enhancing traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive system also sharpens longitudinal dynamics for even more potent acceleration.
For driving purists, the fully variable torque distribution also enables controlled drifts. In a safe and controlled environment, Drift mode, a standard feature on the E63 S Wagon, can be activated within the “Race” drive program using the shift paddles. This requires ESP® to be deactivated and the transmission to be in manual mode. Once engaged, Drift mode transforms the E63 S Wagon into a purely rear-wheel drive machine, allowing for classic sports car driving dynamics. Drift mode remains active until manually deactivated by the driver or when the ignition is cycled.
Riding Dynamically on Air: Suspension and Dynamics
The all-new AMG multi-chamber air suspension, featuring continuously variable damping, ensures exceptional levels of camber stability, driving dynamics, and steering precision. The air spring stiffness is broadly adjustable, allowing for a balance between comfort and handling prowess. The spring rate automatically stiffens in response to sudden load changes, aggressive cornering, rapid acceleration, or hard braking, minimizing body roll and pitch. The adaptive damping system offers three distinct selectable modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. Dynamic engine mounts further refine the driving experience by quickly adapting from softer settings for enhanced comfort to stiffer settings for heightened agility, responding to driving conditions and handling demands.
The electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential minimizes slip on the inside wheel during cornering, optimizing power delivery without relying on braking intervention. This facilitates more powerful acceleration out of corners. Sensitive and proactive control, integrated with the three-stage ESP® and all-wheel drive system, pushes performance thresholds even higher.
Drivers can fine-tune the driving experience with five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT programs: Comfort, Sport, Sport +, RACE, and Individual. These modes adjust key parameters, including engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, steering feel, ESP, and all-wheel-drive characteristics. Independently of the drive programs, the “M” button allows for instant switching to manual shifting mode, where gear changes are exclusively controlled via the shift paddles. Individual suspension and steering settings can also be independently selected for a truly personalized driving setup. The “RACE” drive program configures all parameters for maximum performance, specifically tailored for closed race circuits.
For stopping power that matches its performance, the E63 S Wagon features internally ventilated and perforated 15.4-inch compound front brake discs with six-piston fixed calipers. Rear brakes utilize 14.2-inch discs and single-piston floating calipers. For ultimate braking performance, the AMG Carbon Ceramic Composite Braking System is available as an option.
AMG Interior: A Blend of Luxury and Sport
The AMG E63 Estate Wagon interior receives the full AMG treatment, featuring an exclusive version of the E-Class’s dual-12.3-inch screen digital instrument cluster. This offers selectable “Classic,” “Sport,” and “Progressive” display designs, allowing drivers to customize the information presented. Gauges with a carbon-fiber look and distinctive typography infuse a sporty ambiance into the displays. An AMG Performance Steering Wheel trimmed in black nappa leather is standard, providing a premium tactile experience. For maximum lateral support during spirited driving, AMG Performance Seats with integrated head restraints are available. Further exclusive touches include nappa leather trim adorning the dashboard and door beltlines, elevating the cabin’s luxury.
Tracing the Lineage: AMG E-Class Wagon History in the U.S.
While AMG produced a version of the 210-series E-Class wagon for select global markets, it was not imported into the U.S., much to the disappointment of American enthusiasts. This changed with the arrival of the 211 successor model in 2005.
2005-2006 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG Wagon: The Supercharged Sleeper
The S211 E55 AMG Wagon, while still carrying the E55 designation, presented a sleeker aesthetic compared to its predecessor. Despite its high-performance nature, the E55 wagon maintained a “sleeper” persona, thanks to a subtly aggressive AMG body kit featuring bolder front and rear fascias, a black mesh front grille, and 18-inch wheels. Discreet silver-painted brake calipers peeked through the wheel spokes. While “E55 AMG” and “V8 Kompressor” badges hinted at its capabilities, some owners opted for badge deletion for an even more understated look.
The “Kompressor” badge signified a belt-driven supercharger, AMG’s favored method of boosting power during this era. The hand-built 5.5-liter V8 engine, sharing the 3-valve-per-cylinder configuration common to Mercedes passenger car engines of the time, underwent significant AMG tuning. The results were remarkable: 469 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, a substantial leap compared to the standard E500 model’s 302 hp and 339 lb-ft. Power was delivered through a five-speed torque-converter automatic transmission with selectable manual shifting.
Company estimates for 0-60 mph acceleration were a preliminary 4.6 seconds, slightly behind the sedan’s 4.5 seconds. However, independent testing by Car & Driver magazine yielded even quicker figures: 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, a quarter-mile time of 12.5 seconds at 114 mph, and 0-150 mph in a mere 24 seconds. The top track speed was electronically limited to 155 mph.
Despite being heavier than the sedan counterpart, the E55 wagon surprisingly outperformed it slightly in acceleration and skidpad tests. Car & Driver attributed this to the wagon’s extra mass shifting weight distribution rearward (49:51 compared to the sedan’s 53:47). The E55 Wagon rode on staggered 245/40ZR18 front and 265/35ZR18 rear tires and featured robust braking components, including 8-piston calipers up front and 4-piston calipers in the rear.
Practicality was not sacrificed for performance. The E55 wagon offered 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 69 cubic feet with the second and optional rear-facing third rows folded. The 2005 E55 Wagon had an MSRP of $82,600, plus a $720 destination/delivery charge. Key options included the third-row seat (discontinued in the 2007 AMG E-Wagon for technical packaging reasons), a bi-xenon lighting package, and the Premium Package with navigation. Mercedes-Benz USA imported a mere 126 E55 Wagons for the 2005-2006 model years, making them special-order rarities, not actively advertised.
2007-2009 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon: Naturally Aspirated Power
Significant changes arrived for the S211 AMG E-Wagon in 2007. The new “E63” badge heralded an all-new 6,208cc naturally aspirated V8 engine, the first engine developed entirely by AMG for its own vehicles. Horsepower increased to 507, up from the E55’s 469, although torque slightly decreased to 465 lb-ft from 516 lb-ft. The new engine was paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission equipped with paddle shifters for enhanced driver engagement. Car and Driver testing revealed the E63 Wagon could achieve 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in 12.5 seconds at 115 mph. The new, naturally aspirated model proved marginally quicker than its supercharged predecessor in all performance tests. The top track speed remained electronically limited to 155 mph. The base MSRP in 2007 was $85,400.
Despite its performance credentials, the E63 Wagon remained a special-order rarity, barely mentioned in Mercedes-Benz literature or on their website. Only 153 units were imported, with a mere 24 in the third year of production, further solidifying its exclusivity.
2012-2016 Mercedes-Benz E63 S AMG 4MATIC Wagon: Turbocharging and All-Wheel Drive
After a two-year hiatus, the E63 Wagon returned to the U.S. lineup in 2012, sporting the angular new 212-series body and significant mechanical updates. A new 5.5-liter biturbo V8 engine replaced the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter unit. Initially, it remained a rear-wheel drive vehicle, offering 518 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. An optional AMG Performance Package further boosted output to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Motor Trend recorded a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds, even surpassing company estimates of 4.1 seconds. Exclusivity persisted, with special-order status and a starting price of $91,500 (excluding destination/delivery charges). 209 units were sold for the 2012-2013 model years.
The 2014 comprehensive design update marked a pivotal shift. The AMG E-Class Wagon became the E63 S 4MATIC, now boasting 577 hp and a massive 590 lb-ft of torque. The 0-60 mph estimate dropped to 3.6 seconds, and the top speed increased to 186 mph (electronically limited). The 7-speed dual-clutch MCT transmission was paired with a 33:67 fixed-ratio 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and a limited-slip rear differential, optimizing power delivery to all four wheels. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and a “race start” function for computer-aided launches blurred the lines between family wagon and track weapon.
Driver-selectable modes expanded to include Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, and Manual, alongside the new addition of RACE mode. Drivers could also customize settings, independently adjusting adaptive air-suspension and transmission parameters, and store preferred configurations.
Handling was widely acclaimed for this family hauler, attributed to AMG’s suspension tuning, responsive steering, and 19-inch wheels fitted with 255/35-19 front and 285/30-19 rear tires. Braking was again handled by six-piston calipers and vented, perforated rotors at the front. Carbon-ceramic brakes remained an optional upgrade for those considering track use.
The starting price for the 2014 E63 AMG 4MATIC Wagon model was $102,370, excluding destination and delivery charge. Available options included the Driver Assistance package, bundling active blind spot monitoring, lane-assist functions, and DISTRONIC Plus adaptive cruise control with Steering Assist.
The S212 E63 S AMG 4MATIC Wagon maintained its special-order status, but initial sales saw a temporary surge of approximately 800% due to the standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, particularly appealing to buyers in northern markets. A total of 783 E63 S AMG Wagons were sold in the U.S. across the 2014-2016 model years, demonstrating the growing appeal of this high-performance wagon.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the AMG E63 Estate Wagon
The AMG E63 Estate Wagon represents more than just a vehicle; it embodies a philosophy of uncompromising performance blended with everyday usability. From its roots in the hand-built AMG Hammer Wagon to the technologically advanced and supremely powerful models of today, the AMG E63 Estate Wagon has consistently captivated a select group of enthusiasts. Its rarity, combined with its exceptional capabilities, ensures its continued appeal as a true automotive icon. For those seeking a vehicle that can conquer both the racetrack and the school run, the AMG E63 Estate Wagon remains in a class of its own.
To delve deeper into the history of the original 1986 S124 AMG Hammer Wagon and its current owner, Jonathan Hodgman, as well as explore the history of AMG’s US headquarters in Chicago from 1980-1990, click here.
To experience the Jonathan Hodgman and his original 1986 S124 AMG Hammer Wagon in action, watch the petrolicious.com episode here.
For the latest news and information on the AMG E-Class range, visit the AMG E-Class Newsroom on media.mbusa.com here.
