Mercedes-Benz C-class DR 520 revealed

Mercedes-Benz has revealed a potent new sports saloon and estate. Dubbed the C-class DR 520, it’s a substantially uprated version of the C63 AMG, and somewhat uniquely, will be a UK special. It effectively launches the company’s Special Products division at Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands, and does so with some clout. With 513bhp and 479lb ft, its 6.2-litre V8 is 62bhp and 37lb ft up on standard. The extra grunt sees acceleration times significantly sliced – 0-62mph takes 4.1sec for the saloon, 4.2sec for the estate, while the top speed is upped to a limited 187mph. Quite how much further the DR 520 will go beyond that is a question we’d like to find out the answer to… Fittingly, the AMG Performance Pack Plus comes as standard, and sees the fitment of a big-spec brake system (note the red callipers) and engine ugrades: forged pistons, new connecting rods and a revised crankshaft. Cosmetically, the pack sees an AMG carbonfibre rear spoiler for the DR 520 saloon. Both versions look pretty mean, though, your choice of black or white matt paint wrap mated to titanium-finished alloys and grille. We’re rather big fans of the estate, especially. Inside there’s a pair of leather and alcantara sports seats. Mercedes bigs up the cars’ UK exclusive status and the return of the ‘Brooklands Special’. If it drives like it looks, we’ll be inclined to concur. Ask your bank manager for an extra £9995 if you want to abandon your regular C63 AMG purchase for a DR 520, the saloon costing £62,430 and the estate £63,680. A pretty reasonable sum of money when you consider just 20 will be made, sold exclusively through the Brooklands dealership and with a full-strength three-year warranty included.

Chris Harris drives the DR 520 - read his review here

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