How much faster does a Mercedes-AMG C63S actually get when the tuning bill starts climbing? This W205-generation 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 lineup puts a stock 510HP car against Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 builds producing up to 830HP. With different modifications, power levels and budgets involved, the goal is to find out which upgrades make the biggest difference when the cars hit the runway.

But the results aren’t quite as straightforward as the horsepower figures suggest. One of the cheaper builds proves surprisingly difficult to beat, while a more expensive setup struggles to translate its extra power into a quicker quarter-mile time. With acceleration tests, head-to-head drag races and a comparison of the money spent, this showdown raises an important question: is the most powerful C63S really the best value for money? For more content like this one follow us also on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram!