Edmunds - IL Track Tested: 2012 Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe v 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

[Merc1]

During our first drive of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe we said, "Blindingly fast in a straight line, the C63 AMG Coupe is even more impressive when the road truns twisty. A legitimate M3 competitor if there ever was one."

But what fun is that? The M3 is on its way out and its 414 horsepower V8 is nearly outgunned by a stock Ford Mustang GT. The Merc's big 6.2-liter V8 cranks out nearly 70 hp more with its $6,050 AMG Development package. Even with "only" the stock 451 hp, it would be a bloodbath.

Thankfully, Cadillac offers a coupe much more in line with the spirit of "more is better" embodied by the C63 AMG Coupe. The CTS-V Coupe also uses a 6.2-liter V8, but ups the ante with a supercharger that blows horsepower to 556 and torque to 551. It's a monster.

556 vs 481. Six-speed manual vs. seven-speed automated manual. 4,200 pounds vs 3,990. CTS-V Coupe vs Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe: Who takes it?

Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

0-30 (sec.): 1.9 1.9
0-45 (sec.): 3.0 2.9
0-60 (sec.): 4.2 4.2
0-60 with 1-ft Rollout (sec.): 3.9 3.9
0-75 (sec.): 6.0 5.8
1/4-mile (sec @ mph): 12.3 @ 116.3 12.2 @ 117.5

30-0 (ft): 29 27
60-0 (ft): 112 107
Skid pad lateral accel (g): 0.89 0.90
Slalom 68.5 69.3


Full Story: IL Track Tested: 2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe vs. 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe


M

 

[Zafiro]

I take the Benz, you know you want one too Merc

 

[K-A]

Ugh, the CTS-V Coupe is so hideous.

 

[Guibo]

The Cadillac looks very odd from many angles (especially that one), but there's a funkiness to it that I find appealing. The numbers are so close. I hope they do a proper road test of the two; perhaps the CTS-V's magnetic shocks can give it an edge. Very good dynamic ability from the Merc considering the rather tame rubber (same as for the SLS too). If I were buying, I'd have to test drive both to make a decision.