Last drinks for petrol V8s in C63 S, E63 S Final Editions
BY PETER BARNWELL
The party is over… the high-octane petrol party that is as even (formerly) benzene driven Mercedes-AMG starts an electrification program for all its performance models.
That snarling 375kW AMG petrol V8 doesn’t have long to go before falling off the twig as a plethora of either mild hybrid, more serious hybrid drive petrol/electric systems or full electrified performance cars take pride of place in the AMG showroom.
It will cause more than one teary eye among a legion of petrol head AMG owners grown accustomed to waking their neighbours with a blatting exhaust note when returning home at 3.00am.
So, the word is: get in soon or you’ll miss the boat.
Mercedes-AMG is embracing the new and will honour the end of non-hybridised turbocharged V8s in the C63 S and E63 S with three special Final Edition models available to order from February 1.
The C63 S Cabriolet, C63 S Coupe and E63 S 4Matic+ Sedan Final Editions will feature an appearance and equipment makeover to commemorate the brand’s move toward what it says are “highly efficient powerplants inspired by Formula 1 technology”.
Though having zilch to do with ‘63’ anything, Mercedes-AMG will replace the V8 engine offered in the C63 variants listed with a 500kW four-cylinder plug-in hybrid unit from the new C63 S Sedan.
The duo will also adopt new nomenclature and will be referred to as the CLE-Class in their next generation and it is understood the E63 S Sedan will also receive a hybridised driveline.
For the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet Final Edition (from $239,000 plus on-road costs) is Manufaktur Graphite Grey Magno paintwork complemented by yellow and dark grey decals, an exterior carbon package, and cross-spoke alloy wheels measuring 19 inches in diameter up front and 20 inches at the rear. The model also gains ceramic front brakes.
Inside, the C63 S Cabriolet Final Edition scores AMG Performance front seats and steering wheel, the upholstery comprising a combination of grey and black Nappa leather with contrasting yellow stitching. The cabin is finished in a combination of dark aluminium and matte carbon-fibre with a Final Edition badge featuring on the centre console.
The C63 Coupe Final Edition (from $218,400 + ORC) receives the same appointments as the Cabriolet Final Edition, as well as an additional Final Edition badge located externally on the C-pillar.
Although it has not advised overall numbers, Mercedes-AMG says a highly limited number of both vehicles will be brought to Australia.
Mechanically, the rear-wheel driven Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet and Coupe Final Editions are otherwise identical to their donor cars with a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine developing 375kW and 700Nm.
The larger, all-wheel drive Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4Matic+ Sedan Final Edition (from $311,900 + ORC) is also defined by Manufaktur Graphite Grey Magno paintwork, decals on the side skirts, the exterior carbon package and 20-inch AMG cross-spoke alloy wheels.
Performance wise, an AMG ceramic braking system and multi beam LED headlights are included.
Mercedes-AMG has kitted out the interior of the E63 S 4Matic+ Sedan Final Edition with AMG Performance front seats finished in Nappa grey or black with contrasting yellow stitchwork and an AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in leather and Dinamica.
Carbon trim features throughout while technology additions include a driver assistance package and an MBUX augmented reality overlay for the satellite navigation system.
The E63 Final Edition also features an AMG emblem on the external C-pillar and a Final Edition badge on the centre console. Again, a strictly limited number of this vehicle is planned for introduction to Australia.
Like the C63 S duo, the E63 S 4Matic+ Sedan Final Edition is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
All three are expected to be collectable cars before they roll off the wharf.
Protect your Classic. Call Shannons Insurance on 13 46 46 to get a quote today.
