Despite both bearing the AMG badge, the Mercedes A45 S and G63 are two completely different vehicles. One of them is a mega hatchback with a 2.0-liter four-pot, and the other is a super SUV packing a 4.0-liter V8.
So, does the compact model stand a chance against the powerful 4×4, in a drag race? Actually, yes, because there’s a huge weight gap of around 1,500 lbs (700 kg) between the two, not to mention the fact that, despite being brand new, the G63 still has the aerodynamics of a brick.
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For the nought to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint, you are looking at only 3.9 seconds in the A45 S and 4.5 seconds in the G63. Top speed with the optional AMG Driver’s Package is 149 mph (240 km/h) in the SUV, while the ultra hot hatch maxes out at 168 mph (270 km/h).
In terms of power, the A45 S has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 415 HP (421 PS / 310 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque that are channeled to the two axles via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The G63’s 577 HP (585 PS / 430 kW) and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) produced by the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 are directed to the all-wheel drive system through a nine-speed auto.
To better highlight the differences between the two, the following video features four drag races, two from a standing and two from a rolling start, in Comfort and Sport driving modes, and a brake test from 70 mph (113 km/h). Can you guess the winner?