P-31 option, is it really worth the extra money?
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 303
Likes: 18
From: Austin, TX
GTS AMG
P-31 option, is it really worth the extra money?
I'm getting ready to purchase a C63. I'm debating on the P31 option...
Thirty plus HP sounds good. Is it 30 HP or more? It's kind of vague on the web site whether it's 30 Hp or 30+.
Do I really need the forged pistons and titanium rods? I can see their usefulness if I was going forced induction.
Nobody seems to know if tuning will produce more power than a non P31 optioned car.
Has anyone driven both cars for comparison? If so, I'd like to hear your thoughts.
I know MB throws in brakes, spoiler, and steering wheel.
Any comments?
Thanking you in advance.
Thirty plus HP sounds good. Is it 30 HP or more? It's kind of vague on the web site whether it's 30 Hp or 30+.
Do I really need the forged pistons and titanium rods? I can see their usefulness if I was going forced induction.
Nobody seems to know if tuning will produce more power than a non P31 optioned car.
Has anyone driven both cars for comparison? If so, I'd like to hear your thoughts.
I know MB throws in brakes, spoiler, and steering wheel.
Any comments?
Thanking you in advance.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 303
Likes: 18
From: Austin, TX
GTS AMG
More info please...
Can you offer more info? Have you driven a no 30 for comparison? Does your car rev qucker?
In your opinon, what are the best features this option offer?
Thanks
In your opinon, what are the best features this option offer?
Thanks
Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 201
Likes: 1
C63
P31 is 100% worth the money in my eyes. If I could order a P31 equipped car over seas, it would be no doubt be done that way, however it is not available.
Bitterness aside, the P31 has better brakes, I believe lighter two piece rotors, LSD, which also available as an option should you not want the entire performance package. And most attractive upgrade is the internals, with forged internals I would assume the entire engine assembly would be more durable and allows the end user to worry less should s/he decide to upgrade NA or boosted applications.
honestly, a forged motor from the factory is almost like god's gift. No need to open up the block, saves you on labor, machine work and retains your warranty. For $6,000, it is a deal.
Bitterness aside, the P31 has better brakes, I believe lighter two piece rotors, LSD, which also available as an option should you not want the entire performance package. And most attractive upgrade is the internals, with forged internals I would assume the entire engine assembly would be more durable and allows the end user to worry less should s/he decide to upgrade NA or boosted applications.
honestly, a forged motor from the factory is almost like god's gift. No need to open up the block, saves you on labor, machine work and retains your warranty. For $6,000, it is a deal.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
From: Everett, WA
2014 C63 AMG 507 Sedan
I'm in the same boat: considering p31 or non-p31. I'd rather not have the cosmetic alterations: red brake calipers, carbon fiber spoiler and alcantara wheel. I think I also read that final Hp with a K1 tune is the same with and without p31, so because I'll be getting the K1 tune (dealer installs and warranties the K1) the +30hp is negated. So for me:
Plus:
forged and lighter engine parts
Lighter 2 piece brakes
Minus:
Red Calipers
carbon fiber spoiler
Alcantara steering wheel
$5950
I don't understand the advantages of forged engine parts.
Like OP I would like to hear other people's ideas.
Also, P31 does NOT include LSD, it's $2k extra w/ or w/o p31.
Plus:
forged and lighter engine parts
Lighter 2 piece brakes
Minus:
Red Calipers
carbon fiber spoiler
Alcantara steering wheel
$5950
I don't understand the advantages of forged engine parts.
Like OP I would like to hear other people's ideas.
Also, P31 does NOT include LSD, it's $2k extra w/ or w/o p31.
Last edited by dsr123; Apr 20, 2010 at 11:30 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 2,257
Likes: 10
From: Los Angeles
2009 C63
K1 : 1495
CF Spoiler: 300
Evosport Rotors x 4: 2000
That's about 4,000, minus the red calipers, alcanatra wheel, and forged internals, which for some are useless or unnecessary options. Use the remaining 2k and get the LSD option and you are set IMO.
CF Spoiler: 300
Evosport Rotors x 4: 2000
That's about 4,000, minus the red calipers, alcanatra wheel, and forged internals, which for some are useless or unnecessary options. Use the remaining 2k and get the LSD option and you are set IMO.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,204
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From: Palos Verdes
'09 C63
Actually chubbs, it seems that the P31 is MORE than a little bit of tune to the ECU. I believe that these parts as the op says "forged pistons and titanium rods" will weigh less. Obviously I don't think he's gonna be going 1 second faster on the 1/4 mile, but it does seem like if he got a tune he will end up with a few more horse power than those without the P031. Not sure how much more but probably not some exaggerated amount.
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Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 420
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CLK Black
I'm in the same boat: considering p31 or non-p31. I'd rather not have the cosmetic alterations: red brake calipers, carbon fiber spoiler and alcantara wheel. I think I also read that final Hp with a K1 tune is the same with and without p31, so because I'll be getting the K1 tune (dealer installs and warranties the K1) the +30hp is negated. So for me:
Plus:
forged and lighter engine parts
Lighter 2 piece brakes
Minus:
Red Calipers
carbon fiber spoiler
Alcantara steering wheel
$5950
I don't understand the advantages of forged engine parts.
Like OP I would like to hear other people's ideas.
Also, P31 does NOT include LSD, it's $2k extra w/ or w/o p31.
Plus:
forged and lighter engine parts
Lighter 2 piece brakes
Minus:
Red Calipers
carbon fiber spoiler
Alcantara steering wheel
$5950
I don't understand the advantages of forged engine parts.
Like OP I would like to hear other people's ideas.
Also, P31 does NOT include LSD, it's $2k extra w/ or w/o p31.
Your dealer is snowing you on the warranty of the K1. Get it in writing. Mercedes is going to have a serious issue if you blow up your differential and they find out you have a tuned ECU.
I would have ordered the P31 if the offered it at the time. More power and a full factory warranty? Love it.
Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 205
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From: Philippines
08 C63, 07 ML63, 92 500E, 70 300SEL 6.3, 63 220 SEB Conv. Sold 02 G500, 97 E50,92 C280,71 280SE 4.5
I have driven the P30 and have the non PP car the ride in the P30 over here is just too hard. I know the P31 doesnt have the harder springs but you save some weight on the 2 piece rotors and the lighter internals should give less stress to your motor and should help with the lighter reciprocating mass.
I really like the alcantara and the suede on the wheel but I would pass on the red calipers. its too boy racer for my taste.
I would do it.....
oh ya the LSD is extra
I really like the alcantara and the suede on the wheel but I would pass on the red calipers. its too boy racer for my taste.
I would do it.....
oh ya the LSD is extra
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 533
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From: prattville alabama
C63
I drove the non 30 before i bought the 30. the ride is better in the non 30 but my 30 really handles well, but remember the 30 came with LSD. Thats a big reason i like it , when i step on the gas no squeal just go.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 50
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From: Everett, WA
2014 C63 AMG 507 Sedan
You're right I would want the warranty in writing from the dealer. If the warranty claim is false then that's a plus for p31.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 2,925
Likes: 170
From: Naples FL
2021 Porsche TTS
If you ever decide to track your car, some threads have indicated that the P30/P31 rotors do not hold as well as the regular rotors so food for thought.
I am with Chubbs. Save your money, take a bit of chance with a tune if the other P31 options are not worthy to you.
The only reason why I have the P30 package is because I bought CPO and when you buy used, they really cant command much of a boost for it.
I am with Chubbs. Save your money, take a bit of chance with a tune if the other P31 options are not worthy to you.
The only reason why I have the P30 package is because I bought CPO and when you buy used, they really cant command much of a boost for it.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,204
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From: Palos Verdes
'09 C63
Because my understanding is that you end up with the same final HP w/ or w/o P31's +30hp bump and I'm assuming the dealer wasn't lying when they said they'll install the K1 tune and it won't affect the car's warranty.
You're right I would want the warranty in writing from the dealer. If the warranty claim is false then that's a plus for p31.
You're right I would want the warranty in writing from the dealer. If the warranty claim is false then that's a plus for p31.
Like I said before, the lighter internals with K1 will result in MORE hp than one without P31 with K1. Difference probably not by much, but there will be a little bit difference. The P31 does have a slightly tuned ECU ON TOP of the lighter internals. How much power is gained from the lighter internals? Don't know, won't think it's much. Is it worth it? If you have the money and absolutely need to get those extra power.
LSD you can always just buy from the different vendors on the forum. For example, check with James@acg he was doing a special on Quaife LSD. The pricing on them were really good.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 303
Likes: 18
From: Austin, TX
GTS AMG
Thanks for all the replys and comments....
I'm sold on the P31 option. Of course, I don't like the price tag. But, I do like the warranty that comes with the extra HP. More and more manufactures are denying warranty work if the ECU has be modified. GM is really cracken down on ECU modifications and voiding warranties.
I can't imagine what that motor would cost if it failed and I had to pay for it.
Anyway, any more comments or suggestions would be appreciated
Thanks
I can't imagine what that motor would cost if it failed and I had to pay for it.
Anyway, any more comments or suggestions would be appreciated
Thanks
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 4,165
Likes: 4
PLAID
I swear I'm invisible on this forum sometime.
Like I said before, the lighter internals with K1 will result in MORE hp than one without P31 with K1. Difference probably not by much, but there will be a little bit difference. The P31 does have a slightly tuned ECU ON TOP of the lighter internals. How much power is gained from the lighter internals? Don't know, won't think it's much. Is it worth it? If you have the money and absolutely need to get those extra power.
LSD you can always just buy from the different vendors on the forum. For example, check with James@acg he was doing a special on Quaife LSD. The pricing on them were really good.
Like I said before, the lighter internals with K1 will result in MORE hp than one without P31 with K1. Difference probably not by much, but there will be a little bit difference. The P31 does have a slightly tuned ECU ON TOP of the lighter internals. How much power is gained from the lighter internals? Don't know, won't think it's much. Is it worth it? If you have the money and absolutely need to get those extra power.
LSD you can always just buy from the different vendors on the forum. For example, check with James@acg he was doing a special on Quaife LSD. The pricing on them were really good.
Member
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 176
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2012 C63 BS 2012 SLK 350 2014 CLA 45
If you want the best and last 63 engine, take the P31, those up grade items are mostly in the 63 family upper model, the price sound deep but hard to duplicate. If they offer with the latest dc trans, I will trade-in my 2009 for the new one.
I don't like the turbo that much.
I don't like the turbo that much.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 9,137
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From: California, USA
E63 P30, CL500 Sport
I swear I'm invisible on this forum sometime.
Like I said before, the lighter internals with K1 will result in MORE hp than one without P31 with K1. Difference probably not by much, but there will be a little bit difference. The P31 does have a slightly tuned ECU ON TOP of the lighter internals. How much power is gained from the lighter internals? Don't know, won't think it's much. Is it worth it? If you have the money and absolutely need to get those extra power.
Like I said before, the lighter internals with K1 will result in MORE hp than one without P31 with K1. Difference probably not by much, but there will be a little bit difference. The P31 does have a slightly tuned ECU ON TOP of the lighter internals. How much power is gained from the lighter internals? Don't know, won't think it's much. Is it worth it? If you have the money and absolutely need to get those extra power.
In terms of price, the internals are most definitely worth the price offered by Mercedes/AMG. Doing this upgrades after the car leaves the factory could cost 5 to 7 times as much. So it is best ordered with the upgrades from the factory. To me, the engine internals are most valuable in the area of reliability and engine durability. The stronger/lighter forged internals will last longer and will allow one to add more mods in a safer manner.
If you want the best and last 63 engine, take the P31, those up grade items are mostly in the 63 family upper model, the price sound deep but hard to duplicate. If they offer with the latest dc trans, I will trade-in my 2009 for the new one. I don't like the turbo that much.
I don't like the turbo that much.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 319
Likes: 31
From: Westchester, NY. Sarasota, FL
2012 C63BS 2009 Ferrari 16M 2016 Cayenne turbo S 2019 G63
I factory ordered my 2006 Carrera S with the Porsche Power Kit. It was a prox $17.5 K option and added about 17 BHP.. Admittedly the option included the sport exhaust system and carbon f air box that was worth 4K. Yet stiil a lot of $$ for the added HP. However, somewhat similar to the P31 package, it added upgraded cams, ECU and upgraded internals. I had driven the non PK Carrera S and their was a noted difference in the upper power bands. And the PK kit came with the full factory warranty.. The P31 option adds 30 BHP, plus the internals, ECU and unlike porsche adds some cosmetics plus advanced brakes.. And again you have the full factory warranty for $5500.00. to me it was a no brainer.. I anxiously await delivery.
Last edited by RAKLAW; Apr 21, 2010 at 09:55 PM. Reason: wording
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 533
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From: prattville alabama
C63
I'm sold on the P31 option. Of course, I don't like the price tag. But, I do like the warranty that comes with the extra HP. More and more manufactures are denying warranty work if the ECU has be modified. GM is really cracken down on ECU modifications and voiding warranties.
I can't imagine what that motor would cost if it failed and I had to pay for it.
Anyway, any more comments or suggestions would be appreciated
Thanks
I can't imagine what that motor would cost if it failed and I had to pay for it.
Anyway, any more comments or suggestions would be appreciated
Thanks
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
From: Everett, WA
2014 C63 AMG 507 Sedan
[quote=Jae Duk;4041124]I swear I'm invisible on this forum sometime.
quote]
Pardon me,my mistake, I'm surprised I missed your post.
Very enlightening discussion so far.
I'm sold on the value of p31 (and also respect the other route that chubbs outlined) but I just have one aesthetic hangup: the red brake calipers. I'm trying to grow to like them but haven't yet. I have no evidence but maybe there will be a red brake delete option for 2011
I've driven a 2009 p30 and a 2010 p31. The drives were 4 weeks apart so it would've been difficult to remember well enough to compare and it turned I couldn't really tell if there was any difference in thrust. Also, the 2009 had 4500 miles and the 2010 had about 20. So, the 2009 would've been loosened up. The p30 suspension was memorably stiffer but apart from bad roads I didn't mind the p30.
quote]
Pardon me,my mistake, I'm surprised I missed your post.
Very enlightening discussion so far.
I'm sold on the value of p31 (and also respect the other route that chubbs outlined) but I just have one aesthetic hangup: the red brake calipers. I'm trying to grow to like them but haven't yet. I have no evidence but maybe there will be a red brake delete option for 2011
I've driven a 2009 p30 and a 2010 p31. The drives were 4 weeks apart so it would've been difficult to remember well enough to compare and it turned I couldn't really tell if there was any difference in thrust. Also, the 2009 had 4500 miles and the 2010 had about 20. So, the 2009 would've been loosened up. The p30 suspension was memorably stiffer but apart from bad roads I didn't mind the p30.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
From: Everett, WA
2014 C63 AMG 507 Sedan
Like p30, p31 raises the speed limiter to 174
Here's the full kit description:
P31 – AMG Development Package – $5950
Adds 30hp for a total of 481hp
Lightweight AMG Forged Pistons
Lightweight Connecting Rods
Revised Crankshaft
New Engine Management
AMG compound Braking System
Red Painted Brake Calipers
Carbon Fiber Trunk Spoiler
Exclusive Engine Intake Runners in Titanium Grey
Top Speed at 174 mph
AMG Leather/Alcantara Performance Steering Wheel
Here's the full kit description:
P31 – AMG Development Package – $5950
Adds 30hp for a total of 481hp
Lightweight AMG Forged Pistons
Lightweight Connecting Rods
Revised Crankshaft
New Engine Management
AMG compound Braking System
Red Painted Brake Calipers
Carbon Fiber Trunk Spoiler
Exclusive Engine Intake Runners in Titanium Grey
Top Speed at 174 mph
AMG Leather/Alcantara Performance Steering Wheel
