Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Estate: German Battle Wagon

Motoring Channel Staff - 6/September/2007

Stuttgart, Germany — It's a hugely powerful wagon, developing peak power of more than 330kW @ 6800rpm, and if the official stats are to be trusted it'll be able to keep pace with the brand new Audi RS 6.

This is one of Stuttgart's coolest wagons, and was launched at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The zero to 100km/h run will take just 4.6 seconds for this Merc. Moreover, it'll be cheaper than the Audi RS 6 as well, and also rear-wheel drive as opposed to the AWD Audi, which could work in its favour among enthusiasts. It'll also feature a 7-speed automatic transmission, and a high performance brake system.

Almost identical to the tub-thumping C63 AMG sedan, this version gets the wagon treatment with an extended boot and increased practicality, but loses none of the aggression. The large alloy wheels, the angry bodykit and improved suspension and brakes are all there. As is the monstrous engine. 

Powered by a 6.2-litre V8 engine with AMG modifications, the car kicks out more than 330kW of power and a stunning 600Nm of torque, making the Audi RS 4 Avant and (upcoming) BMW M3 Estate look soft in comparison.

The sedan does the zero to 100km/h run in 4.5 seconds, and the wagon will achieve the same speed one tenth of second slower, taking 4.6 seconds. As with all Mercedes cars, it will be speed limited to 250km/h.

Press Release (Source: Mercedes-Benz)

Following in the Saloon's footsteps, the C 63 AMG Estate is now also due to be launched. Under the bonnet with its distinctive power domes, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers effortless acceleration. The high-revving naturally aspirated engine sets the benchmark in this segment with its maximum output of 457hp @ 6800rpm and maximum torque of 600Nm at 5000rpm. The unique high-performance estate accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds; top speed is 155mph (electronically limited).

Power is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC. Equipped with AMG steering wheel gearshift paddles and the three driving modes “C”, “S” and “M”, the seven-speed automatic transmission delivers a decidedly sporty or comfort-focused ride depending on the driver’s tastes. The automatic throttle-blipping function when downshifting is another innovation. In conjunction with the all-new front axle, the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering and the new 3-stage ESP, the AMG sports suspension provides maximum driving pleasure and superb driving dynamics. The AMG high-performance braking system with large internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes all round provides optimum stopping power even during particularly dynamic driving. The standard specification includes 18-inch five-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with 235/40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear) wide-base tyres. 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels shod with 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) tyres are available as an option.

• Design and appointments: more distinctive than ever
  
  The design and appointments on the new C 63 AMG Estate are comfortably on a par with the sophisticated technology. The top-of-the-line AMG eight-cylinder model has been differentiated more clearly than ever from the series-production C-Class: typical hallmarks of the brand come in the shape of AMG bodystyling, the bonnet with power domes, the distinctive AMG radiator grille, the flared front wings, the AMG rear apron with its black diffusor insert and the AMG sports exhaust system with two sets of chromed twin tailpipes. The interior feel is dominated by the distinctive AMG sports seats with integral head restraints, the three-spoke AMG performance steering wheel with its flat underside and small 365 mm rim, and the tube-style AMG instrument cluster with its AMG-specific main menu. As an alternative to the standard-fit aluminium trim elements, AMG carbon trim can also be ordered as an option for the C 63 AMG Estate.

• Largest load compartment in its class with up to 1500 litres

  The load capacity of the C 63 AMG Estate ranges from 485 to 1500 litres (VDA measuring method) depending on the position of the 1/3:2/3-split rear seat backrests which can be folded forwards. No other car in the premium estate segment of this vehicle class can match this capacity. Standard equipment includes bag hooks and four anchoring lugs to secure the load, side stowage compartments with covers, a collapsible shopping crate as well as a combined luggage cover and retaining net. The new EASY-PACK tailgate opens and closes at the push of a button. The market launch of the C 63 AMG Estate is scheduled for the start of 2008; sales price incl. 19% VAT is EUR 69,853. 

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- Mercedes-Benz New C-Class (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster (2007)
- Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG (2008)
- Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (2007)
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- Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (2006)