2015 Mercedes-AMG C 63 Estate
Authentic dynamism and sheer passion: The new Mercedes-AMG C 63 is systematically configured for performance. The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine delivers outstanding performance figures and an emotional engine sound: the new engine is closely related to the power unit that gives the Mercedes-AMG GT its breathtaking performance. The outputs range from 350 kW (476 hp) for the C 63 to 375 kW (510 hp) for the C 63 S. Thanks to its impressive driving dynamics, with lateral acceleration and grip at an extremely sporty level, the C 63 is predestined for fast laps on the racetrack. Dynamic highlights such as the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, the mechanical rear axle locking differential – which is electronically controlled on the C 63 S – or the DYNAMIC SELECT switch with AMG-specific transmission modes clearly demonstrate the uncompromising influence of countless motorsports victories by Mercedes-AMG.
The V8 top model in the C-Class is available in four variants: the Saloon and Estate are available as the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S and C 63. The C 63 S is configured for even more dynamic performance. With unrivalled low fuel consumption of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined), the C 63 is the most economical eight-cylinder car in the high-performance segment and sets a new benchmark.
Top on fuel consumption, top on performance
The C 63 has an exceptional status in the competitive lineup. The new high-performance cars from Affalterbach are the only models in their segment to be powered by an eight-cylinder biturbo engine. The result is sporty power delivery, vast torque and – as a typical AMG trademark – a highly emotional engine sound. Thanks to superior output and torque, the driver has the benefit of unrivalled performance figures: The C 63 S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, the C 63 in 4.1 seconds (Estate: 4.1 and 4.2 seconds respectively). The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited). With a power-to-weight ratio of 3.2 kg/hp (C 63 S) and 3.4 kg/hp (C 63), the new AMG V8 top models likewise head the field in this segment.
The C 63 not only occupies the top position with respect to engine data and performance, it also sets new standards for fuel consumption: with a figure of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined, corresponding to 192 g of CO2/km,) this high-performance automobile from Affalterbach is outstandingly efficient and the leader in its segment. But that’s not all: the C 63 is the world’s most economical eight-cylinder high-performance car. A considerable reduction in fuel consumption has been achieved compared to the preceding model, the C 63 AMG: the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 consumes around 32 percent less fuel than its direct predecessor with the naturally aspirated 6.3-litre V8 engine – while delivering even more performance and an emotional AMG V8 engine note as a hallmark of the brand.
New V8 biturbo closely related to the engine of the Mercedes-AMG GT
This impressive jump in efficiency takes its origins from the new power unit: the M177
4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, the latest member of the BlueDIRECT engine family, is closely related to the M178 sports car engine that powers the new Mercedes-AMG GT. This innovative eight-cylinder unit stands out for its sublime power delivery, the purposeful lightweight construction, as well as its high efficiency and environmental compatibility. It also meets the highest expectations with regard to noise and vibration comfort.
The newly developed eight-cylinder features two turbochargers which are not mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks but rather inside the V configuration – experts call it a ‘hot inside V’. The benefits are a compact engine design, optimum responsiveness and low exhaust emissions.
Piezo-electric direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion
The piezo direct petrol injection used only by Mercedes-Benz is responsible for the mixture formation. The spray-guided combustion process has been developed further in the third generation to meet all future legal requirements. The highly efficient and economical 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine meets the Euro 6 emission standard, including the maximum particulate emissions level that will not take effect until 2016. A sophisticated engine cooling system with an additional wheel arch water cooler and improved cooling output ensures high efficiency, thereby also increasing performance at high racetrack speeds.
Performance exhaust system available on request
Excitement, emotive appeal and character: at Mercedes-AMG the engine sound is an important objective during the development process. A sports exhaust system with special exhaust flap technology is used for the C 63 and C 63 S. Depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode, the engine note varies between subdued for long-distance tours and throaty for emotional appeal. The exhaust flap is located in the front third of the twin-pipe exhaust system, and is operated variably according to a characteristic map – dependent on the transmission mode, the driver’s power requirement and the engine speed.
A Performance exhaust system with three selectable exhaust flaps is optionally available for both engine variants. This gives the driver an even wider sound range: in transmission mode “Comfort” the engine note is comfortable and discreet, while in “Sport +” and “Race” the V8 sound is far more dominant, and reminiscent of a racing touring car – including very audible upshifts and pronounced throttle blips. In addition to being varied by the transmission mode, the engine sound can be individually selected in two stages at the touch of a button.
C 63 S with dynamic engine mounts as standard
As a new and unique feature in this competitive segment, the C 63 S – like the Mercedes-AMG GT – is equipped with dynamic engine mounts. These resolve the conflicting aims of comfort and dynamic performance by reducing vibrations in the engine/transmission unit. These dynamic mounts are instantly and variably able to adapt their rigidity to the driving conditions and style of driving. Soft engine mounts improve comfort, as they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. However, handling and agility benefit from a generally stiffer mount set-up. The driver feels more connected to the vehicle when driving dynamically, as there is more feedback and the steering response is more direct. All in all the driver benefits from more precise vehicle control: minimised movement of the powertrain’s mass makes for more precise steering characteristics.
A tradition of hand-built excellence: “one man, one engine”
Powerful V8 engines have long been a key area of expertise at AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-AMG GmbH is entirely responsible for both their development and production. The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine is hand-assembled in Affalterbach according to the “one man, one engine” principle. Apart from serving as a hallmark confirming superlative production quality, the AMG engine badge bearing the engine technician’s signature also attests to the peerless DNA of the sports car and high-performance brand within Mercedes-Benz.
Variable dynamics: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission
The transmission plays a major part in the direct and sporty character of the new Mercedes-AMG C 63. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission impresses with its tailor-made dynamics and high variability. The MCT transmission was thoroughly revised for use in the C 63, and now responds to all gearshift commands even more directly. The double-clutching function during downshifts, which varies in intensity depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode, guarantees maximum emotional appeal.
Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, a manual upshift or downshift is executed noticeably faster than in the preceding model. Especially in transmission modes “Sport +” and “Race” (only for C 63 S), the transmission is now much more responsive. Improvements to the hardware and software of the transmission have made this greater responsiveness possible. The aluminium shift paddles on the new Performance steering wheel are also able to transfer the driver’s manual gearshift instructions even more quickly than before. There is a further increase in perceived dynamism.
The great variability of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission is shown by the wide variety of transmission modes. There is a choice between “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Individual” – also “Race” exclusively for the C 63 S. The driver selects the required transmission mode using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch. The transmission modes define the gearshift times, and therefore noticeably modify the driving characteristics.
“Momentary M mode” for even more individuality
With “momentary M mode” the driver is able to activate manual transmission mode by nudging the “up” or “down” shift paddle once, without removing a hand from the wheel. Momentary M mode is available in every automatic transmission mode. The driver experiences the dynamism and performance obtainable from manual gearshifts, with the addition of automatic upshifts and downshifts at the rpm limits. This allows the driver to enjoy the vehicle’s impressive performance to the full.
Momentary M mode combines the best of two worlds: whichever transmission mode is active at the time, the combination of automatic gearshifts and manual shifts using the shift paddles offers an impressively broad scope of variability. The system deactivates momentary M mode and reverts to the mode last activated (“C”, “S” or “S+”) fully automatically, based on the current driving situation.
In addition, by a sustained pull on the “down” shift paddle, the driver is able to engage the currently lowest gear – which is ideal for the fastest possible overtaking manoeuvre. A sustained pull on the “up” shift paddle causes the sports transmission to revert to automatic mode.
RACE START function for the best possible acceleration from rest
The RACE START function provides maximum dynamism: it offers the best possible acceleration from rest, e.g. when starting in a race. The driver is able to activate it when stationary in “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Race”, by pulling both shift paddles at the same time. Transmission mode “M” and “ESP SPORT HANDLING MODE” must have been activated beforehand. Following preset RACE START logic, a confirmation prompt appears in the instrument cluster. The driver must now confirm the RACE START function by pulling the “up” shift paddle once, then floor the accelerator. The ideal engine speed for a fast start is set fully automatically. The driver then releases the brakes and the C 63 accelerates with maximum power. Sensitive control by the dual clutch transmission responds to the current traction of the tyres, ensuring that wheel slip with RACE START remains within the maximum friction coefficient of the tyres. The driver does not need to shift the gears manually, as the AMG transmission changes them automatically with extremely short shift times.
AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with 3-stage damping adjustment
Outstanding agility, high cornering speeds and optimum neutrality: all made possible by the design and development of the sophisticated suspension system. The C 63 has model-specific axles with high aluminium content, performance-oriented kinematics, electronically controlled shock absorbers and AMG-specific elastokinematics. With the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, the customer is able to choose between maximum sportiness and pronounced long-distance comfort in three stages at the push of a button.
A four-link front suspension with radial, racing-oriented brake connections is used in the C 63.
Model-specific steering knuckles, special elastokinematics and a wider track allow greater lateral acceleration. The multi-link independent rear suspension also has a higher negative camber.
To improve traction and vehicle dynamics the C 63 has a mechanical rear axle locking differential, the C 63 S an electronic rear axle locking differential. Both locking differentials reduce slip at the inner wheel when cornering, without braking intervention. As a result, the driver is able to accelerate out of bends at an earlier stage. The car remains more stable when braking from high speeds, and the locking differential also improves traction when moving off. The advantage of the electronic rear axle locking differential, which is standard equipment on the C 63 S, over the mechanical version is its even more sensitive and rapid response: it extends the physical limits upwards.
The standard-fit 3-stage ESP® with the “ESP® ON”, “ESP® SPORT HANDLING MODE” and “ESP® OFF” functions works in perfect unison with the locking differential, and is tuned optimally to the outstanding driving dynamics.
The electromechanical, speed-sensitive sports steering ensures precise, agile handling. The driver benefits from a direct steering ratio and optimum responsiveness. It also has variable power assistance. The power assistance is electronically adjusted to suit the current vehicle speed. It not only responds depending on the given road speed, but also according to the current lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode.
As standard the C 63 is shod with 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, in size 8.5 x 18 (front) and 9.5 x 18 (rear), with tyre size 245/40 R 18 (front) and 265/40 R 18 (rear). In the case of the C 63 S the tyre sizes are 245/35 R 19 (front) and 265/35 R 19 (rear) on 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish.
High-performance ceramic composite braking system exclusively for the C 63 S
Excellent deceleration and fade-resistance is ensured by the AMG high-performance braking system with internally ventilated and perforated 360‑millimetre brake discs all-round. The grey-painted brake callipers have white AMG lettering. In the C 63 S the front discs are of compound construction with a diameter of 390 millimetres, and the red brake callipers have black AMG lettering. A high-performance ceramic composite braking system at the front axle is available as an optional extra for the C 63 S for the first time. The ceramic discs have a diameter of 402 millimetres, and the striking “AMG Carbon Ceramic” lettering can be found on the specially painted brake callipers.
The discs of carbon-fibre reinforced ceramic material are produced in a vacuum at 1700 degrees Celsius. This advanced material and production technology makes them especially hard. The resulting resistance to extreme loads and heat extends their operating life by many times compared to grey cast-iron discs. The ceramic brake discs are more than 50 percent lighter than conventional compound brake discs. The reduction in unsprung masses enhances driving dynamics and agility. At the same time the responsiveness of the steering and the suspension comfort are improved. A higher coefficient of friction reduces the force required at the brake pedal, allowing uniform, sensitive braking even in extreme conditions.
Also new and reserved exclusively for the C 63 S: the optional sports tyres in size 245/35 R 19 (front) and 265/35 R 19 (rear). These ensure a noticeable and measurable increase in grip, and shorter braking distances on dry surfaces – the perfect arrangement for fast laps on enclosed racetracks.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes
The driver is able to influence the characteristics of the C 63 with four or five different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes. The C 63 S has the additional transmission mode “Race”. There is therefore scope for maximum individualisation. The driver selects the transmission mode using a switch to the left of the touchpad on the centre console. The driver can choose from various preconfigured transmission modes and one the driver can to a large extent configure personally.
In Detail
| tags | c63 |
| submitted by | Official Galleries |
| type | Series Production Car |
| released at | 2015 Geneva Motor Show |
| predeccesor | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG Estate |
| engine | M177 V8 |
| position | Front, Longitudinal |
| aspiration | Hot Inside V Twin Mono-Scroll TurbochargerTurbochargers |
| valvetrain | DOHC, 4 Valves per Cyl |
| fuel feed | Piezo Direct Injection |
| displacement | 3982 cc / 243.00 in³ |
| bore | 83 mm / 3.27 in |
| stroke | 92 mm / 3.62 in |
| compression | 10.5:1 |
| power | 375 kw / 502.9 bhp @ 5500 rpm |
| specific output | 126.29 bhp per litre |
| bhp/weight | 279.39 bhp per tonne |
| torque | 700 nm / 516.3 ft lbs @ 1750 to 4500 rpm |
| body / frame | Unitary Steel Monocoque |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| wheel type | 10-spoke light-alloy |
| front tires | 255/40 R 18 |
| rear tires | 285/35 R 18 |
| front brakes | Composite Ventilated Discs |
| rear brakes | Steel Ventilated Discs |
| steering | Rack & Pinion |
| f suspension | 4-Link w/Coil Springs, electronically controlled gas-filled dampers, stabiliser |
| r suspension | Multi-link w/Coil Springs, electronically controlled gas-filled dampers, stabiliser |
| curb weight | 1800 kg / 3969 lbs |
| wheelbase | 2840 mm / 111.8 in |
| front track | 1609 mm / 63.3 in |
| rear track | 1546 mm / 60.9 in |
| length | 4771 mm / 187.8 in |
| width | 1839 mm / 72.4 in |
| height | 1441 mm / 56.7 in |
| transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed |
| gear ratios | 4.38:1, 2.86:1, 1.92:1, 1.37:1, 1.00:1, 0.82:1, 0.73:1 |
| final drive | 2.82:1 |
| top speed | ~250 kph / 155.25 mph electronically limited |
| 0 – 100 kph | ~4.0 seconds |
| emission | 209 g/km |
