2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 63 AMG

The CL63 AMG, the lesser of two powerful large AMG-tuned Mercedes-Benz coupes, sits somewhere between excessive and grandiose on the scale of high-end cars.

With 518 horsepower on tap at 6800 rpm, the nearly 4,500 pound two-door Mercedes-Benz is hardly sluggish, despite tipping the scales at about double what a subcompact weights. 465 pound-feet of torque from the 6.2 liter V8 and a 7-speed automatic transmission help ensure that the CL63 has ample power in any situation.

New for 2008, the CL63 upgrades the basic CL-Class, introduced for 2007, with the standard range of AMG tuned sporting cues, including a lowered sport suspension with active body control, a unique look inside and out, 20' wheels (versus 18' wheels otherwise), performance tires and a few additional standard features, like ventilated and massaging front seats.

Other standard features include Night View Assist, adaptive cruise control, 14-way seat adjustment, nine airbags, an active and driver-adjustable suspension and Mercedes' latest COMAND audio and navigation system.