The Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance, a vehicle that was highly anticipated for its groundbreaking technology, has now been on the market in Germany for nearly a year. However, recent reports from German dealerships paint a less than optimistic picture regarding its sales figures. This new generation, which controversially replaced the iconic twin-turbo V8 with a four-cylinder PHEV powertrain, appears to be struggling against competitors like the six-cylinder BMW M3. The issue isn’t just the engine configuration; pricing also seems to be a significant deterrent for potential buyers considering a Mercedes Amg C63 For Sale.
Affalterbach engineers believed that the substantial power increase and advanced technology in the new C63 S would compensate for the reduced cylinder count, attracting performance enthusiasts. Unfortunately, initial market responses, particularly in Germany, suggest that this assumption might have been incorrect. According to MB Passion Blog, feedback from German dealers indicates that orders for this electrified performance sedan are alarmingly low, described as “close to zero.” Dealers suggest that the BMW M3, a direct rival, offers a more compelling package in terms of powertrain appeal, pricing, and overall premium value, impacting the desirability of the Mercedes AMG C63 for sale.
Is More Power Enough to Justify the Price?
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The C63 S E Performance boasts an impressive 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS) from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with a rear-mounted electric motor. This power output surpasses its V8 predecessor’s 500 hp (380 kW / 510 PS), making it the most powerful C-Class ever produced. While the numbers are undeniably higher, the driving experience and emotional connection are different.
Related: Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance Costs Significantly More Than BMW M3
Despite the power advantage, many purists miss the distinctive sound and character of the V8 engine. Moreover, the electric boost in the PHEV C63 diminishes at speeds beyond 200 km/h (124 mph). Another critical factor is weight. The PHEV variant is significantly heavier, weighing 2,129 kg (4,694 lbs) compared to the 1,690 kg (3,726 lbs) of the previous ICE-only model. This added weight can impact agility and driving dynamics, aspects crucial for performance vehicles and key considerations for anyone looking for a Mercedes AMG C63 for sale.
The Premium of Cutting-Edge Technology
In Germany, the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance starts at €114,888.55 ($126,037). In contrast, the BMW M3 Competition xDrive, a strong competitor, is priced from a more accessible €100,300 ($110,032). This price difference of approximately €14.6k ($16k) makes the inline-six-powered BMW a more financially attractive option, even though it produces 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) less than the AMG. For many buyers in the market for a performance sedan, especially when considering a Mercedes AMG C63 for sale, the value proposition appears to favor the BMW M3.
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The initial sales reports from Germany suggest that while the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance is technologically advanced and powerful, it faces significant headwinds due to its pricing strategy and the departure from its V8 heritage. For potential buyers, the question remains whether the cutting-edge hybrid technology and increased horsepower justify the higher price tag compared to established rivals. As consumers explore options for a Mercedes AMG C63 for sale, these factors will likely play a crucial role in their purchasing decisions.
