Electric Cars

Mercedes-AMG C 63: Reimagining Performance, Rekindling Passion

The Current Hybrid Powertrain: A Source of Debate Among Enthusiasts

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance currently features a plug-in hybrid system that produces an impressive 671 horsepower and 752 pound-feet of torque. However, the use of a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four internal combustion engine has sparked considerable debate among fans, many of whom miss the powerful V8s of previous C 63 models. Mercedes seems to be taking this feedback into account.

Exploring New Engine Options: A Hint at the Future

Mattias Geisen, a Mercedes board member for sales and marketing, indicated a possible shift towards offering six-cylinder options in future models where four-cylinder engines are currently used. He suggested that these new configurations could be either hybrid or purely internal combustion, implying a potential departure from the current four-cylinder setup in the C 63. This statement opens the door for a more diverse engine lineup in the brand's performance vehicles.

The Inline-Six: A Fit for the C-Class?

The introduction of a six-cylinder engine would likely involve a variant of the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six already present in other AMG models, though not in the flagship '63' versions. This engine, equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivers strong performance, exemplified by its 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque in the AMG CLE 53. While it may not replicate the V8's raw sound, an inline-six would offer a unique character within the C-Class range, which predominantly features turbo-four engines. The shared platform with the CLE-Class suggests that a longer inline-six could comfortably fit into the sedan's engine compartment, making this a feasible option without requiring extensive structural modifications that a V8 might entail.

Balancing Innovation with Tradition: The C 63's Hybrid Journey

The existing turbo-four plug-in hybrid system in the C 63 and GLC 63 S E Performance is a testament to advanced engineering. Its gasoline engine, lauded for being the highest-output volume-production four-cylinder, works in conjunction with an electric motor and F1-derived battery technology to deliver efficient performance. This F1-inspired approach emphasizes power with efficiency, yet it results in a heavier and more intricate vehicle compared to non-hybrid alternatives, and some argue it lacks the emotive engine note of its predecessors. Despite its technical prowess and superior specifications, the emotional connection and traditional appeal of a powerful engine remain a significant factor for buyers, underscoring the challenge of balancing technological innovation with established preferences.

A remarkable discovery recently captivated the automotive world: a binder filled with nearly 80 hand-drawn concept sketches from General Motors' past. These exquisite drawings, dating back to the summer of 1940, offer a unique window into the automaker's ambitious plans for its 1942 Buick models. The serendipitous find was made by Josh Quick, a collector in New York, who stumbled upon the historical treasure while searching for antique tractor parts at an estate sale. Initially overlooked among other items, the binder's true significance became apparent only days later, revealing a captivating glimpse into early automotive design.

These imaginative designs, though never reaching mass production, were the brainchild of students at the Detroit Institute of Automobile Styling, a specialized school established by GM. The Institute's dual mission was to cultivate emerging design talent and recruit the brightest minds for the company. The binder's pages showcase a progression of skill and creativity, starting from initial concepts and evolving into more intricate and sophisticated designs. Remarkably, many of the artists involved went on to achieve considerable influence within the automotive industry, shaping the aesthetics of future models like the Corvette, Cadillac, and the distinctive Buick Riviera. Their futuristic visions, featuring prominent grilles and Art Deco details, laid the groundwork for design elements that would eventually define General Motors' styling and even impact other manufacturers.

The journey of this historical binder to a New York barn remains shrouded in mystery, yet its ultimate destination is a testament to its value. After recognizing the profound historical importance of his find, Quick promptly contacted General Motors. As a result, the entire collection has been meticulously digitized and is now securely preserved at GM's design headquarters in Warren, Michigan. This unexpected re-emergence of forgotten artistry not only enriches our understanding of automotive design evolution but also underscores the enduring legacy of visionaries whose ideas transcended their time.

This incredible discovery highlights the often-unseen pathways through which creativity and innovation flow, reminding us that valuable insights into the past can emerge from the most unexpected places. It celebrates the ingenuity of those who dared to dream of the future and shaped the world with their artistic and technical prowess. The preservation of these sketches ensures that their influence continues to inspire future generations, demonstrating that even unproduced concepts can hold immense historical and artistic significance.