Mercedes AMG C43: Portal To the AMG World
By Mike Garcia
The Mercedes AMG C43 adds enhanced performance to the C-Class line.
It has been a long while since Mercedes came out with an AMG C43. The earliest model was made in the 1990’s and ended production in 2000. The car is the ultimate sleeper, with understated four-door looks, and a 4.3 liter V8 under the hood capable of 310 horsepower. Subsequent models followed with larger engine displacement, but the C43 nameplate is back. Now, Mercedes has come with a new model available as a coupe.
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The latest
comes with a 3.0 liter Bi-turbo V6, capable of 362 horsepower and 384-lb.ft. of torque. That power is transferred to the wheels through a 9G-Tronic Automatic transmission, capable of double-declutching, or rev-blipping on downshifts. The 9G-Tronic Automatic transmission is connected to Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system. The C43 retains a sport-type of driving personality with a heavily rear-biased torque distribution; 31 to 69 front axle to rear axle.
That output leads to a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds, onwards to an electronically limited top speed of 155 miles per hour.
When the driver wants to take it easy, the 9G-Tronic can be put into “Eco” or “Comfort” settings. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” settings are available for a more spirited driving experience. An “Individual” setting is also available to alter the characteristics of the engine, transmission, suspension, and steering.
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While the vehicle is heavily performance based with the AMG badge, Mercedes didn’t skimp on fuel economy either. Eco mode has a start/stop function and a sailing function. What is a “sailing” function? Between 37 and 99 miles an hour, when the gas pedal is released, the engine decouples from the powertrain and the engine speed is reduced to idle. This allows the car to run in “neutral” with less inertial forces slowing it down internally.
Overall, the AMG C43 provides an entry to the AMG world. Not only can a driver acquire a punchy BiTurbo V6, but also get reasonable fuel economy in the process. It is the best of both worlds.