Dubbed by the manufacturer as “the sportiest C-Class ever,” the new coupe does what every product from Mercedes-AMG does best: advance the latest technical features while lifting design and performance benchmarks.
C63 and C63 S Coupes
Available in standard and S Coupe models, the snazzy coupe is powered by a 4.0-liter, V-8 bi-turbo engine with 469 standard horsepower and 503 horsepower in the S Coupe. The engine is the workmanship of the AMG engine plant in Affalterbach. AMG also contributes the rear-axle limited-slip differentials, the engine mounts, the ride control system with electronically controlled shock absorbers, and the dynamic select transmission modes.
Mercedes-AMG will premier the C63 Coupe on September 15, 2015, in Frankfurt. US dealers will begin receiving the new model by early summer 2016.
An Exceptional C63 Coupe
Much about the Mercedes-AMG model is different from the standard Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe. Indeed, only the doors, roof and trunk are the same, while the rest of the body is unique to the C63 Coupe. Notably, an increased track width required changes to the front and rear axles, affecting everything from the front end to the rear assembly. Moreover, new front and rear fenders, and wider, flared wheels are also evident.
The aluminum hood measures 2.36 inches longer and is marked by a pair of power domes, what advances this model’s muscular countenance. Large air inlets, a twin blade grille with AMG lettering, and a three-dimensional front spoiler that does double duty as an air deflector for the three cooling air inlets are also present. The front splitter, set at the bottom of the front apron, is tasked with reducing front-axle lift.
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Large wheels enhance the coupe’s profile, which finish flush with the body on the far outside and standout side skirts. Distinctive character lines run from the headlamps to the tail lights; a second set of profile lines sweep up from the rocker panel. The roofline suggests a coupe always in motion with the narrowest of B pillars present.
To the rear, a pair of chrome-plated twin tailpipes are mingled with the diffuser. Rear airflow is managed by means of laterally optimized optical air outlet openings. Even the trunk lid has been specially designed to incorporate a spoiler lip that is both stylish and functional. Specifically, it is tasked with reducing rear-axle lift.
AMG Motoring Heritage
The 2017 C63 Coupe features an interior that Mercedes says is composed of only the finest high-grade materials. To advance the coupe’s motoring heritage, numerous AMG-specific controls are present. Available performance seats provide a lower seating position and come with more generously formed bolsters in a bid to enhance lateral support.
The C63 Coupe accelerates from 0-to-60 mph in 3.9 seconds and in 3.8 seconds with the S Coupe. Wider tires and shorter-legged rear-axle ratios give this model a slight performance edge over the sedan.
Mercedes-AMG pairs the biturbo engine with a 7-speed sport automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. The AMG Speedshift MCT transmission is designed to execute upshifts and downshifts faster than the previous model. Four different transmission modes are present; the S Coupe gains an additional “Race” mode.
Suspension Changes and New Differentials
Changes to the suspension system equipment and geometry include a four-link front suspension with radial, racing-style brake connections with proprietary steering knuckles and a wider track, to provide greater lateral acceleration.
A newly redesigned rear axle advances a multi-link concept with the wheel bearing contact surfaces shifted slightly to the outside when compared with the sedan. Camber and tuning changes were also accomplished.
The C63 Coupe is outfitted with a mechanical rear-axle limited-slip differential; the S Coupe has the electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential. Both differentials act to reduce slippage on the inside wheel when cornering without activating the control interventions from the braking system.
Better handling, increased stability and a more satisfying driving experience are among the positive results evident.
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Photos copyright Mercedes-AMG.
Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources including NAPA, CarsDirect, CapitalOne, and Driven Autos.
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