What makes the Mercedes-AMG E63 S such a beast in a straight line is its massive torque output, courtesy of a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine. So, aside from having 612 PS (604 HP), the flagship E-Class also puts down 850 Nm (623 lb-ft) of torque, more than a Lamborghini Aventador.

It also happens to be 100 Nm (73 lb-ft) more than you get in any version of the latest BMW M5, whether it’s the regular model or the one fitted with the Competition package.

Still, the latter does have a bit more power than the stock M5, rated at 625 PS (617 HP), and it has special engine mounts with an increased spring rate, which in turn creates a more direct engine response and immediate transmission of power to the drivetrain, according to the Bavarian automaker.

It also sits lower than the regular M5 by about 7 mm (0.27 inches) and comes with 10% stiffer springs, tweaked dampers and a firmer rear anti-roll bar.

Is all this enough so that the M5 Competition can upset the E63 S? Well, the numbers are in Merc’s favor. However, what happens in the real world can be a whole different story…