Super Sedan Poll: 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 Vs. 2021 BMW M5

It almost feels like an age-old debate now, like Coke versus Pepsi, Apple versus PC or Marvel versus DC. Choosing between AMG or M power can be just as tricky, especially in these newer models which are often equally fast.

The newest of the bunch includes two direct rivals in the Mercedes-AMG E63 and E63 S and the BMW M5 and M5 Competition. Both have received visual updates and should arrive in showrooms later this year.

So which way are you leaning and why? Is there even a point debating which of the two drives better or can put down a faster lap time? Maybe, but only if you’re Chris Harris and it’s your job making these types of distinctions the very basis of your argument. Otherwise, you’re just left with styling and certain differences in philosophy that might set the two carmakers apart.

Last month, we brought you a visual comparison between the regular updated 5er and the E-Class facelift and 70% of those of you who voted, did so in favor of the BMW being the one that looks better. We wonder if the same would still hold true for these M and AMG variants, seen as how these models represent the very best these nameplates have to offer.

Let’s start with the 2021 E63, since technically it’s the newest model here, having been unveiled one day after the 2021 M5.

Mercedes-AMG E63 & E63 S (Pricing TBA)

Mercedes unveiled its latest AMG-powered E-Class model back in 2016, featuring two states of tune and fully variable all-wheel drive. So even though they both utilized a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine, the base E63 came with 563 HP (571 PS) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque, while the E63 S offered you 603 HP (612 PS) and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque.

There’s only about a 0.1 second difference between them when it comes to 0-60 times. The E63 will do it in 3.4 seconds, while the E63 S can manage 3.3 seconds. The engine is mated to an AMG Speedshift nine-speed dual clutch automatic, powering all four wheels.

Mercedes didn’t do anything to make these models quicker during their facelift process, as the changes were mostly of an aesthetic nature.

According to Mercedes-AMG boss Tobias Moers himself, the goal was to offer an “even more attractive overall package,” which meant improving comfort and not just looks, even though there are some who would argue that “Sensually purifying” the rear end of the E-Class wasn’t the greatest idea.

Its front end however does look more menacing thanks to the new headlights, bumper and revised Panamericana grille.

As for the interior, you get the latest MBUX system and a redesigned steering wheel that comes with touch-sensitive buttons featuring haptic feedback. BMW didn’t do anything to the M5’s steering wheel, so maybe that should count for something.

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG E63 S is still priced from $107,350 in the United States, so we expect the 2021 flagship to cost roughly the same. Official pricing will however be announced at a later date.

BMW M5 & M5 Competition ($103,500 / $111,100)

While its rear end might feature what most would call minor changes, the front of the updated M5 does come with a revised grille (thankfully not too big), restyled headlights and new bumpers. Lots of people seem to like what BMW have done with the 5-Series, making it look just a bit sharper and more modern than before.

You also get new wheels and exterior colors, such as this Motegi Red Metallic, while the interior now offers a larger 12.3-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and cloud-based navigation.

Power comes from the same twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 as before, producing 592 HP (600 PS) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) in the M5 and 617 HP (625 PS) with the same amount of peak torque in the M5 Competition. The latter needs 3.3 seconds to hit 60 mph (96 km/h), while the former will do it in 3.4 seconds – absolutely identical to the E63 and E63 S, at least on paper.

BMW engineers also made some suspension modification, giving the M5 Competition new shocks and an updated damper control system in order to enhance ride comfort. Same philosophy as in the Mercedes, then.

So then what’s the cut-off point here? Aside from the way their appearance that is.

For starters, we could look at things such as fuel tank capacity, where the E63 leaves room for 80 liters (21.1 gallons) of that good stuff, while the M5 comes with a smaller 68 liter (17.9 gallons) tank. In some instances, this can mean more trips to the gas station per journey with the BMW.

The Mercedes also has more torque, which should give it an advantage from a rolling start, but the M5’s eight-speed automatic gearbox is impressively quick and we have seen the Competition variant beat the E63 S from a standstill in a drag race. That 22 HP difference has to count for something too, right?

Verdict

There you have it then. Two equally quick cars that have recently gone under the knife for your viewing pleasure. Make sure to vote for your favorite, while also leaving a comment as to why you would choose one over the other.