The Cult of Personality: Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Edition 63
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MULGRAVE, AUSTRALIA - August 6, 2009:German sports car maker Mercedes-AMG has enhanced its model arsenal with a more focused version of its compact sledgehammer. Its name: the C 63 AMG- Edition 63.
Having set the benchmark with its Australian debut in March last year at the iconic Bathurst motor racing circuit, the C 63 AMG has gone on to become both a runaway success for Mercedes-Benz and a beacon for the brand in this hotly contested segment. Its cult-like following has been well documented and its ability to attract buyers seeking a genuine driving experience has seen the model break local sales records. But, as with many good addictions, more was needed.
Enter the Edition 63.
About to be built in strictly limited
numbers, this latest masterpiece of handy-work from the cult firm’s
own PERFORMANCE STUDIO sees the C 63 AMG surface hardened and machined with
a sharper edge, featuring a variety of enhancements over and above the
standard C 63 AMG.
Starting with the car's powertrain, its performance credentials are already firmly established. It has a 336kW V8-powered punch. From the first bolt to the last, its 6208cc V8 engine has been developed entirely by AMG. It is hand-built and signed by its constructor at its German factory and its impressive 600Nm of torque ensures a 0-100km/h time of 4.5 seconds (sedan model; 4.6 seconds for the estate).
This high-performance engine, which triumphed at this year's International Engine of the Year Awards, blends large displacement and high speed (RPM) in a light-weight package using materials, design and manufacturing techniques from the world of motor racing. In fact, compared to its Bavarian rival, it makes around nine percent more power and, staggeringly, 50 percent more torque.
Transmitting all of this is the standard-fitment seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC gearbox.
Ensuring maximum accelerative traction in the Edition 63 is AMG's locking differential. Providing 40 percent locking effect under load, this mechanical locking unit optimises rear grip when accelerating from each corner's exit.
Race-derived handling is from the model's proven three-link front suspension, specially designed for this AMG range-leader in the award-winning C-Class. Partnered with the marque’s multi-link rear suspension system the Edition 63s ride ensures high levels of cornering grip with comfort.
DTM-style 19-inch alloy wheels provide not only sufficient brake cooling but unique styling. Not available on the standard C 63 AMG, these stunning multi-spoke wheels are painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and wear high-performance tyres measuring 235/35 R19 on the front and 255/30 R19 on the rear.
The industrial strength theme continues with the model's exterior.
Three designo paint colours are available, all exclusive
to this limited-edition model. Customers after a glassy mirror finish can
choose from either designo Platinum Black or designo Mystic White. Those
seeking a harder edge to their car's look can opt for the stunning
designo magno Allanite Grey finish. This special colour is a matte finish,
creating a tougher appearance and a unique-to-its segment paint type for
what is certainly one of the world's stealthiest sports cars.
Dark tinted privacy glass is also fitted to the estate version, a factory feature first seen at last year's Classic Adelaide rally.
Inside, the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO has made a number of changes to the Edition 63.
Customers can select one of two unique upholstery colours in soft designo leather designo sand or designo classic red. These tones are complemented by extended black leather appointments on the dashboard, which features a contrasting stitching in the upholstery colour. The door armrests and centre arm rest feature double-stitching.Illuminated door sills with blue lighting adorn the entry to the front seats. Finishing the interior details are AMG floor mats and the AMG marque's own crest engraved on top of the gearshift lever.
Optional extras are limited. There are none.
The numbers are also limited.Only 63 will be made.
The first of these powerhouses will be delivered to Australian customers this December, just in time for Christmas. They are expected to sell quickly.
What's more, this model's exclusivity is not confined to its build quantity. It will be exclusive to Australia.
The C 63 AMG - Edition 63 has been specifically built for the Australian market and no other. Senior executives from the German go-fast company's headquarters in Affalterbach gave the short-run production project the green light based on several factors, including customer feedback, Australia's AMG sales rate, and the model's sheer popularity down under. No other market has been granted this exclusively specified, tailored and identified model.
The very specific customer feedback gathered during last year's tarmac rally debut of the C 63 AMG sedan and estate played a significant role in the specification of the unique-to-Australia Edition 63. Incidentally, Mercedes-Benz enjoys an unbroken thirteen year involvement with the annual Classic Adelaide rally.
The essential facts: Product highlights of the C 63 AMG Edition 63
Performance enhancements
Exterior styling
Interior styling
Comfortfeatures