Mercedes showrooms to debut 2012 C63 AMG Coupe in America by September

The new 2012 C63 AMG Coupe is designed by Mercedes-AMG, combining distinctive design with a powerful drivetrain and dynamic handling.

According to the media release, the AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine in the C63 AMG Coupe delivers a maximum output of 451 hp and peak torque of 443 lb-ft which makes the coupe capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

When equipped with the AMG Development Package, the engine generates 481 hp. This optional package improves acceleration from 0 to 60 mph to 4.3 seconds thanks to technology transferred from the SLS AMG. The forged pistons, connecting rods and lightweight crankshaft adopted from the gullwing model's high-tech drive system save 6.6 pounds in weight. This reduces rotational inertia and enhances the agility and responsiveness of the high-revving, eight-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. Top speed increases as well to 174 mph (electronically limited).

Visually, the AMG performance package can be identified by the variable intake manifold finished in titanium grey under the hood, the AMG high-performance braking system with two-piece front rotors and red painted brake calipers, the carbon fiber trunk lid spoiler and the AMG performance steering wheel in premium leather with an Alcantara® grip area.

The new coupe shares all the technology updates from the 2012 C63 AMG Sedan and especially features the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with standard "Controlled Efficiency" mode, and a new power steering pump that helps to reduce fuel consumption.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission provides direct and agile power delivery. In place of the traditional torque converter, this innovative transmission features a compact, wet start-up clutch which reduces the power losses normally associated with conventional automatic transmissions, and is key to significantly lowering fuel consumption. The Controlled Efficiency "C" mode provides early, comfortable upshifts while maintaining the lowest possible engine speed and "soft" accelerator characteristics to help improve fuel economy.

The exclusive Mercedes-AMG power transmission offers a high level of versatility and performance. The "S", "S+" and "M" modes deliver increased agility and are selected via the new rotary control knob familiar from the SLS AMG. Faster gear changes and higher revs add to the emotional experience as well as rev-matching in "S", "S+" and "M" modes. Gear changes in the "S+" and "M" modes take just 100 milliseconds and the RACE START function allows the driver to harness the vehicle's full acceleration capability.

It’s not just the engine and MCT transmission which influence the C63 AMG Coupe’s aggressive character – the AMG sports suspension and AMG high-performance braking system are also key here.

The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with a direct ratio (13.5: 1) provides excellent road feel and contributes to the nimble driving experience. The precise steering is complemented by three-stage ESP¨, the Electronic Stability Program that enables three individual control strategies to be accessed at the touch of a button.

Visually, the coupe version of the C63 AMG has a confident, athletic presence that is reminiscent of the high-performance SL63 AMG roadster. The C63 AMG Coupe has a sinister low profile, powerful shoulderline and a narrow C-pillar, combined with short overhangs, long hood, steeply raked windshield and long, sloping roof.

Inside, the instrument cluster with integrated screen immediately recalls the new CLS63 AMG with three separate round gauges providing information on speed, engine rpm, fuel level, and coolant temperature. Other display options are available through the AMG main menu accessible via the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel. The three-dimensional TFT color display located inside the speedometer welcomes the driver by showing an AMG logo.

For more information, visit media.mbusa.com or wait to see the coupe in person at your local Mercedes-Benz dealer.
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About the Author: After 39 years in the auto industry as a design engineer, Frank Sherosky now trades stocks and writes articles, books and ebooks via authorfrank.com, but may be contacted here by email: [email protected]

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