Introduction

The Mercedes-AMG C63, introduced in 2008, marked the beginning of an iconic high-performance sedan lineage. Powered by the legendary naturally aspirated 6.2L M156 V8, it delivered 451 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels through a seven-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission. Known for its aggressive exhaust note and raw driving dynamics, the W204 C63 AMG quickly became a favorite among enthusiasts. A defining feature was its metal paddle shifters, enhancing driver engagement, though many criticized the delayed response of the transmission. Despite this, the C63 AMG’s combination of luxury, power, and German engineering solidified its place as a benchmark in the luxury sports sedan segment.

Competing against the BMW M3 E90/E92 and Audi RS4, the W204 C63 distinguished itself with its larger displacement V8, offering a more brutish and engaging driving experience. Additionally, as the automotive industry transitioned to turbocharged engines in later years, the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 became a rarity, adding to the W204’s uniqueness and desirability.

Facelift

In 2012, Mercedes-Benz replaced the aging 7G-Tronic automatic transmission in the C63 AMG with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed transmission. This upgrade eliminated the traditional torque converter, replacing it with a wet start-up clutch, resulting in faster gear shifts and improved throttle response. The 2012 W204 C-Class facelift introduced subtle but refined exterior updates, including redesigned headlights and taillights, a revised front bumper, and a slightly refreshed grille, enhancing its aggressive stance.

The interior saw improvements as well, with an updated COMAND infotainment system, a redesigned AMG steering wheel, and new trim options, further modernizing the cabin. That same year, Mercedes-AMG expanded the C63 lineup by introducing a coupe variant, giving enthusiasts a sportier alternative to the performance-focused luxury sedan. These updates, combined with the naturally aspirated 6.2L M156 V8, solidified the W204 C63 AMG as one of the most desirable German performance cars of its era.

P31 Development Package

For those seeking more performance, the AMG P31 Development Package boosted power to 480 hp, incorporated engine components from the SLS supercar, and increased the top speed to 174 MPH. This package also included larger brakes, a limited-slip differential for improved traction, and a carbon fiber trunk spoiler (in applicable configurations). The P31 package was a must-have for enthusiasts looking for extra performance, and it could be factory-installed or dealer-installed, adding to its desirability.

Black Series

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series, introduced in 2011, was the most extreme and track-focused version of the W204-generation C63 AMG. It was powered by a 6.2L naturally aspirated M156 V8, tuned to produce 517 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque. The engine upgrades included forged pistons, lightweight connecting rods, and a revised ECU, enhancing both performance and durability. With these improvements, the Black Series could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and had an electronically limited top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h).

To handle the added power, AMG fitted it with a seven-speed Speedshift MCT transmission, a widened front (+1.6 inches) and rear (+3.1 inches) track, and an adjustable coilover suspension, giving it sharper handling and improved cornering stability. A high-performance braking system with larger discs and red AMG calipers ensured it had stopping power to match its speed. Additionally, the Black Series had weight-saving measures, including the removal of rear seats in some markets.

The aggressive design of the Black Series set it apart from the standard C63, featuring flared wheel arches, a carbon-fiber front splitter, and a massive rear diffuser, all contributing to improved aerodynamics. The vented hood provided additional cooling, while 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance tires enhanced grip. Inside, the cabin was stripped of unnecessary luxuries to focus on performance, featuring AMG sport seats, Alcantara accents, and carbon-fiber trim. Optional track-oriented packages added a fixed rear wing and race-spec bucket seats, further emphasizing its motorsport pedigree.

Mercedes-Benz produced only 800 units of the C63 AMG Black Series worldwide, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after AMG models. As a limited-production model, it remains highly desirable, combining raw power, aggressive styling, and track-ready performance.

507 Edition

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG 507 Edition, released in 2013, was a high-performance variant of the W204-generation C63 AMG, available in sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles. It featured an upgraded 6.2L naturally aspirated M156 V8, producing 507 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, thanks to forged pistons, a lightweight crankshaft, and SLS AMG-derived connecting rods, which reduced weight and enhanced durability. The redline was increased to 7,200 RPM, sharpening its power delivery. With these enhancements, the 0-60 mph time dropped to 4.1 seconds for the sedan and coupe, and 4.2 seconds for the wagon, while the electronically limited top speed increased to 174 mph (280 km/h). A high-performance composite braking system with red AMG calipers ensured improved stopping power, making it one of the most capable versions of the C63 AMG.

Visually, the 507 Edition borrowed elements from the C63 Black Series, including hood vents for improved cooling and an aggressive stance. It came equipped with 19-inch matte black AMG wheels, giving it a track-ready appearance. Inside, the cabin featured an Alcantara-wrapped AMG Performance steering wheel and exclusive 507 Edition badging, reinforcing its special-edition status. Like the Black Series, it also featured an uprated cooling system to handle the added power.

As one of the final iterations of the naturally aspirated V8 era, the C63 AMG 507 Edition combined track-inspired performance, aggressive styling, and exclusivity, cementing its place as a sought-after model among enthusiasts. Limited production numbers and its status as one of the last naturally aspirated AMG V8s contribute to its collectibility.

Collectibility

Due to their 6.2L naturally aspirated V8, limited production, and relatively attainable entry price, we believe the W204 C63 is poised to become a future collectible. The most desirable models are the Black Series and 507 Edition due to their exclusivity, but any W204 C63 embodies the characteristics that make this platform special. The primary issue to watch for is early models with original head bolts, as they are known to fail and, while rare, can lead to catastrophic engine damage.

Depreciation trends have shown that well-maintained and low-mileage examples are already appreciating, particularly for special editions. Unique color options, such as Designo paint finishes and rare interior trims, further add to a model’s desirability. Compared to other AMG models of the era, the W204 C63 stands out as one of the last true naturally aspirated AMGs, making it a prime candidate for future collectors.