Mercedes-AMG C 63S Coupe is the model of a modern muscle car

Tough looks, surging power and V8 soundtrack — it’s what Mercedes-AMG does best. And the C63 S Coupe’s a proper AMG.

Meaner than its sedan and wagon siblings, the AMG C63 S Coupe looks like a proper performance car and delivers the sort of luxury people expect for $170K-plus. Here are five things that set it apart.

1. THIS IS A PROPER AMG

Mercedes-AMG has been experimenting with a wide range of models and concepts. Among the former is the coming GLB 35, a compact SUV based on the B-Class mini-MPV, powered by a four-cylinder engine. That’s about as far removed from the brand’s heavy-hitting history as you can get.

Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe: Looks and sounds great and goes harder than rivals

For heavy hitting, you need the likes of the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe. It represents the essence of AMG and one of the most desirable cars of its kind. It looks tough, sounds like a V8 Supercar and goes harder than the opposition — which is exactly what made AMG the badge to have for Euro performance enthusiasts.

2. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE ENGINE

The 4.0-litre V8’s twin turbochargers are mounted between its cylinder banks. Good for 375kW and 700Nm, the engine easily outguns the BMW M4 and Audi RS5 with thunderous power, making it a favourite for Aussie enthusiasts. That engine dominates the C63 experience. It can rumble away effortlessly in the background when cruising around town, or pin you in the seat while filling the cabin with an intoxicating roar. Sprinting from rest to 100km/h in a fraction more than four seconds, the coupe is unquestionably fast and undoubtedly charming. Just try matching the claimed thirst of 10.3L/100km.

3. MERCEDES MADE IT FRIENDLIER

The midlife update delivers a smarter, more comfortable C63. Improvements include the addition of a nine-speed automatic transmission that’s smoother and more efficient than the previous seven-speeder. New engine mounts take the shunt out of full-throttle gearshifts and a mild exterior tweak adds the Mercedes “Panamerica” grille with chromed vertical slats.

Modern muscle car: The cabin gets twin displays … and mood lighting

The staple autonomous emergency braking and blind spot assistance are augmented by the brand’s latest driver aids — traffic jam assistance tech makes commuting less of a chore and you arrive fresher after a long drive. Warranty is three years/unlimited km and servicing is $3800 for three years.

4. IT’S THE INSIDE THAT COUNTS

The most significant tweaks are in the cabin, which is modernised by enormous twin displays. The customisable digital driver’s screen is clear and bright, while the central display renders Apple CarPlay, satnav and, in AMG’s Track Pace suite, driver coaching tips. Circuits and point-to-point routes can be loaded to give you sector times and downloadable data for track days or hillclimbs. The new steering wheel has a rotary switch for the car’s driving modes, doubling as the dial for 10-stage traction control … if you’re brave enough to turn off the stability control.

5. “IS IT LIKE A GERMAN MUSTANG?”

A family member’s query was surprisingly on the money. With its thumping V8, fat guards, huge wheels and imposing stance, the C63 coupe might be the best interpretation of a modern muscle car.

Road and track: AMG makes it well-behaved in traffic — and wild on the circuit

Meaner than its sedan and wagon siblings, the coupe looks like a proper performance car while delivering the sort of luxury people expect when paying $167,642 plus on-roads. Accurate steering, impressive grip and good balance make the C63 rewarding to drive but you must be mindful of its tendency to hang the tail out.