Mercedes-Benz C63 2012 Review

Sometimes things just seem ... odd. Like when Mercedes-Benz trotted out the incredibly exclusive C63 AMG Black Series coupe -- and it was white.

VALUE

Only 32 of the C63 Black Series cars are being imported to Australia plus another three for our Kiwi cousins in New Zealand. They're priced at $245,000 apiece but unfortunately they've all been sold, such is the demand for this unique motor car.

It's the third in a string of Black series models to be offered by Benz in Australia and follows on the heels of the CLK 63 AMG Black Series in 2008 (40 units for Australia/NZ) and the awesome SL 65 AMG Black Series in 2009 (7 units for Australia/NZ).

Each of C63 Black Series comes with a certificate of authenticity, along with a letter of provenance signed by Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific verifying the limited edition status of the vehicle.

TECHNOLOGY

The highlight of the car is a killer 6.2-litre V8 that produces 380kW and 620Nm of torque  an increase of 44kW and 20Nm respectively compared with a standard C63.

The V8 is hooked up to a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT wet clutch transmission, with a rear diff lock and 50 per cent larger oil cooler.

DRIVING

The dash from 0-100km/h takes just 4.2 seconds (or 3.9 secs with special tyres fitted)  just a tenth slower than the incredible SLS. It has a top speed of 300km/h.

DESIGN

Interestingly the coupe can be ordered as a two or four-seater, depending on your fancy and is equipped with flashy red seat belts. Most customers have ordered the two seat version. The car is visually different too, with a wider track front and rear and a secondary front spoiler with weird looking cooling fins called `flics' attached at either side.

It rides on special 19 inch alloys fitted with 255/35 front and 285/30 Dunlop rubber. A large adjustable rear wing takes pride of place on the rear deck and can be manually tilted four degrees to provide greater downforce for track work. Although all the cars have been sold Benz reveals it is hoping to get hold of another dozen.

VERDICT

After driving the amazing Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing, nothing is ever going to really measure up. But the Black Series comes close. As fantastic as it might be, however, we can't tell you very much about its performance, not after a just one lap of the Albert Park circuit, with James Brock calling the shots.

Just as we were getting started it was over (it was one lap more than most people got to complete though).

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG coupe

Price: From $169,700 (including Performance Pack) plus on-road costs
Warranty: 3 years/100,000km
Engine: 6.2-litre V8 petrol
Outputs: 380kW/620Nm
Dimensions: 4707mm (L), 1795mm (w), 1391mm (h)
Weight: 1730kg
Transmission: Seven-speed manual automatic, rear-wheel drive
Economy: 12.1 litres per 100km