Prizefight: 2008 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

• The Contenders
• Design
• Performance
• Cabin Tech
• Electronics interface
• Value
• The winner is...

Round 1: Design

Hot or not?

Mercedes-Benz C63

Our individual judges' ratings are based on a 0-to-5-point scale, which we average out for a total score of 0 to 5 for each round.

Car	Wayne	Antuan	Brian	Total
2008 BMW M3 Convertible DCT	3 The BMW is a burly machine, with a hood bulge that hints at power. And while I like the classic grille and fender vents, the sides are bland.	3 The BMW's hood looks bulbous, like a Beluga whale--not the best analogy for speed. The additional hardware for the hardtop convertible version interrupts the smooth flow of the vehicle's silhouette.	3 My taste for the M3's style varies wildly by body color (I'll pass on white, thanks) but no matter the shade, the M3 just looks a little bit Mitsubishi.	3
2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG	4 The C63 seems more arrowlike than the M3, with a hood that drops down more at the front. I also like the twin bumps in the hood, the left one working like a gunsight for the driver to aim at the road.	5 The design of the C63 seems purposeful and muscular, with plenty of vents, severe angles, and an absolutely massive grill. Ironically, making fewer compromises in the name of style has resulted in a more attractive car.	3 Thanks to being based on the very sharp redesign of the C Class, the C63 gets off to a strong start, but its AMG design cues have a more tacked-on look than the M3.	4

Winner: 2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG