Mercedes-Benz has just unveiled its latest dream car, the new S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe ahead of its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in April 2014.
The S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe is the latest model to benefit from the systematic implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy. Lightweight construction has reduced the vehicle weight by up to 63kg – even though the car has a higher output and more extensive standard equipment than the preceding model. This weight savings was achieved largely thanks to the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, optional AMG forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimized AMG high-performance composite braking system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin and the front end of the body are made of aluminium.
In terms of maximum output, torque and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-litre V8 bi-turbo engine remains one of the most efficient series-produced V8 engines of all. It churns out 577 hp and a stonking 900 Nm of torque coupled with AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed sport transmission. As a result, the S63 AMG Coupe accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in an estimated 3.9 seconds and goes on to reach a top speed of 300km/h (electronically limited). Yet the S63 AMG Coupe still consumes less fuel.
The AMG sport exhaust system meets individual driver requirements as it has automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear silencers. When the transmission is in “C” (Controlled Efficiency) mode, the flaps remain closed in most situations, in which case the eight-cylinder bi-turbo engine’s sound is more understated. In “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier and more spontaneously, especially if the driver prefers a dynamic driving style.
Like all AMG V8 and V12 engines, the eight-cylinder bi-turbo engine for the S63 AMG Coupe is assembled by hand at the AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. Highly qualified engine fitters assemble the engines in Affalterbach according to the strictest quality standards based on the “one man, one engine” philosophy. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine plate bearing the engine technician’s signature, as we mentioned in our A45 AMG article.
Short stopping distances and rapid deceleration are a given for the S63 AMG Coupe, which is equipped with a weight-optimized, fade-resistant AMG high- performance composite brake system. An AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. This design, which is more than 20% lighter, ensures lower unsprung masses and enhanced braking performance.
There are numerous aerodynamic elements that underline the outstanding driving dynamics of the car: the front end is dominated by the three-dimensional AMG “twin-blade” radiator grille in silver shadow (a matte silver finish). The A-wing is located below the radiator grille. This three-dimensional air-ducting element is painted in the body colour, spans the entire width of the front apron and displays the stylized “A” that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles. Large, black flics surround the outer cooling air intakes. Down below, the front splitter in silver shadow optimizes the flow of air to the cooling modules. This design feature, which is a familiar sight in motorsport, also reduces front-axle lift and enhances the vehicle’s aerodynamic balance.
At the rear, the diffuser insert in high-gloss black also catches eye right away. The lower trim element in silver shadow is reminiscent of the A-wing at the front and provides an effective contrast. The two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sport exhaust system with sport flaps are perfectly integrated into the diffuser insert. Stylized, vertical air outlets in the rear apron assume the role of a defined spoiler lip and optimize aerodynamics. The S63 AMG Coupe also comes with new “S 63 AMG” designation below the tail lamps.
Inside, the S63 AMG Coupe comes with high-quality materials and fine workmanship combined with a sporty and exclusive design language. The newly developed AMG sport seats with power adjustment, memory function and seat heating/ventilation offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support. Fine AMG design Nappa leather with piping together with AMG badges on all four seat backrests and an embossed AMG emblem on the armrest of the front centre console create an exquisite atmosphere.
The new three-spoke AMG sport steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim and perforated leather in the grip area allows perfect vehicle control. There is an AMG logo in the lower metal insert, and new aluminium shift paddles shorten the reaction time when changing gears to enhance performance. Another feature displaying the hallmark AMG look is the high-resolution TFT colour AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials. In addition to the specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features include the AMG start-up display, the AMG logo in the speedometer 320 km/h scale and the “V8 BI-TURBO” lettering in the rev counter.
One particularly exclusive model in the range is called the S63 AMG Coupe Edition 1. Unlike the S63 AMG Coupe, Edition 1 model features a Magno Alanite Grey matte finish paint and Swarovski crystals in the LED high- performance headlamps. Meanwhile, the Edition 1 interior includes AMG sport seats upholstered in exclusive Nappa Leather in bengal red/black with contrasting top stitching and piping. In keeping with this colour scheme, the upper section of the dashboard, the front and rear centre armrests, and the door linings are trimmed in nappa leather with contrasting top-stitching. The Edition 1 also features a high level of equipment including the AMG Ceramic Braking System.