Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet preview - V8 drop-dop debuts in New York
AMG's range extends ever further with the latest variants of the C-class family
As Mercedes-AMG’s range of AMG models expands to include the recent flurry of V6-engined ‘43’ models, it’s satisfying to know there are still V8 AMGs on the way – and the latest is the soft-top version of the C63.
Unveiled at the 2016 New York auto show, the latest AMG is available in both C63 and C63 S formats, each packing a twin-turbocharged ‘hot vee’ 4-litre V8 and each sprinting to 62mph in little over four seconds.
The S is the quicker of the pair, hitting said benchmark in 4.1sec courtesy of a 503bhp output and 516lb ft of torque between 1750-4500rpm. The regular C63 convertible has a 4.2sec 0-62mph time, with 469bhp and 479lb ft at its disposal. That each is as brisk as that is fairly impressive given the kerb weight – a considerable 1925kg for the S and 1910kg for the C63.
That in turn is down to the folding roof mechanism and extra bracing required to account for the missing metal roof. On the plus side, it should make it easier to hear the V8’s flap-assisted exhaust note, controlled via AMG Dynamic Select or, in the case of the optional Performance exhaust system, the press of a button.
Power is sent to the rear wheels alone, first through an AMG Speedshift 7-speed automatic transmission, and subsequently through a limited-slip differential – mechanical on the C63, and electronic on the C63 S.
Wheels are 18-inch front and rear on the C63 Cabriolet (with 255/40 and 285/35 tyres) and 19-inch front and rear (255/35 and 285/30) on the S. 19- and 20-inch wheels are optionally available.
As with the Coupe, estate and saloon variants, the C63 models are wider than their standard counterparts – facilitated by an AMG-specific rear axle carrier, new wheel carriers and new wheel bearings. Blistered bodywork covers the wider track, lending the C63s an aggressive appearance.
The C63s’ interiors are trimmed appropriately too, with a mix of aluminium trim elements, artificial leather, sports seats (with Performance seats an option) and a 3-spoke Performance steering wheel. And of course, you can bathe the cabin in extra light by dropping the roof at speeds of up to 30mph.
Full pricing and specification details will be revealed in due course. Head to our New York auto show hub page for more details on cars launched at the show.
