- The updated C63 AMG will arrive in U.S. showrooms this summer.
- The AMG Speedshift seven-speed MCT is now standard.
- An AMG Performance package boosts output to 481 horsepower.
STUTTGART, Germany — Mercedes-Benz has revealed the face-lifted C63 AMG, which officially debuts at the upcoming 2011 Geneva Auto Show and arrives this summer at U.S. dealers as a 2012 model.
Among the more significant mechanical changes is the addition of the AMG Speedshift seven-speed multiclutch transmission (MCT) with Race Start function as standard. The basic engine is the familiar AMG-tuned 6.2-liter V8, which delivers 451 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque in standard tune. With the optional AMG Performance package, output rises to 481 hp, top speed climbs to 174 mph and 0-60 acceleration is trimmed to less than 4.4 seconds.
The AMG Performance package bundles forged pistons, lightweight conrods, a revised crank and remapped ECU, along with high-performance brakes and red painted calipers. Other features include a carbon-fiber deck lid spoiler, engine intake runners finished in titanium gray and an AMG performance steering wheel.
The basic C63 AMG gets some suspension tweaks, notably thicker stabilizer bars; an AMG limited-slip differential is an extra-cost option.
Aesthetically, you'll notice the revised face, which features a new grille, front apron and bumper, plus LED daytime running lights. In the rear, LED taillamps and a reshaped diffuser are the highlights. A revised hood with power dome, AMG-specific side air vents and new 18-inch AMG alloy rims are part of the upgrade.
Inside Line says: Subtle, but significant changes for 2012. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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lions208487 says:
07:25 AM, 01/28/2011
m89 I agree that the C63 is more of an all around performer then a track monster; however, If a G8 GXP who's 09 numbers match the new C63 very closely came my way, I would prefer to pay the 30K price tag for that and modify it a bit instead. I have nothing against the C63 AMG, as a matter of fact it would probably by one of the only non Nissan/Infiniti vehicle's that I would be proud to own. Yes I am a VQ engine fan boy, and proud of it.
angry_mushroom says:
12:35 AM, 01/28/2011
Very subtle... I like it even more now.
mazda609 says:
04:39 PM, 01/27/2011
I like how the car doesnt look as chintzy anymore.
agnh says:
04:28 PM, 01/27/2011
The way I understand this, finally they make the LSD available as a separate option. AMG needs to offer it for all the cars independant of the very expensive performance package.
m89 says:
03:44 PM, 01/27/2011
@ 09cobaltsstc & lions208487
MB is always conservative with their acceleration numbers. Every major car mag that's tested a C63 for example has gotten a quicker 0-60 time than what MB quotes. The same thing has applied to basically every other Benz model too for decades. It's basically done to protect them from bad PR or legal action.
Still, one thing to remember with European cars is that they're not geared for the fastest 0-60 time - they're geared for quick highway response. A good example of this is the Saab 9-5 my parents used to own - it wasn't overly quick if you did a 0-60 MPH - but if you did say a 1/4 or 0-100 MPH, it would perform a lot better. My E-Class 6-cylinder is the same way too.
You're right though lions about the Mustang being a good value. It doesn't have the same level of refinement that the Germans have, but for 1/2 the price it's a huge amount of fun and definitely ages ahead of the old Fox bodied 5.0s.
lions208487 says:
01:56 PM, 01/27/2011
As soon as you stop smoking the Kush 09 colbaltss and learn how to spell. The article states "less then 4.4 seconds." which could mean 4.39. The Mustang GT with track pack costs 32K and R/T got to 60 in 4.4 seconds and .96 G's on the road course.
09cobaltsstc says:
01:51 PM, 01/27/2011
lions208487..... The Ford boys on this site are drinking wayyyy to much kool aid... IN what world does the GT have the same performace as a C63 AMG?? Ford 0-60 4.6 and 1/4 13.2.... AMG 0-60 4.0 1/4 12.4 Get real not even close please stop smoking tye Crack..
kosmo69 says:
01:25 PM, 01/27/2011
i hope the interior is improved also.
rollk says:
12:39 PM, 01/27/2011
Glad to see those stupid gills up front are gone.
lions208487 says:
11:55 AM, 01/27/2011
Much better then the S4, and will stay out of the shop more often then the Audi's frequent visits. However, unless 4 doors is a must I would prefer a Mustang GT which manages the same performance numbers for tons less cash.