Rare Find: A 2002 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG
This 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class appears understated in its Brilliant Silver finish, a seemingly stock and unadorned sedan. However, this particular model is incredibly rare—an S63 AMG. Not available in the U.S., and with limited production elsewhere, it’s a highly sought-after piece.
What sets this model apart is what lies beneath the hood: a V12 engine.
Founded in June 1926 through the merger of Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft and Benz & Cie. (the oldest car company), Mercedes-Benz has a rich history. The German manufacturer of premium cars is rooted in motorsport, off-road vehicle design (including the G-Class), luxury, and technological advancement (seen in models like the S-Class and SL). Today, it’s one of the world’s leading automakers.
- Founded: June 1926
- Founders: Karl Benz, Gottlieb Daimler, Wilhelm Maybach, and Emil Jellinek
- Headquarters: Stuttgart, Germany
- Owned By: Daimler AG
- Current CEO: Ola Källenius
Built to Order
This S63 is being offered by RM Sotheby’s. According to the auction house and Autoevolution, the S63 AMG was only available for about a month. Only 70 were ever built. This particular model went to an owner in Japan. The ultimate AMG offered in most markets that year was the S55 featuring a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 generating 355 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The S600, with a naturally aspirated 5.8-liter V12, generated slightly more, at 362 hp and 391 lb-ft.
The S63 used a 6.3-liter version of that V12, producing 437 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque, according to Autoevolution. The outlet reported a top speed of 155 mph and a 0-62 mph time of 5.7 seconds. While Car and Driver tested an S55 at 5.5 seconds to 60 mph, the S63’s performance was still impressive. This S63 was quickly surpassed by the 2003 S-Classes, which featured supercharged S55 and turbocharged S600 models with more power and torque.
Impeccable Condition
This S63 is a study in luxury. The silver exterior contrasts with a black leather interior with chestnut wood trim throughout, including the dash and rear seat tables. A long-wheelbase model, it includes heated and ventilated rear seats, independent rear air conditioning, and a TV tuner. The car also has the Active Body Control suspension and 18-inch wheels.
The car is in excellent condition despite its mileage. RM Sotheby’s reports 136,208 kilometers, equivalent to 84,635 miles. Given its rarity and condition, the auction house anticipates a sale price between $100,000 and $150,000. The car will be auctioned at RM Sotheby’s event in Dubai, scheduled for April 23-28.
Source: RM Sotheby’s, Autoevolution, Car and Driver
