Mercedes-AMG E63 S W213 M177.2 Modder's Guide

W213 E63s Overview

Produced from 2018 to 2023, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S (W213) is powered by the hand-built 4.0L twin-turbo M177 LS2 V8, paired with AMG’s 9-speed MCT transmission and 4MATIC+. The W213 E63S is one of Amg's strongest modern platforms. With only an ECU/TCU/CPC tune and basic bolt-on modifications, the M177.2 can gain upwards of 200 crank horsepower.

E63S Pre vs. Post Facelift Differences

E63 S Pre-Facelift

E63 S Post-Facelift

Pre-facelift cars from 2018-2020 generally feel more aggressive and sharper. Facelift cars from 2021-2023 received updated styling, MBUX infotainment, a newer steering wheel, and revised suspension tuning aiding high speed cornering. Mechanically, the post-facelift boasts a slightly higher curb weight (+100-200 lbs), but it offsets this with slightly higher stock WHP numbers from improved ball-bearing turbos. Furthermore, the facelift E63s cannot be optioned with bucket seats, making the pre facelift the more desirable car for track enthusiasts.

W213 E63s Aftermarket Platform (Stages)

Note: we recommend pairing any stage ECU tune with a TCU and CPC tune (if facelift) to increase power output, ensure smooth power delivery, and maximize reliability.

W213 E63s Stage 1:

Consists of a quality ECU tune on premium pump fuel, usually paired cold air intakes or drop in air filers with TCU and CPC tuning to improve torque delivery, shift behavior, and drivetrain response. Expect approximately 680-750 crank horsepower, depending on fuel quality and calibration, with 60-130 mph times generally falling in the low- to high-seven-second range. We recommend changing spark plugs, ignition coils, and performing all other regular maintenance prior to ECU tuning to ensure long-term reliability.

W213 E63s Stage 2:

Adds catless or high-flow downpipes, along with ECU, TCU, and CPC tuning. This is the sweet spot for most W213 E63 S owners, as the factory turbochargers respond extremely well to reduced exhaust restriction and proper calibration. Expect approximately 750-850 crank horsepower, with 60-130 mph times often falling into the high five to mid-six-second range depending on fuel, tires, conditions, and tune.

W213 E63s Stage 2+:

introduces ethanol blends such as E30 or similar, depending on the car’s fuel system limits and tuner recommendation. With proper calibration, upgraded spark plugs, and careful fuel system monitoring, output can reach approximately 850–900+ crank horsepower while lowering 60-130 mph times into the low to mid-five-second range. Fueling becomes much more important at this level, especially when increasing ethanol content.

W213 E63s Stage 3:

combines upgraded or hybrid turbochargers with downpipes, custom tuning, and supporting high pressure and low pressure fuel pumps. Depending on turbo choice, fuel quality, and calibration, well-built setups can approach or exceed 1,000 crank horsepower, with 60-130 mph times around the mid-four to low-five-second range.

If you are interested in custom tuning, we recommend working with experienced Mercedes-AMG specialists such as A1 Automotive, MPE California, and Eurocharged. Please reach out to us via email at contact@gappedindustries.com or Instagram @gappedindustries if you're interested in tuning your Mercedes-AMG.

W213 E63s Exterior Modifications

Carbon fiber front lips for the E63s can provide a modest increase in front-end stability at higher speeds and create the perception that the car sits lower than it does, thus modestly improving styling. Rear diffusers, trunk spoilers, side skirts, mirror caps, and other carbon fiber trim pieces help make the car look lower, wider, and more aggressive, and also provide slight increases in high speed stability, though not as significant as the front lip trim.

Carbon fiber hoods and larger exterior aero pieces can reduce some weight and add a more aggressive look, but most exterior modifications should be viewed primarily as cosmetic unless airflow has been tested. Since the E63 S is a luxury performance sedan, subtle OEM+ carbon fiber typically fits the platform best.

Wheel upgrades can dramatically improve the appearance of the car and reduce unsprung weight when using quality forged wheels. Combined with high-performance tires, wheels and tires are one of the most noticeable upgrades for both traction and handling.

W213 E63s Suspension and Handling

The W213 E63 S uses AMG’s adaptive air suspension, which is already very capable from the factory. For most street builds, lowering links, lowering modules, or suspension coding are the most common means of adjusting suspension. We recommend moderate (1-1.5 inches) lowering on front and rear suspension using a lowering module or code to maximize efficiency and accessibility should one want to re adjust the suspension in the future.

If interesting in lowering your E63s (or other Airmatic Mercedes-AMG vehicle), please contact us via email at contact@gappedindustries.com or Instagram @gappedindustries.

A proper alignment and spacers are important after lowering the car, especially because the E63 S is heavy, powerful, and hard on tires. For most owners, tires and alignment will make a bigger difference than aggressive suspension modifications.

Be aware that when lowering your vehicle, tire wear may become uneven and cause tread to deteriorate at an accelerated rate.

Our Recommendations for the W213 E63s

For owners seeking a stock or OEM+ build, we recommend subtle carbon fiber exterior components, quality wheels and tires, a mild lowering setup, and preventative maintenance.

For a balanced street build, Stage 2 with catless downpipes, ECU/TCU/CPC tuning, fresh spark plugs, carbon fiber aero, upgraded wheels, and high-performance tires offers the best combination of performance, drivability, and value.

For enthusiasts chasing maximum performance, a Stage 3 or Stage 3+ setup with upgraded turbochargers, upgraded fueling, ethanol tuning, cooling upgrades, and careful drivetrain calibration unlocks the full potential of the M177 LS2 platform.

No matter your goals, the W213 E63 S remains one of the most impressive Mercedes-AMG platforms to modify. Its combination of all-wheel-drive traction, twin-turbo V8 power, luxury, and aftermarket potential makes it an outstanding choice for anything from a refined daily driver to a 1,000+ horsepower street build.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What maintenance should I do before tuning my W213 E63s?

Before tuning your E63 S, make sure the vehicle is up to date on maintenance, including fresh engine oil, properly gapped spark plugs, clean air filters, and healthy ignition coils. It's also recommended to inspect all fluids, check for oil or boost leaks, and scan for any fault codes before installing an ECU tune. Performing preventative maintenance, such as fixing the rear main seal beforehand, helps maximize reliability and ensure the M177.2 performs at its best.

Is the W213 E63s Reliable?

Yes, the W213 E63s' M177.2 is one of the most reliable modern AMG engines. However, reliability is highly dependent on maintenance frequency. We recommend oil changes roughly every 3-5k miles and regular service 3 times per year, especially when tuned. The engine's biggest pitfall is the rear main seal, which can start leaking as early as 40,000 miles.

How Much Ethanol Can a E63s Run Safely?

We recommend E25 as the limit for the W213 E63s M177.2 platform.