Driven: Benz C63 AMG Edition 507 blasts in

MERCEDES-BENZ is sending its popular C-Class out with a bang by offering a final performance-boosted 280km/h special performance pack for the C63 AMG, which pumps out a whopping 373kW/610Nm from the uprated 6.3-litre V8 engine.

The special edition comes as details of the next-generation W205 C-Class emerge, including interior images and a teaser body-shot, ahead of the new model’s international unveiling at the Detroit motor show early next year.

But despite its age and imminent passing, the fresh high-performance pack now on offer is breathing new life into the outgoing model.

Named the ‘Edition 507’, which refers to its power output in brake-horsepower, the top-performing C63 has just seven fewer kilowatts than the rampaging, quarter of a million dollar ‘Black Series’ released last year, but matches its zero to 100km/h time of 4.2 seconds and comes at a relatively affordable starting price of $169,407 plus on-road costs.

That figure refers to the entry level sedan model, but $171,407 wagon and $172,407 coupe versions are also available, which share the same hand-built naturally aspirated V8, uprated braking system, unique 19-inch alloy wheels and a vented bonnet borrowed from the Black Series.

The latest tuning pack costs $14,507 on top of the price of a standard C63 AMG and replaces the $14,900 358kW Performance Pack, offering a greater step-up in performance for less cash.

Revisions to the Edition 507’s engine management system have resulted in a 37kW/10Nm boost over the standard 336kW/600Nm 6.3-litre V8, and the tuned versions are identified by their titanium-grey inlet-manifolds.

A lightened crankshaft and con-rods are connected to the same forged pistons used in the SLS AMG engine to handle the increased output, and the new hardware has stripped three kilograms of rotating mass in the process.

Naturally aspirated engine fans will salute the thumping V8 upgrade as it may be one of the last from Mercedes.

When it returns in its fourth-generation, the C-Class AMG powerplant could follow the E63 AMG’s lead, favouring a smaller capacity and a pair of turbos in response to ever-tightening emissions regulations.

On the outside, Edition 507 versions of the C63 AMG are characterised by 19-inch titanium-grey cross-spoke wheels, gloss-black highlights on door mirrors and handles, gloss-black boot spoiler, red brake calipers, darkened headlights and black body-stripes.

Interior changes are to the seats with black Nappa leather upholstery, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, illuminated AMG door sills and Edition 507 plaque.

The most hardcore version of the C-Class to date was the $245,000 Black series which was only available as a Coupe, wore lavish adjustable aerodynamic aids, bigger brakes, a track-ready differential and racing bucket seats.

While it officially went on sale in March last year, Mercedes-Benz had already taken deposits on all 32 examples, while an additional 10 cars all found homes before arriving in the country.

The new farewell special Edition 507 is expected to arrive in greater numbers and may appease those Hi-Po Mercedes enthusiasts who couldn’t get their hands on an example of the rare Black Series.

Standard C63 AMG variants of the C-Class will still be available along-side the new special edition priced from $154,545 for the four-door Saloon, $156,545 for the big-booted Estate and $157,545 opens up the Coupe’s two doors.

C63 AMG Edition 507 pricing*

Sedan	$169,407
Estate	$171,407
Coupe	$172,407

*Excludes on-road costs.