Mercedes-Benz has lifted the curtain on a high-performance version of its recently launched C-Class Coupé developed by its AMG division. Stuttgart’s answer to the 331 kW Audi RS5 and the 309 kW BMW M3 coupés is built around the revised 2012 C63 AMG saloon and sticks with Mercedes-Benz’s familiar 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 lump.
As with the sedan model, the V8 powerplant in the 2012 C63 AMG Coupé churns out 336 kW and peak torque of 600 Nm. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint takes just 4.5 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Customers can opt for the AMG Development Package that pushes output to 358 kW, for a 0 to 100 km/h to 4.4 seconds and a limited maximum speed of 280km/h.
There’s only one available transmission for the rear-wheel drive coupé, the AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed automatic that offers several modes including the Controlled Efficiency “C”, “S”, “S+” and “M” modes. These are selected through the new rotary control borrowed from the SLS AMG Gullwing model. Mercedes says gear changes in the “S+” and “M” modes take just 100 milliseconds. In addition, there’s a Race Start function that is said to allow “the driver to explore the vehicle’s full acceleration capability”.
The range-topping AMG model gets a modified chassis with a separate three-link front suspension, a reinforced multi-link independent rear suspension and a wider track at both ends, plus more negative camber all round and anti-roll bars with a larger cross-section. The high-performance braking system with composite front discs and the three-stage ESP (On, Sport and Off) complete the performance upgrades.
On the styling side, Mercedes’ newcomer stands out from its more timid siblings through a bodykit that includes front splitter, rear diffuser and a carbon fibre boot lid spoiler along with a modified aluminium bonnet and AMG-specific LED daytime running lights. The Coupé model rides on a set of 18-inch alloys wrapped in 235/40 R18 (front) and 255/35 R18 (rear) tyres.
As for the interior, the two-door Merc gets a bespoke set of body-hugging sports seats with integral head restraints, unique trim and an AMG performance steering wheel with flattened top and bottom sections that was adopted from the CLS 63 AMG.
In Europe, the market launch of the new C63 AMG coupé starts in July 2011 with prices in Germany set at €72 590.
via CarScoop
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