The latest iteration of the Mercedes-AMG C63 for the year 2024 is now equipped with a plug-in hybrid system instead of the previously utilized twin-turbo V8, resulting in a significant shift in powertrain. Conversely, BMW’s M3 Competition does not currently offer any form of electrification. How do these two high-performance sedans from Stuttgart and Munich stand up against each other?
Design
When it comes to style, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63 strikes a balance between sportiness and elegance, exhibiting a more understated aesthetic compared to the more controversial design approach of the M3.
The C63 has the potential to function as a stealthy performer due to subtle design enhancements such as the Panamericana grille, updated front bumper inlets, a carbon lip spoiler, and a rear diffuser featuring quad exhausts. This performance-oriented model of the C-Class also showcases distinctive AMG wheels and other minor tweaks.
Inside the car, the layout remains uncomplicated and draws inspiration from the latest C-Class cabin design. The center stage is occupied by a sizable touchscreen and a floating digital gauge display, along with the inclusion of the AMG 3-spoke steering wheel as standard for the high-end variant.
Performance
The Mercedes-AMG C63is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine paired with an F1-inspired hybrid system, delivering a robust output of 671 horsepower and 752 pound-feet of torque. The combustion engine alone produces 476 horsepower, making it the most potent 2.0-liter engine worldwide!
This hybrid powertrain is connected to a 9-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and an all-wheel drive configuration. Mercedes claims acceleration figures of 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph.
Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance – Technical Specifications
| Engine | 2.0-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Power | 671 hp |
| Torque | 752 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Acceleration (0-62 mph) | 3.3 seconds |
Directly competing with the C63, the BMW M3 Competition is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine generating 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This engine is coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, propelling the car from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 180 mph.
Despite the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance boasting 168 additional horsepower over the M3, it is disadvantaged by its considerable weight, surpassing 2 tonnes due to its 6.1 kWh battery and additional components such as the all-wheel drive system and rear-axle steering.
BMW M3 Competition – Technical Specifications
| Engine | 3.0-liter Twin-Turbo 6-cylinder |
| Power | 503 hp |
| Torque | 479 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Acceleration (0-62 mph) | 3.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 180 mph |
On paper, the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance surpasses the BMW M3 Competition in terms of specifications. However, the real-world driving experience and agility may favor the M3. To reach a definitive conclusion, evaluations of the AMG C63’s driving dynamics are necessary.
Pricing
While Mercedes-Benz has yet to disclose the pricing details for the new AMG C63 S E Performance, its formidable power output suggests it will potentially exceed the cost of the M3. Priced at $80,800, the BMW M3 Competition sits in a higher price bracket, emphasizing its premium positioning in the market.
