Game Changer

While we mourn the loss of the 6.2-litre beast and the V8 that once was, we can't deny the bona fide hot rod the 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63 S has become.

- Low Weixian

WHEN OFFERED THE opportunity to test drive the 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63 S, I said ‘yes’ quicker than when my partner got down on one knee. Priced at over S$500,000, the C63 line is the pinnacle of high-performance engineering in the AMG portfolio, compared to its 43, 53 or 55 siblings—which are already powerful by all standards.

In the AMG 63 variants, more horsepower and torque are to be expected along with advanced suspension, transmission and drivetrain. This is a sports car in disguise: ultra-fast, ultra-furious and packed with features for a more agile and responsive drive.

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63 S tends to provoke two distinct reactions: either an outburst of excitement—like mine—or casual indifference, like my partner’s. Those who belong to the latter camp probably see the latest model as a pared-down roll-out, featuring a 2.0-litre engine compared to the previous generation’s 4.0-litre engine, while boasting similar price tags.

But take the time to dig deeper, and put this beast through its paces, and it’ll be clear why this car a game-changer in AMG’s 55-year history. For starters, the W206 C63 S is what some would call a sleeper on the roads. Casual onlookers wouldn’t think it’s more threatening than an entry-level C180 sedan. That is, until it rips by with speed and torque that the C180 can only dream of.