Mercedes C63 S vs. E63 S: The 7 Differences & Which Is Best?
Today, we have an interesting comparison: the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S versus the E63 S.
If you’ve ever been curious about the differences between these legendary vehicles, you’re in the right place.
We’re breaking down everything from their engine performance to how they feel while driving.
The main difference between the Mercedes C63 S and the E63 S is that the C63 S is slightly less powerful and is rear-wheel drive, while the E63 S is more powerful, larger, and has an all-wheel drive system.
Ready to learn more? Let’s go!
7 Differences Between The Mercedes C63 S And E63 S
Let’s check out all the differences between these C-Class and E-Class models!
1. Engine performance
Let’s start where the real magic happens: under the hood!
The Mercedes C63 S and E63 S aren’t just any regular cars; they’re part of Mercedes-Benz’s AMG lineup, which means they have some serious power.
The Mercedes-AMG C63 S has a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine with an impressive 503 horsepower. Meanwhile, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S comes with the same 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine but is tuned to push out 603 horsepower.
Yep, you read that right. That’s a whole 100 horses more than its counterpart!
In a straight race, the E63 S will leave the C63 S catching its breath.
Here is an overview of the engines of the C63 S and E63 S and their performance:
| Mercedes-AMG | Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (lb-ft) | 0 to 62 mph | Top speed |
| C63 S | 4.0-liter V8 | 503 | 516 | 4.0 seconds | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| E63 S | 4.0-liter V8 | 603 | 627 | 3.4 seconds | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
Both these AMGs offer a unique experience that’s smooth, responsive, and, let’s be honest, a bit addictive.
Related article: Which Mercedes E-Class Engine Is Best In 2025? (+2 To Avoid)
2. Fuel economy
After hearing about the power of these two, you’re probably thinking: how thirsty are these beasts?
Fuel economy is crucial because, let’s face it, no one wants to spend all their time (and money) at the gas station.
With high-performance vehicles like the C63 S and E63 S, you might expect them to have quite an appetite for fuel.
And to some extent, that’s true. They’re not the most fuel-efficient cars. But they’re not guzzlers either, considering the massive power they offer.
The C63 S is fairly decent on the gas front. It manages to give you 20 MPG combined. Meanwhile, the E63 S, with its improved performance (remember that extra 100 horses we talked about?), is a bit more thirsty. The E63 S offers 18 MPG combined.
It’s a tad lower than the C63 S, but hey, with great power comes slightly greater fuel consumption.
In conclusion, while you won’t win any ‘green awards’ with either of these, they offer a decent balance between power and efficiency. And after all, the ride makes it all worth it!
Reader’s tip: Mercedes E-Class: Regular Or Premium Gas? (2025 Guidelines)
3. Rear-wheel drive vs. all-wheel drive
Next up is the age-old debate of rear-wheel drive (RWD) versus all-wheel drive (AWD).
The Mercedes-AMG C63 S is an RWD car. In this configuration, power from the engine is channeled exclusively to the rear wheels.
This setup is fantastic for that sporty feel; it gives a dynamic driving experience and allows for some playful drifting around corners.
However, an RWD might need more attention on slippery roads or in conditions like rain or snow, as it could be a bit tail-happy.
Meanwhile, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S is AWD. That means the power is sent to all four wheels, making it cling to the road like a champ. This car is steady whether it’s driving in rain, snow, or just plain tarmac.
In a nutshell? If you love the thrill of driving, the RWD in the C63 S might be your thing. But if you’re looking for that extra grip and assurance, especially in challenging conditions, the AWD in the E63 S is best.
4. Dimensions and weight
Size does matter in cars, and the Mercedes-AMG C63 S and E63 S prove just that.
The C63 S is more compact and lighter compared to the E63 S.
The C63 S’s length is 184.5 inches (about 468.6 cm), making it easy to navigate those tighter city spots. Its curb weight is 4,107 lbs (around 1,863 kg).
The C63 S also has a trunk space of 12.6 cubic feet (around 357 liters) – roomy enough for those weekend getaways or monthly grocery hauls.
On the flip side, we have the larger E63 S. It stretches out to a length of 193.8 inches (about 492 cm), offering more legroom for passengers.
It’s heavier, too, with a curb weight of 4,515 lbs (around 2,048 kg), which lends to its solid, robust feel.
And for the serial shoppers among you, the E63 S offers a trunk capacity of 13.1 cubic feet (around 371 liters) – ready to swallow up all your luggage.
To boil it down, if you prefer a nimble, easy-to-handle ride, the C63 S’s compact size and lighter weight might appeal to you. But if spaciousness and a bigger trunk have your priority, the E63 S would be a better fit.
5. Exterior styling
Let’s talk about the visual appeal of the Mercedes-AMG C63 S and E63 S.
The C63 S, at first glance, blends athleticism and elegance. Its muscular contours and sculpted sidelines give it an aggressive stance. The front grille, with the sharp LED headlights, creates a bold statement.
The coupe variant, in particular, has a sleek roofline that makes it look even more sporty.
The E63 S is slightly larger in stature, giving it a commanding presence on the road. The grille is more pronounced.
Its headlights, slightly narrower, convey a sense of focus and precision. The overall design, including the integrated rear spoiler and larger air intake, subtly hints at its superior power and capability.
All in all, the C63 S appeals to those who appreciate a compact yet aggressive style, while the E63 S resonates with individuals who desire a blend of authority and refinement.
6. Build quality
Let’s talk about another cool thing that can make or break a car’s charm: its build quality.
Think of this as the “feel-good” factor when you’re inside the car, driving around, or just admiring it from a distance.
So, you’ve got the C-Class (C63 S) and the E-Class (E63 S), right?
Both are amazing. But the E-Class is like that fancy restaurant where everything just feels a bit more… deluxe. It’s built so that everything feels smoother, quieter, and overall more polished.
Now, don’t get us wrong. The C-Class is a stunner!
It’s sporty, quick on its feet, and built for fun drives.
But, side by side, the E63 S will feel like it’s had some extra pampering, especially when we talk about comfort and those super-quiet moments in the cabin.
Bottom line? If you’re after that extra touch of luxury, where every drive feels like a mini vacation, the E63 S has that special something.
Fun fact: Did you know that the Mercedes C-Class can last over 280,000 miles?
7. Price tag
Ah, the final and often decisive factor for many: the price tag. And for these two models, the investment is significant.
The C63 S, being the smaller model, comes with a more approachable price point. However, “approachable” in the AMG world is still a substantial amount. It has an MSRP of about $90,000.
The E63 S, being larger and having more horsepower, has an MSRP of about $121,000.
But remember, you’re getting a larger car with more interior space and that little extra bit of prestige that comes with the E-Class badge. It’s a step up in the world of Mercedes, and for some, it’s a step worth taking.
It’s all about what you’re looking for and, of course, what your wallet has to say about it.
Tip: Take a look at this article if you’re interested in buying a Mercedes C-Class: Mercedes-Benz C-Class Reliability: Which Years To Avoid?
What is the best choice? (Mercedes C63 S vs. E63 S)
Choosing between the Mercedes C63 S and the E63 S can be difficult.
Here are some considerations that can help you decide which is best:
If your primary concern is city commuting with the occasional fun drive around winding roads and you appreciate a more compact, athletic vibe, the C63 S might be your ideal match. It’s nimbler, easier to park, and offers nearly as much excitement as its bigger sibling without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, if you’re someone who frequently travels longer distances, values added luxury, or desires the best in performance and size, the E63 S steps up to the plate.
The additional horsepower, increased space, and the assurance of all-wheel drive make it a formidable contender for those wanting the full package.
At the end of the day, both cater to slightly different audiences, and what might be perfect for one person might be ‘almost perfect’ for another.
Test drive them if you can. And then, trust your gut (and perhaps your wallet, too) to make the right choice.
Related article: Is A Mercedes E-Class Worth It In 2025? (10 Pros & Cons)
And if you ever want to get closer to the power of the E63 S in your C 63 S, you can always consider getting a RaceChip.
RaceChip is a company offering Plug & Drive tuning box systems for many car models. They can be installed by yourself without needing any specialist knowledge or tools.
In fact, it will only take 10 to 15 minutes, and when you buy a RaceChip, you’ll receive car model-specific installation instructions!
Using a RaceChip, you can give your Mercedes C 63 S a performance boost of up to 92 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque:
And the best thing is, a RaceChip is much more affordable than the upgrade from a C63 S to an E63 S. You can check out RaceChip’s website here!
Conclusion
Alright, let’s wrap this up!
We’ve taken a deep dive into two awesome Mercedes cars: the C63 S and the E63 S.
But here’s the thing: Both cars are superb choices.
So, think about what you really want in a car. Your budget, the things you like, and how you’ll use the car.
Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe travels!
More comparisons
Not sure yet about these C-Class or E-Class models? If so, check out our other comparisons here:
