MercedesBenz has revealed the most potent versions of its top selling C-Class line, which will make their debut at the Frankfurt motor show and go on sale in summer 2016.
The full blooded 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 Coupe and Coupe S versions are special not only because of their massive power (503 hp in the S) and speed (zero-60 mph in 3.8 seconds) but because you get the elegant design and space of a posh town car, with the athleticism of a sports car. Its AMG pedigree makes it aggressive in a way no sedan can touch.
Its 4.0liter V8 engine has two turbochargers placed square between its cylinder banks in a special configuration called a “hot inside V.” Hot. The C63 AMG gets the brand’s latest high performance engine in the guise of a 4.0litre twin turbo V8 producing 476hp, and 510hp in S form. Power is channeled to the rear wheels via a seven speed automatic transmission. Both power and performance ratings are better than in all of the C63 AMG’s competition, including the Audi RS5, BMW M4 Coupe and Lexus RCF.
What’s more—AMG has made a special “ride control” suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, dynamic transmission modes, and a rear axle, limited slip differential, all of which make the car super smart when you drive—it’ll anticipate corners, turns, weight changes—and supernaturally glossy as it glides you around turns.
The new Coupe model stretches, smooths and alters the body, sculpting into a mini S63, which is a very good thing. Better yet, the new C63AMG looks different enough from the standard C-Class that it’ll be unmistakable to anyone who cares. The wider stance, stretched front and rear axels, and flared wheel arches on the C63 AMG (not to mention ample badging inside and out) set it far apart aesthetically from otherwise pedestrian sport coupes
The whole idea is that if you buy this whip, you’re going to want to take it to the track—but because of the Mercedes refined leather, drive technology, and intelligent design inside and out, you’ll be a whole lot more comfortable during hot laps than those chumps in the barebones Lotuses and Porsches.
Mercedes hasn’t announced pricing yet on the new C63AMG, but expect it to be in the low $70,000 range.
Which, considering that you’re basically getting all the benefits of a luxury sedan incarnated into a sexy coupe (with turbo), is quite a steal.