Right now, if you are looking for the strongest C-Class out there, the C 300 d spec with its 2.0-liter diesel and an electric starter is your best bet: the sedan sprints 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 5.7 seconds. Not impressed? Wait until later this year, when an AMG version should come out with a major power boost.
The previous generation model was known as the C 43, but the upcoming one is rumored to be coming under a different name, possibly C 45 or C 53e. It will share the powertrain with the impending SL 53e 4Matic+ roadster, which uses a longitudinally mounted M139 engine of the AMG A 45 S. An electric motor and a 48V starter-generator will accompany the two-liter turbo.
We know for a fact that the roadster makes 476 PS (469 hp / 350 kW), but it remains to be seen whether the new C-Class will offer the same power.
Another novelty is coming up under the model name of AMG C 63 4Matic+. The flagship will allegedly get the same engine, but additionally boosted by an electric supercharger. It should also get a heavier, larger battery weighing 89 kg (196 lbs).
Rumor has it that the new C 63 will hit the asphalt with 640 PS (631 hp / 471 kW), despite the fact that the manufacturer mentioned the M139 being capable of 449 PS (443 hp / 330 kW) and the electric motor of 204 PS (201 hp / 150 kW). The total would then add up to 653 PS (644 hp / 480 kW). Of course, both estimations pure conjecture at this time. Still, this kind of power would enable the C-Class to reduce its sprint time from 4.0 to 3.7 seconds.
The AMG C 63 4Matic+ should emerge next year and cost from around €95,000 in Europe. The old generation began from €86,000 and competed with the €89,500 BMW M3 Competition sedan (RWD only).