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2024 Mercedes SL63 AMG vs BMW M8 Competition: What To Choose?
The captivating convertible of the Mercedes-AMG SL63 flawlessly combines luxury and performance. While giving priority to performance, this generation still caters to its traditional luxury-focused audience. It departs from its past by adopting a two-plus-two seating arrangement, although the rear seats are more suited for storage than passengers. Unlike its predecessor’s hardtop, the SL63’s power soft top conserves trunk space when lowered. Beneath its hood, a robust V-8 powertrain reigns supreme. In contrast, the BMW M8 Competition presents a puzzling mix of attributes, such as weight comparable to a Ford F-150, acceleration rivaling a Ferrari F8 Tributo, and quarter-mile performance akin to a Chevrolet Corvette Z06. Despite an impractical back seat for adults, the M8 offers an exquisitely luxurious cabin, blending potent power delivery with all-wheel-drive traction.
| Mercedes-AMG SL63 | BMW M8 Competition | |
| Dimensions | 185.2 in x 75.4 in x 53.5 in | 191.8 in x 75.1 in x 53.6 in |
| Engine | 4.0L twin-turbo V8 | twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8 |
| Horsepower | 577 hp | 617 hp |
| Torque | 590 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.0 sec | 2.5 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 7.1 sec | 6.3 sec |
| Top-Speed | 196 mph | 189 mph |
Mercedes-AMG SL63
Engine & Performance
Propelled by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 sourced from the GT sports car, the SL63 harnesses a commanding 577 horsepower. Its sole transmission option is a nine-speed automatic, complemented by an AWD system and four-wheel steering. While the vehicle presents multiple customizable drive modes, achieving the ideal balance between agility and comfort can be challenging. This might convey the sense that it lacks a clear-cut emphasis on either end of the spectrum.
Price & Mileage
The SL63 boasts a range of opulent features as standard. These include massaging seats, a head-up display, and a Burmester stereo system. Opting for the pricier SL63 variant grants access to the twin-turbo V-8’s full power potential. Buyers can choose between Touring or Performance models, the latter equipped with a front axle lift feature and sleek darkened exterior accents. The price for the SL63 begins at $184,050. Regarding efficiency, the SL61 received an EPA rating of 14 mpg for city driving and 21 mpg for highway cruising.
Acceleration & Features
The acceleration proves rapid, particularly when equipped with the enhanced V8 variant, propelling the SL63 to 60 mph in a mere 3.0 seconds. All SL63 editions feature Mercedes’s fresh MBUX infotainment system, accompanied by the “Hey Mercedes” virtual assistant. Moreover, a spacious 11.9-inch touchscreen display, adaptable for optimal driver visibility, and a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge display enhance the technology suite.
BMW M8 Competiton
Engine & Performance
Beneath the M8’s elongated hood lies a potent twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8, producing an impressive 617 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. This raw power is efficiently channeled through an excellent eight-speed automatic transmission to a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system, which can even disengage power to the front wheels when needed. While our experience with both the coupe and convertible versions was undeniably thrilling, we couldn’t help but feel a slight disappointment with the powertrain’s subdued exhaust note. The explosive performance of the M8 deserves a more passionate and spirited symphony from its quad exhaust pipes. However, when putting the M8 to the test, we noticed some minor shortcomings, like the lack of tactile feedback through the thick steering wheel and a somewhat distant sensation from the brake pedal.
Price & Features
The convertible option comes highly recommended, providing you with the thrill of the track without compromising on time, unless you’re a gold-level FIA racing license holder. Enjoy the freedom of putting the top down on your way to and from the circuit. Both body styles come loaded with luxurious features, giving you a premium experience. To fully unleash the M8’s performance potential, we suggest opting for certain enhancements. Consider the M Carbon ceramic brakes, designed to reduce weight and withstand track demands. The M Driver’s package is also a great addition, allowing you to harness the car’s formidable power and providing a day of performance driving school. Notably, this package elevates the top speed from 155 to 189 mph. The M8 Competition starts at a price of $140,795.
Acceleration & Features
During our thorough testing of the 4251-pound M8 Competition coupe, we were astounded by its astonishingly rapid acceleration, achieving an impressive 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. BMW’s feature-rich infotainment system is housed on a sizable 12.3-inch touchscreen, complemented by a rotary controller and physical buttons on the center console. The display offers sharp graphics and snappy responses, but the abundance of options can sometimes distract the driver from the road for extended periods. Nevertheless, the system proves effective with voice commands and even offers the option for gesture controls, enhancing its usability.