The 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S Convertible ownership club comes with a fuel consumption of 19 MPG combined. This isn’t a grocery-getter; it’s a snarling, open-air performance machine with hand-built AMG engineering. Anyone concerned about maximizing miles per gallon is looking at the wrong car. The target demographic for this vehicle seeks thrilling driving experiences, a status symbol, and the wind in their hair, and they’re willing to pay for it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway for the C63 S Convertible. These numbers reflect the car’s inherent duality. The city figure acknowledges the stop-and-go realities of urban driving, conditions where the AMG’s potent twin-turbo V8 is more likely to be idling impatiently than stretching its legs. The highway figure suggests that some fuel efficiency is possible when cruising, but even then, the temptation to dip into that immense power reserve remains ever-present, likely diminishing the overall MPG.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S Convertible is $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is required for optimal performance in this vehicle, so this annual cost is likely to be a bare minimum.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG for the C63 S Convertible often deviates from the official estimates. Drivers who frequently indulge in spirited acceleration and aggressive driving, which is a primary reason to buy this car, will likely see numbers below the 17 MPG city and 22 MPG highway ratings. Conversely, those who primarily use the car for long highway cruises, resisting the urge to unleash the AMG’s full potential, might achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates. Weather and road conditions can affect the vehicle’s overall fuel economy, and there’s no denying that the way you drive will have the biggest impact on the fuel economy of this vehicle.

How it compares

The C63 S Convertible occupies a rarified space in the high-performance convertible market, but understanding its fuel economy relative to rivals is helpful. The BMW M4 Convertible, with its inline-six engine, achieves a slightly better 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The Audi S5 Convertible, equipped with a supercharged V6, posts 21 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. Note that these competitors give up significant horsepower to achieve their greater fuel economies. For buyers considering a V8 convertible from all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, the C63 S is the sharpest, most powerful choice, which brings with it a corresponding fuel cost. Buyers shopping AMG MPG across all years are prepared for the trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite the focus on performance, small adjustments can improve fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration when possible. The twin-turbo V8 loves to devour fuel when pushed hard, so easing into the throttle during daily driving will make a difference.

Use the car’s driving modes. Select the “Comfort” mode for relaxed cruising. This mode dulls throttle response and optimizes shift points for efficiency, improving gas mileage from city start and stops.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts MPG. Consult the vehicle’s door jamb sticker for the recommended tire pressure and check regularly.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you anticipate a stop lasting more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed for efficient starting and stopping, and idling consumes fuel without moving the car.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular servicing, including air filter replacements and spark plug checks, ensures the engine operates efficiently. A well-maintained engine burns fuel cleaner, leading to improved mileage.