Mercedes-AMG 43 expands its product line with a number of AMG sports models. As an attractive entry into the world of AMG, the Mercedes-AMG 43 4MATIC models combine a 270 kW 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine with permanent all-wheel-drive and sophisticated suspension technology taken from the Mercedes-AMG C 63. BERNIE HELLBERG discovered more at Zwartkops Raceway.
New Mercedes-AMG 43 sports models are available in the C-Class range as a sedan, coupé, and cabriolet, completing the extensive C-Class product line-up. Further models in the Mercedes-AMG 43 range include four SUVs, the GLC and GLC Coupé, the GLE and GLE Coupé and an SLC 43 roadster.
Although each new AMG model has its distinctive personality, they all boast similar under-the-skin engineering.
3.0L V6 BITURBO 270 KW
At the heart of all Mercedes-AMG 43’s is the 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine delivering 270 kW of power and 520 Nm of torque. With AMG expertise – the AMG engineers have made the engine timing even sportier. The result is an exceptional and particularly emotive 43-style feeling with additional performance thanks to a higher charge pressure.
All models feature the 9G-TRONIC sports transmission.
AMG SPORTS SUSPENSION
All Mercedes-AMG 43 models feature the AMG Sports Suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL as standard. The sports suspension provide two suspension levels with the Adaptive Damping system. The driver can thus adjust the damping characteristics to the driving conditions – from comfortable cruising to a sporty driving style.
The C 43 sedan, coupé and cabriolet, and the SUVs – including the GLC and GLC Coupé, GLE and GLE Coupé – feature AMG Performance 4MATIC with AMG-specific power distribution of 31% to the front axle and 69% to the rear axle for enhanced driving dynamics and improved traction when accelerating.
AMG SPORTS BRAKING SYSTEM
A large-sized braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs, front brakes perforated and measuring 360 mm in diameter, with four-piston fixed calliper painted in silver and with “AMG” lettering, and rear brakes measuring 320 mm in diameter and with single-piston floating calliper.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes – “Eco”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+” and “Individual” – with AMG-specific parameterisation, giving the “S” and “S+” transmission modes an extremely dynamic configuration.
Also included as standard throughout the range is a sports exhaust system with sportier engine sound, double-declutching function during downshifts in “S” mode, audibly emphasised double-declutching during downshifts in “S+” mode.
LAST WORD
While the range of new AMGs offers unbridled performance and sporty looks, they conform to the Mercedes philosophy of distinctive luxury, while reinforcing the sporty nature of these models with numerous specially designed details. The addition of a V6 option completes the range of available AMG products in South Africa. Offering a value alternative to the more powerful AMG models currently available without compromising on the unique AMG character.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG | Images © MERCEDES-BENZ SOUTH AFRICA
