Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG (08-11) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 21 May 2010
Mercedes has a great reputation for producing high performance AMG versions of its cars. However while there's no doubting these models are quick in a straight line, they've often struggled to match that performance in the corners. The C63 AMG looks to address that with more focussed handling, a wide track and a sophisticated suspension and chassis set-up. However, as you'd expect, it is still stormingly quick and with a 457bhp V8 engine it can race from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds. It's hugely enjoyable to drive and the sheer acceleration it delivers is addictive, but the Mercedes is also easy to live with day to day thanks to a forgiving ride. The AMG's natural environment is fast A-roads where it's poise and agility shine through but it's the all-round ability of the C63 that makes it such a great car.
5 out of 5

Safety

Mercedes-Benz is a pioneer in this area and the C63 AMG features a number of innovations that are also available on the larger E-Class and S-Class models, including seven airbags as standard plus the PRE-SAFE system. This makes use of the moments before an imminent accident to prepare the vehicle and its occupants for a collision. This involves pulling the seatbelts taut, adjusting the front seats and closing any open windows (including the sunroof). It's no surprise therefore that the C-Class gained a maximum five star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5
  • Child Protection Rating

    3 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    2 out of 5
4.5 out of 5

Reliability

Mercedes-Benz admits that its standards have fallen in recent years and reliability hasn’t lived up to the company’s reputation. This C-Class is designed to address that and the C63 AMG has been in development for three years, testing it in 20 different locations around the world, from the Arctic Circle to Death Valley in California. The engine is well proven in other AMG models and so should prove reliable and durable.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.