Even though we drove the new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé last month, and loved it, we always knew it was just an appetiser. The support act for the main show. And the star has just entered the building – put your hands together for the new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Black Series.
It’s the most powerful C-Class of all time, boasting a maximum output of 517bhp and a maximum torque of 620Nm. Its V8 engine ensures the Black Series accelerates from zero to 100kph in just 4.2 seconds, which is three-tenths quicker than an Audi RS5, and two-tenths ahead of the BMW M3 GTS, the hardcore version. And that’s understandable, because the Merc is also a lot more powerful, 67bhp stronger in fact.
Not only does it demolish quarter-miles, it also does corners, specially with the optional AMG Track Package including sportier tyres and active rear-axle transmission cooling. Then there’s the AMG Aerodynamics package which throws in flics, a functionally tuned front splitter and an adjustable carbon-fibre rear aerofoil.
To get those numbers from the 6.2-litre V8, engineers turned to their SLS AMG darling and copy-pasted most of its good bits. Still flying the natural aspiration flag high, AMG refined the lump with forged pistons, connecting rods and the crankshaft straight out of the SLS. The Black Series also got a new ECU to control the oily bits, and optimised engine oil cooling ensures the blistering performance is available reliably, and more of the time.
The transmission is the tried-and-trusted seven-speed unit, featuring four modes including a double-declutching function and launch control. Could the BMW M3 finally be ousted? We don’t know, but you certainly won’t find us placing any bets against the Black.
