Mercedes takes the wraps off AMG C 63

Available in both saloon and estate body types, the Mercedes-AMG C 63 is powered by the new M177 engine, a sister unit of the M178 engine used in the Mercedes-AMG GT, which is more powerful, smaller, lighter 32 per cent more efficient than the engine it replaces.

Maximum power and torque is claimed at 476hp at 5,500-6,250rm and 650Nm at 1,750-4,500rpm in the standard version and 510hp at 5,500-6,250rpm and 700Nm at 1,750-4,500rpm in the “S” version.

Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes 4.1 seconds in the standard saloon and 4.2sec in the estate. In the “S”, the figures are lowered to 4 and 4.1sec respectively. Top speeds are limited to 250km/h in all versions. The dynamic engine mounts fitted to the C 63 reduce unwanted vibration from the engine and gearbox by softening during normal driving conditions – when greater agility is required, they stiffen to improve responses through the speed-sensitive, electromechanical steering system and limit unwanted movement in the drivetrain.

In terms of suspension setup, at the front is a four-link suspension, independent steering knuckles and a wider track to improve stability, while at the rear the multilink system uses independent mounts and an increase in negative camber. Both are linked to AMG Ride Control system, operating through electronically controlled three-stage dampers, ranging from comfort through to track settings. A mechanical locking rear differential is fitted to the C 63, with an electronic version for the C 63 S.

The C 63 is fitted with 245/40 R18 (front) and 265/40 R18 (rear) tyres while the “S” model gets 245/35 R19 (front) and 265/35 R19 (rear) tyres. A new braking system uses 390 mm discs at the front and 360 mm at the rear with the option of enhanced ceramic discs available for track-orientated driving.