2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series - Black Hawk

When Mercedes-Benz proclaimed this “the most powerful C-Class of all time,” some people might have thought that there wasn’t a particularly high bar to exceed. Even so, 510 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque in the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series coupe is a sumptuous dollop of muscle hooked up to a seven-speed, multi-mode automatic transmission. And it goes rather against the grain of recent AMG offerings by having a naturally aspirated V8 (displacing 6.2 liters) instead of the almost-obligatory turbochargers. But a Black Series version of anything from AMG is a fabulous machine, showing how hard-core a Benz can really get—zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds—without completely losing its essential Benz-ness. Two extra packages are offered: Track and Aerodynamics. The former includes specially developed Dunlop high-performance tires for those lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels (225/35 at the front, 285/30 out back), plus active cooling of the locking differential. The latter brings more carbon fiber in the form of front winglets and an adjustable rear spoiler. Sales are expected to begin early in 2012, with prices being announced nearer that time.