In today’s news we have a report that says one of our favorite fire-breathing sports cars is getting a convertible version. We are talking about the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. In the past, the AMG-tuned C-Class->ke1593 models have been offered in basic coupe, wagon and sedan models, but Autocar claims that a convertible version is in the works as well.

Power will be provided by a new 4.0-liter V8, strapped with a pair of turbocharges to boost output to about 500 horsepower. Expect the torque rating to be similarly lofty.

As for the rest of the drivetrain, the AMG team at Mercedes->ke187 has been making a habit of sticking an AWD system in its cars lately, but Autocar says that won’t be the case with the C63. They even got a quote from AMG boss Tobias Moers at the Detroit Auto Show->ke222, “There will be no four-wheel drive on the C63.”

Can you imagine how much you could have in a tire-destroying, 500 horsepower four-seat convertible? I can already smell the rubber and hear the passengers screaming.

No official word on when the new convertible will be coming, but since the standard sedan isn’t expected until early next year, summer 2015 would make for a safe guess.

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The current C63 AMG is powered by the old AMG workhorse, a 6.3-liter naturally aspirated V-8. With 451 horsepower and rear-wheel drive, the AMG tuned C63 has always been a perfect tool for honing around. To be honest we can’t find a good reason to rid of the current engine aside from any fuel economy gains the new turbo engine may have. At 13 city and 19 highway, the current C63 is a bit of a thirsty beast.

With a base price of only $60,000 the C63 is one of the forgotten performance bargains of the market.