A few days ago Mercedes-AMG unveiled the all-new C63S (read our original report here). The range leader of the W206 family packs a mighty wallop thanks to an all-new powertrain with a major electrified component. In the months ahead we can expect the Merc to take on its rival from Bavaria. We take a look at these two rivals in BMW M3 vs Merc-AMG C63S.

Follow Double Apex on Facebook and Instagram, where we share more car content.

Buy now and take advantage of free delivery in South Africa on orders over R349.

Appearance

This one is purely subjective in the M3 vs Merc-AMG C63S battle. Many people were completely against the oversized kidney grilles on the current M3/4. However, it seems that exposure over time has bred some familiarity and acceptance. And you cannot ignore the car’s in-yer-face presence. The M3 has a muscular set of haunches thanks to widened fenders over large diameter alloys.

Watch our BMW M4 Competition video review at this link.

The new C63S features a first for the brand: an AMG badge on its nose rather than a Three-Pointed Star. The scalloped bonnet is far more aggressive than anything we’ve seen on a non-Black Series AMG. Click here to read a brief history of all the Black Series models ever made. The Merc still has a sleek look, somewhat slimmer than the M car over its wheels. Larger air vents up front and a subtle lip spoiler are some of the changes over cooking variety C-Classes.

Engines

If this section was based on a ‘top trumps style’ cylinder count the, the M3 would win. BMW has retained its signature inline six-cylinder layout. Two turbochargers have ramped power up to 375 kW/650 N.m which is transmitted via an eight-speed automatic transmission. In xDrive guise the M3 has all-wheel-drive. Though there is a RWD option for those prefer.

The W206 C63S E Performance has half the cylinders and turbochargers of its (W205) predecessor. The 2,0-litre turbocharged four-pot may be small but it produces an impressive 350 kW of power. An electric motor adds another 150 for a total of 500 kW. That figures was the stuff of supercars not that long ago. Even the fearsome Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 had less power.

Click here to read our driving experience of an ultra-rare Lamborghini LP640 Roadster manual.

The peak torque rating of the C63S is an even more impressive 1 020 N.m. Drive is sent to all four corners after passing through a nine-speed automatic transmission. The C63S E Performance counters with a party trick that the M4 can’t match. The electric motor and battery pack mounted on the rear axle allow the car to be driven in pure electric mode for up to 13 km.

Read more about the C63S AMG’s high-tech powertrain at this link.

Performance

Mercedes-AMG quotes a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 3,4 seconds for the new C63S. The BMW is a fraction slower to the benchmark sprint at 3,5 sec. Straight off the bat the C63S has a higher top speed at 280 km/h. The BMW M3 is 30 km/h shy at 250 km/h. However, owners can take the optional M Driver’s Package which raises the top speed to 290 km/h.

Given the choice, which of these two super sedans would you choose? Let us know on the Double Apex on Facebook page.