Unleashing the Beast: V8-Powered Mercedes-AMG C63 S Transformation

The Ultimate Fix: Swapping the V8 Back into the Mercedes-AMG C63 S

Mercedes-AMG’s decision to ditch the iconic 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 in the latest C63 S has left many fans and car enthusiasts feeling disappointed. But, a German tuning shop, Vuk Manufaktur, has come up with a solution to right that wrong. They’ve taken the current "W206" Mercedes-AMG C63 S and replaced the four-cylinder hybrid setup with the beloved V8.

A Power and Performance Downgrade?

Before any tuning, the V8 swap actually results in a power and performance downgrade. The new C63 S, with its stock 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four and electric motors, produces 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque, sending power to all four wheels. Although it’s heavy, weighing in at 4,654 pounds, it still hits 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. In comparison, the V8-powered car, which is no longer in production, made 503 hp and 516 lb-ft from the factory and reached 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The V8 swap is not just a loss of power, but a massive drop-off.

The V8’s Return

It’s unclear if Vuk was able to retain any of the hybrid’s electrified power, but it seems unlikely. The hybrid system is probably designed solely to work with the smaller engine and would be a nightmare to modify for a different one. If not, the twin-turbo V8 is more than capable of handling additional power with just a simple software tune. It shouldn’t be hard to get this "achtzylinder" to perform as well as, if not better than, the hybrid powertrain.

The Sound of the V8

The retrofit will be a massive upgrade when it comes time to start the car. AMG’s V8 bark and growl is among the best in the industry, rather than the Dyson-esque four-cylinder. Hearing the V8 rumble back to life in the new C63 is cathartic.

Why Bother?

If you’re wondering why anyone would go through the trouble of engine swapping an old V8 into a complex hybrid vehicle, rather than just buying an older used AMG C63 that already has a V8, you’re not alone. But, I kind of understand the appeal here. Vuk is creating the sedan many wished AMG had, combining the best of both worlds. You get the stellar twin-turbo V8 noise, character, and excitement of the old car combined with the new car’s looks, interior, and improved handling.