Mercedes-AMG is setting a further landmark in the brand history: the new C 63 Coupé is the next step on the way to yet more technical and visual distinctiveness.
Brian Joss – The technical modifications are evident at first sight: strikingly flared front and rear wheel arches, an increased track width and larger wheels give the Coupé a muscular look while at the same time providing a basis for the highly agile longitudinal and lateral dynamics. The brand’s hallmark “Driving Performance” reaches a new level in the C 63 Coupé. The AMG 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine rated at 350 kW or 375 kW is an in-house development from Affalterbach, as is the sophisticated AMG Ride Control sports suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, the set-up of the AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, the rear-axle limited-slip differential or the dynamic engine mounts. “Like the AMG GT, the new C 63 Coupé embodies the independence of our brand. It offers longitudinal and lateral dynamics at an extremely high level along with improved fuel economy”, says Selvin Govender, Marketing Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars. “In addition, we are making a bold visual statement with the muscular design. Our customers can therefore experience the new Coupé with all of their senses: seeing, hearing, feeling and, above all, driving!” The Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupé’s expressive exterior design differs significantly from the standard Mercedes-Benz model, which shares merely the same doors, roof and boot lid. The powerful eight-cylinder engine as well as the wider track of the front and rear axles call for a redesigned front end, a model-specific rear assembly and new side walls. The flared wheel arches make the AMG Coupé 64 millimetres wider at the front and 66 millimetres wider at the rear, enabling the vehicle to hug the road better.
Taking its inspiration from the S-Class Coupé, the completely redesigned rear end includes a diffuser insert that invokes a typical feature from motor sport. The special design of the laterally positioned, optical air outlet openings improves the rear air flow, allowing it to break away with aerodynamically advantageous precision. Features such as the narrow rear reflectors reinforce the impression of width. The two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the exhaust system are perfectly integrated into the diffuser. The boot lid includes a narrow spoiler lip in the form of a sharp blade. It not only looks elegant, but also produces more downforce on the rear axle.
The careful selection of high-class materials, their high-quality touch and feel as well as the meticulous workmanship lend the interior a high-class appeal. The instrument panel is trimmed with black Artico man-made leather. Crystal grey topstitching, the wing-shaped aluminium trim and the AMG-specific analogue clock in IWC design (depending on specification) underscore the high-quality impression. Numerous AMG-specific controls underscore the motor sport heritage. As an alternative to the standard sports seats in Artico /microfibre Dinamica man- made leather, Performance seats are also available: these allow the occupants a lower seating position and are more strongly contoured for increased lateral support.
As regards its engine, the C 63 Coupé occupies an exceptional status among the competition, being the only vehicle in the segment to boast an 8-cylinder biturbo engine. Mercedes-AMG thus precisely meets the wishes of those customers who desire a combination of a highly emotionally appealing, unmistakable engine sound and high-torque power delivery.
The driver also benefits from the impressive performance: the C 63 S Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, the C 63 Coupé in 4.0 seconds. The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited; 290 km/h with AMG Driver’s Package). With a power-to-weight ratio of 3.4 kg/hp (C 63 S) and 3.6 kg/hp (C 63), the new AMG V8 top models likewise head the field in this segment.
The 4.0-litre eight-cylinder biturbo engine is already used in the C 63 sedan. It is also installed in the GT sports car with dry sump lubrication. A characteristic feature is that the two turbochargers are positioned not on the outside of the cylinder banks, but between them in the ‘V’ – experts call this a ‘hot inside V’. The main advantages of this design are the compact engine construction, optimal response and low exhaust gas emissions.
A host of measures combines maximum performance with favourable fuel consumption figures. The spray-guided direct petrol injection system ensures clean and efficient combustion with high thermodynamic efficiency. Fast-acting piezo injectors enable multiple injections of fuel to be delivered to the engine on demand and with the utmost precision.
The transmission plays a major part in the direct and sporty character of the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupé. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission impresses with its tailor-made dynamics and high variability. Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, upshifts and downshifts are executed noticeably faster than in the previous model. Especially in “Sport+“ and in manual mode, the transmission response is now even more prompt. This enhanced spontaneity was made possible by optimising the transmission hardware and software. Furthermore, the aluminium paddle shifters are now able to transmit the driver’s commands to change gears even faster than before. The tangible driving dynamics are thus enhanced further.
The four different driving modes “Comfort“, “Sport“, “Sport+“ and “Individual“ allow drivers to influence the characteristics of their C 63 Coupé. The C 63 S Coupé has an additional “RACE” driving mode allowing for a completely personalised driving style. The driver selects the driving experience using a controller to the left of the touchpad.
“Comfort” is the well-balanced driving mode with a comfort-oriented suspension and steering set-up as well as a fuel-efficient powertrain configuration – including smooth gearshifts and a discreet exhaust note. The “sailing function” for a further reduction in fuel consumption is completely new: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 60 and 160 km/h, the clutch of the MCT transmission is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.
The driving modes “Sport“ and “Sport+“ enhance the sporty intensity. “RACE” is exclusive to the C 63 S Coupé and the optimal setting for ambitious laps on a racetrack.
Pricing: Mercedes-AMG C 63, R1 268 700; Mercedes-AMG C 63 S, R1 382 000
