The Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet Is An Angry V8 Monster With Infinite Headroom

Ever since the E36 version, you’ve always been able to buy the M3 (now M4) as a drop-top. Even Audi has offered a cabriolet of that size for a while with the RS5, but Mercedes? The AMG versions of the C-Class have remained stubbornly tin top, until now. Yep, with a C-Class being offered as a cabriolet for the first time, that means AMG has all it needs to create a bonkers convertible C63. And create it has. So, let’s take a closer look.

Like other versions of the C63, there’s a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 up front with a clever ‘hot V’ design that places the blowers between the cylinder banks. The range is topped by the C63 S with 503bhp and 516lb ft on tap, with the ‘regular’ C63 good for a still potent 469bhp and 479lb ft.

All as per the coupe and saloon so far, but predictably, a little weight gain - 140kg for the C63 and 110kg for the C63 S - does blunt performance ever so slightly. The C63 does 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds and the C63 S in 4.1, representing a 0.2sec drop for both cars compared to the coupe versions. The top speed for both cars is electronically pegged at 155mph, but this can be bumped up to 174mph if you spec the ‘AMG Driver’s Package’.

In more C63 coupe deja vu news, we have a seven-speed automatic gearbox sending its power to the rear via a mechanical limited-slip differential in the standard car, or a posher electronically-controlled LSD if you go for the S. Electronically-adjustable dampers come fitted as standard, as do dynamic engine mounts which stiffen when required.

The multi-layered fabric roof can be raised or lowered at speeds of up to 31mph, and there’s the optional ‘Air Scarf’ feature which blows a load of hot air at your neck, enabling you to drive with the roof down in the colder months without suffering from hypothermia.

Want one? UK pricing - expected to be in the region of £60,000 - will be revealed when the order books open on 17 May, and first deliveries will take place in October. It’ll be on display at the New York Auto Show from today.