The ’43’ Series
It was 1997 when the W202 C-Class was given the M113 4,266-cc V8 with all of 306 PS and 409 Nm. Dubbed the ‘C 43′, it became the most powerful version to go on sale, surpassing the 284-PS C 36. The same engine also made and appearance in the E-, ML- and S-Class cars as the 430. Fast forward to 2015, and it was back: the resurrection of the AMG ’43’.
The SLC-Class was the first to receive the ’43’ badge, armed with a 3.0-litre BiTurbo V6 making 367 PS and 520 Nm. Although the motor evolved from the ‘450’, it possessed the credentials and the charisma to inherit the good and even was dressed in a red tie. In the SLC, it offers explosive performance: quick acceleration, nimble handling and precise control.
The next coming was a surprise to some: the GLE and GLE Coupé SUVs. The AMG GLE 43 Coupé, even at over two tonnes, offers blistering, but likeable performance. It’s the sort of car that grows on you, turning every trip out, whatever the terrain, into an adventure.
Eventually, the 43 then returned home: to the C-Class, in present W205 form. The AMG C 43 sports the 367-PS blown V6, but with the 9G-Tronic transmission paired to a 4MATIC all-wheel driveline. This makes it an incredible all-weather performer, yes, but also equally skilled on road and track. The four-door saloon is imbibed with performance fit to question the need for a sports car.
