[basscadet]

As more and more details begin to leak-out about the upcoming AMG C63, can it be argued that Mercedes-Benz has never been stronger than they are right now? The following interview with Tobias Moers, the head of AMG, reveals a passion for cars that is not matched by ANYONE, anywhere at BMW. Does BMW even care any longer? Just follow the tone of this interview:

Question: Is the M156 (AMG's naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8) dead?

Tobias: (After at least five seconds of pained, sad expression) Yes. When asked whether we’ll see the M156’s replacement soon, he said, “Wait for New York.” They haven’t publicly given the engine a designation yet, but he did that say that the output will not exceed the M157 (5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8), at least not initially. You can assume the car in New York will be the C63 AMG replacement. However, Tobias also indicated that we’ll see the debut of the new sports car, rumored to be named the GT AMG. This car will feature the new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8. The new sports car will cost less than the Gullwing, and that gives the car, “More opportunities,” meaning that you can expect a whole portfolio of variants very similar to the Porsche 911. We can also expect to see the S63 Coupe (and maybe S65 Coupe and S600 Coupe) at the New York show. 2014 Mercedes Benz C63 AMG 507 Edition Rear End In Motion.

Question: How do you feel about the fact that the G63 is the best-selling AMG product in the U.S.?

Tobias: (Laughing) It’s always complicated. Mr. Moers also confirmed that they are beginning to develop the G65 and its 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine for the U.S. market. The hold-up right now is crash testing, specifically passive safety. “If the airbags work then we’re good. If we have to move a steering column or something, forget about it.” When asked if AMG will be bringing their awesome 6x6 monster truck to the States, Tobias said, “I’d love to sell it!” Mercedes Benz AMG GT Prototype Front Three Quarter

Question: Now that you’re head of AMG, are you worried about Black Series development? Tobias: It’s still me. When pressed, he explained that there has always been a team of engineers tasked with developing Black Series cars, but that he has final sign off on how they drive, even in his new position. He’s still very much involved in engineering. This is true of all AMGs.

Question: Will we ever see a V-6 AMG motor in a C-Class or E-Class?

Tobias: What is our unique selling point? The V-8. Why would you want a [six-cylinder]?

Question: What do you think of the Audi TT Quattro Sport Concept that produces 420 hp from a turbo 2.0-liter, heavily besting the 355 hp that AMG makes in the CLA45/GLA45? Tobias: They lost a comparison between the CLA45 and the TT-RS at AutoMotor Und Sport. What are they doing? They’re chasing us, as always. Will AMG respond to the 420-hp TT if it goes into production? Not initially. “We have to protect our customers.” Meaning that if tomorrow AMG releases a 421-hp version of the CLA45, it will **** off existing customers. This is especially relevant in the U.S., where the 2014 CLA45s are sold out.

Question: How important is weight from an engineering perspective?

Tobias: Don’t overestimate it.

Question: Will AMG continue making V-12 engines?

Tobias: As long as there are customers. Some people like the extra sophistication. Maybe the next-generation V-12 needs a plug-in hybrid? Who knows?

Question: Are the horsepower wars over? Tobias:

Answer:No.

AMG is stuffing fire-breathing Twin Turbo 4-liter V8s into their cars. BMW is penny-pinching and using what they can off the assembly line. AMG is concerned about performance first and efficiency second. BMW is focused on fuel economy and luxury. Has the world tilted upside down?

[The Automotive Enthusiast]

Repost.

[AtlantaDude]

I have to admit... When I was looking for a car.. it was between the C350 Sport and the 335i... If they only had manuals and a good race program.... I would have gone with a Merc..... (I love the way the C350 looks)

[ShocknAwe]

Until Merc makes a manual gearbox option again, I refuse.

They do have some nice cars though. And those AMG engines are like friggin nukes.

[secretsquirrel]

Originally Posted by ShocknAwe

Until Merc makes a manual gearbox option again, I refuse.