Chassis No.: WDBHA33G3WF741242

Engine No.: 11394460002780

Registration: R376 ABT

The C43 AMG was launched in 1997 and it followed on from the straight-six C36 AMG. That first AMG W202, C-Class was good enough with its 280bhp straight-six; but its replacement was undeniably altogether more special. Not least because the W202 marked a step change in the relationship between AMG and Mercedes-Benz, being the first car assembled from scratch as opposed to upgraded at the former's factory in Affalterbach. It was also the first Mercedes-Benz C-Class powered by the M113, V8 engine.

Just as with what seems like all AMGs, the C43 explodes into life with an infectious V8 roar with all that power, allied with a maximum torque output of 302lb/ft, hitting a 0-60mph time of 5.7 seconds. Limited to 155mph, Mercedes-Benz unofficially claimed it could hit 168mph when de-restricted and unlike the old C36, the C43's five-speed auto is snappy and responsive thanks to AMG modifications. Setting off, it feels slightly aloof and inert at low speeds but once you crank things up, the noise that accompanies this surging acceleration is epic; a thread that seems common to all V8 AMGs.

This barnstorming ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ is presented in the best combination of silver with black leather trim, a lefthand drive example that our vendor purchased in Tampa, USA for a road trip holiday in 2019 and having enjoyed and been so impressed he decided to import it back to the UK. Unsurprisingly having been sourced from such a dry climate, the car is in very good condition considering the mileage and the Mercedes M113 V8 engine has often been referred to as bullet proof. Offered with a UK V5C and a recent MoT valid until June 2021 these cars in our opinion are true gems, fun, practical and very well made – a true modern classic ‘smoker’.

Guide £7,000 - £10,000

https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=6398&au=55