the Mercedes-AMG C63
an M3
. That's what everyone wanted to know, after all. The non-S, 476hp C63 saloon costs £59,795 and a DCT M3 costs £58,675. Not really enough to make a difference but in the game of German sports saloon Top Trumps it's a point for the BMW.
The premium for the C63 estate is relatively modest at £1,200 which puts the standard wagon at £60,995. Its most obvious rival, the Audi RS4, lists at £56,545. The jump from 476hp C63 to 510hp C63 S is £6,750, putting the saloon at £66,545 and the estate at £67,545. Instinct suggests the S will be the C63 to have but we'll be sure to establish a definitive verdict after a drive. Dan is speccing a long-term wagon as we speak. Probably.
Wagon? Yes please. Stickers? Erm...
Extras confirmed so far include a Burmester stereo upgrade, an AMG sports exhaust and a ceramic composite brake system.
And if that doesn't make for a special enough C63, Mercedes is also offering an Edition 1 version for the first time. It's based on the S but adds 19-inch forged wheels with 'a discreet red band' and a Night Package where all the aluminium trim is painted black. Stealthy. Apart from the AMG graphic that runs along the side of the car and the red in the grille. And the red mirror inserts.
The Edition 1 receives more red trinkets inside, from coloured carbon trim to door panel stitching. Extras fitted as standard include LED lights and a panoramic sunroof. The AMG C63 S Edition 1 is probably best described as an acquired taste. It costs £6,955 over the equivalent S, putting the saloon at £73,500 and the estate at £74,700.
The AMG C63 will arrive in Britain next spring. Mercedes will be politely nagged over the coming weeks for a PH drive in one just as soon as possible.