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Mercedes-Benz R-class W251 AMG R 63 V8 (510 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz R-class:
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a mid-size luxury MPV introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 2005 for the 2006 model year. Following the success of the smaller A- and B-Class MPVs, Mercedes in collaboration with coachbuilder Stola presented a concept vehicle, Vision GST , at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show and a second one, Vision R presented at the 2004 Detroit Auto Show, subsequently introducing the production version at 2005 New York International Auto Show. The R-Class was manufactured in Vance, Alabama until 2015 when its production was shifted to Mishawaka, Indiana for a smaller volume production until 2017....(Read more on Wikipedia)
W251 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz R-class (W251). With 630 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2330 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 5 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class (W251) was not tested by Euro NCAP. However, as a Mercedes-Benz vehicle of its era, it was engineered with a strong emphasis on passive and active safety features, including multiple airbags, ABS, and ESP, providing a high level of occupant protection.
AMG R 63 V8 (510 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT Verdict:
Performance Verdict
An absolute powerhouse, delivering supercar-like acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. Extremely rare and potent.
Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption is exceptionally high, making it very expensive to run. This trim prioritizes performance over efficiency.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional interior space and passenger comfort, especially in 6-seater configurations.
- • Smooth and refined ride quality, ideal for long journeys.
- • High-quality interior materials and luxurious appointments.
- • Powerful engine options, including strong diesels and a rare AMG variant.
- • Available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability.
Cons:
- • Divisive exterior styling that didn't appeal to all buyers.
- • Large footprint makes it challenging to maneuver and park in urban areas.
- • High fuel consumption for petrol models, especially the V8s.
- • Some known reliability issues with early M272/M273 engines (balance shaft) and 7G-Tronic transmissions.
- • Steep depreciation from new, though this makes it a good used value.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W251, facelift 2010: 2012 - 2014).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | R-class |
| Generation: | W251 |
| Modification (Engine): | AMG R 63 V8 (510 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT |
| Start of production: | January, 2006 |
| End of production: | June, 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats: | 6 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 510 Hp @ 6800 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 82.2 Hp/l [8mm more] |
| Torque: | 630 Nm @ 5200 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 156.980 More details about the engine M 156.980 |
| Engine displacement: | 6208 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 9.6 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 102.2 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 94.6 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 11.3:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 24.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 11.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 16.3 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h, Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 4.6 kg/Hp, 218.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 3.7 kg/Nm, 270.4 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 4.9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2330 |
| Max. weight: | 2900 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 570 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 2407 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 433 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 2100 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4930 mm mm [8mm more] |
| Width: | 1922 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1634 mm mm [40mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2980 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1665 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1652 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 12.4 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 391.16 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 365.76 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 265/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 20 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension |
What’s the best feature of the Mercedes-Benz R-class? Tell us in the comments!