Driving
Driving the Mercedes is an addictive experience. Turn the key and the 6.2-litre V8 bellows into life, while blipping the throttle caues the whole car to rock! No rival is as dramatic, but then none has 451bhp and 600Nm of torque, either. Overtaking is a breeze and the C63 is very tractable, yet can also sprint from 0 to 100mph in less than 10 seconds. It’s therefore a shame the seven-speed auto can be hesitant, hunting beween ratios instead of letting the engines plentful torque do the work. As for handling, the heavy AMG loses out to the scapel sharp BMW M3, needing more lock in corners, and proving a little harsher in terms of ride. But it is every bit as involving and even more characterful, with fantastic body control, poise, agility and that mighty engine. This is a real driver’s car.

Marketplace
Mercedes spent three years perfecting the performance C-Class range-topper; the competition is so strong, AMG couldn’t just fit a big engine and hope for the best. It has a muscular body and quad exhausts, yet despite the bulging arches and twin bonnet strakes, subtlety is the C-Class’ preferred approach, in contrast to more outlandish rivals such as the BMW M3, Audi RS4 and Lexus IS F. The £50k motor is even available as an estate, which gets the same 6.2-litre V8 and seven-speed auto gearbox.

Owning
Inside, there’s little to set the AMG apart from an ordinary C-Class. While it's comfortable, equipment levels are low with sat-nav being an expensive extra. The cabin doesn’t really feel special enough to justify the outlay. The heavily bolstered front seats are supportive but restrict rear legroom. However, there's a big boot, strong xenon headlights and excellent all-round visibility. A neat touch is the flashing red display in the speedo that kicks in as the rev needle nears the limiter! You’ll have to be prepared for regular fuel stops if you use this pace though, as our 15mpg test average gave a short 225 mile range. Servicing and tyre costs will also be high, although excellent retained values ensure it’s a big hit on the used market.