First Drive: 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe

Mercedes' C63 AMG Coupe Picks Up Where BMW Leaves Off Timing is key. Mercedes-Benz's new C-Class Coupe will arrive in the U.S. this fall, half a year before archrival BMW replaces its 3 Series, including the coupe, the most consistently successful such two-door in this class. While BMW typically needs a full year between a new 3 Series introduction and a new M3 hot rod, AMG already has the proper engine, the 6.2-liter "63," plus all the other mods, including chassis and bodywork, from the well-established C63 sedan and not-for-U.S. wagon, so its hot rod will launch concurrently with the new C-Coupe bodystyle. Both the new C-Class Coupe and its AMG variant fill many gaps beyond the one BMW is about to create. They take the place of the moderately successful CLK-Class, which Mercedes replaced with the larger, costlier E-Class coupe. The C-Coupe fills in the size category between the 1 Series/1M and the 3 Series/M3, the latter of which was stretched to a larger size than the 3 sedan because BMW nearly called it the 4 Series. Mercedes still has the Audi A5/S5 to contend with, though they aren't nearly as iconic or powerful as the Bavarian brand's coupe. With BMW prepared to downsize the M3's engine back to six cylinders, this time with twin turbos, and enthusiasts worried the 3's chassis and steering will get the same treatment as Series 5 and 7, the timing couldn't be better for a 451-horsepower V-8 under the hood of a tight new C-Class coupe. Those of you yearning for even more power can choose a version of the C63 coupe with what AMG calls a "development package" that adds the SLS AMG's lighter pistons, rod, and crankshaft, subtracting weight and adding engine speed and 30 more peak horsepower for a higher top speed. AMG estimates a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 4.4 seconds for the 451-horse version and 4.3 seconds for the 481-horsepower version. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, though if you add the optional Driver's Package, the limiter cuts off at 174 mph and the giddy new owner gets free driver training thrown in to keep him or her off the curbs. Motor Trend Rating:

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