LE CASTELLET, France — Mercedes-Benz allowed Inside Line to test the new C63 AMG on the famed Paul Ricard test track here in Southern France, ahead of the car's official debut at the Frankfurt auto show in September. The C63 made a solid impression for its dramatic improvement in dynamics, driving excitement and finesse over the C55 it replaces.
The C63 AMG is based on the new third-generation C-Class. It goes on sale in North America next spring.
AMG's crushingly effective 6.2-liter V8 ups power to 457 horsepower — that's 95 hp more than the previous model and 37 more horses than the V8 in the new BMW M3. The 0-62-mph time, at a claimed 4.5 seconds, is a whopping 0.7 second inside the time quoted for the old C55. More to the point, it's 0.3 second faster than the new M3. Top speed is limited to 155 mph — or 174 mph with the optional Sport package, which also includes a limited-slip differential and a set of spectacular-looking 19-inch wheels.
AMG has again gone for a conventional automatic transmission, complete with a lock-up torque converter and the choice of comfort, sport and manual modes. The seven-speed unit is now on all models with AMG's new V8.
The C63 is a real-head turner, with visual potency to match its on-road muscle. Its aggressive good looks include a reworked front end with unique bumper, twin-blade grille and fenders with heavily flared wheel arches. The hood has two power domes to signal the new car's potential.
Inside, there has been a thorough makeover to enhance the inherent sportiness, including deep front bucket seats, revised instrument graphics and classy-looking aluminum trim.
What this means to you: The big question now is: does the new AMG seriously challenge the new M3? Drivers will decide that once both cars are out on the street.
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Mercedes Benz C63 is really impressive, with just looking over its exterior features, which includes the Mercedes Benz Turn Signal Lens, Bumper, Twin-Blade Grille, Fenders and Wheels, looking very elegant. Plus, the interior has been made with concepts of comfort which makes it ideal for daily driving.
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