?2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG Sedan?
An exquisitely styled Bad Ass Luxury Benz

Choose your poison ? the Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG is available in three different configurations: Coupe, Convertible or Sedan. All are classified as a compact vehicle by the EPA. We?ll deal here with the sedan version Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG.

Powering this so-called entry level compact beast of a sedan is a longitudinally front mounted, hand-built and signed (one man/one engine) 4.0-liter, DOHC, 32-valve Bi-Turbocharged V8 engine with Direct Injection and multi-spark ignition that pumps out a whopping 503 horsepower in a range from 5,500-6,250 rpm, while also developing an impressive 516 pound feet of torque from 1,750-4,500 rpm. An AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters handles shifting chores, gearing the engine?s motive force to the rear wheels. The gearbox utilizes a wet startup clutch in place of a torque converter, improving both performance and efficiency. It is capable of firing off 0.1-second upshifts as well as rev-matched downshifts in its manual mode and is able to launch with more force than a torque converter automatic is able to and it can handle more torque than a dual-clutch transmission.

The composite engine cover is minimal rendering the Hot V bank positioned turbochargers plainly visible.

The performance level of the C63 S AMG may be custom set by the diver, utilizing a Dynamic Select Wheel in the center console to choose the desired operational attitude. The settings include: an Individual, customizable format; Comfort; Sport; Sport+; and Race mode. Throttle response, transmission programming and shift points; the firmness of the suspension dampers; and Traction Control. Add AMG?s Performance or Active Exhaust feature and settings of Sport and above, result in less restriction and a more raucous (and pleasing) note. The car is capable of ripping from 0-60 mph in a scant 3.9 seconds, with atop speed capability of 180 mph compared to the non-AMG C63 that goes from 0-60 in 4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. Launch Control is available in both Sport+ and Race modes. Operation is simple, pull back on both shift paddles for activation of the system, brake fully, nail the throttle and quickly release the brake for maximum take-off.

The suspension?s firmness has been increased and the wheel track widened for enhanced stability. The wheels and tires are staggered with a more adhesive compound resulting in a better grip. The front Sport seats are comfortable and highly supportive during spirited maneuvers.

While the exterior design and styling are elegant, sophisticated, luxurious and sexy with crisp angles and character lines and tasteful use of chrome, the cabin exudes an equally appealing ambience, especially with the designo? treatment featuring Saddle Brown Nappa Leather seating and door panels with quilted stitching with contrasting Beige thread and loads of carbon fiber trim accents. Front seat are heated, but alas, there?s no massage feature, which is reserved for upper echelon Benz vehicles.

Unfortunately, the C63 models utilize an older and less user friendly version of Benz?s COMAND. Also unfortunate, one must make a choice between the $2,200 Navigation package or $300 Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It seems that one can’t have both ? Strange. This will likely change down the road, but hey, this is a C-Class and not an S-Class.

My test 2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG sedan sported a sinister Obsidian Black metallic exterior with the already described designo? cabin treatment. The base sticker was set at $73,700. The final count and amount rang up at the register at $96,670. After factoring in all of the options and Destination and Delivery charge. Options included: AMG Carbon Ceramic Braking System; AMG Performance Exhaust System; AMG Track Pace App; Head-Up display; AMG Performance seats; 19-inch AMG forged Cross-spoke alloy wheels; Exterior Carbon Fiber Package; designo? leather interior elements; Advanced lighting Package; Multi-media Package; Advanced Parking Assist Package; and Driver Assist Package. Wow, $100,000 plus for a C-Class Benz after tax and license might be one?s initial reaction, but this is not simply a C-Class folks ? It?s a super C-class.

SUMMARY: It would not be improper to categorize the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG sedan as an entry-level super car. It has nearly everything one could possibly want unless you happen to be a techno-geek, as there?s a little room for improvement in the technology department.

The C63 S AMG delivers stimulating good looks (it?s a real head-turner), stellar performance attributes, comfort and convenience goodies by the boatload.

Acceleration is great, braking is great, steering is positively on point with good feedback and the ride quality may be dialed in at various levels to facilitate an appropriate feel.

In the final scheme of things, the MBZ C63 S AMG sedan is a highly desirable mode of transportation across the board and it costs less than the S Class. What more could you ask for from the Tri Star camp?

SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 S Sedan

Base Price: $73,700.
Price as Tested: $96,670.

Engine Type and Size: Handcrafted 4.0-liter, DOHC, 32-valve Bi-Turbocharged V8 with Direct Injection and multi-spark ignition.

Horsepower (bhp): 503 @ 5,500-6,250 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 516 @ 1,750-4,500 rpm

Transmission: AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

Drive Train: Longitudinally mounted front engine / Rear-Wheel Drive.

Suspension: AMG RIDE CONTROL Sport Suspension features a lighter; more rigid 4-wheel multilink design with AMG-developed springs and electronically controlled shock absorbers with 3-stage variable damping.

Brakes: Power-assisted, adaptive braking technology, Auto Brake drying, 4-wheel ABS, EBD, BA, Hill Start Assist,and Brake hold feature.

Tires: Michelin Pilot Super Sport M01 High Performance? 245/35 ZR 19×8.5? 93Y Front / 265/35 ZR19x9.5? 98Y rear mounted on 9-?Y?-spoke alloys with machine face and painted inners.

Wheelbase: 111.8 inches
Length Overall: 187.0 inches
Width: 72.4 inches – without mirrors
Height: 56.1 inches
Curb Weight: 3,856 lbs.
Turning Circle: 37.1 ft.
Fuel Capacity: 17.4 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
Drag Coefficient: 0.33
0 – 60 mph: 3.9 seconds

Arv Voss is a Northern California based freelance motoring Journalist and member and past officer of several noted Automotive Journalist organizations who contributes regularly to a number of national and international media outlets. He reviews not only cars, trucks and SUVs, but motorcycles and unusual wheeled vehicles as well.