Two days in the new C63
Discussion
Returned from a couple of weeks holiday on Thursday and went into Merc to pick up my next loan car (my dealer agreed to keep me in a car until my GT arrives since they took my SLS off me back in November) - my usual A45 loaner was out on test drive so I suggested they let me loose in their C63 S demo for the weekend 
To my surprise, they took it out of the showroom and sent me on my way - I've just returned it to them so here are my thoughts and some pictures.
I'll start by saying that it's very nearly tempted me to save a lump of money and change my GT order for a C63 (which surprisingly the dealer would be fine with so I guess they can easily sell my GT slot). Of course, I'm not going to do that because much like the SLS, it will undoubtedly feel more special, more of an event but honestly, the new C63 is so good that I can't see how the GT will be objectively £50k better.
I'll start with my least favourite aspects:
And, err.....ahem.....there are none.
Honestly, I just can't fault this car in two days driving of driving it. It has a very similar character to the old C63 but everything is improved, refined, tighter - it's a hugely more developed car. If I was being really harsh, I'd say the driving position with the performance seats isn't as good as with the standard seats - I like to sit really low and, sitting in a C63 with standard seats in the showroom then immediately getting into the demo with performance seats, they feel a bit higher. After about, ooooh, 10 seconds maybe, you get used to it.
Anyway, having got the missus a new M3 for about 2 minutes last year before I realised it wasn't that great, I'm amazed just how right AMG seem to have made their new car in comparison (all IMO of course....but based on solid ownership experience). So onto the things it's really good at and how I believe it compares to it's Bavarian rival:
1. Performance
This car is outrageously fast, there is almost no lag (you may feel a touch in comfort or sport mode when just pulling off, totally eradicated in sport+ or race) and it pulls at all revs nice and cleanly to the limiter, acceleration growing with revs in a very N/A-like way.
This engine in the 150kg+ lighter GT will be phenomenal, as proven by some recent 1/4 mile times (11.2s and 127mph!).
This S version is notably quicker than the M3 and whilst both share a very satisfying power delivery, the Merc feels less boosted than the BMW (which is probably is).
2. Noise
Absolutely nothing to worry about here for the 6.2 owners - the sound is outstanding. I'd even say I prefer is slightly to how the 6.2 sounded. It has this lovely guttural V8 rumble sound at low revs, changing nicely to a resonant warble through the mid range that you can actually feel (much like you can feel bass from a good sound system). The pops and bangs on the overrun are more obvious without appearing at all contrived than in the 6.2 too.
And my demo car didn't even have the performance exhaust - I suspect that would sound outrageously rude
In comparison to the M3 we had, it's no surprise that this is the first area where the C63 really has it licked. The AMG makes a mockery of BMW's attempts to make their car sound aggressive, which are so far off the mark that I was questioned on more than one occasion what was wrong with it.
3. Chassis
Absolutely spot on for a road car. The ride is beautifully firm, solid and nuggety - it just feels really good. Despite the firmness, it's so well controlled that it never feels uncomfortable and vertical movements on bumpy undulating roads are very well contained. There's virtually no body roll unless you're really pushing on and I cannot see anywhere dynamically where the C63 is inferior to the M3, at least during real-world driving. Even the most die hard C63 fans probably wouldn't say that of the previous-gen models.
In terms of torsional rigidity, I'd say this is one area where the new C63 has improved the most over the old model - there are few cars I've driven other than the SLS and 911 which feel more solid and structurally stiff over bumps. Even the latest M3 will occasionally send a slight shimmer up the steering column if driven purposefully over a harsh mid corner bump - no such traits seem to exist in the C63.
The C63 remains a marvellously easy car to slide about, even for an average driver like me, but it now appears to have decent traction and the eliciting diff makes that back end very progressive and controllable
4. Steering
This is one of my most favourite aspects of the car and is the second area that really sets it apart from the M3. Compared to the BMW's artificial and overly heavy rim, the AMG's is well weighted, linear and very direct, main the car feel agile and responsive.
It also has what must be one of the worlds nicest steering wheels - small, chunky, nice thickness and with some interesting ridges to rest your hands on.
5. Interior
It's typical new C-class and then some. This means it's far and away the nicest interior in it's class, despite the iPad screen (which looks just fine when sat behind it). The nappa leather dash looks rich, it's solid with no rattles or creaks and the switches have a lovely engineered action (is Merc now back at it's best??). Then theres the seats - this one had the optional AMG performance seats and are probably the best ones I've sat in since the last C63!
The trim on this example was highlighted with lovely white alcantara (unusual) and at night, the mood lighting is very well done, all the more enhanced by the fact the lighting highlights the white bits. It just all feels very special.
To be fair, the new M3 also has outstanding seats and a perfect driving position but the interior is more 1-series than S-class, and the BMW's interior rattled from the moment I drove it out of the showroom.
Oh, the Burmester audio system is awesome - MB's idea to place their subs in the firewall ahead of your feet is inspired because it facilities a nice deep sound without causing any vibrations whatsoever.
So, when you consider all the touchpoints and sensations you get driving a car, it's clear why the sound, the lovely steering and a very special interior makes this such a satisfying product. As far as I could tell, it seems to combine all these attributes without any of the previous models' deficiencies. They're also exactly the qualities which highlight the new M3's shortcomings and whilst I have no doubt that the BMW will be able to pull some tricks out the bag on a track and in the right hands, as a road car for a normal driver I don't think theres any contest.
Finally, we all know what one looks like and this is maybe one area where the BMW holds an advantage if you're not into the subtle approach. Regardless, here's a few pictures.....now, if you're on the fence about this car then just get out there and drive one! You'll love it.
To my surprise, they took it out of the showroom and sent me on my way - I've just returned it to them so here are my thoughts and some pictures.I'll start by saying that it's very nearly tempted me to save a lump of money and change my GT order for a C63 (which surprisingly the dealer would be fine with so I guess they can easily sell my GT slot). Of course, I'm not going to do that because much like the SLS, it will undoubtedly feel more special, more of an event but honestly, the new C63 is so good that I can't see how the GT will be objectively £50k better.
I'll start with my least favourite aspects:
And, err.....ahem.....there are none.
Honestly, I just can't fault this car in two days driving of driving it. It has a very similar character to the old C63 but everything is improved, refined, tighter - it's a hugely more developed car. If I was being really harsh, I'd say the driving position with the performance seats isn't as good as with the standard seats - I like to sit really low and, sitting in a C63 with standard seats in the showroom then immediately getting into the demo with performance seats, they feel a bit higher. After about, ooooh, 10 seconds maybe, you get used to it.
Anyway, having got the missus a new M3 for about 2 minutes last year before I realised it wasn't that great, I'm amazed just how right AMG seem to have made their new car in comparison (all IMO of course....but based on solid ownership experience). So onto the things it's really good at and how I believe it compares to it's Bavarian rival:
1. Performance
This car is outrageously fast, there is almost no lag (you may feel a touch in comfort or sport mode when just pulling off, totally eradicated in sport+ or race) and it pulls at all revs nice and cleanly to the limiter, acceleration growing with revs in a very N/A-like way.
This engine in the 150kg+ lighter GT will be phenomenal, as proven by some recent 1/4 mile times (11.2s and 127mph!).
This S version is notably quicker than the M3 and whilst both share a very satisfying power delivery, the Merc feels less boosted than the BMW (which is probably is).
2. Noise
Absolutely nothing to worry about here for the 6.2 owners - the sound is outstanding. I'd even say I prefer is slightly to how the 6.2 sounded. It has this lovely guttural V8 rumble sound at low revs, changing nicely to a resonant warble through the mid range that you can actually feel (much like you can feel bass from a good sound system). The pops and bangs on the overrun are more obvious without appearing at all contrived than in the 6.2 too.
And my demo car didn't even have the performance exhaust - I suspect that would sound outrageously rude
In comparison to the M3 we had, it's no surprise that this is the first area where the C63 really has it licked. The AMG makes a mockery of BMW's attempts to make their car sound aggressive, which are so far off the mark that I was questioned on more than one occasion what was wrong with it.
3. Chassis
Absolutely spot on for a road car. The ride is beautifully firm, solid and nuggety - it just feels really good. Despite the firmness, it's so well controlled that it never feels uncomfortable and vertical movements on bumpy undulating roads are very well contained. There's virtually no body roll unless you're really pushing on and I cannot see anywhere dynamically where the C63 is inferior to the M3, at least during real-world driving. Even the most die hard C63 fans probably wouldn't say that of the previous-gen models.
In terms of torsional rigidity, I'd say this is one area where the new C63 has improved the most over the old model - there are few cars I've driven other than the SLS and 911 which feel more solid and structurally stiff over bumps. Even the latest M3 will occasionally send a slight shimmer up the steering column if driven purposefully over a harsh mid corner bump - no such traits seem to exist in the C63.
The C63 remains a marvellously easy car to slide about, even for an average driver like me, but it now appears to have decent traction and the eliciting diff makes that back end very progressive and controllable
4. Steering
This is one of my most favourite aspects of the car and is the second area that really sets it apart from the M3. Compared to the BMW's artificial and overly heavy rim, the AMG's is well weighted, linear and very direct, main the car feel agile and responsive.
It also has what must be one of the worlds nicest steering wheels - small, chunky, nice thickness and with some interesting ridges to rest your hands on.
5. Interior
It's typical new C-class and then some. This means it's far and away the nicest interior in it's class, despite the iPad screen (which looks just fine when sat behind it). The nappa leather dash looks rich, it's solid with no rattles or creaks and the switches have a lovely engineered action (is Merc now back at it's best??). Then theres the seats - this one had the optional AMG performance seats and are probably the best ones I've sat in since the last C63!
The trim on this example was highlighted with lovely white alcantara (unusual) and at night, the mood lighting is very well done, all the more enhanced by the fact the lighting highlights the white bits. It just all feels very special.
To be fair, the new M3 also has outstanding seats and a perfect driving position but the interior is more 1-series than S-class, and the BMW's interior rattled from the moment I drove it out of the showroom.
Oh, the Burmester audio system is awesome - MB's idea to place their subs in the firewall ahead of your feet is inspired because it facilities a nice deep sound without causing any vibrations whatsoever.
So, when you consider all the touchpoints and sensations you get driving a car, it's clear why the sound, the lovely steering and a very special interior makes this such a satisfying product. As far as I could tell, it seems to combine all these attributes without any of the previous models' deficiencies. They're also exactly the qualities which highlight the new M3's shortcomings and whilst I have no doubt that the BMW will be able to pull some tricks out the bag on a track and in the right hands, as a road car for a normal driver I don't think theres any contest.
Finally, we all know what one looks like and this is maybe one area where the BMW holds an advantage if you're not into the subtle approach. Regardless, here's a few pictures.....now, if you're on the fence about this car then just get out there and drive one! You'll love it.
Edited by Palmball on Monday 11th May 22:24
Nice article Palmball, definitely comprehensive enough for many of us to consider the new generation.
Am I right in assuming the SLS spent more time away from you then with? I distinctly remember seeing it at Affalterbach, and mentioning to the tour guide, that I knew it was yours...
Looking forward to the GT reports.
Am I right in assuming the SLS spent more time away from you then with? I distinctly remember seeing it at Affalterbach, and mentioning to the tour guide, that I knew it was yours...
Looking forward to the GT reports.
Thanks chaps, glad it's been of use. I'm conscious theres a lot people on the fence on this car because of the downsizing, looks etc. so hopefully this shows theres no reason to be (assign you can get on with how it looks)
I'm suspect normal service will resume shortly..........
This'll be a first-world kind of dread I assume??
Loved the drive down there though 
Cannot wait for the GT, the wait is killing me! 1st September is target date but I am hopefully getting my dealers demo this weekend which I suspect will end up just being a big tease.
zedstar said:
Nice review.....
You still enjoying the ML63?
Yes, very much so. I'm not sure what's happened because I'm 9 months into ownership :big laugh:You still enjoying the ML63?
I'm suspect normal service will resume shortly..........
Charliesum said:
Hiya Palmball
So are you saying there is nothing on the car you would change....???hehe
Ahem.....well.......no, I don't think so. Probably not the car for me then So are you saying there is nothing on the car you would change....???hehe
WhiteAMG45 said:
Thanks for the review I met you at the AMG day at Brooklands
I am dreading it in 2.5 years time when I need to replace the A45 because I am tempted by the new C63
Good to meet you buddy I am dreading it in 2.5 years time when I need to replace the A45 because I am tempted by the new C63
This'll be a first-world kind of dread I assume??
MagicMike said:
Nice article Palmball, definitely comprehensive enough for many of us to consider the new generation.
Am I right in assuming the SLS spent more time away from you then with? I distinctly remember seeing it at Affalterbach, and mentioning to the tour guide, that I knew it was yours...
Looking forward to the GT reports.
Well, erm.....it kept the mileage off, right?? Lets be honest, I probably got more use out of that SLS in 6 months than most owners get in 3 years. I bought it at 13k miles in June, sold it in November with 20k miles. And it 'only' spend 6 weeks in Affalterbach Am I right in assuming the SLS spent more time away from you then with? I distinctly remember seeing it at Affalterbach, and mentioning to the tour guide, that I knew it was yours...
Looking forward to the GT reports.
Loved the drive down there though Cannot wait for the GT, the wait is killing me! 1st September is target date but I am hopefully getting my dealers demo this weekend which I suspect will end up just being a big tease.
There are deals to be had - but of course they are tougher to get as the car is new. Initial dealer out of the box contribution is about 1800 quid but you can get more than that.
What I did was discover a 2 year personal contract hire deal for 874 per month on a stock C63S on www.contracthireandleasing.com which was actually from a MB dealer - I am not leasing but I use it as a marker. So that 874 pm is circa 10%, which you may not get on an Agility/cash car vs lease but you can use it as a bargaining stick to get closer.
Cheers
What I did was discover a 2 year personal contract hire deal for 874 per month on a stock C63S on www.contracthireandleasing.com which was actually from a MB dealer - I am not leasing but I use it as a marker. So that 874 pm is circa 10%, which you may not get on an Agility/cash car vs lease but you can use it as a bargaining stick to get closer.
Cheers
Guffy said:
Good review thanks.
The shape doesn't stimulate me at all though, which is an important aspect for me.
Great review Palmball, 2 days lets you really get under the skin.The shape doesn't stimulate me at all though, which is an important aspect for me.
I'm coming to the end of my 2 year lease on my E63 and my dealer - same one who supplied my E63 - has been utterly useless at arranging a test drive of the new C63. Sadly, I've lost my faith in MB products generally. Having had two AMGs in a row now, I've been very disappointed with the quality of the cars. The engines are without doubt fabulous but my near 2 year old E63 has developed lots of rattles, buzzes and associated build quality problems, which my previous CLK63 was also badly afflicted by. The front seats squeak over bumps, the dash creaks and rattles, as does the pano roof and the seat belt holder next to my ear buzzes frequently. The electronics have been surprising too; the parking sensors go off very randomly as does the proximity warning sensor. The radio also comes on mysteriously and the gearbox has a disconcerting thump when changing from 3rd to 4th at light throttle. It's also completely lost drive on a couple of occasions when entering busy roundabouts. The roof only closes after several attempts to boot.
Hopefully I'm not going from the frying pan into the fire but I'm buying a secondhand Panamera GTS. Not everyone's cup of tea but the difference in quality on the Panamera's I've looked at is staggering.
Completely off thread but I feel let down by AMG and the MB dealership experience. Porsche literally could not do enough to help me.
Mosdef said:
Great review Palmball, 2 days lets you really get under the skin.
I'm coming to the end of my 2 year lease on my E63 and my dealer - same one who supplied my E63 - has been utterly useless at arranging a test drive of the new C63. Sadly, I've lost my faith in MB products generally. Having had two AMGs in a row now, I've been very disappointed with the quality of the cars. The engines are without doubt fabulous but my near 2 year old E63 has developed lots of rattles, buzzes and associated build quality problems, which my previous CLK63 was also badly afflicted by. The front seats squeak over bumps, the dash creaks and rattles, as does the pano roof and the seat belt holder next to my ear buzzes frequently. The electronics have been surprising too; the parking sensors go off very randomly as does the proximity warning sensor. The radio also comes on mysteriously and the gearbox has a disconcerting thump when changing from 3rd to 4th at light throttle. It's also completely lost drive on a couple of occasions when entering busy roundabouts. The roof only closes after several attempts to boot.
Hopefully I'm not going from the frying pan into the fire but I'm buying a secondhand Panamera GTS. Not everyone's cup of tea but the difference in quality on the Panamera's I've looked at is staggering.
Completely off thread but I feel let down by AMG and the MB dealership experience. Porsche literally could not do enough to help me.
Very interesting. I have had the loss of drive from the gearbox. Very dangerous. Actually had the drive control unit replaced, then the complete gearbox. Now the issue has come back again. CAn going back in 6 weeks, so glad to have it gone.I'm coming to the end of my 2 year lease on my E63 and my dealer - same one who supplied my E63 - has been utterly useless at arranging a test drive of the new C63. Sadly, I've lost my faith in MB products generally. Having had two AMGs in a row now, I've been very disappointed with the quality of the cars. The engines are without doubt fabulous but my near 2 year old E63 has developed lots of rattles, buzzes and associated build quality problems, which my previous CLK63 was also badly afflicted by. The front seats squeak over bumps, the dash creaks and rattles, as does the pano roof and the seat belt holder next to my ear buzzes frequently. The electronics have been surprising too; the parking sensors go off very randomly as does the proximity warning sensor. The radio also comes on mysteriously and the gearbox has a disconcerting thump when changing from 3rd to 4th at light throttle. It's also completely lost drive on a couple of occasions when entering busy roundabouts. The roof only closes after several attempts to boot.
Hopefully I'm not going from the frying pan into the fire but I'm buying a secondhand Panamera GTS. Not everyone's cup of tea but the difference in quality on the Panamera's I've looked at is staggering.
Completely off thread but I feel let down by AMG and the MB dealership experience. Porsche literally could not do enough to help me.
Also, MB have been completely useless re new C63. Let down multiple times by 3 different dealers. Absolutley pathetic really. I just can't get hy head around how poor a company can be at trying to sell one of their premium products. So much so that I just couldn't reconcile spending £70k plus on a family estate when they couldn't even be bothered to return a call or email.
Unfortunately the car is predominantly driven by the wife, she doesn't have to deal with dealers, service centres, etc etc, and just wants another AMG Merc. So I'm going to save a few dozen grand and get a very lightly used old C63 like our last one. If it was up to me I think I might have bought something different this time around. Like an M5.
I can't believe this is merely coincidence, there must be a wider gearbox issue. MB couldn't find anything wrong and couldn't replicate the fault (how can cars be so fickle) when they had the car for a service and also for the recall work last week.
Like you, I was hounded by MB earlier this year when the 18 month mark was reached and when I was finally in a position to decide what my next car would be, they couldn't be bothered to return emails and calls.
Anyway, I've lost faith in the product but had a great time working out what to get next.
The Audi S7 and S8 were dull to drive by quite attractive inside. Having said that the S8 rattled and buzzed too!
The BMW M5 didn't have the space for me and felt very ordinary interior wise, the E63 has it locked from that perspective.
Maserati Ghibli was interesting but too slow and had too firm a ride for the performance on offer.
Panamera GTS came up by accident but I loved the n/a engine, the ride is amazing, beautiful cabin and the engine note is to die for. Not necessarily better than the AMG but more Maserati-esque.
I think a previous gen C63 would be great, it's just a bit small for my frame.
Like you, I was hounded by MB earlier this year when the 18 month mark was reached and when I was finally in a position to decide what my next car would be, they couldn't be bothered to return emails and calls.
Anyway, I've lost faith in the product but had a great time working out what to get next.
The Audi S7 and S8 were dull to drive by quite attractive inside. Having said that the S8 rattled and buzzed too!
The BMW M5 didn't have the space for me and felt very ordinary interior wise, the E63 has it locked from that perspective.
Maserati Ghibli was interesting but too slow and had too firm a ride for the performance on offer.
Panamera GTS came up by accident but I loved the n/a engine, the ride is amazing, beautiful cabin and the engine note is to die for. Not necessarily better than the AMG but more Maserati-esque.
I think a previous gen C63 would be great, it's just a bit small for my frame.
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