Despite its bombastic name and the aggressive cut to its flared wheel arches and red trim lines, the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE F1 Edition (RM958,888 including 10 per cent sales tax) sports a relatively modest 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. But this is the most powerful production four-cylinder, capable of 476bhp on its own, and, furthermore, is mated to a two-speed electric motor on the rear axle. The setup is AMG-exclusive, and reminiscent of Formula 1—the name is not just for show—with electrical assistance of the turbocharger keeping lag to a minimum.
The 6.1kWh battery is rated for a continuous output of about 95bhp, and is capable of a 10-second peak period of around 200bhp. The total combined power output of the car is, hence, 680bhp, which is good for 0-100km/h in only 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 280km/h. Dynamically, the car benefits from rear-axle steering and an adaptive damping system that tempers its athleticism with long distance comfort—a hallmark of the long line of sporty saloons that it embodies.
Unveiled at Mercedes-Benz World, a one-weekend brand showcase that was hosted at KL Base in Sungai Besi, the launch model is decked out in a classic grey, with a gradient shading at the sills for an added level of dynamism. The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE is equipped with 20in wheels, in matte black to contrast with its red brake callipers. It comes with an aerodynamics package, which provides both a performance as well as an aesthetic boost—particularly due to the prominent front splitter.
Inside, the black-and-red theme continues, with the black Nappa leather upholstery accompanied by red highlights in elements such as seat belts and stitching. The 12.3in instrument display and 11.9in central infotainment screen are accompanied by a bevy of AMG-specific displays and options, as is the head-up display.
More photos of the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE F1 Edition
