Mercedes-AMG C 63 You Actually Want Is A Massive Performance Bargain

Towards the tail-end of the 2010s, Mercedes-Benz, just like other companies of its kind, was shifting towards hybridization and new ways of creating performance models. Pure enthusiasts were not so happy because this inevitably meant moving away from an analog driving experience that vehicles such as Mercedes-AMG’s sedans, particularly, were known for. In today’s used car market, many car fans are looking for some of the last of a dying breed and discovering a true, old-school performance bargain in the shape of the 2015-2018 Mercedes-AMG C63, which goes by W205 internally at Mercedes.
 

What Makes the W205 AMG C63 So Special?
In a world filled with hybridized and electric performance cars, the W205 C63 shines. It’s a V8-powered sports sedan that many people overlook from this era, with its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 and rear-wheel drive in a premium package. This C63 delivers a driving experience that few modern cars can match, and the good news is that used prices are very palatable.
 
As soon as you press the start button, you’ll hear one of the best Mercedes engines ever made in the shape of the M177. It’s a close cousin to the M178 motor that Mercedes put in the AMG GT, but this version pumps out 469 hp and 479 lb.-ft of torque, with a power curve that’s addictive. Unlike some turbocharged rivals that may feel predictable or somewhat sanitized, this car retains a more chaotic, muscle car feel. It’s got immediate throttle response and plenty of low-end torque, while the exhaust crackles, roars, and snarls just like a modern-day hot rod.
 
The C63 features a seven-speed automatic transmission with the drive going to the rear wheels. The sedan can reach 60 mph in less than four seconds. But just as importantly, the vehicle feels responsive and tactile on the road, with a well-balanced chassis and firm ride. It’s also the model that came out before the new generation W206, which started that transition towards predictability. The later versions of the C63 may be quicker on paper, but they don’t have the character of the W205.
 

Getting Down to the Performance Details
It pays to look closer at the driving dynamics and performance characteristics. For example, this version of the C63 delivers power exceptionally well, and the car feels balanced with plenty of steering feedback. In short, it has everything you would expect from a well-produced rear-wheel-drive V8. It also sits on a bespoke AMG suspension setup with adaptive damping, which you can switch between firm and comfort mode. So, your C63 will be razor sharp on back roads but suitably docile during your school run. While it’s a heavy vehicle, the sedan is still capable of setting quarter-mile times in the high 11-second range.
 
There’s also the C63 S model that gives you 503 hp, an electronic differential, and a special race mode. Don’t need to worry if you can’t find one of these, though, as the standard version still hits the sweet spot. The base C63 doesn’t miss that electronic differential, as the passive, mechanical one often feels more natural for everyday use.
 
One of the most endearing traits of the W205 C63 is that it feels remarkably modern and capable but refreshingly old school at the same time. After all, it’s got plenty of analog qualities like unfiltered steering and mechanical grip, which are often missing in today’s digital creations with their all-wheel-drive crutches.
 
Everyday Livability and On-Board Comfort
Those looking for a high-performance car like this will also want and expect some comfort and practicality. In this respect, the W205 C63 doesn’t disappoint, and it’s perfectly usable and sensible as a weekend toy or a long-distance cruiser. Inside, you find a perfect blend of modern tech and classic luxury, with a clean design, plenty of high-end materials, and lovely AMG-specific flourishes. There’s optional carbon fiber trim, supportive sports seats, and a racer’s flat-bottom steering wheel. Some examples also have bright Red Pepper Nappa leather interior, and there’s an available Burmester sound system. Most base cars have heated seats, navigation, dual-zone climate control, and the expected safety features typical of the mid- to late-2010s.
 
Despite the significant amount of power on tap, the C63 is still a compact executive sedan. You can fit four adults, and there’s a large trunk, so the whole family can easily handle a long drive. Noise levels are pretty good at cruising speeds, and even though fuel economy is not a strong suit, the car can still return better figures than some older AMGs. The EPA rates it at 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined, with a 348-mile range between fill-ups.
 
You shouldn’t be disappointed with the aesthetics of the W205 C63 either. While the exterior looks subtle and doesn’t come with excessive badging or spoilers, the car has a wide stance, flared arches, and quad exhaust tips. So, the sedan still announces itself as something special on the road.
 

What You Need to Know About Ownership and Value
If you’re looking at a W205 C63 in 2025, depreciation is on your side. For example, you could find a clean and low-mileage example for between $32,000 and $40,000, so you should get a lot of car for your cash. It also seems like a real bargain if you want to compare it with newer C63s with hybrid drivetrains or a competitor like the G80 BMW M3. Remember that values are likely near the bottom, so well-kept examples, especially the rare Edition One package, could appreciate in the years ahead.
 
In terms of reliability, the M177 engine should be your friend. The powerplant can be very durable if you service it on time. Always look for a full service history when you buy, and it’s best to avoid heavily modified examples. Just make sure to deal with any carbon buildup on your intake valves and look for worn suspension bushings. Also, you don’t have to worry about some of the widespread issues that can affect older naturally aspirated engines in this series, especially related to head bolts or camshafts.
 
With that said, your tires and brakes typically wear out quickly, and an oil change may not be cheap. But remember, you’re buying a sport sedan that has supercar performance. The running costs are pretty reasonable in that context.
 
One of the Last V8 Rear-Drive Bruisers
This member of the Mercedes-AMG 63 family is a super-fast sedan, but it’s the last of a dying breed. Buyers of used examples get true V8 character in a very usable machine without sacrificing comfort. It also costs less than some new crossovers. Current AMG models trend toward four-cylinder hybrid systems, and the setup here is unlikely to come back in future models. So, whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time performance buyer, consider the W205 C63. In the end, it delivers an unforgettable experience at a price that you’ll find hard to beat.