Accompanying the power upgrade is a whole mess o' carbon fiber, some yellow paint in the engine bay, a stronger LSD, 20" wheels, tougher suspension and 509 Lb-Ft of torque. We'd eliminate every single visual upgrade and all the badges and paint it beige. [via CarScoop]

Three things about this particular C63 AMG. First, it's a rolling testbed for RENNtech, an established tuner of all things Mercedes, and has the prototype machined airbox to prove it. The second thing to know is power output's been pegged at over 580 HP, more than 100 HP over the stock AMG. There's a thick layer of expelled rubber on the rear fender to prove it. The third thing? It's still a Mercedes, and it has the luxury to prove it.

Driving in Miami isn't about going fast, especially given the well-known congestion, rather, it's about looking stylish. Gleaming Bentley, Aston and Ferrari chrome is blindingly everywhere. They're almost as plentiful as police officers with their laser guns and unmarked Nissan Altima Coupes. So how do you avoid running into a squad car and landing in prison?

This C63 was sporting a rear-view mirror embedded with the readout from the radar/laser detector (a Valentine One system), which gave direction and type of surveillance while looking like a stock compass readout. It's the original OEM mirror and all of the built-in features, such as day/night auto and garage openers, are fully functional. How did they do this?

I spoke with Raymond Allen of Technicar, the company that designed the system. "It's stealth-mounted in the car so no one knows it is in the rearview mirror. Many cars have it so the compass will readout into the rearview mirror, so it looks like an OEM device but it gives you a stealth readout that no one knows its there."

It works flawlessly. Speeding up an on-ramp, I hear the familiar chrip of the detector and quickly glance up at the mirror to see there's a car shooting us with laser from the rear at close range. We're going faster than the posted 45 MPH speed limit but no one gives chase. This is probably because the officer is getting an error message on the laser unit.

The other trick piece on this car is the laser jammer. More authorities are switching over to laser because it's more precise and, of course, no one wants to put a radiation stick in their crotch all day, so having a laser jammer is a big lifesaver if you have a lead foot.

When the cop shoots you with their gun it's typically sending out a few short beams of light and waiting to get them back in order to process the information and determine a speed. As soon as the sensors in the C63 sense the signal it automatically sends back the wrong data. For instance, if the laser gun sends five short beams of light at a car coming towards the officer, the car may send back three beams made to look is if the car is moving in the other direciton, thus causing an error.

After battling the traffic, and the cops, I drive the car out to a more secluded part of Miami. As opposed to the danger represented by driving quickly on crowded streets, the greatest threat we face is O.J. Simpson, who owns a house not too far from where we go to stretch the car's legs out.

Even without long stretches of open road it's clear this stealthy silver Benz can sprint. With the resonator delete, maybe stealthy isn't exactly the right word. There's a serious growl. And maybe the RENNtech logo splayed across the windshield and slicks on the back are a bit of a giveaway to the observant. But one moment you're at a stop sign and the next you're going 80 MPH. The company hasn't done official 0-60 testing yet, but with 465 Lb-Ft of torque, we imagine that figure is largely dependent on what kind of tires the car is wearing. Fitted with these slicks, getting the power down isn't too difficult.

The rest is easy, too. It was surprising how effortless it was to throw the car around as we rocketed through the neighborhood and across on-ramps. The stiffer suspension, strut tower brace and lower stance contribute to a solid feel without sacrificing much in the way of comfort over the road... assuming you're willing to go over bumps at an angle. Traction control works, thankfully, keeping the C63 off of the grass when the wheels spin faster than the gears in the driver's brain, as I learned first hand. Given the performance on tap, it's surprising that this tuner version can retain most of the stock C-Class's civility.

As this car is a mule, I'm not ready to pass judgment on the fit-and-finish. It looks good at a distance and, up close, any shortcomings are sort of endearing and show signs of serious use. RENNtech achieves a lot of gains through clever tuning of the car's ECU, which doesn't mean much until you see the rubber caked on the inside of the wheel well or hear it take off. Computer programmers FTW!

Back in traffic, the car melts back into the Mercedes mold, the incessant beeping of the mirror being the only obvious giveaway. There's no need to sacrifice anything if you want to play Hyde by day and Jekyll by night. That's not completely true. You'll need to fork over an as-of-yet determined chunk of change.

To further differentiate it from the lowly C63 AMG it's based on, a body kit is in the works. Nice as it might look with wider fenders, we think we prefer it the way it is, more sleeper than silly. As a work-in-progress this vehicle is still within the realm of gearheads, not the polished world of dentists who wanted to buy a toy with their dirty plaque money.

Welcome to Dubai: The Bus Tour. Up ahead is the famous Mall of the Emirates. Now, if you look out the left side, you'll notice a Mercedes C63 AMG covered in golden chrome. We're not sure why the locals cover their rare automobiles in pricey alloys, but it is certain this little trend has jumped the shark. No, it hasn't jumped the shark, it has blasted over the shark like Fonzie on a rocket sled. Try to come up with something a little more opulent, you crazy Sheiklets.

For your convenience, paper comfort bags are located in the seat pocket in front of you. Next up on our trip, oil derricks!

[Carscoop]

RENNtech Tunes The AMG C63

40 years ago, the hottest, fastest sedan you could buy was Mercedes-Benz' 300SEL 6.3. By placing its largest engine in a mid-sized car, Mercedes' engineers created a luxurious sedan capable of out-performing some of the quickest sportscars of its day. The 6.3 remains a landmark sports sedan that continues to influence Mercedes' design direction. Nowhere is the influence of the 6.3 more evident than in AMG's current line of sports sedans. AMG's newest cars carry the first purpose-built, "all-AMG" engine design in the company's history, and the "63" designation they wear (S63, E63, etc.) is a direct reference to the 6.3.

Last year, Mercedes revisited the "bigger engine, smaller car" formula and introduced the C63 AMG. Powered by the same 6.2 liter V8 as its bigger, more expensive S and E class siblings, the C63 promised heart-stopping performance at a bargain price ... but, somewhere between concept and production, something happened: the C63 put out a "mere" 451 hp.

While the C63 is certainly no slouch, it didn't make the same 507 or 518 horsepower that its E and S class siblings made. Some of the power difference can legitimately be blamed on more restrictive intake and exhaust paths - after all, the big V8 is a tight fit in the smaller C class, but this fails to explain how the same engine, when found under the hood of a CLK63 AMG Cabrio, makes 475 hp.

Where did that 24 hp go?

"Mercedes restricted the car," explains Hartmut Feyhl. "So, our first step in extracting more power from the C63 is to de-restrict the car." Of course, in this modern age of software encryption and electronic obstacles, that kind of "de-restricting" is easier said than done - which is why Feyhl is exactly the man you want to talk to when it's time to take your C63 to the next level.

Hartmut Feyhl was technical director at AMG North America before forming his own company, RENNtech, in 1989. Since then, Feyhl built a reputation as one of the world's premier tuners and America's foremost authority on Mercedes-Benz high performance.

It should come as no surprise, then, that RENNtech's first offering for the C63 was an effective ECU software upgrade (ECU1) to unleash the same "factory" 475 hp and 465 lb-ft (up from 451 and 443) as the CLK.

It should also come as no surprise, then, that RENNtech didn't leave it at that! "In a sense, the C63 is a return to the roots for Mercedes, and for AMG, and also for RENNtech," says Feyhl. "It is a very special car, as the C class has grown to about the same size as the 6.3 and the W124 Hammer, but with much more power. We want to see how far we can go with this car."

With that in mind, RENNtech has introduced a comprehensive line of performance products to turn the AMG C63s of the world into more focused trackday performers, starting with the car you see here.

To get the most from the C63, RENNtech began with the ECU2 high-performance software. Much more than a (relatively) simple de-restriction, this flavor of RENNtech's software optimizes every aspect of engine performance, building massive amounts of torque across the low-to-mid rpm range and boosting the C63's top speed to 187 mph. When combined with RENNtech's stainless-steel long-tube headers and new, track-oriented sound/performance pipes, the RENNtech software produces 548 peak horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque.

RENNtech sharpens the C63's handling reflexes with a fully adjustable sport suspension and adjustable front and rear camber bushings that allow customers to "dial-in" ride height and shock damping while the camber bushings help maintain proper camber and alignment for maximum grip (RENNtech considers these camber bushings a must-have item for serious performance drivers).

To rein in the C63's newfound horsepower, RENNtech offers maximum stopping power in the form 15.2" 2 PC rotors clamped by RENNtech calipers. Along with stainless steel braided lines front and rear, these brakes improve overall feel and driver confidence at speed. Additional cooling from RENNtech's carbon-fiber brake ducts further reduce fade - another must-have upgrade for competitive driving styles.

In the past, few would have considered a car like the C63 a truly capable trackday ride, but with the success of track events like the AMG Challenge and SLR.Club Trophy, it is clear that there are a growing AMG drivers who want to experience their car on the track. "We are all racers," says Feyhl, "and when we find ourselves on a track, we want to be competitive."

With almost 100 hp over the stock C63, RENNtech-tuned C63s will probably be competitive enough for most people - but keep in mind that this is RENNtech (birthplace of the "real" 722 SLR, where a 900 lb-ft twin-turbo V12 sedan is a daily occurrence) and that 2009 marks RENNtech's 20th anniversary ... does Herr Feyhl have some kind of "birthday party" in mind for RENNtech that involves the C63 and ties all this rich history and tradition together?

Probably!

[Source: RENNtech]

While it retains the same 525bhp, 6.3L V8 engine as the standard car, the SL63 pace car receives a new sports exhaust, primarily to make it sound good - it is after all a rolling advertisement for the production car. To make it more trackable, Mercedes have also fitted heavy-duty composite brakes, an uprated cooling system and carbon fiber panels that reduce the overall weight by 220kg. [Via Motor Authority]

Press Release:

Affalterbach - Following in the Saloon's footsteps, the C 63 AMG Estate is now also due to be launched. Under the bonnet with its distinctive power domes, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers effortless acceleration. The high-revving naturally aspirated engine sets the benchmark in this segment with its maximum output of 336 kW/457 hp at 6800 rpm and maximum torque of 600 Nm at 5000 rpm. The unique high-performance estate accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds; top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Power is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC. Equipped with AMG steering wheel gearshift paddles and the three driving modes "C", "S" and "M", the seven-speed automatic transmission delivers a decidedly sporty or comfort-focused ride depending on the driver's tastes. The automatic throttle-blipping function when downshifting is another innovation. In conjunction with the all-new front axle, the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering and the new 3-stage ESP®, the AMG sports suspension provides maximum driving pleasure and superb driving dynamics. The AMG high-performance braking system with large internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes all round provides optimum stopping power even during particularly dynamic driving. The standard specification includes 18-inch five-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with 235/ 40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear) wide-base tyres. 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels shod with 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) tyres are available as an option.

Design and appointments: more distinctive than ever
The design and appointments on the new C 63 AMG Estate are comfortably on a par with the sophisticated technology. The top-of-the-line AMG eight-cylinder model has been differentiated more clearly than ever from the series-production C-Class: typical hallmarks of the brand come in the shape of AMG bodystyling, the bonnet with power domes, the distinctive AMG radiator grille, the flared front wings, the AMG rear apron with its black diffusor insert and the AMG sports exhaust system with two sets of chromed twin tailpipes. The interior feel is dominated by the distinctive AMG sports seats with integral head restraints, the three-spoke AMG performance steering wheel with its flat underside and small 365-millimetre rim, and the tube-style AMG instrument cluster with its AMG-specific main menu. As an alternative to the standard-fit aluminium trim elements, AMG carbon trim can also be ordered as an option for the C 63 AMG Estate.

Largest load compartment in its class with up to 1500 litres
The load capacity of the C 63 AMG Estate ranges from 485 to 1500 litres (VDA measuring method) depending on the position of the 1/3:2/3-split rear seat backrests which can be folded forwards. No other car in the premium estate segment of this vehicle class can match this capacity. Standard equipment includes bag hooks and four anchoring lugs to secure the load, side stowage compartments with covers, a collapsible shopping crate as well as a combined luggage cover and retaining net. The new EASY-PACK tailgate opens and closes at the push of a button. The market launch of the C 63 AMG Estate is scheduled for the start of 2008; sales price incl. 19% VAT is EUR 69,853.

Message to the 2008 BMW M3, don't go thinking you're a shoo-in for the world's next lower-case supercar. Mercedes just kicked out its entry AMG, the C63, and it's likely a screamer-in-waiting. Powered by AMG's most recent feat — a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 with enough grunt to unseat Zeus's dental work — the C63, Daimler says, will do the zero-62 pokey in 4.5 seconds. That via the 457-hp V8 producing 442 lb-ft of torque. It's planked to a seven-speed automatic that automatically blips the throttle on downshifts — a good-times feature that had been glaringly absent from AMG hardware. It's based on the updated C-Class, and AMG boasts a new sports suspension with three-stage stability control. We'll see it in Frankfurt come September, where it will face down its München rival. Sparks will fly, no doubt. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

Affalterbach - In the German Touring Car Championships (DTM) the new AMG C-Class ensures exciting motor racing at the highest level, and now its roadgoing sister model is celebrating its debut: the new C 63 AMG. Its AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine develops a peak output of 336 kW/457 hp and a maximum torque of 600 newton metres - unrivalled figures in this segment. Accordingly the C 63 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. In conjunction with an all-new front axle, speed-sensitive AMG sports steering and the new, 3-stage ESP Ò, the AMG sports suspension ensures both outstanding driving enjoyment and exemplary handling dynamics. A combination of expressive design, a decidedly sporty interior and a high level of everyday practicality makes the C 63 AMG a unique high-performance car. The market launch will commence in early 2008.

With the new C 63 AMG, Mercedes-AMG GmbH is making a confident statement to mark the 40th birthday of the company. The new V8 flagship model is now the fifth generation of the AMG C-Class, whose family tree goes back to the C 36 AMG of 1993 - the very first vehicle developed as a cooperative venture between Daimler-Benz and AMG.

Merely the appearance of the C 63 AMG is impressive enough, with its wide, road-hugging stance. The new bonnet with its prominent power domes conceals the independently developed AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which develops a fulminating 336 kW/457 hp at 6800 rpm from a displacement of 6208 cubic centimetres. In this respect the C 63 AMG comes very close to the 470 or so horsepower delivered by the AMG C-Class racing touring car in the DTM series. This high output also benefits the power-to-weight ratio, which is a very favourable 3.6 kg/hp.

The torque developed by the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine need fear no comparison either. The maximum of 600 newton metres at 5000 rpm is unrivalled in this class, and the torque curve is equally impressive: from 2000 to 6250 rpm the driver always has more than 500 newton metres on tap - ideal for powerful acceleration in any engine speed range.

V8 with thoroughbred racing technology and a designer exhaust note
Introduced in 2005, the V8 engine is installed in numerous AMG high-performance cars and excels with its thoroughbred motor sports technology.

Perfect cylinder charging is guaranteed by the vertical arrangement of the intake and exhaust ducts, as well as the magnesium variable intake manifold with two integral throttle flaps. Other high-tech features include variable camshaft adjustment, four-valve technology with bucket-type tappets, a particularly rigid aluminium crankcase of closed-deck design and the low-friction TWAS coating on the cylinder contact surfaces.

Among the particular strengths of the AMG V8 engine are outstanding responsiveness and enormous pulling power - by virtue of its large displacement, it develops over 30 percent more torque than comparable engines in this performance class. Electronically controlled fuel delivery is another reason for the outstanding agility and responsiveness to movements of the accelerator. With its sporty AMG sound, which was designed-in during a series of sophisticated trials, this eight-cylinder powerpack from Affalterbach offers the unique excitement of a fast-revving, naturally aspirated engine - an audible and immediate experience whether at low, medium or high engine speeds.
Key figures for the C 63 AMG at a glance:


C 63 AMG
Cylinder arrangement/ valves per cylinder
V8/ 4
Displacement cc
6208
Bore/stroke mm
102.2/94.6
Compression ratio
11.3 : 1
Output kW/hp
at rpm
336/457
6800
Max. torque Nm
at rpm
600
5000
Acceleration 0-100 km/h s
4.5
Top speed km/h
250*
*Electronically governed

In the interests of optimal reliability, the C 63 AMG has a particularly efficient water cooling system and large engine and transmission oil coolers. Located behind the large apertures in the AMG front apron, these coolers ensure non-critical operating temperatures at all times - even under the extreme stress of the racetrack.

Like all AMG high-performance engines, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 is built in the AMG engine shop on the traditional "one man, one engine" principle. This means that one technician is responsible for hand-assembling a complete V8 engine to the highest quality standards - which is attested to by his signature on the AMG engine plate.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC with blipping function
This high-performance eight-cylinder engine has the perfect partner in the form of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. Equipped with AMG steering wheel shift paddles and three driving modes, the seven-speed automatic transmission allows a decidedly sporty or more comfort-oriented style of driving according to the driver's preference. The different modes - "S" (Sport), " C" (Comfort) and "M" (Manual) differ in their shift characteristics and speed: gearshifts in "S" mode are around 30 percent faster than in "C", and no less than around 50 percent faster in "M" mode. Pressing a button is sufficient to activate the desired driving programme.

The new C 63 AMG is the very first AMG car to feature an automatic throttle-blipping function during downshifts. This not only enhances the driver's emotional experience - the almost completely jolt-free downshifting process also reduces the load-change responses and has a particularly positive effect when braking before bends on the racetrack.

Redesigned front axle with 35-millimetre wider track
The C 63 AMG owes its outstanding handling dynamics to the AMG sports suspension and an all-new three-link front axle design. The stiff configuration of the springs and gas-pressure shock absorbers ensures optimal road contact and low body movements when negotiating serpentine bends at speed. The new front axle has a 35-millimetre wider track - visible by the more widely flared wheel arches - and therefore ensures lower dynamic wheel loads when cornering. A number of features make for substantially more stability and precision in all driving situations: the redesigned wheel location at the front axle is 100 percent more rigid, leading to a considerable improvement in steering precision. Another benefit makes itself felt when braking, as the new wheel location ensures an immediate response even under high dynamic stresses.

In combination with completely newly configured elasto-kinematics, the new wheel location provides greatly improved lateral dynamics and allows the driver of the C 63 AMG to benefit from significantly higher cornering speeds. A larger torsion bar stabiliser, new head bearings and dampers with rebound buffer springs further enhance this stability and precision. Steering feedback is also improved by the new kinematics. The speed-sensitive AMG sports steering has a ratio of 13.5:1, but feels more direct as a result of moving what is termed the instant centre of motion at the front axle. A more rigid Hardy disc in the steering column, as well as modified steering characteristics, make a further contribution to increased precision.

The multi-link independent rear suspension has also been thoroughly re-engineered, with a twelve-millimetre wider track and more camber leading to improved cornering performance. Reinforced drive shafts and drive joints increase fatigue strength and round off the improvements to the rear suspension of the C 63 AMG.
The completely newly developed AMG sports suspension combines outstanding handling dynamics with the long-distance comfort to be expected of a Mercedes - which also means that the C 63 AMG has the characteristic virtues of a genuine AMG.
18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, 19-inch wheel/tyre combination on request

The C 63 AMG is appropriately fitted with new, 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-spoke design. Painted in titanium grey, these high-sheen wheels in size 8.0 x 18 and 8.5 x 18 are shod with wide-base tyres in size 235/40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear). Even more dynamic handling is made possible by the optionally available 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design. The front wheels are in size 8.0 x 19 with 235/35 tyres, with 9.0 x 19 wheels and 255/30 R 19 tyres at the rear.

Generously dimensioned AMG high-performance braking system
Internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes all-round reside behind the spokes of the AMG wheels. The front brakes have size 360 x 36-millimetre discs with six-piston fixed callipers, while deceleration at the rear is by 330 x 26-millimetre discs with four-piston fixed callipers. The AMG high-performance braking system is characterised by great sensitivity and high fade-resistance.
3-stage ESPÒ with Sport function as a new feature in the C 63 AMG

The Electronic Stability Program ESPÒ is specifically configured for the dynamic performance of the C 63 AMG, which is the first AMG model to feature the 3-stage ESPÒ with a Sport function. This system offers three different control settings, and is a logical further development of the AMG ESPÒ philosophy. The ESP key in the centre console enables the driver to choose between three modes - "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF" - the currently active mode is shown in the central display of the AMG instrument cluster.
In "ESP ON" mode, the onset of handling instability leads to braking intervention at one or more of the wheels, accompanied by a reduction in engine torque. Briefly pressing the ESP key activates "ESP SPORT". In this mode the braking intervention to counter oversteer or understeer, as well as the accompanying reduction in engine torque, allows a higher dynamic threshold and, for instance, corresponding drift angles - which means that the driver of the C 63 AMG benefits from considerably more active driving pleasure. ESP Ò is restored to its normal function as soon as the brake pedal is operated.
Prolonged pressure on the ESP key activates "ESP OFF". There is no intervention to control the handling dynamics, and no reduction in engine torque - thus increasing driving enjoyment even further. "ESP OFF" should only be used by experienced drivers on dedicated racetracks. In this mode too, operating the brake pedal restores all the normal functions of ESPÒ.

The system's traction logic is active in all three ESP Ò modes. If one of the drive wheels threatens to spin, specific brake pressure is applied to create the effect of a mechanical differential lock. This means that the engine power is optimally transferred to the road.

More distinctive exterior design than ever before
It is not only in technological but also in visual terms that the new C 63 AMG is more distinctively different from the standard C-Class than ever before. The front end is dominated by the new bonnet with its two pronounced power domes, as well as the trademark AMG radiator grille with a central star and two louvres with chrome inserts. The honeycomb pattern of the grille is also reflected in the large air dams of the new, athletically contoured front apron which forms part of the AMG-specific bodystyling. The fog lamps with chrome surrounds are spaced well apart, acting together with the flared front wheel arches to accentuate the width of the car - with the striking transition from the front apron to the wings leaving a particularly strong impression. The side air vents in the front apron serve to expel the hot air from the oil coolers. If the C 63 AMG is specified with the optional bi-xenon headlamps or the Intelligent Light System, the headlamps are also dark-tinted.

Eye-catching features when viewed from the side include the 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, the harmoniously integrated "6.3 AMG" lettering on the front wing and the AMG side skirts. At the rear the standard LED rear lights, the AMG rear apron with its black diffuser insert and three pronounced diffuser fins, as well as the AMG sports exhaust system with two chrome twin tailpipes, provide further visual highlights that are hallmarks of the brand. The AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid reduces lift and ensures greater handling stability at high speeds.

AMG interior with new sports seats and performance steering wheel
This decidedly sporty theme is continued in the interior of the C 63 AMG, which now has special AMG sports seats with integral head restraints for the first time. The seats not only feature a new design with cross-piping and AMG lettering, but also an adaptive backrest with adjustments for the side bolsters and lumbar support. The standard upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/AMG fabric is available in a choice of black or reef grey - or as an option the interior can be further enhanced with particularly high-grade leather in black, reef grey or black/sahara beige. Perfect handling control is assured with the new AMG performance steering wheel in a three-spoke design, which has a rim diameter of 365 millimetres and a flattened lower section. The upper section is covered in perforated leather, and two silver AMG shift paddles enable the gears to be shifted manually.
AMG main menu with a wide variety of displays

The trademark AMG instrument cluster in a tubular design features newly styled dials, AMG-specific lettering and a new night-time design. Eye-catching details include the 320 km/h speedometer scale, AMG lettering, red needles and the "6.3 V8" logo in the rev counter. The AMG main menu in the central display allows numerous settings, with "Warm Up", "Set Up" and "RACE" modes activated via buttons on the AMG performance steering wheel. "Warm Up" displays the engine oil and coolant temperature, "Set Up" the current ESP Ò mode and the transmission mode "S", "C" or "M". "RACE" mode makes the RACETIMER available, with which the driver is able to measure lap times on a racetrack.

Development and design of the C 63 AMG
Creating a new car is a complex undertaking, and this certainly applies to the new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG whose conceptual phase commenced in 2004. This began with the fundamental feasibility study known as packaging. The new C 63 AMG was first constructed as a digital model, the engine, cooling system, fuel system, drive train and axles being "married" with the bodyshell to examine buildability. In spring 2005 the first 1:4-scale design models were produced on the basis of drawings and computer images, and in addition the first testing & development vehicles were already built on the basis of the preceding C 55 AMG. This made it possible to test major assemblies such as the drive train, brakes and axles. The latest onboard measuring technology provided valuable data such as engine oil, coolant and brake disc temperatures - but other aspects of interest were lap times e.g. on the north loop of the Nürburgring, as well as measurable, precisely defined handling manoeuvres to provide comparisons between different axle configurations. These tests were accompanied by extensive aerodynamic tests on the bodyshell of the C 63 AMG, and it was only then that the final design was approved.

Following approval of the concept in the autumn of 2005, the first fully-fledged prototypes of the C 63 AMG were built. At the same time the high-performance saloon was also produced as a digital prototype. Computer simulations made it possible for the "real" development prototypes to exhibit a very high level of maturity during the first rollout. These simulations included the most important vehicle functions, such as handling dynamics, the engine and drive train, bodyshell durability, suspension performance, passive safety, the engine's thermal characteristics and performance/fuel consumption.
From Affalterbach to every climatic zone on earth

The standardised and highly sophisticated AMG development and test programme for the C 63 AMG began in summer 2005. Over the next couple of years around 20 vehicles were dispatched all over the world from Mercedes-AMG GmbH in Affalterbach, to be subjected to strenuous tests in every climatic zone.

Test, analyse and optimise - that is the creed of the specialists at AMG to achieve the objectives laid down in the book of specifications. Another decisive aspect was an ongoing dialogue between Design and Development, so that any necessary technical modifications were also implemented in design terms.

The major test stages at a glance:

Development testing of the engine, transmission and drive train
Altitude tests in Denver, Colorado (USA), Lesotho (South Africa), Mont Ventoux (France) and Granada (Spain)
High temperature tests in Death Valley, California (USA), Upington (South Africa), Idiada proving ground (Spain) and Phoenix, Arizona (USA)
Driving trials in Los Angeles, California (USA)
Cold temperature tests in Arctic Falls (Sweden)

Development testing of the cooling and fuel systems
Various driving trials on the high-speed tracks in Nardo (Italy) and Papenburg
Trials in Upington (South Africa) and Death Valley, California (USA)
Tests in the DaimlerChrysler wind tunnel

Development testing of the braking and control systems

Brake testing on the high-speed track in Nardo (Italy) and the Grossglockner Alpine pass (Austria)

Testing of dynamic control systems on the Idiada proving ground (Spain), in Arjeplog (Sweden) and on the Boxberg proving ground

In addition various endurance trials are run, with the aim of simulating the vehicle's entire lifecycle under the most severe conditions:

North loop of the Nürburgring: The car's drive train, suspension, wheel location system, dynamic control systems, tyres and brakes are tested on the world's most demanding racetrack.

Long-term testing on different roads: All the components and systems are tested together in everyday operation. Loaded up to their permitted gross vehicle weight, the test cars are put through a precisely defined test programme on country roads, motorways and in city traffic.

Endurance testing on the DaimlerChrysler proving ground in Papenburg: Extreme acceleration and braking manoeuvres with a high proportion of full load operation, making extreme demands on the cooling and fuel delivery systems.

Endurance testing in the Swabian Alb region: The vehicles are loaded up to their permitted gross vehicle weight and driven on country roads with numerous uphill and downhill gradients, placing extreme loads on the transmission and drive train.

"Heide" endurance testing: (named after the poor post-war roads across the "Lüneburger Heide"): 2000 kilometres of extreme trials on the test track or on state-of-the-art test rigs. In this case the focus of the developers is on the durability of the drive train components, the entire bodyshell and the integral subframe on which the front axle, steering and engine are mounted. The test cars are loaded up to their permitted gross vehicle weight.

These tests are supplemented with extensive crash simulations and real crash tests, to provide the necessary evidence for country-specific certifications without which no registration would be possible. The end result is final vehicle approval - the green light for the launch of the C 63 AMG.

Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG
Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement
8/V, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement
6208 cc
Bore x stroke 102.2 x 94.6mm

Rated output
kW/hp: 336/457 at 6800 rpm
Rated torque
600Nm at 5000 rpm
Compression ratio: 11.3 : 1
Mixture formation
Microprocessor controlled petrol injection, HFM

Power transfer
Drive

Standard drive
Transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic
Ratios

Final drive 1st gear 2nd gear 3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear 6th gear 7th gear Reverse
2.85
4.38
2.86
1.92
1.37
1.00
0.82
0.73
-3.42/-2.23


Running gear

Front axle
Three-link suspension, anti-dive, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser

Rear axle
Multi-link independent suspension, anti-squat and anti-lift, coil springs, gas-pressure shock absorbers, stabiliser

Braking system
Disc brakes all round, internally ventilated and blind-drilled, foot-operated parking brake at rear, ABS, Brake Assist, 3-stage ESP®

Steering
Speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering, steering damper
Wheels
Front: 8.0 J x 18; rear: 9.0 J x 18
Tyres Front: 235/40 ZR 18; rear: 255/35 ZR 18

Dimensions and weights
Wheelbase: 2765mm
Track width front/rear: 1568/1525mm
Overall length: 4725mm
Overall width: 1795mm
Overall height: 1438mm
Turning circle: 10.8m
Boot capacity* 475l
Kerb weight acc. to EC: 1730 kg
Payload: 505 kg
Perm. gross vehicle weight: 2200 kg
Tank capacity/reserve 66/8l
Performance and fuel consumption
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 4.5 s
Top speed: 250**km/h

All figures are provisional; * Acc. to VDA measuring method; ** Electronically governed

Related:
New Mercedes C-Class, Officially [internal]

We totally heart the enthusiasm of automotive enthusiasts when they get breathlessly enthusiastic! For instance, we've got the above video taken by an amateur AMG-lover of the Mercedes C63 AMG. Although we're expecting the C63 AMG to drop the fascia obscura and make its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, thanks to the fan-boy flick above you'll be able to hear the sounds of that 6.3-liter V8 engine well before that. Effusive commentary provided at no additional charge. – Ray Wert

[via WorldCarFans]

Related:
Spy Video: Mercedes C 63 AMG; Spy Photos: Mercedes C63 AMG [internal]

SPY PHOTOS: Mercedes C 63 AMG Wagon [World Car Fans]

Related:
B-Roll of the Day: BMW M5 Touring [internal]

With the new Mercedes C-Class already in view, it's nearly time to welcome a few choice variants. The newest of those will be the wagon, natch, and the C63 AMG. The latter will likely be the first C-Class to leave the factory with with over 400 hp. Shoehorned into the engine compartment, by way of the very latest creams and jellies, will be a slightly detuned version of the stomping 6.3-liter AMG V8 producing around 420bhp, say spies. We'll see it — and the BMW M3 that'll sweat its presence — at the Frankfurt auto show later this year. – Mike Spinelli

SPY PHOTOS: Mercedes C63 AMG [World Car Fans]

Related:
New Mercedes C-Class, Officially; Spy Video: Mercedes C 63 AMG; Spy Photos: Mercedes C63 AMG [internal]

The boys at Streetfire.net just put up this video of a new Mercedes C 63 AMG, caught on video during hot-weather testing. The Merc will be a screamer, though you'd never know it from this mild-mannered coupe clad in leather Zorro maskage. No audible burble from the new V8, either, I'm afraid.

Related:
Coupe d'Gracious: Mercedes-Benz CL 63 AMG [internal]

The UK's Autocar has shots of what is likely the newest Mercedes C-Class 'bahn burner, the C63 AMG, in which will be fitted Merc's new, hand-signed 6.3-liter V8. Consider the impact of 510 horsepower on the small-car platform, already a smoker in its C55 guise. Problem is the C63 will reportedly be available in very limited number. Just enough to make mere mortals tremble before its diminutively god-like comportment. Beh.

New Mercedes C-Class AMG Spotted [eMercedesBenz]

Related:
Spy Photos: Mercedes 2007 S63 AMG [internal]