Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG coupe in the metal

A high-performance eight-cylinder dream car, the C 63 AMG Coupé's official Australian launch is scheduled for September 2011.

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine in the C 63 AMG Coupé has a maximum output of 336 kW and peak torque of 600 Nm, delivering powerful traction and first-class performance figures: the Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and the top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The new Coupé variant benefits from all the technology updates that have served the C 63 AMG Saloon and Estate models so well. Fuel consumption is reduced through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with its "Controlled Efficiency" mode as standard and a new power steering pump.

AMG Performance package for a maximum output of 358 kW

Available as an option, this package improves acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h to 4.3 seconds, with technology transferred from the SLS AMG responsible for the 22 kW increase in output. The forged pistons, connecting rods and lightweight crankshaft adopted from the gull-wing model's high-tech drive system save three kilograms in weight. This reduces inertia and enhances the agility and responsiveness of the high-revving, eight-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine.

Visually, the AMG Performance package can be identified by the variable intake manifold in titanium grey under the bonnet, the AMG high-performance braking system with composite front discs and red painted brake callipers all round, the carbon-fibre spoiler lip on the boot lid and the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather with an Alcantara grip area.

Key data at a glance:
C 63 AMG Coupé
Displacement: 6208 cc
Bore x stroke: 102.2 x 94.6 mm
Compression ratio: 11.3:1
Output: 336 kW at 6800 rpm 358 kW at 6800 rpm*
Max. torque: 600 Nm at 5000 rpm
Engine weight (dry): 195 kg 192* kg
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: 4.4 s 4.3 s*
Top speed: 250 km/h (electronically limited)

* with the AMG Performance package

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission as standard

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission provides direct and dynamic power delivery. Rather than using a torque converter, it has a compact, wet start-off clutch which reduces the losses associated with conventional automatic transmission and thereby significantly lowers fuel consumption. The Controlled Efficiency "C" mode also plays a significant part in this. By providing earlier and more comfortable upshifts while maintaining the lowest possible engine speed and "soft" accelerator characteristics, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7speed sports transmission helps the driver achieve better fuel economy figures.

At the same time, the power transmission, which is exclusive to Mercedes-AMG, excites with its high level of variability and scintillating dynamism: the "S", "S+" and "M" transmission modes make the vehicle even more responsive and can be selected using the new rotary transmission switch familiar to many from the SLS AMG. Shorter gear shift intervals and higher engine revs assure the ultimate in emotional appeal. The double-declutching function is also activated in the "S", "S+" and "M" modes, thereby further increasing driving enjoyment. The gear shifts take just 100 milliseconds in "S+" and "M" transmission modes. Using the RACE START function the driver can explore the vehicle's full acceleration capability.

RACE START function: for the ultimate acceleration experience

The driver can choose to change gears using the selector lever or the shift paddles on the steering wheel. To the left of the selector lever is the electronic rotary switch for the selection of one of the four drive programs, including activating the RACE START function. In order to activate it, the driver needs to activate the ESP sports function and press the brake pedal with his left foot while the vehicle is at a standstill. Having preselected the Race Start program using the rotary switch, a confirmation message comes up on the AMG central display.

The driver then simply needs to confirm the Race Start function by pulling the "Up" shift paddle once, fully depressing the accelerator and taking their foot off the brake. The optimum start-up engine speed is set fully automatically and the C 63 AMG Coupé accelerates away with flawless traction - all the way up to top speed, if so required. The driver does not need to shift gear manually; the AMG transmission changes gear autonomously.

Specific AMG sports suspension for great dynamism and ride comfort

It is not just the engine and power transmission which characterise the C 63 AMG Coupé's dynamic quality - the AMG sports suspension and AMG high- performance braking system are also key here. In contrast to the series production suspension system, the top-of-the-range AMG model has a specially designed three-link front suspension, reinforced multi-link independent rear suspension and a wider track all round. The stiffer elastokinematics, the autonomous axle kinematics with more negative all-round camber and stabilisers with a larger cross-section all give greater responsiveness and greater lateral acceleration. Selective damping with specially modified spring and damper rates optimises both the response characteristics of the springs as well as the ride comfort.

The AMG sports speed-sensitive power steering with direct steering ratio (13.5:1) gives excellent road surface contact and makes a significant contribution to the vehicle's direct, responsive handling. This is complemented perfectly by 3-stage ESP Ò : the Electronic Stability Program gives three individual control strategies at the touch of a button: the ESP Ò button in the centre console allows the driver to choose between "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT HANDLING MODE" and "ESP OFF". The AMG high-performance brake system has internally ventilated and perforated brake discs on all wheels: it is characterised by outstanding responsiveness, short stopping distances and excellent fatigue strength.

Confident and athletic: the design of the C 63 AMG coupé

The Coupé version of the C 63 AMG is compelling in visual terms as well, with an assured, athletic presence that is reminiscent of the high-performance SL 63 AMG Roadster. All AMG-specific design features have been skilfully combined with classic coupé proportions. This compact two-door Coupé excites with its low profile, powerful-looking shoulder line and slimline C-pillar. The short overhang, long engine cover, steeply sloping windscreen and long, stretched-out roof are also striking elements of its overall style.

The distinctive, strikingly arrow-shaped front section is characterised by features typical of AMG: a new AMG front apron including lower cross-struts finished in high-gloss black, LED daytime driving lamps specifically created for AMG and side air outlets. The large Mercedes star is positioned on a wing-shaped horizontal grille slat in the new radiator grille and, together with the newly- designed aluminium engine cover which has powerdomes, underlines the masculine feel of the vehicle.

High-quality, dynamic interior

On opening the door of the C 63 AMG Coupé passengers enter a specially designed, dynamic interior of quality. The instrument panel with integrated screen immediately recalls the new CLS 63 AMG. Three sporty, separate round instruments provide information on speed, engine rpm, fuel level and coolant temperature. Other display options are incorporated into the AMG main menu. This can be accessed via the multifunctional buttons on the steering wheel. Located in the middle of the speedometer, the three-dimensional, colour TFT display welcomes the driver by showing an AMG logo when the vehicle is unlocked.

The specially shaped AMG Performance steering wheel is familiar from the CLS 63 AMG: amongst its special features are the steering wheel rim, flattened at both the top and bottom; the metallic trim, the grip areas which are covered in perforated leather; and the aluminium shift paddles. Trim elements in high-gloss, black piano lacquer look on the instrument panel and doors emphasise the high quality of the interior. Situated on the centre console is the rotary control for selecting the C, S, S+, M and RACE START drive programs.

The new AMG sports seats with integral head restraints, EASY ENTRY system and high-quality AMG badges have sporty, horizontal seamlines. The ARTICO/ DINAMICA black upholstery combination comes as standard. DINAMICA is an innovative, breathable man-made fibre which is easy to grip and skin-friendly and distinguishes itself through its low emissions and high degree of light-fastness. While the side seat bolsters of the AMG sports seats are upholstered in ARTICO, the DINAMICA can be seen in the centre panels. The C 63 AMG Coupé is a fully fledged four-seater with the rear seats featuring the same style of horizontal seamlines as the AMG sports seats. To enlarge the luggage compartment, the backrests in the rear can each be folded down as standard.

High level of safety and new assistance systems

With seven airbags as standard, belt tensioners and belt-force limiters for all seats, the C 63 AMG Coupé has extensive safety features. The airbags, which can deploy in milliseconds in the event of an accident, include front airbags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag on the driver's side, sidebags, pelvisbags and windowbags for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. The side protection system - comprising headbag and sidebag - optimises the level of protection afforded to individual parts of the body.

With numerous driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, the C 63 AMG Coupé provides a comprehensive level of driver support and protection. The assistance systems are familiar from the flagship S-Class and the trendsetting CLS, and are based on the latest radar, camera and sensor technology. They cover frequent accident causes such as driving too closely, fatigue and darkness.

An overview of the assistance systems:
•ABS anti-lock braking system
•Adaptive Highbeam Assist
•Active Lane Keeping Assist
•Active Blind Spot Assist
•ATTENTION ASSIST
•DISTRONIC PLUS including BAS PLUS
•Electronic Stability Program ESP
•Headlamp Assist
•Intelligent Light Systems ILS
•PARKTRONIC including Parking Guidance
•PRE-SAFE system
•PRE-SAFE Brake
•Lane Keeping Assist
•Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC variable speed limiter
•Blind Spot Assist

AMG Performance Package - $14,900

Package includes:
•Performance engine modifications resulting in 22kW output increase
•AMG 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels in grey finish
•AMG high-performance composite braking system with red brake calipers
•AMG high-performance steering wheel with Alcantara (grip area)
•Carbon fibre boot lid spoiler

C 63 AMG Coupé - $154,800 (MLP)

More information regarding the C 63 AMG Coupé, specifications and options will be communicated closer to the launch.

Note: The price detailed in this document is the current Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) for the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé. The MLP includes GST and any LCT applicable to the base / standard specification model but EXCLUDES DEALER DELIVERY AND ALL ON ROAD COSTS such as, for example, registration fees, stamp duty, CTP and the like.