New BMW M4 vs Mercedes-AMG C63: verdict
The M4 is a new range-topping version of our reigning Coupé of the Year, but is it better than its arch-rival from Mercedes' AMG performance division...
Our verdict
The new BMW M4’s awesome straight-line performance and staggeringly high-handling limits make it the more capable of these high performance coupés. However, the flipside to having such high limits is that you have to push the M4 very hard before it starts to feel really alive.
If you’re a keen track day goer or simply want the faster car, then that will no doubt appeal. However, for most of us, these cars will be used primarily on the road, so outright performance is ultimately less important than the smile they plaster across your face. And it’s here where the Mercedes-AMG C63 excels; its thundering V8 soundtrack, confidence-inspiring handling and still hugely impressive acceleration make it the more entertaining car to drive on the road. So, it’s a win for the C63, albeit by the narrowest of margins.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
1st – Mercedes-AMG C63
For Playful handling; reassuring to drive; intoxicating V8 soundtrack; packed with kit; more comfortable ride
Against Slightly lower handling limits; slower gearbox; less intuitive infotainment; more expensive
Recommended options Metallic Paint (£895)
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Read our full Mercedes-AMG C63 review >>
Find Mercedes-AMG C63 deals >>
2nd – BMW M4
For Incredible straight-line performance; enormous grip; better infotainment; higher-quality interior
Against Less fun at sensible speeds; firmer ride; some luxury and safety kit only optional
Recommended options M carbon bucket seats (£3400); Technology Plus Pack (£1750); Comfort Pack (£990)
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Read our full BMW M4 review >>
Find BMW M4 deals >>
Specifications: BMW M4 Competition
Engine 6cyl, 2996cc, twin-turbo, petrol
Peak power 503bhp @ 5600-7200rpm
Peak torque 479lb ft @ 2750-5500rpm
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 3.8sec
30-70mph 2.8sec
Top speed 155mph
30-0mph 8.2m
70-0mph 43.9m
Noise at 30mph 63.5dB
Noise at 70mph 69.1dB
Test economy 26.3mpg
Official economy 28.0mpg
CO2 emissions 228g/km
Specifications: Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupé
Engine 8cyl, 3982cc, twin-turbo, petrol
Peak power 503bhp @ 5500-6250rpm
Peak torque 516lb ft @ 1750-4500rpm
Gearbox 9-spd automatic
0-60mph 4.5sec
30-70mph 3.3sec
Top speed 155mph
30-0mph 8.5m
70-0mph 45.1m
Noise at 30mph 63.9dB
Noise at 70mph 69.5dB
Test economy 23.3mpg
Official economy 25.7mpg
CO2 emissions 250g/km
Test conditions Cold and damp
Cars pictured
BMW M4 Competition in Tazanite Blue II metallic paint (£1100) with optional M Carbon Pack (£6750), Visibility Pack (£1500), Comfort Pack (£990), Parking Assistant Plus (£650) and M Double-spoke Bicolour Alloy Wheels (£300)
Mercedes C63 S Coupé Night Edition Premium Plus in Brilliant blue metallic paint (£685) with optional 19/20in AMG alloy wheels, cross-spoke, Titanium Grey (£1360) and heat-insulating dark-tinted glass (£385)
Best performance cars 2023
First and foremost, great performance cars are entertaining to drive, but they also need to be suitable for everyday use. So, which are the best and worst?
