The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe (C217) AMG S 63 4MATIC, produced from April 2014 to September 2017, represents the high-performance variant of the C217 S-Class Coupe. Positioned as the flagship coupe within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, it combined the luxury and technology of the S-Class with the potent performance of the AMG division. This model aimed to deliver an unparalleled grand touring experience, appealing to buyers seeking both opulence and exhilarating speed. It served as a direct competitor to vehicles like the BMW 6 Series and Bentley Continental GT.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class Coupe (C217) |
| Type | AMG S 63 V8 (585 Hp) 4MATIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Start of production | April, 2014 |
| End of production | September, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.2 l/100 km (16.6 US mpg, 19.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 242 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 585 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 900 Nm @ 2250-3750 rpm (663.81 lb.-ft. @ 2250-3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 157.985 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1995 kg (4398.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2545 kg (5610.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5044 mm (198.58 in.) |
| Width | 1913 mm (75.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2108 mm (82.99 in.) |
| Height | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2945 mm (115.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1642 mm (64.65 in.) |
| Rear track | 1643 mm (64.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 971 mm (38.23 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1128 mm (44.41 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 390×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×26 mm |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT |
| Front tires | 255/45 R19; 255/40 R20 |
| Rear tires | 285/40 R19; 285/35 R20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the AMG S 63 Coupe lies the M157 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine, designated as M 157.985, produces 585 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a massive 900 Nm (663.81 lb-ft) of torque available from 2250 to 3750 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and features an aluminum engine block and cylinder heads. The twin turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, provide significant boost, contributing to the engine’s impressive power output. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed automatic transmission, a multi-clutch transmission, delivers rapid and precise gear changes. This transmission features a wet start-off clutch instead of a traditional torque converter, enhancing responsiveness and efficiency. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction and stability, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG S 63 Coupe delivers a driving experience characterized by immense power and refined comfort. The combination of the potent V8 engine and the quick-shifting MCT transmission results in blistering acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.7 seconds. The 4MATIC system provides confident handling in various conditions. While the car is capable of aggressive driving, the air suspension and well-tuned chassis contribute to a surprisingly comfortable ride quality. Compared to the standard S-Class Coupe, the AMG S 63 offers a significantly more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The gear ratios are optimized for performance, allowing for strong acceleration in any gear. The exhaust note is also more aggressive, providing an audible indication of the car’s performance capabilities.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG S 63 Coupe came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, AMG sport seats, and carbon fiber trim. Standard technology included the COMAND infotainment system with a large display screen, navigation, and a premium sound system. Driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring were also standard. Optional extras included a head-up display, massaging seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The exterior featured AMG-specific styling cues, including a unique front fascia, side skirts, and rear diffuser.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the AMG S 63 Coupe is reinforced to handle the increased power and performance. It features an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, along with an adaptive air suspension system. This system allows the driver to adjust the ride height and damping characteristics to suit their preferences. The braking system consists of ventilated discs with large calipers, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 390×36 mm, while the rear brakes are 360×26 mm. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) is standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in all conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG S 63 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, luxury, and technology. However, some critics noted the high price tag and the relatively poor fuel economy. Compared to other S-Class Coupe variants, the AMG S 63 offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a substantial cost. The standard S-Class models prioritized comfort and refinement, while the AMG S 63 focused on delivering a more exhilarating driving experience. Fuel economy was predictably lower than the base models, reflecting the increased power output.
Legacy
The M157 engine, while powerful, has demonstrated some susceptibility to head bolt issues in certain production years, requiring attention for long-term reliability. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT transmission, while offering quick shifts, can be more expensive to maintain than traditional automatic transmissions. Despite these potential issues, the AMG S 63 Coupe remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market, particularly among enthusiasts seeking a high-performance luxury coupe. Its combination of power, luxury, and technology continues to appeal to buyers today, and well-maintained examples command premium prices.
