SL55/63/65/R230 AMG: SL63 vs. SL600 Real-world difference?
11-17-2008, 03:40 AM
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SL63 vs. SL600 Real-world difference?
Hi,
Styling aside, what are the real-world differences between the 63 and the 600? I mean, they both post virtually identical 0-60 times (however much that matters) and I get the impression that the 63 has a generally sportier suspension set up. But has anyone driven both?
What's the real difference on normal roads? I'm never going to track the car but I drive my cars relatively hard (that is to say, I have a little bit of fun every now and again) but like most people, I do want a relaxing drive every so often. So, how firm is the 63? Is there much difference in umm... comfort between the two?
I don't want to buy it and then spend more $$$'s trying to make it more like a 63. Nor do I want to but a 63 and spend $$$'s on hernia repairs. (A specced-up 63 is actually more expensive than a 600 here) And after having driven my dad's XJ Super V8 which is a supercharged XJ with suspension made entirely of jelly, I've developed a phobia of the slushy-suspension-and-powerful-engine combo.
The 63 sounds incredible, but the crazy torque of the 600 should be quite entertaining also...
Your thoughts and opinion are welcome...
C
Styling aside, what are the real-world differences between the 63 and the 600? I mean, they both post virtually identical 0-60 times (however much that matters) and I get the impression that the 63 has a generally sportier suspension set up. But has anyone driven both?
What's the real difference on normal roads? I'm never going to track the car but I drive my cars relatively hard (that is to say, I have a little bit of fun every now and again) but like most people, I do want a relaxing drive every so often. So, how firm is the 63? Is there much difference in umm... comfort between the two?
I don't want to buy it and then spend more $$$'s trying to make it more like a 63. Nor do I want to but a 63 and spend $$$'s on hernia repairs. (A specced-up 63 is actually more expensive than a 600 here) And after having driven my dad's XJ Super V8 which is a supercharged XJ with suspension made entirely of jelly, I've developed a phobia of the slushy-suspension-and-powerful-engine combo.
The 63 sounds incredible, but the crazy torque of the 600 should be quite entertaining also...
Your thoughts and opinion are welcome...
C
11-17-2008, 09:30 AM
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2011 Hyundai Elantra GLS
The SL600's suspension is hardly jelly. Then again, I have never driven an SL63. Sounds to me you are better served picking up an SL65. Interestingly enough, I see far more 65s than 600s on the roads, no doubt in part to the dilemma that some choose to avoid: AMG vs. 600.
11-17-2008, 12:04 PM
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please tell me your repainting it at least!!!
kidding aside so long as your happy with it then dont let me be one to tell you other wise,but but whyyy whyy did they do that
as to 600 vs 63, 600 will rape 63 with just an ecu tune (ecu/tcu = gg to the 600)
SL 63 is a fairly new car with little data out there to showcaes it limits /cababilites i feel
Fan you ahve driven both yes, whats your take?
Last edited by Zod; 11-17-2008 at 12:08 PM.
11-18-2008, 04:28 AM
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V12-Biturbo
But don't take this the wrong way I'm certain the new tranny/exhaust are awesome, but you've gotta see 1st hand what the SL600 can do....I'll pm you contact info...
We can do some frwy rolls to show the true diference between the 2..
Last edited by Thericker; 11-18-2008 at 05:15 AM.
11-18-2008, 01:35 PM
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I'm sure your car will be faster, I never said that the SL63 was faster than a modded SL600. I only said that he may like the SL63 better once he tries it out because I for sure did over the older tranny's. The MCT/Exhaust/Updated ABC almost makes up for the lesser torque; its more fun to drive.
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11-18-2008, 05:51 PM
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V12-Biturbo
I'm sure your car will be faster, I never said that the SL63 was faster than a modded SL600. I only said that he may like the SL63 better once he tries it out because I for sure did over the older tranny's. The MCT/Exhaust/Updated ABC almost makes up for the lesser torque; its more fun to drive.
11-20-2008, 12:07 AM
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First of all, thanks for all the replies guys
I must apologise that my original post may have mislead some of you. I'm not really questioning over which is quicker per se.
I get the impression that the SL600 is probably going to be quicker in a straight drag race with its planet-moving torque. May be the MCT, more gears and less weight in the SL63 will make up for this but anyway, it's not really what I'm after.
My query is mainly on suspension and handling of the two cars. Again, based on the impression I get from various sources, the SL63 is designed to go around corners in a more 'spirited' manner in comparison to the SL600. The SL600, to me, seems to be designed more as a GT. For (very) fast autobahns journeys rather than a bit of fun in the twisties.
I might get a lot of flack for this, but I'd bet that if you take both around a track, the SL63 would be quicker. But the likelihood of me (or anyone) taking either one of these to a trackday is remote but to buy either one of the two and stick to just motorways is simply a waste.
So, what I'd wanted to know is basically:
1.) How well does the SL600 go around corners in comparison to the SL63? How do they differ handling-wise? In your opinion, would the difference be noticeable under everyday conditions (when you're doing less than 10/10th)?
2.) Is there a big difference between the two in terms of ride quality? And this goes both ways. Is the SL600 uber-soft? Would a 3 hour journey in the SL63 destroy my spine? For SL63 owners, do/would/could you use your car for everyday commute, or do think you'd want a more relaxing ride?
I have some idea as to what I'd go for. Sadly, a test drive in either is out of the question. Our legendary import duty (200%, oh yes) means dealerships aren't exactly full of these things for would-be customers to drive around in. I'm going to have to base this purchase on large amounts of research, may be a drive in an SL350, and a LOT of hope. If I venture to the UK any time soon, I might get one for a day or two but I have a rather full schedule and in any case I'm not likely to be able to find both.
Sucks to be me...
C
I must apologise that my original post may have mislead some of you. I'm not really questioning over which is quicker per se.
I get the impression that the SL600 is probably going to be quicker in a straight drag race with its planet-moving torque. May be the MCT, more gears and less weight in the SL63 will make up for this but anyway, it's not really what I'm after.
My query is mainly on suspension and handling of the two cars. Again, based on the impression I get from various sources, the SL63 is designed to go around corners in a more 'spirited' manner in comparison to the SL600. The SL600, to me, seems to be designed more as a GT. For (very) fast autobahns journeys rather than a bit of fun in the twisties.
I might get a lot of flack for this, but I'd bet that if you take both around a track, the SL63 would be quicker. But the likelihood of me (or anyone) taking either one of these to a trackday is remote but to buy either one of the two and stick to just motorways is simply a waste.
So, what I'd wanted to know is basically:
1.) How well does the SL600 go around corners in comparison to the SL63? How do they differ handling-wise? In your opinion, would the difference be noticeable under everyday conditions (when you're doing less than 10/10th)?
2.) Is there a big difference between the two in terms of ride quality? And this goes both ways. Is the SL600 uber-soft? Would a 3 hour journey in the SL63 destroy my spine? For SL63 owners, do/would/could you use your car for everyday commute, or do think you'd want a more relaxing ride?
I have some idea as to what I'd go for. Sadly, a test drive in either is out of the question. Our legendary import duty (200%, oh yes) means dealerships aren't exactly full of these things for would-be customers to drive around in. I'm going to have to base this purchase on large amounts of research, may be a drive in an SL350, and a LOT of hope. If I venture to the UK any time soon, I might get one for a day or two but I have a rather full schedule and in any case I'm not likely to be able to find both.
Sucks to be me...
C
Last edited by x838nwy; 11-20-2008 at 12:10 AM.
11-20-2008, 12:55 AM
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No one here will be able to comment as the 2009's have updated ABC suspension. So you'll be getting reviews from the old SL600 vs the new SL63.
The SL63 is perfectly fine for every day driving - I do it. It doesn't use conventional springs for its suspension, so its able to maintain comfort but also give you good performance in the corners all at the same time.
If you dont care about the power -- the decision is easy, the SL63 is the winner. Everything about it is BETTER, except for the lack of TORQUE over the SL600.
Exhaust is better.
Transmission is 20x better.
Handling is better.
Race Start is cool.
I don't see how the vent thing is an issue -- it looks fine in person, and if you don't like it, simply paint it.
The SL63 is perfectly fine for every day driving - I do it. It doesn't use conventional springs for its suspension, so its able to maintain comfort but also give you good performance in the corners all at the same time.
If you dont care about the power -- the decision is easy, the SL63 is the winner. Everything about it is BETTER, except for the lack of TORQUE over the SL600.
Exhaust is better.
Transmission is 20x better.
Handling is better.
Race Start is cool.
I don't see how the vent thing is an issue -- it looks fine in person, and if you don't like it, simply paint it.
11-20-2008, 01:37 AM
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V12-Biturbo
Curb weight diference is nill I have a Subscription to C&D it weighs more than the SL55 & just about the same as the SL600
They said shifts were quickened by 20%
Curb weight 4468lbs
0-60 @ 4.4 sec
1/4 mile @ 12.90 @ 112 mph
Here's a quote that sums up C&D review... By: John Philips
Personally I have grown to love the new SL63 looks, barring the bulging re-styled hood/side vents/new over sized rearview side mirrors...
They said shifts were quickened by 20%
Curb weight 4468lbs
0-60 @ 4.4 sec
1/4 mile @ 12.90 @ 112 mph
Here's a quote that sums up C&D review... By: John Philips
I'd eventually get accustomed to the grabby brakes & the stuttering step-off, but this Benz is burdoned by a lot of mass & isn't particularly nimble, a fact that even 518 HP can't fix. What it is is a clinical excercise in engineering, a car that tells you, "I am all business, pal." In the world of grand tourers, I find Maserati's GranTurismo more playful, more welcoming, rarer, & cheaper. Perfection is a funny thing. Mother Teresa was a saint, but she was a drag at Mardi Gras.
Last edited by Thericker; 11-20-2008 at 01:55 AM.
11-20-2008, 01:43 AM
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V12-Biturbo
No one here will be able to comment as the 2009's have updated ABC suspension. So you'll be getting reviews from the old SL600 vs the new SL63.
The SL63 is perfectly fine for every day driving - I do it. It doesn't use conventional springs for its suspension, so its able to maintain comfort but also give you good performance in the corners all at the same time.
If you dont care about the power -- the decision is easy, the SL63 is the winner. Everything about it is BETTER, except for the lack of TORQUE over the SL600.
Exhaust is better.
Transmission is 20x better.
Handling is better.
Race Start is cool.
I don't see how the vent thing is an issue -- it looks fine in person, and if you don't like it, simply paint it.
The SL63 is perfectly fine for every day driving - I do it. It doesn't use conventional springs for its suspension, so its able to maintain comfort but also give you good performance in the corners all at the same time.
If you dont care about the power -- the decision is easy, the SL63 is the winner. Everything about it is BETTER, except for the lack of TORQUE over the SL600.
Exhaust is better.
Transmission is 20x better.
Handling is better.
Race Start is cool.
I don't see how the vent thing is an issue -- it looks fine in person, and if you don't like it, simply paint it.
Really love the new trunk spoiler, def buying 1 & getting installed ASAP
Are we going to run for kick's or??
Last edited by Thericker; 11-20-2008 at 01:50 AM.
11-20-2008, 09:59 AM
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I'm still not keen on the restyled SL550 with its Chrysler Sebring-esque hood, but that's a different story.
11-20-2008, 10:17 AM
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If you're looking for handling you'll be disappointed in both to be honest. These are not good handling cars by any stretch of the imagination. They're big, heavy boats. I've had an SL55 and SL65 now and neither handle as well as my SLK55. In fact the SLK55 is faster around the track than an SL55 was simply because it handles so much better.
11-20-2008, 10:39 AM
#18
these are both excellent cars. i've had both ( 65 now gone) and find the new 63 to be more fun to drive and better handling with an outstandind transmission. fantasm has some very pertinent comments. forget this talk about track abilities- these are gt cars and should not be judged by track standards. a car qualified for the track would be unlivable in everyday use.
11-22-2008, 12:11 AM
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Thanks once again guys 
A wee bit more about my car-history. I've owned, among other things:
an Integra type R (Ohlins race coliovers, and fully Spoon'ed up)
an Evo 8 MR (ECU, header and exhaust mods. CF drive shaft)
an Impreza S203 (limited to 555 cars worldwide, ECU and CF drive shaft)
a Range Rover HSE (stock)
a Jaguar XJ Super V8 (actually belongs to my father, but he doesn't drive it and has basically given it to me)
I've been through about 4 cars before this lot but I think it's time I grown up! So, sold my toys (integra, evo and impreza) and was thinking of getting a Continental GT till I decided to look at Merc's. Really love the SL's looks (something on the CGT which I sometimes have issues with) and I'll save enough money to get an X6 when I trade in the RR so it's simple.
Anyway, yes, I've had some experience with handling and how a near-track set up is not really bearable in the long term. I'm not really expecting the SL to be an Elise but everything is a compromise and cars are no exception. I'm looking for a GT I can have fun with relatively often. Something that's elegant but still aggressive.
From what I've read (here and elsewhere) it looks like AMG haven't gone too overboard and tried to turn the 63 into something it can't be but perhaps just sharpened things up a bit. Looks like I'm sticking with the 63
C
A wee bit more about my car-history. I've owned, among other things:
an Integra type R (Ohlins race coliovers, and fully Spoon'ed up)
an Evo 8 MR (ECU, header and exhaust mods. CF drive shaft)
an Impreza S203 (limited to 555 cars worldwide, ECU and CF drive shaft)
a Range Rover HSE (stock)
a Jaguar XJ Super V8 (actually belongs to my father, but he doesn't drive it and has basically given it to me)
I've been through about 4 cars before this lot but I think it's time I grown up! So, sold my toys (integra, evo and impreza) and was thinking of getting a Continental GT till I decided to look at Merc's. Really love the SL's looks (something on the CGT which I sometimes have issues with) and I'll save enough money to get an X6 when I trade in the RR so it's simple.
Anyway, yes, I've had some experience with handling and how a near-track set up is not really bearable in the long term. I'm not really expecting the SL to be an Elise but everything is a compromise and cars are no exception. I'm looking for a GT I can have fun with relatively often. Something that's elegant but still aggressive.
From what I've read (here and elsewhere) it looks like AMG haven't gone too overboard and tried to turn the 63 into something it can't be but perhaps just sharpened things up a bit. Looks like I'm sticking with the 63
C
11-22-2008, 03:17 PM
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SL55AMG, Ferrari 348, Ferrari Testarossa, Ferrari F40, Ferrari Mondial t, Ducati 916, Indycar
I have driven both cars as well as my SL55 and the real hook with the 63 is the gearbox. Every time I drive one it puts a big grin on my face. The chassis set up is also a step forward. If all you want is pure straight line speed, the 600tt with a little ECU/TCU help is outstanding.
The 63 was actually a replacement for the 55, which is more of a balanced package. If you want more of a driver's car, look at the SL63... with a performance package.
The 63 was actually a replacement for the 55, which is more of a balanced package. If you want more of a driver's car, look at the SL63... with a performance package.
