UK motoring publication Auto Express took two of Germany’s finest to the posh streets of Birmingham and the track to find out how the new Mercedes S63 AMG stacks up against Porsche’s->ke1 Panamera Turbo S.

On looks alone, the Merc is clearly superior. Typically, AMG->ke8 products can get a little out of hand, with large wheel arches and aero enhancements that would be better suited to a GT grid than prowling the streets of a commercial district. This time, however, the Mercedes->ke187 tuning house really hit a homerun. The S63 AMG is low and wide, but not ostentatious like the SLS AMG Black. It successfully pulls off that very difficult mix of sleek sportiness and subdued refinement that leaves turned heads and jealousy in its wake. The Panamera, on other hand, just looks like a stretched out 911->ke282.

To judge the interior, Auto Express took to the highway for 150 miles of night driving in each vehicle. Inside the Porsche, everything certainly qualifies as upscale, with nice gauges and smooth, quiet performance from the drivetrain. The air suspension can be slightly harsh at times, but overall, that’s not a major issue. When switching to the Merc, however, the difference in the driver interface is immediately apparent. The screens and gauges promote a sense of high-tech glamor that isn’t intimidating, the NVH is nearly nonexistent, and there’s a pervasive feeling throughout the cabin that you are riding in something special.

Of course, looks and a comfortable ride can only get you so far in this crowd. When a comparison includes vehicles bearing the name “AMG” or “Turbo S," you can bet there will be some tire smoke involved somewhere along the line.

Auto Express0}

Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe