The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S and Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio are two of the finest performance SUVs on the market. Which is the best? Throttle House is here to answer that question.
When looking at the spec sheet, the two are quite evenly matched. Fitted beneath the skin of the GLC 63 S is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine delivering 503 hp and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. This grunt is sent to the pavement through the company’s nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system.
Mercedes-AMG quotes a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 174 mph (280 km/h).
Also Read: Facelifted 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 & GLC 63 Coupe Promise Sharper Handling
By comparison, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio uses a Ferrari-built 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with 503 hp and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque. It connects to an eight-speed auto ‘box and all-wheel drive, and can reach 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and a 177 mph (285 km/h) top speed. In terms of performance then, it’s hard to pick between the two.
However, there are areas where the GLC 63 S establishes itself as the better-rounded package. As these reviewers note, the interior of the Stelvio Quadrifoglio is far below the standard of the Mercedes. It squeaks and rattles and simply doesn’t have the same level of refinement as the Mercedes-AMG. The GLC 63 S doesn’t suffer from such issues and is clearly more premium.
If you had the money, which of the two would you prefer? We think the Mercedes is the logical choice but if you want an SUV filled with passion, it’s hard to beat the Alfa.