Watch the Mercedes-AMG C63 Hybrid Demolish the V-8 Version in a Drag Race

Sound and weight aside, the four-cylinder C63 is better than the outgoing V-8 model in every way.

mercedes-amg c63 estate rear in blue

Brian Silvestro

By: Brian Silvestro

Jun 23, 2024 at 12:00pm ET

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Enthusiasts aren't into the new Mercedes-AMG C63, and it's easy to see why. The widely loved twin-turbo V-8 from the last version is gone, replaced by a complicated hybrid system with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine at its heart. But there's no denying one thing: The new C63 is incredibly quick in a straight line.

The Carwow YouTube channel brought together new and old C63 Estates to see how they stack up against each other in a series of straight-line comparison tests. With its extra horsepower and standard all-wheel drive, the new car is the clear favorite. But all of that extra equipment means it weighs around 700 pounds more.

Not like that matters. The new C63 S E-Performance absolutely demolishes the old V-8 car in a pair of traditional standing start drag races, walking away and finishing several car lengths ahead.

Things get a bit more interesting when Carwow attempts a roll race. It's the old eight-cylinder car that gets an early lead, managing to hold its own through the half-mile for a finish that's too close to call. Of course, the new hybrid C63 takes wins in the second and third roll races—though not by much.

What do you think?

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Amazingly, the hybrid C63 can also out-brake the old car, even with the extra weight. In a braking test from 100 mph, the new car is able to stop more than a car length shorter. The beauty of ever-advancing tech at work.

While the E-Performance is measurably better in every way, I'd still take the 4.0-liter-powered C63. More speed and power is nice and all, but sound matters too. And nothing else in the company's lineup can beat that V-8.