If guessing the winner between two stock fast SUVs is somewhat easy, then upping the power should make things a little more unpredictable.
In one corner, we have BMW‘s latest-generation X6 M, the F86, packing a monster 850PS (838hp) thanks to its K8 Strasse Stage 3 tune. Its opponent, none other than the Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG, which boasts 900PS (888hp) courtesy of GAD Motors.
Of course, seeing the GLE Coupe take on the X6 M would have made a little more sense, but on paper, the old ML 63 weighs about the same as the X6 M so at least we know we’ve got a fair fight on our hands.
Sans mods, the Bimmer 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 is good for 575PS (567hp) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque, resulting in a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 4.2 seconds. The ML 63 AMG on the other hand is a little down on power when stock. Its 5.5-liter V8 produces 525PS (518hp) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque, getting it to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds.
In terms of weight, they’re about the same, with the Merc coming in at 2,345 kg (5,170 lbs) and the BMW at 2,340 (5,159 lbs).
Now, this older ML 63 has definitely made up for whatever tiny bit of extra weight it was carrying, by producing an extra 50 PS – though other differences that might favor the BMW still remain, such as its quicker 8-speed M Steptronic transmission.
Who’s your money on?