2008 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG

A C-Class like never before

Mainz/Affalterbach – In the German Touring Car Masters (DTM) the new AMG C-Class ensures exciting motor racing at the highest level. And now its road-going sister model is celebrating its debut: the new C 63 AMG. Available in saloon and estate versions, the top C-Class model is powered by an AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine. Developing a peak output of 336 kW/457 hp and a maximum torque of 600 Nm, the high-revving, naturally aspirated engine delivers unrivalled figures in this segment. The C 63 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds (estate 4.6 seconds); the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

2008 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG

Power transmission is in the capable hands of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC. Equipped with AMG steering-wheel shift paddles and featuring three drive programs, the seven-speed automatic offers everything from a seriously sporty to a comfort-oriented driving style. The revving function when changing down is a completely new feature. In conjunction with the newly developed front axle, AMG speed-sensitive sports steering and the new, 3-stage ESP®, the AMG sports suspension with 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels ensures both outstanding driving pleasure and exemplary driving dynamics. The AMG high-performance brake system with large-dimensioned internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes all-round ensures flawless deceleration even during highly dynamic driving.

Design and equipment: more distinctive than ever before

The quality of design and equipment in the new C 63 AMG is more than a match for its outstanding technology. The AMG eight-cylinder top model differentiates itself from the production C-Class more than ever before: in addition to AMG bodystyling, characteristic brand features include the bonnet with power domes, the distinctive AMG radiator grille, flared front wings, the AMG rear apron with a black diffusor insert, the AMG sports exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes and the AMG spoiler lip. The interior is dominated by the distinctive AMG sports seats with integrated head restraints, the AMG performance steering wheel in a three-spoke design with a 365-mm rim diameter and a flattened lower section as well as the tubular-design AMG instrument cluster with its AMG main menu.

The combination of expressive design, a decidedly sporty interior and superb everyday practicality makes the C 63 AMG a unique high-performance vehicle. The market launch of the saloon and estate models will commence in early 2008. Retail prices incl. 19% VAT will be 67,235 euros (C 63 AMG Saloon) and 69,853 euros (C 63 AMG Estate).

190 E 3.2 AMG from 1987 was the inspiration for the C 63 AMG

To coincide with the 40th birthday of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, the new C 63 AMG cuts a very self-assured figure. The V8 top model is already the fifth generation of the AMG C-Class. The family tree goes right back to the 1993 C 36 AMG – the very first vehicle to emerge from the cooperation between Daimler-Benz and AMG. But the first steps were taken six years before. The 190 E 3.2 AMG unveiled in 1987 marked the beginning of the successful career of the dynamic and exclusive mid-range model from Affalterbach.

Engine and drive system: Engine capacity king with 336 kW/457 hp

Wide, road-hugging and ready for action: the very appearance of the new C 63 AMG raises expectations. The bonnet with its prominent power domes is the first indication of the exceptional drive system of the new AMG high-performance car. Under the bonnet you will find an independently developed AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which generates a dominant 336 kW/457 hp at 6800 rpm from a 6208-cc displacement. In this respect, the C 63 AMG comes very close to the 470 or so horsepower delivered by the AMG C-Class racing touring car in the German Touring Car Masters (DTM). Such high output also benefits the power-to-weight ratio, which is a very favourable 3.6 kg/hp.

The torque developed by the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine need also fear no comparison. The maximum 600 Nm at 5000 rpm is unrivalled in this class and the torque curve is equally impressive: from 2000 to 6250 rpm the driver always has more than 500 Nm on tap – ideal for powerful acceleration in any engine speed range. Thanks to its superior capacity, the AMG eight-cylinder engine delivers 30% more torque than comparable engines in its performance class.

AMG 6.3-litre V8 based on thoroughbred racing technology

Introduced in 2005, the V8 engine is installed in numerous AMG high-performance cars and excels with its thoroughbred motor sports technology. Perfect cylinder charging is ensured by the vertical arrangement of the intake and exhaust ducts, as well as the magnesium variable intake manifold with two integral throttle flaps. Other high-tech features include variable camshaft adjustment, four-valve technology with bucket-type tappets, a particularly rigid aluminium crankcase of closed-deck design and the low-friction TWAS coating on the cylinder contact surfaces.

AMG sports exhaust system for typical AMG eight-cylinder vocals

One of the outstanding strengths of the next-generation V8 engine from Mercedes-AMG is its high-revving flexibility. It reaches its maximum at 7200 rpm. With an all-new sporty AMG sound developed during extensive testing, the eight-cylinder Affalterbach engine offers the unique appeal of a high-revving, naturally aspirated engine – unmistakable at low, medium and high engine speeds. To minimise exhaust back pressure, the continuous dual-flow AMG sports exhaust system features two chromed twin oval tailpipes with large cross-sections. The high-performance catalytic converter technology ensures optimum emission control. And it goes without saying that the C 63 AMG complies with all current emissions limits, including EU 4. The specific requirements of the US market, such as the LEV-II standard, On-Board Diagnosis II and the lambda sensor diagnosis present no obstacle. The fuel consumption of the C 63 AMG according to the NEDC is 13.4 l/100 km and 319 g/km CO2 (Estate 13.7 l/100 km and 326 g/km CO2).

The inspiring agility and spontaneous response of the V8 engine to the touch of the accelerator also have their roots in electronic fuel supply. Equipped with new components, they operate at a demand-actuated system pressure of 3.8 to 5.0 bar. According to power requirements and external temperature, fuel pressure is

adjusted and regulated at lightning speed. The signal from the accelerator pedal is converted in milliseconds by the engine electronic system into the corresponding fuel pressure setting. Such control ensures rapid vehicle response and a sporty thrust across all load ranges and at all engine speeds.

Large radiators for optimum stability

In the interests of optimal reliability, the C 63 AMG has a particularly efficient water cooling system and large engine and transmission oil coolers. Located behind the large apertures in the AMG front apron, these coolers ensure non-critical operating temperatures at all times – even under the extreme stress of the racetrack.

Like all AMG high-performance engines, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 is built in the AMG engine shop on the traditional "one man, one engine" principle. This means that one technician is responsible for hand-assembling a complete V8 engine to the highest quality standards – which is attested to by their signature on the AMG engine plate.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC with blipping function

This high-performance eight-cylinder engine has the perfect partner in the form of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. Equipped with AMG aluminium steering-wheel shift paddles and three driving modes, the seven-speed automatic transmission allows a decidedly sporty or more comfort-oriented style of driving according to the driver's preference. The different modes - "S" (Sport), " C" (Comfort) and "M" (Manual) differ in their shift characteristics and speed: gearshifts in "S" mode are around 30% faster than in "C" and no less than around 50% faster in "M" mode. Pressing a button next to the selector lever is sufficient to activate the desired driving program.

The new C 63 AMG is the very first AMG car to feature an automatic throttle-blipping function during downshifts. This not only enhances the driver's emotional experience – the virtually jolt-free downshifting process also reduces the load-change responses and has a particularly positive effect when braking before bends on the racetrack.

Chassis and brake system: Dynamism to perfection

The dynamic driving talent of the new C 63 AMG is apparent at first glance. The flared wings conceal a completely new-design three-link front suspension with a wider track and new speed-sensitive AMG sports steering for high-speed cornering and awesome agility. The firm-setting springs and gas-filled shock absorbers on the all-new AMG sports suspension ensure optimum contact with the road and low body movement when taking corners at high speeds.

The new front axle features a track width increased to 35-mm to reduce dynamic wheel load when cornering. A series of measures ensure substantially increased stability and precision in all driving scenarios. The new-design suspension at the front axle is 100% firmer, which makes for significantly improved steering precision. A further advantage becomes apparent when braking. The new suspension ensures instantaneous brake system response even under dynamic loads.

In combination with completely newly configured elasto-kinematics, the new wheel location provides greatly improved lateral dynamics and allows the driver of the C 63 AMG to benefit from significantly higher cornering speeds. A larger torsion bar stabiliser, new head bearings and dampers with rebound buffer springs further enhance this stability and precision. Steering feedback is also improved by the new kinematics. The speed-sensitive AMG sports steering has a ratio of 13.5:1, but feels more direct as a result of moving what is termed the instant centre of motion at the front axle. A more rigid Hardy disc in the steering column, as well as modified steering characteristics, make a further contribution to increased precision.

Improved multi-link independent rear suspension with increased track width

The multi-link independent rear suspension has also been thoroughly re-engineered, with a 12-mm-wider track and more camber leading to improved cornering performance. Reinforced drive shafts and drive joints increase fatigue strength and round off the improvements to the rear suspension of the C 63 AMG.

The completely newly developed AMG sports suspension combines outstanding handling dynamics with the long-distance comfort to be expected of a Mercedes – which also means that the C 63 AMG has the characteristic virtues of a genuine AMG.

18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, 19-inch wheel/tyre combination on request

The C 63 AMG is appropriately fitted with new 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-spoke design. Painted in titanium grey, these high-gloss wheels in size 9.0 x 18 and 8.5 x 18 are fitted with wide-base tyres in size 235/40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear). Even more dynamic handling is possible with the optionally available 19-inch AMG titanium grey light-alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design with a high-gloss finish. The front wheels are in size 8.0 x 19 with 235/35 tyres, with 9.0 x 19 wheels and 255/30 R 19 tyres at the rear.

Generously dimensioned, fade-resistant AMG high-performance brake system

Internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes all-round reside behind the spokes of the AMG wheels. The front brakes have 360 x 36 mm discs with six-piston fixed callipers, while 330 x 26 mm discs with four-piston fixed callipers handle deceleration at the rear. The AMG high-performance brake system is characterised by precisely metered braking, the shortest stopping distances and high fade resistance.

3-stage ESP® with Sport function as a new feature in the C 63 AMG

The Electronic Stability Program ESP® is specifically configured for the dynamic performance of the C 63 AMG, which is the first AMG model to feature 3-stage ESP® with a Sport function. This system offers three different control settings and is a logical further development of the AMG ESP® philosophy. The ESP® button in the centre console enables the driver to choose between three modes – "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF" – the currently active mode is shown in the central display of the AMG instrument cluster.

In "ESP ON" mode, the onset of handling instability leads to braking intervention at one or more of the wheels, accompanied by a reduction in engine torque. Briefly pressing the ESP® button activates "ESP SPORT". In this mode the braking intervention to counter oversteer or understeer, as well as the accompanying reduction in engine torque, allows a higher dynamic threshold and, for instance, corresponding drift angles – which means that the driver of the C 63 AMG benefits from considerably more active driving pleasure. ESP® is restored to its normal function as soon as the brake pedal is operated.

Prolonged pressure on the ESP® button activates "ESP OFF". There is no intervention to control the handling dynamics and no reduction in engine torque – thus increasing driving enjoyment even further. "ESP OFF" should only be used by experienced drivers on dedicated racetracks. In this mode too, operating the brake pedal restores all the normal functions of ESP®.

The system's traction logic is active in all three ESP® modes. If one of the drive wheels threatens to spin, specific brake pressure is applied to virtually create the effect of a mechanical differential lock. This means that the engine power is transferred to the road even more effectively.

AMG performance package for enhanced dynamic handling

The AMG performance package and exclusive optional extras are available for the C 63 AMG. The components developed for the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO further enhance dynamic handling and are available for both the saloon and estate models.

The AMG performance package comprises:

* Rear-axle locking differential: the mechanical asymmetrical multiple-disk locking differential with a 40% locking factor under load increases traction and significantly enhances driving pleasure – particularly during sporty driving. The differential lock prevents or reduces slipping at the wheel with the least road grip by distributing torque to the wheel with the highest traction.

* AMG performance chassis: new springs at the front axle with approx. 10% higher spring rate and a new absorption detection system at the front and rear axles enhance both performance and lateral dynamics. Lower lateral tilt and reduced body roll enable an even greater degree of sporty handling.

* AMG high-performance composite brake system: internally ventilated and perforated composite 360 x 36 mm brake discs at the front axle with six-piston fixed callipers ensure even higher fade-resistance at high loads.

* AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/Alcantara design: the AMG performance steering wheel is an absolute pleasure to touch and further adds to the luxurious feel of the interior.

The following optional extras are available to complement the AMG performance package and are exclusive to the C 63 AMG:

* 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels with multi-spoke styling, titanium grey and with a high-gloss finish. 235/35 tyres are fitted to the 8.0-inch rims at the front axle; the format at the rear is 9.0 x 19 and 255/30 R 19.

* AMG carbon-fibre trim: replaces the standard aluminium trim and adds a functional racing-car touch to the interior.

* AMG velour floor mats in black

Design and equipment: More AMG than ever before

Both technologically and visually the new C 63 AMG is more distinctively different from the production C-Class than ever before. In combination with the sports functionality of the standard equipment, the saloon and estate models are unmistakable in their role as exclusive and dynamic top models.

The front end of the C 63 AMG is dominated by the new bonnet with its two pronounced power domes, as well as the trademark AMG radiator grille with a central star and two louvres with chrome inserts. The honeycomb pattern of the grille is also reflected in the large air dams of the new athletically contoured front apron, which forms part of the AMG-specific bodystyling. The front fog lamps with chrome surrounds are spaced well apart, acting together with the flared front wheel arches to accentuate the width of the car. A real eye-catcher is the striking transition from the front apron to the wings. The side air vents in the front apron serve to expel the hot air from the oil coolers. If the C 63 AMG is ordered with the optional bi-xenon headlamps or the Intelligent Light System, the headlamps are also dark-tinted.

Eye-catching features when viewed from the side include the 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, the harmoniously integrated "6.3 AMG" lettering on the front wing and the AMG side sill panels. At the rear, the standard LED rear lights, the AMG rear apron with its black diffuser insert and three pronounced diffuser fins, as well as the AMG sports exhaust system with two chrome twin tailpipes, provide further visual highlights that are hallmarks of the brand. The AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid (saloon only) reduces lift and ensures greater handling stability at high speeds.

Interior with new AMG sports seats and AMG performance steering wheel

This decidedly sporty theme is continued in the interior of the C 63 AMG, which now has special AMG sports seats with integral head restraints for the first time. The seats not only feature a new design with cross-piping and AMG lettering, but also an adaptive backrest with adjustments for the side bolsters and lumbar support. The standard upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/AMG fabric is available in a choice of black or reef grey – or as an option the interior can be further enhanced with particularly high-grade nappa leather in black, reef grey or black/sahara beige. Optimum handling control is assured with the new AMG performance steering wheel in a three-spoke design, which has a 365-mm rim diameter and a flattened lower section. The upper section is covered in perforated leather and two silver AMG shift paddles enable the gears to be shifted manually. Other AMG-specific equipment features include the aluminium-look door sill panels with embossed AMG lettering and brushed stainless steel sports pedals.

AMG main menu with a wide variety of displays

The distinctive AMG instrument cluster in a tubular design was specially designed for the C 63 AMG. It features newly styled dials, AMG-specific lettering and a new night-time design. Eye-catching details include the 320 km/h speedometer scale, AMG lettering, red needles and the "6.3 V8" logo in the rev counter. The AMG main menu in the central display allows numerous settings, with "Warm Up", "Set Up" and "RACE" modes activated via multifunction buttons on the AMG performance steering wheel. "Warm Up" displays the engine oil and coolant temperature, "Set Up" the current ESP® mode and the transmission mode "S", "C" or "M". "RACE" mode makes the RACETIMER available, with which the driver is able to measure lap times on a racetrack.

C 63 AMG Estate with maximum cargo volume of 1500 litres

In developing the new C 63 AMG Estate, the designers and engineers focused on customer expectations. A spacious interior, variability and functionality were afforded priority. Unlike its predecessor, the rear of the new Estate is considerably more steeply raked – an important factor that generates a larger load capacity. The capacity is 485 or 1500 litres according to the position of the 1/3:2/3 split-fold rear seat backrest (VDA measuring method). No other vehicle of the premium estate segment in this vehicle category offers so much space. The load capacity has increased by up to 146 litres compared to its predecessor. Every aspect of the C 63 AMG Estate is suitable for everyday use. It has room for four golf bags with trolleys, for example. The largest possible cuboid measurement has increased by 66 litres to 827 litres, which exceeds other premium estates in its vehicle category by anything from 50 to 100 litres. The maximum load compartment length measures 2.82 m from the tailgate to the front-passenger footwell – an increase of 17 cm.

Easy loading: EASY PACK tailgate and load-securing kit

A series of practical details make loading the new C 63 AMG Estate even easier, more comfortable and safer. The load compartment features two bag hooks and four lashing rings for securing cargo. Standard equipment includes side stowage compartments with net covers and a collapsible shopping box as well as a combined luggage cover and safety net. The new optional EASY-PACK tailgate opens and closes at the touch of a button and with the EASY-PACK load-securing kit (optional extras) drivers have even more options for dividing the load compartment (approx. 1.80 x 1.20 m) and securing their cargo.

C 63 AMG standard equipment includes (selection):

* Adaptive brake light

* Airbags for the driver and front passenger

* Aluminium trim panels on dome, doors and centre console

* Acceleration skid control (ASR)

* Armrest with roller-top compartment

* Electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors

* Outside temperature display

* Brake Assist

* ADAPTIVE BRAKE system with hill-start assist

* Combined luggage cover and safety net (estate)

* Through-loading facility and armrest with double cup holder, load securing and 1/3:2/3 split-fold rear seat backrest (saloon)

* 1/3:2/3 split-fold rear seat backrest (estate)

* Shopping crate, collapsible (estate)

* 3-stage ESP®

* Headlamp Assist

* Power windows (4)

* Belt tensioners and belt force limiters for the front and outer rear seats

* Air-conditioned glove compartment

* Black roof liner

* ISOFIX child seat attachment points in the rear

* Map pocket on the rear of the driver's seat backrest

* THERMATIC two-zone automatic climate control

* Kneebag on the driver's side**

* Steering column adjustable for height and reach

* Lighting package

* Front fog lamps

* Projector-beam headlamps with halogen technology

* Tyre pressure loss warning system

* ELCODE locking system with infrared/radio remote control

* Sidebag for driver and front passenger

* Bag hooks in the boot/luggage compartment

* Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC variable speed limiter

* Front seats electrically adjustable for height and backrest angle

* Leather selector lever

* Tinted glass

* Windowbags

* Central locking with crash sensor

** in Europe

Optional extras include:

* 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels

* AMG performance package

* AMG carbon-fibre trim

* AMG velour floor mats

* Bi-xenon headlamps with cornering light function and headlamp cleaning

* system – including dark-tinted headlamps

* COMAND APS, incl. hard disc navigation, LINGUATRONIC voice control and music server, on request also with 6-DVD changer

* EASY PACK tailgate and load-securing kit (estate)

* Integrated rear child seats with side head restraints (estate)

* Intelligent Light System with five light functions – including dark-tinted headlamps

* KEYLESS-GO

* Child seat recognition in the front passenger seat

* Nappa leather upholstery

* PRE-SAFE®

* Electric rear windscreen roller blind (saloon)

* Electric tilting/sliding glass sunroof

* Sidebags in rear

* Surround-sound system

* THERMOTRONIC comfortable automatic climate control system with three-zone air conditioning

* Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function

Practical: Mercedes safety concept for every accident phase

The new C 63 AMG is the safest car in its market segment. No other vehicle in this class offers so many safety innovations and has been so uncompromisingly designed to reflect real accident scenarios as the new C-Class. The comprehensive Mercedes safety concept PRO-SAFE™ goes well beyond compliance with standard crash test regulations, taking every aspect of safe driving into account – from accident prevention with systems such as ADAPTIVE BRAKE, Brake Assist, adaptive brake lights and ESP® to occupant protection with two-stage front airbags, driver kneebag, front sidebags and windowbags. The preventive protection system PRE-SAFE® developed by Mercedes-Benz is available as an option, which makes the C-Class the only car in the world in this market segment to feature such trailblazing safety technology. Another feature providing more driving safety is the Intelligent Light System (optional), which is offered for the first time in this vehicle class. The Intelligent Light System comprises five different light functions which are configured to typical driving and weather situations and offers the driver a much enhanced visual range.

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