Officially flipping their lids in New York, the 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet and its more potent C63 S-spec sibling showcased the hottest takes to date on the new C-Class convertible. Boasting additional power and edgier looks than the new Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabriolet that debuted in Geneva, this drop-top duo expands on the dynamic character of that vehicle to serve up a more scintillating driving experience.
Two flavors of fast
Like their 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 and C63 S Coupe counterparts, these new C-Class convertibles are fitted with an AMG-spec 4.0-liter V8 Biturbo that cranks out 469-horsepower in the C63 and 503-horses in the C63 S. Here too, both versions of this handbuilt V8 reside in dynamic engine mounts that instantly adapt their stiffness match changing driving conditions and feature model-specific exhaust systems with unique sonic signatures.
Cog changing chores in the C63 and C63 S are handled by a paddle-shift 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT sport automatic transmission with AMG Dynamic Select Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, and in the case of the C63 S, Race modes. Power gets shipped to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential mechanically controlled in the C63 and electronically actuated in the C63 S. The latter setup also offers a 3-stage ESP system with On/Off/Sport Handling modes. As for straight-line quickness, the C63 Cabriolet streaks to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and is electronically limited to 155 mph while the AMG C63 S needs just 4.0 ticks to reach that benchmark and tops out at an also-electronically-limited 186 mph.
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Both the C63 and C63 S have AMG-spec Ride Control sport suspension systems that feature driver-selectable, tri-mode (Comfort/Sport/Sport+) adaptive damping and wider track dimensions. The C63 rolls on 18-inch staggered-width light alloy wheels wrapped in 255/40 front and 285/30 rear performance tires while the C63 S comes with 19-inch alloys that mount 255/35 and 285/30 rubber. Bigger brakes enhance stopping power on both, with the C63 S also offering optional carbon ceramic front binders.
A look that’s a blast of fast
These new AMG-spec C-Class entries follow a pretty familiar styling path gaining a selection of aero-enhancing AMG-designed body bits ranging from a bolder front fascia, deeper front splitter and unique grille insert to twin power domes on the extended hood, a decklid spoiler lip and functional rear diffuser framed by chrome-finished dual-paired exhaust outlets. The profile sports more prominently flared fenders linked by deeply sculpted side sills while from the beltline up, the C63/C63 C share the same bits as other C-Class Cabriolets. A multilayer fabric power soft top resides under a hard tonneau when the vehicle is operating in al fresco mode, at which point the tasteful matte-chrome element that surrounds the passenger compartment comes into full view.
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The same AMG influence is evident in the 4-place cabin, which features unique AMG instrumentation and a 3-spoke multifunction Performance steering wheel, sport seats and aluminum trim accents along with M-B’s Airscarf neck heating system. Beyond grippy AMG Performance seats, the C63 and C63 S Cabriolets offer custom two-tone Nappa leather upholstery, a Head-Up display and carbon fiber interior/exterior kits as well as regular C-Class options from Comand Navigation & Voice Control to a Burmester Premium Sound System. At launch, the C63 S Cabriolet also will offer an exclusive “Edition 1” variant. Finished in designo Cashmere White with the Night Package, the Edition 1 will come with Performance seats trimmed in saddle brown/black heat-reflecting AMG Nappa leather. The 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 and C63 S Cabriolets are due this fall, with pricing released closer to the on-sale date.
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