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Mercedes completes production of G63 AMG 6x6

Considering its 19-foot length, it sure was short-lived. A flash in the pan, really, in so far as a 4-ton beast could possibly be. But the Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 is reportedly wrapping up its short production run this month. Based on a military variant of the legendary Gelandewagen but built for civilian consumption, the G63 AMG was – and will likely forever remain – the ultimate version of Benz's ultimate off-roader. It features six driven wheels on three axles with five differentials, all powered by AMG's stalwart 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8. Mercedes rolled out the 6x6 on all its half-dozen driven wheels barely over a year ago, and despite its half-million-dollar sticker price, demand soared. But after selling about 100 of them, the German automaker is putting it to pasture, ensuring its rarity in the annals of off-roader history. In its place, Benz will now begin production of the (relatively and slightly) less bonkers G500 4x42, which employs a tamer 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 driving a more conventional four wheels, and ditches the pickup short-bed for an enclosed wagon body-style, but keeps its eccentric big brother's jacked-up ride height. Those looking for the last word in power, though, will be more interested in the twelve-cylinder G65 that will now be coming to US dealers with a $200k+ sticker price. Related Video:

How could a lifted Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG be more awesome? Add an axle

We are fully confident in saying that this will be the most amazing thing you see all day. First of all, it's a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen - in AMG spec, no less. And it's being shown off in high-definition video glory, blasting through the desert, jumping over sand dunes, and generally being awesome. But here's the kicker: It has six wheels. Three axles. And they're all driven. Holy $%!#.
Under the hood is AMG's usual 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8, and total output is rated at 536 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. That's impressive and all, but do keep in mind that the G63 6x6 weighs in at 8,322 pounds or, you know, the weight of two E-Class sedans. Combine that with its 18 inches of ground clearance, 37-inch tires and five locking differentials and you've got a vehicle capable of, well, everything you've ever imagined or will ever imagine for the rest of your life.
But the goodness doesn't stop once you open the doors. Oh, no. This thing is fit for a king - or a sheik, more appropriately - with ultimately luxurious seating for four. The rear bench seat has been removed in favor of two bucket seats with a fixed console in the middle, and the rear seats have been moved back beyond the usual B pillar to allow for more legroom.

Formula One approves aerodynamic rule changes to promote more passing

LONDON — Formula One has approved aerodynamic rule changes for 2019 aimed at promoting closer racing by making it easier for cars to overtake, the sport's governing body said on Tuesday. The measures include a simplified front wing with a larger span, front brake ducts without winglets and a wider and deeper rear wing. The International Automobile Federation (FIA) said its Formula One commission, Strategy Group and World Motor Sport Council had approved the changes. The changes should reduce turbulence for cars that are following each other, and come after criticism of the lack of overtaking in some races. The FIA said the vote, on the last day before unanimous agreement is required for any 2019 regulation changes, followed research carried out by a majority of the teams and backed by commercial rights holders Liberty Media. "These studies indicated the strong likelihood of a positive impact on racing and overtaking within F1 and as such have now been ratified for implementation in 2019," the statement added. "The approved changes are separate to the ongoing work being undertaken in regard to defining Formula One's regulations for 2021 and beyond." Motorsport.com suggested several teams, including Ferrari and Red Bull, had been opposed to the proposals but were outvoted. Formula One's current agreements with teams expire at the end of 2020 and all parties are discussing what kind of engine and rules should be introduced after that. Liberty want to level the playing field, reduce the costs and introduce a more equal distribution of the revenues. Only three of the 10 teams — Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull — have won races in the V6 turbo hybrid era that started in 2014, and Mercedes has so far won every championship. The FIA said it was continuing to evaluate a range of other measures to encourage closer racing. Reporting by Alan BaldwinRelated Video: Image Credit: Reuters Motorsports Ferrari Mercedes-Benz Technology Racing Vehicles F1 fia liberty media