The new Mercedes-AMG C 63 Cabriolet

The new Mercedes-AMG C 63 Cabriolet combines open-air ambience with an AMG V8 engine to create an exhilarating performance experience. Its biturbo engine developed in Affalterbach is available in two output ratings, 469 hp or 503 hp, and provides performance on a par with a sports car, while flared wheel arches at the front and rear, wide track, and large wheels underscore its powerful appearance. Agile longitudinal and lateral dynamics come courtesy of the sophisticated AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, rear-axle limited-slip differential, and dynamic engine mounts.

The Mercedes-AMG C-Class offers performance-oriented automotive enthusiasts the largest selection in the market segment: it is now available as a Sedan, Coupe and Cabriolet, with a V6 biturbo engine and all-wheel drive, or V8 biturbo engine in two output ratings, rear-wheel drive, and rear-axle limited-slip differential.

"The C-Class is a decisive factor in our company's success. The new combination of open-air ambience and powerful V8 engine is unique in the segment, and perfectly complements our already impressive range of C-Class models," says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The emotive driving experience offered by the new performance cabriolet is built on a foundation of extensive motorsport knowledge, and the passion of AMG engineers, designers, and product managers. The vehicle celebrated its world premiere on March 23, 2016, at the New York International Auto Show. The market launch began in October 2016.

The models at a glance:

** Electronically limited

Unique offering in the segment with a V8 biturbo engine

The new C 63 Cabriolet is the only vehicle in its segment to boast an 8-cylinder biturbo engine. This allows Mercedes AMG to fulfill the wishes of those customers who desire a combination of highly emotive, unmistakable engine sound and torquey power delivery.

The driver also benefits from the vehicle's unrivalled performance: the C 63 Cabriolet accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, for a top speed of 250 km/h; the C 63 S Cabriolet races from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, for a maximum speed of 280 km/h (electronically limited).

New V8 biturbo closely related to the engine in the Mercedes-AMG GT
Like the C 63 Sedan and Coupe before it, the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 Cabriolet comes equipped with a 4.0-litre, eight-cylinder biturbo engine, which is also installed in the GT sports car with dry sump lubrication. One of its distinguishing features is that the two turbochargers are not positioned on the outside of the cylinder banks, but rather between them in what experts call the "hot inside V."

The main advantages of this design are compact engine construction, optimal response, and low exhaust gas emissions. A fitter assembles each engine by hand in the Mercedes-AMG engine shop in Affalterbach, in accordance with the brand's "one man – one engine" principle.

Exhaust system features flap technology for variable engine sound

A key development goal for the new Mercedes-AMG C-Class was the incorporation of the typical V8 engine sound, with its sonorous bass tones, powerful mid tones, and intensifying trebles that accompany an increase in engine speed. A model-specific exhaust system with flap technology is included as a standard feature. It is automatically map-controlled depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode, the power demanded by the driver, and the engine speed. The Performance exhaust system, available as an option, allows the sound to be modulated at the touch of a button. The exhaust systems are designed in such a way as to comply with all noise limits, regardless of the flap position.

Faster gearshifts: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

The transmission plays a major part in the responsive, sporty character of the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 Cabriolet. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission impresses with its tailor-made dynamics and high variability. Upshifts and downshifts are executed instantaneously, whether automatic or when initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, by making adjustments to the engine and transmission parameters.

Specific suspension for maximum lateral and longitudinal dynamics

The fascinating agility and high cornering speed of the C 63 Cabriolet can also be attributed to its standard-fit AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, which combines a sporty with a comfortable set-up. The driver can select the three suspension settings "Comfort," "Sport," and "Sport Plus" via a button in the centre console. Whatever the setting, each wheel is automatically and electronically controlled on an individual basis.

The new Mercedes-AMG C-Class uses a four-link front suspension with radial, racing-style brake connections. Model-specific steering knuckles and a wider track allow for greater lateral acceleration. The vehicle also features a rear axle, designed specifically for the Coupe and Cabriolet models, whose multi-link design delivers increased stiffness and high-precision wheel control. The AMG-specific rear axle carrier allows for the wider track, enabling the contact surfaces of the wheel bearings to be expanded by 25 mm compared with the Sedan. Other innovations include AMG-specific wheel carriers, stiffer elastokinematic tuning, and higher negative camber.

The C 63 Cabriolet is equipped with 10-spoke, light-alloy 9.0 J x 18 front wheels and 10.5 J x 18 rear wheels. Its rims are painted titanium grey with a high-gloss finish, and hold 255/40 R 18 front tires and 285/35 R 18 rear tires. The C 63 S Cabriolet has 255/35 R 19 front tires, and 285/30 R 19 rear tires, which are mounted on 9.0 J x 19 and 10.5 J x 19 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, respectively. Their rims are also painted titanium grey with a high-gloss finish.

Other tire and wheel combinations are available as options. These include mixed-size tires with forged cross-spoke wheels that are painted matte black with a high-sheen rim flange. In this scenario, the front axle features 255/35 R 19 tires on 9.0 J x 19 wheels, while the rear axle is fitted with 285/30 R 20 tires on 10.5 J x 20 wheels.

Rear-axle limited-slip differential: optimal traction, including on the race track

For improved traction and vehicle dynamics, the C 63 Cabriolet features a mechanical rear-axle limited-slip differential, while the C 63 S Cabriolet comes with an electronic version. Both differentials reduce the slip on the inside wheel during cornering, without aid of control interventions in the braking system. The advantage of this is that it allows the driver to accelerate out of corners earlier, thanks to improved traction. The car remains more stable when braking at high speeds, and the limited-slip differential also improves traction when accelerating. The model-specific, completely redesigned rear axle was specially adapted to the higher vehicle dynamics of the Cabriolet.

The greatest benefit of the electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential, which is installed exclusively on the C 63 S, is that it provides even more sensitive and faster control. This in turn pushes the thresholds higher and makes it even easier to drive at the vehicle's limits. The three-stage ESP® – "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT Handling Mode," and "ESP OFF" – works in perfect unison with the rear-axle limited-slip differential and is optimally tuned for outstanding dynamics.

AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes

Four different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes allow the characteristics of the C 63 to be changed according to the driver's wishes. The driver decides on the desired driving experience, from comfortable and economical to super sporty, using a controller to the left of the touchpad.

"Comfort" is a well-balanced transmission mode that features comfort-oriented suspension and steering set-up, and a fuel-efficient powertrain configuration that includes smooth gearshifts and a discreet engine note. The new "sailing function" reduces fuel consumption even further: when the driver releases the accelerator between 60 and 160 km/h, the clutch of the MCT transmission disengages and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The vehicle's electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level, and driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.

The transmission modes "Sport" and "Sport Plus" enhance the C 63's sporty intensity. The C 63 S also comes with the "RACE" mode, which is the optimum setting for challenging laps on closed racing circuits.

C 63 S with dynamic engine mounts as standard

Unique in its segment, the C 63 S Cabriolet – like the Sedan and Coupe – is equipped with dynamic engine mounts, which help to further reconcile the competing goals of comfort and dynamic performance. These dynamic mounts quickly adapt their stiffness to suit the driving conditions and driver requirements. Soft engine mounts improve comfort, as they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. In dynamic driving situations, a stiffer mount set-up boosts handling and agility, enhance the vehicle's precision, and offer even more direct steering response and feedback.

Precise, agile handling

The driver of the C 63 Cabriolet benefits from a direct, linear steering ratio of 14.1:1, optimized responses, and the electromechanical, speed-sensitive sports steering that ensures precise, agile handling.

The model also features variable power assistance with three settings: "Comfort", "Sport," and "Sport Plus." Its power steering is not just speed-sensitive, but also factors-in lateral acceleration, the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode, or the setting of the AMG RIDE CONTROL adaptive damping.

Large, cross-drilled and vented 360 mm diameter brake discs at the front and rear allow the high-performance braking system of the C 63 Cabriolet to deliver short stopping distances and excellent control. On its front wheels, the C 63 S Cabriolet is fitted with 390 mm diameter compound brake discs in order to account for its increased performance. A high-performance compound braking system with ceramic discs measuring 402 mm in diameter on the front axle is optionally available for the C 63 S Cabriolet, weighing just half of comparable conventional brake discs and, as a result, reducing unsprung masses. This in turn substantially improves the vehicle's steering response.

Design visualizes performance

The impressive proportions of the Mercedes-AMG C 63 Cabriolet instantly catch the eye. Its 8-cylinder engine, combined with an increased track width on the front and rear axles, called for a redesigned front end and a model-specific rear assembly, as well as new side walls. Flared wheel arches make the Mercedes-AMG Cabriolet 64 mm wider at the front and 66 mm wider at the rear compared with the standard Cabriolet, enabling the vehicle to hug the road more effectively.

Two striking powerdomes adorn the aluminium bonnet, extended by 60 mm, and underscore its powerful looks. The typical AMG "A-wing" front spoiler also serves as an air deflector for three cooling air intakes, while additional flics ensure the optimal flow of air to the cooling modules in the wheel arches. A front splitter at the bottom of the front apron helps to reduce front-axle lift, and the low, arrow-shaped "twin blade" radiator grille with AMG lettering also makes the vehicle's centre of gravity appear to be lower.

The side line, too, presents a unique face thanks to large wheels that finish flush with the body on the far outside, and special side skirts. A lateral inward step from door to sill creates additional emphasis on the wide base.

When the top is up, the multi-layered fabric soft top with glass window follows the Coupe's roof line, thus reinforcing the impression of a meticulously modelled sculpture. Frameless doors, fully retractable side windows and the absence of a visible B-pillar further enhance the side view of the C 63 Cabriolet. In typical sports car fashion, the exterior rear-view mirrors are mounted on the door rather than in the mirror triangle.

With the roof open, the meticulous coordination between exterior and interior design becomes apparent. High-grade details include matte chrome trim on the A-pillar and windscreen, as well as a beltline moulding that follows the length of the soft-top compartment and is bordered by a broad, matte chrome trim.

The rear of the C 63 Cabriolet features all-new styling that comes across as very sporty thanks to its broad shoulders and a diffuser insert whose design echoes that of a typical motorsport feature. The special design of the laterally-positioned optical air outlet openings improves air flow over the rear, allowing it to break away with aerodynamically advantageous precision. Features such as the narrow rear reflectors reinforce the impression of width, and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG exhaust system are harmoniously integrated into the diffuser. A narrow spoiler lip, painted to match the body colour, is situated on the trunk lid; its elegant shape is reminiscent of a sharp blade.

Interior with high-class appeal

A wealth of fine details can be found throughout the interior of the C 63 Cabriolet: carefully selected, high-grade materials whose finish and precise workmanship produce a level of perceived quality that is rare even in the higher vehicle classes.

The vehicle's instrument panel is trimmed with black ARTICO man-made leather with contrasting topstitching. The wing-like aluminium trim and the IWC design analogue clock (depending on the specification) underscore the impression of quality. The touchpad is flanked by the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch and numerous AMG-specific controls, including the button for the 3-stage AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension, 3-stage ESP® and, optionally, the button for the AMG Performance exhaust system with flap control.

A sporty, dynamic ambience is also created by the three-spoke Performance steering wheel with a 12 o'clock marking, and the instrument cluster that is equipped with specific dials that mimic the appearance of carbon fibre, and a speedometer that reads up to 320 km/h. Performance seats are also available as an alternative to the standard-fit sports seats: these allow the occupants a lower seating position and are more strongly contoured for increased lateral support.

Intelligent cabriolet concept

Intelligent functions such as operation of the fabric soft top while driving (up to 60 km/h), the standard AIRSCARF neck-level heating, and the automatic AIRCAP draught-stop provide extraordinary comfort with open-top motoring, 365 days a year. With a capacity of 355 litres (260 litres with the roof open), the luggage compartment is capable of holding an exceptional amount of baggage for a cabriolet, thus offering a high degree of everyday practicality.

Exclusive options include the fully automatic fabric acoustic soft top, which is available in black, dark brown, dark blue or dark red. The multi-layered structure incorporates various insulation materials that effectively reduce ambient noise, thus reducing the interior noise level. 

Exclusive optional extras from the Performance Studio

The AMG Performance Studio offers technical and design highlights that make the Mercedes-AMG C 63 Cabriolet even sportier, more exclusive and more individual.

Key extras include:

• AMG Performance exhaust system with push-button flap control
• Greater differentiation of tonal characteristics through two additional exhaust flaps
• Tonal characteristics dependent on selected transmission mode;   clear differentiation between full in the C and S modes and distinctly sporty in the S+ and RACE modes
• Additional control of the tonal characteristics via a button on the panel in the centre console

• AMG ceramic high-performance compound braking system with compound 402 x 39 mm diameter brake discs (front) and integral 360 x 26 mm diameter brake discs (rear), specially painted brake callipers and "AMG Carbon Ceramic" lettering

• AMG Night Package:
• Silver chrome louvre in the radiator grille
• High-gloss, black A-wing front bumper and A-wing trim strip
• Side sill panel inserts in high-gloss black
• Rear bumper trim strip in high-gloss black
• Exterior mirror housings in high-gloss black
• Sports exhaust system with two chrome-plated twin tailpipe tips

• AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre Trim:
• Silver chrome louvre in the radiator grille
• A-wing carbon front bumper
• Side sill carbon panel inserts
• Carbon upper trim panel on the rear bumper

• Carbon-Fibre Exterior Mirrors including carbon spoiler lip at rear

• AMG Performance Studio interior:
• Performance seats for driver and front passenger with more heavily contoured seat for enhanced lateral support, integrated head restraints and "AMG" badge in the backrests
• Perforated, two-tone nappa leather red pepper/black or platinum white/black
• Carbon-fibre/light aluminium trim with longitudinal grain
• Matte silver glass fibre/aluminium with bright longitudinal
  grain trim

Safety of the highest calibre

The Cabriolet also offers a supreme level of safety, thanks to the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which helps to prevent rear-end collisions. Many other optional assistance systems are available to increase both comfort and safety.

About Mercedes-Benz Canada

Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG passenger vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Vans and smart. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,500 people in 21 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of 11 Mercedes-Benz owned retail operations and 47 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 48,320 vehicles in 2016. This represents the best year ever for the company and has positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada for the third consecutive year.

For more information, please contact: 

JoAnne Caza    416-847-7550  joanne.caza@mercedes-benz.ca

Further information from Mercedes-Benz is available on the internet at: www.media.mercedes-benz.ca