February 8, 2008

High-performance Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG model due out soon

By Sean Eastwood
Special to the Times

Mercedes-Benz released its redesigned C-Class compact sedan late last year and quickly became one of M-B’s best sellers. Soon the new high-performance 2008 C63 AMG will arrive at local dealers.

The style of the C-Class is appealing to buyers, with its arcing belt line and elliptical front lights; and the performance AMG versions thrill fans of ultra-high performance luxury cars.

The C63's exterior gets several modifications. It has a unique dual power dome hood, a front fascia with larger air intakes and side air outlets, chrome-ringed fog lights, a rear apron with a black air diffuser, twin tailpipes and a rear spoiler.

The C63 AMG features a 6.3-liter V8 that makes 451 horsepower and 443 pounds of torque. The engine, which can rev into the 7,000 range, has a seven-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually via the gearshift or steering wheel paddles. The rear drive C63 is capable of a 4.3-second 0-60 mph sprint.

An available Performance Package adds a limited-slip differential, even stiffer suspension settings, two-piece perforated and ventilated front disc brakes, and an AMG steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather. The electronic stability control has three modes, ESP On, ESP Sport, and ESP Off.

The C63 features leather sport seats, a three-spoke sport steering wheel with aluminum paddle shifters, and an AMG-specific instrument cluster. A menu on the dashboard screen allows drivers to view oil and coolant temperatures, change ESP and transmission shift modes.

The AMG versions started in 1995 with the C36 that featured a 268-hp inline six. Serious firepower arrived in 1998 with the debut of the C43, whose 4.3-liter V8 pumped out 302 horsepower. And now, the new C63 has an exhilarating 451 horsepower.

For a Mercedes-Benz test drive call 408.242-3295.