AMG C63 vs BMW M3 vs Audi RS4: Quarter Mile Showdown You Can't Miss
Welcome to the ultimate showdown featuring three elite performance estates: the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S, BMW M3 Touring, and Audi RS4 Competition. This drag race isn't just about speed; it's a symphony of advanced engineering, precision driving, and raw power.
The Contenders
First up, let's talk about the heavyweight champ: the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S. Despite its 2.0-liter four-cylinder single turbo petrol engine, which produces 476 horsepower, the real headline is in its electric motor. Positioned on the rear axle, this electric powerhouse adds another 204 horsepower, bringing the combined total to a staggering 680 horsepower and 1,020 Nm of torque. However, all this comes at a cost—in weight and price. The car tips the scales at around 2.2 tonnes and is priced at approximately £100,000. Yet, with its nine-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive, it promises a thrilling launch.
Next in line is the BMW M3 Touring. Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight-six engine, this car offers a substantial 510 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque. It's lighter than the Mercedes at 1,865 kg, and also more affordable, coming in just under £89,000. A unique aesthetic touch includes orange flakes in its paint, matching the car's interior seats—a feature that adds to its track-ready persona.
Last but definitely not least, we have the limited edition Audi RS4 Competition. Limited to just 75 units in the UK and priced at £84,000, the RS4 packs a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 450 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque. With bespoke tasks like reducing sound deadening and tweaking the differential, Audi intends to provide an enhanced driving experience, even though it shares many specs with the standard RS4.
The Battle Begins
The action kicks off with the customary Car Wow sound check. The Audi's 2.9-liter V6 hits a soft limiter at 5,000 rpm but impresses with a surprisingly appealing tone. Moving to the BMW, its engine roars up to 7,000 rpm, offering a vibrant auditory treat. Yet, the Mercedes, despite all its capabilities, delivers a somewhat underwhelming exhaust note while stationary.
As the race begins, the tension is palpable. All eyes are on the AMG C 63 S, which is expected to dominate. The initial phase sees the Mercedes shooting ahead, but peculiarities in its rear gearbox during electric shifts allow the BMW to briefly catch up. Nevertheless, the AMG asserts its dominance, completing the quarter mile in 11.5 seconds, with the BMW and Audi trailing at 11.6 and 11.9 seconds, respectively.
Rolling Races and Gear Games
Shaking things up, the competitors engage in rolling races. Initially running in comfort mode at 50 mph, the AMG leverages its electric motor's instant torque, breezing past competitors. Likewise, in sporty settings from a 50 mph roll-on, the AMG's hybrid prowess proves unbeatable, leaving the BMW and Audi in the dust.
In a final twist, Nick from the BMW team opts for a second gear roll from 35 mph, hoping to outshine the AMG. Yet, despite the AMG driver bouncing off the limiter twice, the Mercedes' blend of power and technology emerges victorious once more.
Brake Test and Final Verdict
The conclusive brake test from 100 mph reveals a surprising victor. While the BMW shows inexplicably poor braking performance, the Audi RS4 redeems itself by coming to a halt in the shortest distance, clinching a minor victory in an otherwise AMG-dominated day.
In summary, while the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S dominated the performance battles, it's essential to consider the value offered by the BMW and Audi. The M3 Touring and RS4 Competition both deliver spectacular driving experiences, each with unique strengths. The AMG might have clinched the performance crown, but the day's events highlighted that each contender has its niche in the high-performance estate market.