2012 CLS63 or E63?
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2012 CLS 63
2012 CLS63 or E63?
Hey all,
I currently own an 09 C63 and am looking to upgrade to either an E63 or CLS63. I really love the ride of the C but want more legroom in the back and a (slightly) larger trunk--the young ones are getting bigger and being 6' means no legroom in the back in the C. I am also enamored with the biturbo and few extra mpg's the new engine offers. So..... I am definitely leaning towards the CLS--anyone have opinions on the rear seat legroom in E vs. CLS? I researched the specs and they are within a couple of inches as I recall. Are they both adequate to seat adults? Reasonable trunk space?
The obvious answer is to check them out myself (I will), however my local MB dealer doesn't have a CLS63 in stock currently. I am curious if the above was part of a CLS owner's decision tree before purchasing...
Any other tidbits on E vs. CLS would be much appreciated. Thank you very much for your insight!
I currently own an 09 C63 and am looking to upgrade to either an E63 or CLS63. I really love the ride of the C but want more legroom in the back and a (slightly) larger trunk--the young ones are getting bigger and being 6' means no legroom in the back in the C. I am also enamored with the biturbo and few extra mpg's the new engine offers. So..... I am definitely leaning towards the CLS--anyone have opinions on the rear seat legroom in E vs. CLS? I researched the specs and they are within a couple of inches as I recall. Are they both adequate to seat adults? Reasonable trunk space?
The obvious answer is to check them out myself (I will), however my local MB dealer doesn't have a CLS63 in stock currently. I am curious if the above was part of a CLS owner's decision tree before purchasing...
Any other tidbits on E vs. CLS would be much appreciated. Thank you very much for your insight!
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From: Philadelphia
2014 GT-R; 2014 GL 350 BTC
I think it comes down to whether you need seating for 5 (E63) or are fine with seating for four (the CLS 63) and want to make more of a design statement. The CLS63 is around 150 to 200 pounds heavier than an E63 without the Pano roof so it may be a little quicker and nimbler although both cars are pretty ridiculous and I suspect you won't notice unless you are tracking the car. We changed our order from an 2012 E63 to a 2012 CLS 63 once we finally saw a 2012 CLS63 in person -- looks amazing and like $100K + car. The E63 is much less of a "look at me" type of ride and gives you that classic refined and respectable MB look. You won't go wrong with either. Will be getting the VIN on our CLS on Monday and it should be through production by mid next week.
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2012 CLS63, 2015 GL63
If you are looking at both 2012 models (CLS63 & E63), I just went through this decision and spent many weeks researching the differences, as well as driving various models at AMG Performance Tour Events. Mechanically (engine, suspension, etc.) the cars are virtually identical. For what it's worth, here's my summary of what I perceive as the key differences, but in the end for me it was a "gut" decision, based on which car I was most excited about. The E is more practical and offers a few advantages, but the CLS is so distinctive and such a "head-turner", I had to order the CLS in the end. There will be many more E variants (of current body style) on the road than the 2012 CLS, especially the E350. Also, I believe there have been other posts on either the E63 or CLS63 forums on the same topic.
CLS63
- Only seats two in back
+ Much better looking exterior (IMO)
+ Much nicer interior (IMO)
- Some minor issues (side rear sunshades not available)
E63
More trunkroom (though CLS seems more than adequate)
A bit more rear headroom
Lighter by about 250 lbs
CLS63
- Only seats two in back
+ Much better looking exterior (IMO)
+ Much nicer interior (IMO)
- Some minor issues (side rear sunshades not available)
E63
More trunkroom (though CLS seems more than adequate)
A bit more rear headroom
Lighter by about 250 lbs
Last edited by ecm; Oct 23, 2011 at 01:12 AM.
Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 245
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From: Philadelphia
2014 GT-R; 2014 GL 350 BTC
If you are looking at both 2012 models (CLS63 & E63), I just went through this decision and spent many weeks researching the differences, as well as driving various models at AMG Performance Tour Events. Mechanically (engine, suspension, etc.) the cars are virtually identical. For what it's worth, here's my summary of the what I saw as the key differences, but in the end for me it was a "gut" decision, based on which car I was most excited about. The E is more practical and offers a few advantages, but the CLS is so distinctive and such a "head-turner", I had to order the CLS in the end. There will be many more E variants (of current body style) on the road than the 2012 CLS, especially the E350. Also, I believe there have been other posts on either the E63 or CLS63 forums on the same topic.
CLS63
- Only seats two in back
+ Much better looking exterior (IMO)
+ Much better looking interior (IMO)
- Some minor issues (side rear sunshades not available)
E63
More trunkroom (though CLS seems more than adequate)
A bit more rear headroom
Lighter by about 250 lbs
CLS63
- Only seats two in back
+ Much better looking exterior (IMO)
+ Much better looking interior (IMO)
- Some minor issues (side rear sunshades not available)
E63
More trunkroom (though CLS seems more than adequate)
A bit more rear headroom
Lighter by about 250 lbs
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Posts: 265
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From: Bay Area
2020 GTR Roadster, 2020 GT63S
Having spent some significant time in each of the cars, they are really to different animals. The E63 is more understated - a "gentlemen's" high performance sedan. The CLS has a bit more "attitude" - in looks and in driving. The comfort difference in the back seat is pretty noticeable. The CLS might have 4 seats, but getting in and out of the back - especially for anyone over about 5'6'' - is a bit of a chore.
That being said, the new engine is amazing. Much more torque than the NA 6.3. If you find yourself behind the wheel of either one, you will be one happy driver.
That being said, the new engine is amazing. Much more torque than the NA 6.3. If you find yourself behind the wheel of either one, you will be one happy driver.
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Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 72
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2012 CLS63, 2015 GL63
Yes, I finally ordered about a month ago -- graphite exterior color (designo), black leather interior, carbon fiber trim, Premium 1, Parktronic, Limited slip diff, Driver assistance, Night view assist PLUS. It's loaded except performance package. It was already in the build queue so I am told I will get it in early-mid Dec. Can't wait!
Last edited by ecm; Oct 23, 2011 at 01:14 AM.
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2011 E63, 2013 CLS63
Get the CLS, it's better looking (not that the W212 AMG is ugly) and it just has more presence. It's too sexy from the outside and very nice on the inside but it depends on your seating needs, your preference and the deal you get. Either way you'll be happy 
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 815
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From: SoCal
a car that gets very poor gas mileage.
2012 E63 or 2012 CLS63?.....Nice problem to have.
Think about how tall your children are and how often they will be in the car with you.
I recommend the CLS but that's a slightly biased opinion.
Think about how tall your children are and how often they will be in the car with you.
I recommend the CLS but that's a slightly biased opinion.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 937
Likes: 1
From: Long Island, NY
SL63
2011 - E550
Front Headroom 37.9 in
Shoulder room 57.8 in
Legroom 41.3 in
Cargo capacity 15.9 cu.ft
2012 - CLS550
Front Headroom 36.9 in
Front Shoulder Room 57.1 in
Legroom 42.1 in
Trunk capacity 15.3 cubic feet
http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicl...specifications
http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicl...specifications
https://mbworld.org/forums/w212-amg/...012-cls63.html
.
Front Headroom 37.9 in
Shoulder room 57.8 in
Legroom 41.3 in
Cargo capacity 15.9 cu.ft
2012 - CLS550
Front Headroom 36.9 in
Front Shoulder Room 57.1 in
Legroom 42.1 in
Trunk capacity 15.3 cubic feet
http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicl...specifications
http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicl...specifications
https://mbworld.org/forums/w212-amg/...012-cls63.html
.
Last edited by turbotom1; Oct 23, 2011 at 08:42 PM.
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Posts: 659
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From: Dallas, TX
SL63
I sold my W212 E63 with the NA motor for the new CLS 63. Half for the motor itself. The other half was quality. I'm a stickler for interior quiality as that's where I spent most of my time. The E63 interior quality isn't special at all. It's not much of a step up from a C class if any at all. The CLS interior quality is far superior in every way. If the E and CLS interiors were similar I probably would have went with the E. However the high price of the E63 doesn't match the low grade materials found inside.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 815
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From: SoCal
a car that gets very poor gas mileage.
I sold my W212 E63 with the NA motor for the new CLS 63. Half for the motor itself. The other half was quality. I'm a stickler for interior quiality as that's where I spent most of my time. The E63 interior quality isn't special at all. It's not much of a step up from a C class if any at all. The CLS interior quality is far superior in every way. If the E and CLS interiors were similar I probably would have went with the E. However the high price of the E63 doesn't match the low grade materials found inside.
Never knew that about the E.
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Posts: 12,263
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From: THE Orange County, California
2024 C8 Z06- 2025 BMW CS- 2022 Porsche 992 GTS
I sold my W212 E63 with the NA motor for the new CLS 63. Half for the motor itself. The other half was quality. I'm a stickler for interior quiality as that's where I spent most of my time. The E63 interior quality isn't special at all. It's not much of a step up from a C class if any at all. The CLS interior quality is far superior in every way. If the E and CLS interiors were similar I probably would have went with the E. However the high price of the E63 doesn't match the low grade materials found inside.
Now the 2011 E63's got the alcantara back so Im sure the 2012's will be better too.
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2012 CLS 63
Re: interior quality... Imagine coming from a C63. The E and CLS are a huge step up. I didn't think it would bother me when I originally bought the C63 (I was in love the moment the ignition was switched on)--however I am now wanting something with a bit more quality and legroom.
Thank you all for your comments! They have helped tremendously... now I just need to find a CLS to test drive.....
Thank you all for your comments! They have helped tremendously... now I just need to find a CLS to test drive.....
Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 245
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From: Philadelphia
2014 GT-R; 2014 GL 350 BTC
Yes, I finally ordered about a month ago -- graphite exterior color (designo), black leather interior, carbon fiber trim, Premium 1, Parktronic, Limited slip diff, Driver assistance, Night view assist PLUS. It's loaded except performance package. It was already in the build queue so I am told I will get it in early-mid Dec. Can't wait!
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 815
Likes: 0
From: SoCal
a car that gets very poor gas mileage.
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 72
Likes: 1
2012 CLS63, 2015 GL63
PGordon - thanks, I did see that video when I was researching what I wanted to order, and the lunar blue is very cool indeed. No doubt you'll turn a lot of heads with the beast. Enjoy!
Thread Starter
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2012 CLS 63
So I finally had a chance to test drive a 2012 cls63--I was blown away! Compared to the c63, the fit and finish is a huge step up (not unexpected). Very simple things like being able to use the voice recognition to manipulate the navi while driving is a huge bonus. The back seats are very comfortable and while not expansive, will easily accommodate someone 72 in.
Regarding performance... the exhaust note is a bit less 'gravely' compared to my c63 but it is still very aggressive. The smoothness of quick accelerations is very noticeable--much more elegant in getting up to passing speed. We tried the eco mode which was strange as it doesn't immediately turn off the engine when you stop, there is a slight delay--at first I thought the engine died and started panicking (happened too many times with my '72 volvo station wagon
Anyway, I am in love! They didn't have the PP so I think I'm going to have to get a custom built model. I always regret not getting the PP on the C63 so I'm going to avoid the same mistake. Now I just need to figure out if my s corp can take the bulk of the purchase, expenses, etc.... not in familiar territory here.
Thanks again for your help!
Regarding performance... the exhaust note is a bit less 'gravely' compared to my c63 but it is still very aggressive. The smoothness of quick accelerations is very noticeable--much more elegant in getting up to passing speed. We tried the eco mode which was strange as it doesn't immediately turn off the engine when you stop, there is a slight delay--at first I thought the engine died and started panicking (happened too many times with my '72 volvo station wagon
Anyway, I am in love! They didn't have the PP so I think I'm going to have to get a custom built model. I always regret not getting the PP on the C63 so I'm going to avoid the same mistake. Now I just need to figure out if my s corp can take the bulk of the purchase, expenses, etc.... not in familiar territory here.
Thanks again for your help!
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Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 181
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From: Oregon
CTS-V Coupe
Aside from the quality of the interior, and the interior space, I would probably pick the E63 because it looks more aggressive--almost a caricature of what a Benz should look like. The CLS will get more looks, has sleeker lines and is very sexy, but it does appear quite large from the outside and I would personally like the weight loss from the CLS to the E.
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Posts: 10,557
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From: Earth
Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
Wow, I love that line of "caricature of what a Benz should look like". I've always said similar things about it. I always saw it as a sort of modern-nostalgic hybrid of a "Celebration of Mercedes Sedan design".
I looked at an E next to a CLS the other day, and I think the E does look a bit more aggressive (under the greenhouse portion). The downward carved lines, and how hard and crisp they are, look more dynamic and aggressive than the CLS's upward, more smooth-cut lines. The CLS looks very elegant and classy next to the E, while the E looks more aggressive. This especially applies if you don't take the greenhosues into play, as that balances up the CLS's sporty profile next to the E (the same greenhouse that can't fit my tall a$$ in, so it's a moot point to me, lol).
I looked at an E next to a CLS the other day, and I think the E does look a bit more aggressive (under the greenhouse portion). The downward carved lines, and how hard and crisp they are, look more dynamic and aggressive than the CLS's upward, more smooth-cut lines. The CLS looks very elegant and classy next to the E, while the E looks more aggressive. This especially applies if you don't take the greenhosues into play, as that balances up the CLS's sporty profile next to the E (the same greenhouse that can't fit my tall a$$ in, so it's a moot point to me, lol).
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 937
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From: Long Island, NY
SL63
2012 CLS weights 4153 lbs
Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 181
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From: Oregon
CTS-V Coupe
Yes, sorry if I worded that poorly. I meant to say that one of the many reasons I would pick the E over the CLS is because it weighs less. Very hard decision between the two though to be honest, I know in my mind that the E sedan has a very striking presence in person, yet the CLS is equally stunning if not more. How are you liking your CLS63? I sat in one not too long ago, what an incredible interior!
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 815
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From: SoCal
a car that gets very poor gas mileage.
Agreed.
Exterior changes get all the attention and the gorgeous interior often gets overlooked. Fit and finish is right on and the ambient lighting at night. Love it!
Exterior changes get all the attention and the gorgeous interior often gets overlooked. Fit and finish is right on and the ambient lighting at night. Love it!
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Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 999
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From: UG
2013 ML63 AMG PP
That is a hard choice. On one hand the E63 will be faster and offer more interior room than the CLS63. However, the CLS63 is a stunner!!! The only 'downside' .....and I'm really stretching here.... is that both aren't as loud as the C63 and also not as sharp in the handling department but the torque is monstrous. A tuned or PP C63 could keep up and possibly pass a stock E63 twin turbo but once you add the PP package or a tune to those then its goodbye C63. I don't know if I've helped make your decision any easier but good luck! 
Here is one I saw in Thulite Red!
Here is one I saw in Thulite Red!
