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Rip-roaring Mercedes-AMG S63 Cabriolet packs 577 horsepower (pictures)

The AMG treatment to the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet yields the S63 drop-top that is both comfortable and massively quick with a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine packing 577 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque.

Jon Wong
Jon Wong was a reviews editor for CNET Cars. He test drove and wrote about new cars and oversaw coverage of automotive accessories and garage gear. In his spare time, he enjoys track days, caring for his fleet of old Japanese cars and searching for the next one to add to his garage.
Jon Wong
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The S-Class Cabriolet replaces the CL-Class in the Mercedes-Benz lineup.

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The S-Class Cabriolet joins Benz's flagship family two years after the launch of the current S-Class family.

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Connected to the 5.5-liter V-8 engine is a seven-speed multi-clutch transmission.

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An AMG-tuned 4Matic all-wheel-drive system distributes 33 percent of engine torque to the front wheels, while 67 percent of torque goes to the rear wheels.

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On winding roads, the S63 handles itself quite well for a near-4,900 pound vehicle.

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The Airmatic suspension has also been tuned by AMG offering firmer "Sport" and "Comfort" settings compared to the base S-Class Cabriolet.

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For added clearance and a better ride on rougher roads, the air suspension system can raise the car by 1.2 inches.

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The S63 engine is built start to finish by one person in the Affalterbach, Germany production plant.

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With the top down, the S63's roaring exhaust note is easier to hear.

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The S63 keeps weight in check with a lightweight lithium ion battery, forged wheels and a more extensive use of aluminum body panels.

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The S63 features a more menacing appearance with carbon-fiber exterior jewlery.

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The S63 is long and sleek with attractive flowing lines.

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The rear of the S63 with the top down.

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The soft top is available in black, dark blue, beige and dark red.

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The power top operates at speeds up to 37 mph.

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The soft-top on the S63 takes less than 20 seconds to go up and put down.

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The rear view of the S63 with the top up.

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Front headlight housings with LED accents.

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Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option.

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A 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 powers the S63.

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Carbon-fiber exterior mirrors on the S63 Cabriolet.

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LED taillights are standard on the S63 AMG.

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The S63 gets to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.

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The S63 Cabriolet features a top speed of 186 mph.

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Carbon-fiber exterior trim dresses the the S63 Cabriolet.

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The hand-built 5.5-liter V-8 engine that powers the S63 Cabriolet.

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A 12.3-inch center screen is standard in the S63 Cabriolet to handle infotainment functions.

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A standard Airscarf system helps keep occupants warm inside of the S63 Cabriolet.

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The leather and carbon-fiber-lined cabin of the S63 Cabriolet.

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The leather and Alcantara steering wheel inside of the S63 Cabriolet.

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The S63 Cabriolet features aluminum shift paddles on the steering wheel.

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Steering wheel audio and Bluetooth phone controls.

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The AMG symbol on the flat bottom steering wheel inside of the S63 Cabriolet.

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Control switches for various features in the S63 cabriolet.

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The AMG crest embossed into the center console of the S63.

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The center console controls for various features in the S63 Cabriolet.

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The center stack with no signature circular air vents in the S63 Cabriolet.

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Navigation is standard in the S63 Cabriolet.

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A 360-degree view as shown by the S63's camera system.

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The surround camera view in the S63 Cabriolet.

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The front camera image on the S63 Cabriolet.

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The S63's Burmester audio system produces great sounds.


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The comfortable and well-bolstered seats in the S63 Cabriolet.

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The metal scuff plates with the AMG symbol on the S63 Cabriolet.

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There's sufficient space for two adults in the back seat of the S63 Cabriolet.

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The Airscarf neck heating system standard on the S63.

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A premium Burmester audio system delivers incredible sound.

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With the top up, the trunk offers 12.4 cubic feet of space. When the top is down, space shrinks to 8.8 cubic feet.

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