Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG: C63/C63S General Information and Specifications
Sometimes, the differences between two models are big and noticeable, but other times they are more subtle. Read about what differentiates a Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG C63 and an AMG C63 S.
This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG C63/C63S (2014-present).
At first glance, you may not be able to see the subtle differences between the Mercedes-Benz C63 and the C63 S. But once you dig deeper into the specification sheet, you'll see the variants that make these two models rather different from each other. Although when you are trying to compare two already very capable models, some of the different characteristics may be better felt behind the wheel than by visually inspecting the car.
For the new Mercedes-Benz W205 C63 AMG, Mercedes has opted to split their high performance luxury sedan into two different models: the C63 AMG and C63 AMG S. And although the physical dimensions of the exterior and interior remain the same, there are major changes under the hood, drivetrain and software programming of the car. Below is a guide that outlines the main differences between these two models.
C63 AMG and C63 AMG S General Specifications
The AMG C63 and C63 S are identical as far as dimensions and are most definitely a step up from the previous generation, mainly in terms of refinement, capability and performance. The new C AMG generation has grown in size and weight in comparison to its predecessor, but don't let that fool you; not only is the new C AMG faster, it is also more fuel-efficient. The difference adds up to 122 pounds, over a 4 inch increase in length and 1 1/2 in width; it's 32% more efficient than its predecessor. It's also worth mentioning that Mercedes-Benz has produced a "Launch Edition" C63 AMG S that will feature red accents in the wheels, front grille and rear diffuser.
You will also find that the AMG C63 S is equipped with an even more aggressive front and rear fascia, as well as black and wider wheels. There are also fine tweaks to the engine software performance that will be described later in this article. In total, the C63 S shaves two tenths of a second from 0-60mph from the non-S C63.
Price differences between the two are from $75,000 for a well-optioned C63 AMG, to almost $88,000 for the S model.
Figure 1. AMG C63. 
Figure 2. AMG C63 S.
Performance
This is where you see differences between the two, in terms of horsepower, prevail. Below is a breakdown of the performance characteristics of the two.
| C63 AMG | C63 AMG S | |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinders | 8 | 8 |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive | Rear wheel drive |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic | 7-speed automatic |
| Curb weight | 1,715 lbs. | 1,730 lbs. |
| Horsepower | 470 hp | 502 hp |
| Torque | 479 lb-ft. | 479 lb-ft. |
Figure 3. AMG C63 in action. 
Figure 4. AMG C63 S engine.
Transmission
Both AMG models share the same AMG Speedshift seven-speed automatic transmission. But the behavior if the aforementioned can drastically change in behavior depending on which driving mode or setting the car is set to. Normal, Sport, and Sport + will make the transmission go from smooth and seamless shifting, to banging and aggressive shifts in Sport settings. And on the C63 AMG S, there is also a Race mode, which increases the speed of the shift to just 27 milliseconds, raises the rev limiter, and matches revs on downshifts. The transmission can be used in two different ways, via the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, or via shifter on the center bridge. Either will deliver the same performance, but for the ultimate Formula One feel and maximum concentration, the paddle shifters are definitely the choice of most drivers. Many enthusiasts have complained of the new AMG generation not having a full manual mode, but in fact, it does have a fully manual mode on Race mode on the "S." But for fuel efficiency and comfort, it will reset every time shifts aren't being handled as they should.
Figure 5. Paddle shifters. 
Figure 6. C63 AMG 7-speed transmission.
Related Discussion and Sites
- Mercedes Benz C AMG Transmission - MBWorld.org
- C63 AMG S Overview - Caranddriver.com
- Mercedes Benz C AMG Specifications - Ultimatespecs.com
