Hennessey reveals 700hp Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG HPE700
American tuner Hennessey Performance has unveiled the HPE700, a 700hp upgrade of the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, marking a move beyond its usual muscle-car territory.
Hennessey Performance, a Texas-based tuning firm with a reputation for modifying American muscle cars, has expanded its portfolio by unveiling a modified Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. The result of this project is the HPE700, which was revealed in August 2012. This marks a notable shift for Hennessey, as the company moves beyond its traditional American models to work with a German executive saloon. The HPE700 is based on the E63 AMG’s 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, but features significant performance upgrades.
Hennessey Reveals HPE700 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
Performance Upgrades: Engine and Power
The standard Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is already known for its powerful 5.5-litre V8 engine. Hennessey’s modifications, however, take the car’s performance to a new level. The HPE700 package includes a revised engine management calibration and a modified air induction system. These changes result in a claimed output of 700 horsepower and a peak torque of 800lb ft. This is a substantial increase over the standard E63 AMG’s output, which was 550hp in the US market at the time.
Despite the impressive power figures, Hennessey did not release detailed performance statistics such as acceleration times or top speed when the HPE700 was launched. However, the significant boost in both horsepower and torque suggests that the modified E63 AMG would offer performance approaching that of supercars, while retaining the comfort and practicality of a luxury saloon.
Hennessey’s Upgrade Package: What’s Included
- HPE engine management calibration
- HPE air induction system modification
- Professional installation by Hennessey technicians
- Hennessey exterior badging
- Serial-numbered dash and engine plaques
- Dyno tuning to verify performance
- Limited warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
The HPE700 package is more than just a collection of mechanical upgrades. Each vehicle receives Hennessey exterior badging, as well as a serial-numbered plaque on both the dashboard and the engine bay, lending an air of exclusivity and collectability. The package also includes dyno tuning to ensure that each car meets the advertised performance figures. Notably, Hennessey backs the modifications with a limited warranty covering three years or 36,000 miles, which is relatively uncommon for high-output aftermarket conversions.
Comparison with Other Tuners: Brabus and Beyond
The HPE700’s power figures put it in direct competition with other high-performance E-Class-based projects from established European tuners. For example, Brabus, another well-known name in the tuning world, has developed the 850 6.0 Biturbo, which is also based on the E63 AMG. The Brabus version pushes output even higher, though it typically comes at a greater cost and with a different approach to tuning. While Brabus is known for extensive engine modifications and luxury enhancements, Hennessey’s package focuses on maximising power with a more straightforward set of upgrades.
| Tuner | Model Base | Power Output | Torque | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hennessey | Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG | 700hp | 800lb ft | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Brabus | Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG | 850hp | 1,069lb ft (approximate) | Varies by region |
Ownership and Collectability
For owners of the E63 AMG, the HPE700 offers a way to access supercar-level power while maintaining the everyday usability and comfort of a full-sized executive saloon. The inclusion of a warranty and serialised plaques indicates that Hennessey aims to position the HPE700 as a premium, collectible product rather than a one-off or purely bespoke build. This may appeal to enthusiasts who value both performance and exclusivity.
At the time of its reveal, Hennessey did not disclose pricing or specific production numbers for the HPE700. This lack of information adds an element of exclusivity to the offering, as potential buyers would need to contact the company directly for details. The package’s appeal lies in its blend of substantial power gains, limited-edition status, and the reassurance of a warranty from a reputable tuner.
The HPE700 in Context
The HPE700’s 700hp output represents a 150hp increase over the standard US-market E63 AMG. This power boost, combined with the high level of attention to detail in the build and the backing of a warranty, sets the HPE700 apart from many other aftermarket offerings. While the car’s full performance capabilities remain undisclosed, the available information positions the HPE700 as a compelling option for those seeking a high-powered, limited-edition executive saloon.
