If Audi’s antiquated S6 (435 hp) and BMW's outmoded M5 (500 hp) models seem a bit tame, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG offers refreshingly new and powerful alternative. With 518 hp and 465 ft-lbs of torque, the sport sedan’s 6.2-liter V-8 engine even produces enough power to rival Jaguar’s almighty XFR (510 hp). The E63 AMG also features a Race Start mode, which helps it launch to 60 mph from a standstill in 4.4 seconds. All of that power and speed are reined in via AMG’s ultrasmooth 7-speed transmission—the same one used in the 2009 SL63 AMG high-performance roadster. The E63 AMG differentiates itself from its lesser E-Class siblings with quad-exhaust tailpipes, wider haunches and fender flares, and a more aggressive front fascia—which happens to sport Audiesque LED daytime running lights.
Pros: German sedans don't get much better than this.
Cons: The base models are commonly used as European taxicabs.
