Does the world need even more high performance coupes?
I guess the answer is yes, as Mercedes storms the high competitive sports coupe market with a new version of the C63 Coupe. Thanks to AMG’s tuning and design, the new C63 – which comes in both the “standard” version and the potent “S” version – brings an amazing level of performance.
This is the car that people will be talking about years from now, because it combines an astonishing level of performance and refinement into a highly attractive body.
Design
The Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe captures you with its expressive bodywork that gets attention everywhere you go. The exterior design is unique, sharing only its doors, roof and trunk with the C-Class Coupe model.
The wider body has been created to house a bespoke chassis featuring tracks that are increased in width by 73 millimeters at the front and 46 mm at the rear over the standard C-Class Coupe. Wheel sizes vary according to model, with the new C 63 receiving 18-inch rims and the C 63 S running on 19s (larger wheels are available, of course).
With inspiration taken from the S-Class Coupe, the completely redesigned rear end includes a diffuser insert – an aero design cue mostly seen in the motorsports field. Duel chrome plated twin tailpipes off the AMG exhaust system integrate perfectly into the diffuser. A narrow spoiler lip graces the trunk lid; not only does it look elegant but it plays an important role in reducing rear-axle lift.
This new AMG machine hugs the road with a muscular stance worthy of super hero movie characters.
Performance
The latest performance luxury coupe from Mercedes-AMG gets the same hand-built AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V-8 that comes in the C63 sedan. This bi-turbo power plant is closely related to the dry-sump version out of the Mercedes-AMG GT. Two turbochargers are nestled between the engine’s cylinder banks, also known as a “hot inside v.” The design advantage of this configuration is the compact engine construction, optimal response and low exhaust gas emissions. With 503 horsepower and 516 foot-pounds of torque that peaks at 4,750 r.p.m., the S model has 34 more horsepower and 37 foot-pounds of torque more than the non-S model. Both models are capable of accelerating from 0-100 kilometres per hour in less than four seconds.
All of this results in a highly emotional, unmistakable sound of fury from the hand-built AMG V-8 – this iconic sound was specially tailored for the C63 Coupe. It uses a model-specific exhaust system with flap technology as standard. It is automatically controlled depending on the AMG Dynamic Select transmission mode, and the power demanded by the driver and engine speed. A performance exhaust system is available which allows the exhaust note to be modulated at a touch of a button.
The AMG-Speedshift MCT seven-speed sport transmission is very impressive indeed. Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, upshifts and down shifts are lightning fast.
The C63 Coupe has a completely redesigned suspension system. This system uses adjustable dampening in which the driver can select between maximum sportiness and excellent long distance comfort all at the touch of a button.
Even though the rest of the C-Class lineup utilize the 4Matic all-wheel drive system and less powerful engines, only the AMGs are rear-wheel drive.
Environment
Inside the C63, we see that the interior is very similar to the C-Class sedan. Beautifully appointed, comfortable and classy, the C63’s cabin is everything you’d expect at this price point and performance level. Behind the front seats there is a good amount of room – for a coupe – but the back seats are only passable.
Mercedes has gone to great lengths to ensure that its driver interface is user friendly and intuitive. However, the tablet style screen still feels like an afterthought. Performance seats are available; these offer the driver and passenger a lower seating position and greater lateral support through aggressively contoured bolstering.
The C63 feels refined on the road compared to some of its rivals. On the highway, selecting comfort mode allows the car to settle into a refined, if somewhat firm, cruise. There is the slightest bit of wind noise, but otherwise, this coupe feels every bit like a luxury car. The richly detailed interior that one can only expect from Mercedes reinforces that feeling. This car brings together performance and luxury with very little compromise.
The handling is firm and sharp, and the car takes corners like there is no tomorrow.
Features
The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe starts at $77,100 and the C63 S starts at $85,800.
The C63 is well packaged and includes Mercedes COMAND infotainment system, LED headlights, sports seats, an aggressive bodykit, a mechanical rear axle differential lock, and electrically adjustable front seats. However, upgrading to the S version not only gains you more power, but adds 19-inch wheels, painted brake callipers, electronically controlled LSD, and interior ambient lighting.
Fuel efficiency numbers (litres/100 kilometres) are stated at 12.1 for both C63 and C63 S.
Thumbs up
Power and muscle when you demand it, class and refinement when sophistication is required.
Thumbs down
It’s still a lot of money; no manual shifter option.
The bottom line
One of the most classy sport coupes around that can deliver dual personalities as a “racer” or “GT” style.
Competitors
BMW M4 Coupe: Sizzling performance and razor harp handling, it’s hard to resist the M4 coupe. Power is delivered in the form of a 425 h.p. twin-turbo, inline-six cylinder, with either a six-speed manual or a seven speed automatic and rear wheel drive. A Competition Package delivers 444 h.p., but there is also the GTS delivering an astonishing 493 h.p. It is available as a convertible as well. Throughout the history of the M car division, none has ever been a disappointment.
The BMW M4 is priced from $76,500.
Audi RS5: The newest version of Audi’s sport coupe now utilizes a twin-turbo V-6 instead of a naturally aspirated V-8. This new power plant produces 444 h.p., just shy of the previous V-8, but they have increased the torque to 443. The RS5 delivers all of this through Audi’s legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive system via an eight-speed automatic. This may be one worth waiting for when it arrives later this year.
Prices to be announced later this year.
Lexus RC F: Lexus have taken aggressive styling to the max. With wild styling, deep grille, flared fenders, raised hood, and ample cooling ducts, this isn’t your average Lexus. Power is delivered from a 5.0-litre V-8 thumping out 467 h.p. through an eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The Lexus isn’t showing its age yet, although it has been around since 2015.
Pricing for the Lexus RC F starts at $85,400.
editor@automotivepress.com
