The 2012 Mercedes-benz C63 Amg stands as a testament to high-performance engineering blended with luxury and comfort. This model year marked a point where raw power met sophisticated technology within the Mercedes-Benz C-Class lineup. For enthusiasts and potential owners, understanding the standard equipment is key to appreciating what makes this car a sought-after machine. Let’s delve into the comprehensive list of standard features that came with the 2012 C63 AMG, showcasing why it remains a benchmark in the world of performance sedans.
Uncompromising Comfort and Convenience
Stepping inside the 2012 C63 AMG, you’re immediately greeted by a cabin designed for both performance driving and everyday luxury. The experience begins with the touch of a button for the power tilt/sliding sunroof with express open and close, inviting natural light and fresh air into the sporty interior. Maintaining optimal comfort is effortless with the dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring both driver and passenger can set their preferred temperatures, filtered for dust-free air.
The driver and front passenger are treated to AMG 6-Way Power Front Sport Seats that are not just visually striking but also functionally superior, featuring adjustable side bolsters and lumbar support to hug you in place during spirited drives or provide relaxed support on longer journeys. Heated Front Seats add a layer of luxury for colder climates, while the power tilt & telescoping steering column ensures every driver can find their perfect driving position. Grip and control are paramount with the AMG Performance Steering Wheel, complete with Aluminum Shift Paddles for manual gear changes at your fingertips.
Entertainment and connectivity are seamlessly integrated with a suite of features including a CD/MP3/AM/FM/Weatherband radio, HD Radio, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. For personal music libraries, Bluetooth Audio Streaming and an iPod/MP3 Media Interface located in the center console offer versatile options. The aural experience is elevated by the Harman/kardon LOGIC7 Surround-Sound System, equipped with an aux-input & USB port for further device integration. Hands-free calling is standard via the Bluetooth interface, enhancing safety and convenience.
Navigating the car’s systems is intuitive with the central controller paired with a 5.8″ display, while critical driving information is presented clearly on a 4.5″ color instrument cluster display. Practicality is considered with both front and rear cupholders, rain-sensing intermittent wipers, and an integrated rear view mirror compass. Auto-dimming driver’s side and rearview mirrors enhance nighttime driving, and an integrated garage door opener adds everyday convenience. Cruise control, power windows with express up and down, and automatic headlamps with twilight sensor & locator lighting further contribute to the ease of use. The integrated trip computer keeps track of essential driving data, and split-folding rear seats add versatility for cargo. Finally, the interior is trimmed with sophisticated Black Ash Wood Trim, adding a touch of classic elegance.
Performance and Handling Prowess
Under the hood, the 2012 C63 AMG boasts a hand-built engine delivering a staggering 451 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 443 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 RPM. This immense power is channeled through an AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed MCT automatic transmission, offering four distinct shift modes and a Race Start function for optimal acceleration. The AMG-calibrated Adaptive Sports Suspension ensures that this power is translated into exceptional handling, dynamically adjusting to driving conditions and driver input.
The chassis is engineered for performance, featuring a 3-link independent strut-type front suspension with stabilizer bar and a multi-link independent rear suspension with stabilizer bar, providing a balanced and responsive ride. 18″ AMG Twin 5-Spoke Alloy Wheels wrapped in high-performance tires (235/40R18 front / 255/35 R18 rear) provide grip and contribute to the aggressive stance. The signature AMG Sport Exhaust System with dual twin chrome outlets not only looks the part but also delivers the iconic AMG soundtrack. Aerodynamics are subtly enhanced by the AMG Aerodynamic Sport Styling, complete with a trunk lid spoiler.
Safety and Security as Standard
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety is evident in the 2012 C63 AMG’s comprehensive safety and security features. ATTENTION ASSIST monitors driver behavior for signs of drowsiness and alerts the driver if needed. ADAPTIVE BRAKE with HOLD function enhances braking performance and convenience in stop-and-go traffic. LED Daytime Running Lamps and LED Taillights improve visibility and add a modern aesthetic.
Passive safety features include a steel-reinforced cabin with front & rear crumple zones, front & rear outboard seatbelts with pre-tensioners & force limiters, dual two-stage front airbags, side airbags mounted in front seat backrests, head protection curtains, dual front pelvic airbags, and a driver’s side knee airbag. Active front head restraints are designed to mitigate whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions. 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System provide powerful and controlled stopping power, while the AMG 3-stage Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) systems work to maintain vehicle stability and traction. Child safety is addressed with LATCH-lower anchors and tethers for children.
Security is managed by an antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button. A tire pressure monitoring system keeps drivers informed of tire status, contributing to safety and optimal performance. Mercedes-Benz also provides peace of mind with a new vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty, a 24 hr. roadside assistance program, and the Mercedes-Benz maintenance system.
Option Packages for Personalization
While the standard equipment of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is extensive, Mercedes-Benz offered several option packages and stand-alone options to further personalize and enhance the vehicle. These packages allowed buyers to tailor their C63 AMG to their specific preferences and needs, further solidifying its place as a truly premium performance machine.
Lighting Package
The Lighting Package ($1,290) upgraded the illumination with Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, a headlamp washing system, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist, enhancing visibility and safety during nighttime driving.
Lane Tracking Package
For enhanced driver assistance, the Lane Tracking Package ($850) included Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, systems designed to alert the driver to potential hazards and help maintain lane position.
Multimedia Package
The Multimedia Package ($2,790) significantly upgraded the infotainment system with COMAND system with hard-drive navigation (80GB), a larger 7-inch high resolution LCD color display, enhanced voice control, SIRIUS real-time traffic service, an in-dash DVD/CD and SD card slot, Gracenote media database, a 10GB hard-drive with Music Register, and a Rearview Camera.
AMG Development Package
For those seeking even greater performance, the AMG Development Package ($6,050) delivered a significant boost. It included lightweight AMG forged pistons, lightweight connecting rods, a revised crankshaft, a revised ECU, resulting in a power increase of 30hp and raising the Top Speed Limit to 174mph. It also added AMG Two-piece front brake rotors, Red Brake Calipers, an AMG performance steering wheel with Alcantara side grips, exclusive engine intake runners in Titanium Gray finish, and a Carbon Fiber Trunk Lid Spoiler.
Stand Alone and Special Order Options
Beyond packages, individual options allowed for further customization. Mercedes-Benz mbrace ($660) provided telematics services. Interior trim options included Burl Walnut wood trim and Aluminum Trim at no charge, and Carbon Fiber Trim for $2,590. 18″ AMG 5-spoke alloy wheels were also available at no charge. Parking assistance could be enhanced with PARKTRONIC w/ Parking Guidance ($970), and KEYLESS-GO ($650) added keyless entry and start. Rear side airbags ($420) provided additional safety. A Power tilt/sliding panorama sunroof ($1,090) offered an even more expansive view, and a Limited Slip Differential ($2,030) further enhanced handling. Special order options included Obsidian Black Paint ($720) and a Power rear window sunshade ($440).
Paint and Upholstery Choices
The 2012 C63 AMG offered a range of paint colors, including Black, Magnetite Black, Mars Red, Cuprite Brown, Arctic White, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Diamond White, Lunar Blue, Pearl Beige, and Sapphire Grey. Upholstery options were equally extensive, ranging from Black MB-Tex/Dinamica to various designo leather options, including single and two-tone color schemes like designo Porcelain Leather, designo Sand Leather, designo Black Leather, designo Classic Red Leather, and combinations thereof.
In conclusion, the standard equipment of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, coupled with its available options, presented a compelling package of performance, luxury, and safety. It solidified its position as a leader in the high-performance sedan segment, appealing to drivers who demanded both exhilarating driving dynamics and refined everyday usability.