Time waits for no man, or so they say, and nothing proves the point like a 2016 AMG C63 wagon. No, really. Back the launch of the 4.0-litre, ‘205 generation C63, there was much consternation among the dedicated AMG fans that this twin-turbocharged car would struggle to live up the reputation of its illustrious forebear, the 6.2-litre, ‘204 era of C63. There was much worthy protest about throttle response and sound and too much technology blighting the spirit of AMG ‘bahnstormers.
Now look. Less than a decade on and the equivalent C63 is 50 per cent more expensive with an engine half the size. It’s a long time ago but also, in the grand scheme of it, not ages. And while the original C63 will always appeal as a modern classic, there’s no escaping the fact that those cars launched 16 years ago; even if you’re lucky enough to nab a late one, it’s going to be 10 years old now and with plenty of much older architecture. Undoubtedly cool things, though maybe no longer the car to subject to the travails (and expense) of everyday use.
Which makes the 4.0-litre generation even more attractive, sufficiently new to be used all the time but old enough to boast the hot-v V8 without the complexity or weight of hybridisation. There wasn’t a bad one among the bunch; the coupe was the best to drive with its unique rear axle, the saloon holds considerable rarity appeal, and even the convertible wasn’t without its charms. The C63 estate, of course, did rollicking uber wagon better than anything else - an RS4 really wasn’t even close, truth be told - and a glorious example of the breed is going under the PH hammer early next month.
Even by the very standards of ‘205 C63 AMGs, this one stands out. As the estate to begin with, of course, but also as an early non-S model; it means 476hp instead of the flagship’s 510hp, however it gets a mechanical instead of electronic limited-slip diff, which is now regarded as a little less troublesome a few years down the line. Always nice to have one less thing to worry about with a secondhand fast car. Getting the 9-speed auto of the facelifted car (it launched with a seven-speeder) would be desirable, though with that update all C63s got the electronically controlled diff. Brilliant Blue Metallic looks ace, a welcome change from silver, white and black.
There’s plenty more in its favour, too, having covered just 45,000 miles with four owners since 2016 and with a service undertaken every single year. It’s been with the current keeper since 2021, during which time they’ve refurbed the wheels and had the paintwork regularly detailed. They clean the exhaust tips with metal polish, if you want to know something about the seller. The Michelin tyres are 5,000 miles old and, yes, the boot badges are gone. Plus 10 Q car points there.
Why wouldn’t you, right? This C63 is a great spec of a great AMG, has been doted on by its most recent owner, and ought to provide heaps of family fun for years to come. Despite the persistent rumours, cars like this (well, not exactly like it) aren’t coming back. Expect this one to prove very, very popular indeed. Perfect time, in fact, to remind you about the new ‘Make an Offer’ feature on PH, too, where bids can be submitted ahead of the auction going live to secure a car without the uncertainty of going down to the wire. If it meets the reserve and the seller is happy, then the deal is done - easy as that. The C63 goes live at 09:00 on October 6th, meaning you have until 48 hours beforehand to submit an offer. Best of luck!
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