Mercedes ups the power in its C63 range

Special 507 edition models will combine sheer driving thrills with the technological refinement associated with the premium carmaker.

Just in case there were any doubters who believed it was impossible to squeeze more power or speed out of a Mercedes AMG 6.3-litre engine without resorting to a turbo- or supercharger, Mercedes has settled the argument once and for all. Its new range of C 63 AMG Edition 507 models have been tweaked to produce 507 horsepower (50 more than the 'standard' C 63 AMG) and propel the small family sedan from 0-100kph in 4.2 seconds.

This serious power will come with a serious price tag when the vehicles are officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March and, as Mercedes is making clear, the coupe, four-door and estate variants of the 507 edition are for owners who have a serious driving streak.

Borrowing technology from the German carmaker's flagship SLS supercar, the already monstrous engines at the heart of these C Class cars have been improved with forged pistons, connecting rods and a lightweight crankshaft.

Thankfully this increased power has also seen upgraded brakes fitted and the 507 Edition features carbon composite discs that are always responsive no matter how long or how hard the car is pushed.

Another indicator that this is a car for ambitious drivers is the fact that although the top speed is restricted (as it is on all Mercedes Benz), rather than being electronically limited to the traditional 155mph (250 km/h), the limit has been raised to 174mph (280km/h) and the purchase price will include a voucher for attendance of a driver training session at the AMG Driving Academy.