As self-proclaimed big wigs on the food chain, humans have little fear observing dangerous, wild animals, so long as they're kept in captivity. Mercedes-Benz has taken that philosophy and applied it to its S-class sedan. AMG's 518-hp, 6.2-liter lion resides under the hood of the new S63 AMG, but it's been tamed by Mercedes' finest zookeepers. Enthusiasts can look at it, salivate all over it, and even drive it, all without fear of being eaten alive.

Unlike the raped-ape V-12 flagship S65 AMG, which delivers all of its 604 horsepower in a sudden, twin-turbocharged atomic bomb explosion, the normally aspirated V-8 in the S63 is more linear and doesn't suffer from turbo lag. As a result, the S63 is likely to be the true driver's choice, even if it does produce almost 275 lb-ft less torque.

The S63 hits U.S. showrooms in June 2007 with AMG-specific wheels, brakes, and active sport suspension, as well as a body kit and interior upgrades. European customers can choose a short-wheelbase model, but we will have to make do with the long-wheelbase version only. Mercedes estimates that the S63 AMG can rocket to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, meaning that the trip to the petting zoo will be as quick as it is comfortable.