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• C 32 AMG: high-performance Saloon with 260 kW
• 450 Newton metres of torque
• AMG SPEEDSHIFT: effortless gearshifts for sheer driving enjoyment
• New record: Mercedes-AMG sold more than 11,500 cars in 2000

Mercedes-Benz has added the powerful C 32 AMG to its growing range of AMG high-performance vehicles available in Australia. An all-new supercharged V6 engine works in conjunction with an innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission to provide a truly dynamic driving experience in the latest AMG model, which goes on sale this month priced from $146,900.

The new AMG V6 engine ensures unrivalled superiority versus any competitor. Thanks to supercharging it has an output of 260 kW, with an unrivalled maximum torque of 450 Newton metres. By coupling this with an automatic transmission with the innovative AMG SPEEDSHIFT function, which combines the advantages of a five-speed automatic transmission with the dynamism of a manual transmission, Mercedes-AMG GmbH once again shows its innovative strength in the development of particularly dynamic products.

"With the C 32 AMG we are presenting a desirable high-performance automobile which illustrate the expertise of Mercedes-AMG more than ever before. Together with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission our new, powerful supercharged V6 engine represents a unique propulsion package", says Matthias Lührs, Managing Director Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars. "The C 32 AMG as well as the SLK 32 AMG released in September guarantee mile after mile of sheer driving enjoyment and represent the measure of all things in the competitive environment."

Power and passion: the ultra-powerful AMG supercharged engine

The outstanding performance of the new model is provided by a V6 engine developed by Mercedes-AMG, using extremely load and temperature-resistant components from motorsport. The heart of this six-cylinder unit is an innovative helical supercharger which generates a high charge pressure even at low engine speeds and thereby produces remarkable torque characteristics. Expressed in figures, 90 percent of the maximum torque – more than 400 Newton metres – is already available from 2300 rpm. The C 32 AMG requires just 5.2 seconds to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h, and is therefore in the same performance category as thoroughbred sports cars – though with the everyday practicality typical of a Mercedes.

The powerful, supercharged V6 engine also meets the highest demands in terms of economy and environmental compatibility: despite their enormous output the high-performance C 32 AMG has a fuel consumption of only 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres (unleaded premium 95 RON, NEDC overall consumption) and meets the D4 emission standards thanks to the latest catalytic converter technology. In fact this AMG model already complies with the stringent limits of the EU-4 emission standard, which does not come into effect until 2005.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT: An exceptional, dynamic package

Maintaining the dynamism of a manual transmission while offering the comfort of an automatic transmission – this was the development objective for the automatic transmission with AMG SPEEDSHIFT function, which is standard equipment.

With AMG SPEEDSHIFT, a slight movement of the gearshift lever to the left, for instance, is all it takes for the transmission immediately to select the best gear for powerful acceleration, depending on the current speed and the pre-stored engine management data. Likewise the transmission will automatically carry out a downshift when a certain braking deceleration is reached, selecting the correct gear for the driving situation. Conversely, the transmission reliably maintains the selected gear when negotiating a bend at speed and thereby avoids any load change reactions. Faster, much more responsive gear changes and a torque converter lockup above first gear round off the innovative configuration of AMG SPEEDSHIFT.

AMG sports suspension as the ideal solution

The sporty suspension configuration of the new C 32 AMG meets the need of the more adventurous driver for optimum road contact and a low degree of roll on fast bends – while maintaining consistently high long-distance comfort. Spring struts and gas-pressure shock absorbers by Mercedes-AMG and specially developed torsion bar stabilisers make this ideal solution possible.

In addition to the standard Electronic Stability Program ESP® with Brake Assist and acceleration skid control, it is particularly the fade-resistant, high-performance AMG braking system that guarantees a high level of handling safety. Generously dimensioned, internally ventilated disc brakes at front and rear – the front discs are also perforated– ensure braking deceleration at the highest level: the braking distance from 100 km/h is less than 36 metres.

Dynamic appearance thanks to striking AMG styling

With its distinctive and expressive design the C 32 AMG immediately demonstrate its family resemblance to all the other high-performance cars produced by Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The powerful sweep of the front apron with its integral fog lights, the special side-skirt panels and the muscular rear apron leave no doubt as to the car’s dynamic qualities. The harmony of the overall effect is completed by the characteristic AMG "dual oval" chrome exhaust tailpipe. The "V6 Kompressor" lettering on the front wing discreetly but unmistakably indicates the potency of the latest AMG model. The new 17-inch light-alloy wheels of twin-spoke design, which are painted in sterling silver with 225/45 tyres at the front and 245/40 tyres at the rear, serve to reinforce this athletic appearance.

Exclusive interior with a full range of standard appointments

Sportiness and exclusivity predominate in the. The AMG leather-covered steering wheel and the newly-developed, highly contoured AMG sports seats ensure optimum road contact and perfect lateral support even when taking bends at high speed. Two-tone leather upholstery available as an option at no extra cost and leather-lined interior door panels create a luxurious atmosphere and enhance a ride in the C 32 AMG even further. An additional, sporty note is struck by the newly designed instrument cluster with its 300-km/h speedometer dial.

Sales record: more than 11,500 AMG cars sold in 2000

Mercedes-AMG GmbH is able to look back on an outstandingly successful year 2000: more than 11,500 sporty AMG cars were sold last year. This figure is not just a new record in the more than 30-year history of the company, it also more than doubles the sales result for the previous year. The turnover grew to almost 600 million DM, an increase of more than 50 percent over 1999.

The most successful AMG models in 2000 were the ML 55 AMG with more than 4500 units sold, the E 55 AMG with almost 2500 units, the S 55 AMG and CL 55 AMG which together accounted for almost 2000 units, and the CLK 55 AMG with more than 1500 examples sold.

Model of success: AMG has sold some 9000 sporty C-Class models

The Mercedes-Benz C 32 AMG supersedes the C 43 AMG and C 55 AMG, of which approx. 4200 have been produced. Together with the C 36 AMG, the very first complete AMG vehicle, a total of some 9000 sporty C-Class vehicles drove out of the production buildings in Affalterbach and Bremen between 1994 and May 2000. The new C 32 AMG will continue this success story.

In detail

High-tech to perfection:
The technology of the C 32 AMG

• Supercharged power: V6 with 3.2-litre displacement and 260 kW
• World torque champion: 450 Nm as an unrivalled peak
• New automatic transmission: AMG SPEEDSHIFT for sheer enjoyment
• Designed for the highest loads: sports suspension and braking system by AMG

The top-class technology of the new C 32 AMG guarantees mile after mile of sheer driving enjoyment. The supercharged AMG six-cylinder engine with an output of 260 kW enters new realms in terms of torque: no less than 450 Newton metres are made available by this powerful unit from 4400 rpm – an absolutely outstanding value which makes the C 32 AMG the world torque champion among all series-production cars in their segments. The torque band of this supercharged six-cylinder powerplant is equally impressive: more than 400 Newton metres are available from as little as 2300 rpm; this value remains constant up to 6100 rpm, providing outstanding acceleration at any time. Thanks to the enormous power on tap even at very low engine speeds, gliding along effortlessly in a high gear is likewise a most pleasurable experience.

Top performance with low emissions and good fuel economy

The engineers at Mercedes-AMG have created the best possible conditions for exemplary driving dynamism: the C 32 AMG Saloon accelerates to 100 km/h in only 5.2 seconds. The maximum speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Mercedes-AMG also proves its great expertise where fuel economy is concerned. With NEDC combined fuel consumption of just 11.5 litres for the C 32 AMG, the new high-performance car demonstrates that power and excitement must by no means be at the expense of environmental compatibility.

AMG high-performance engine with belt-driven supercharger

When the engineers at Mercedes-AMG were in the decision-making process for the successor to the successful eight-cylinder models C 43 AMG, C 55 AMG, every conceivable engine concept was discussed. Following numerous computer calculations and exhaustive test runs it became apparent that the future lay in a supercharged V6 engine. This was backed up by the experience gained with the supercharged four-cylinder engine first used in the C-Class in 1995 and later in the SLK and CLK.

There are numerous arguments in favour of the supercharged V6: the 3.2-litre V6 is considerably more compact than the eight-cylinder units with displacements of 4.3 litres and 5.5 litres. This means better weight distribution for the vehicle itself, with beneficial effects on handling. Another positive side-effect of the shorter engine is improved crash behaviour.

In conjunction with trailblazing dual ignition and three-valve technology the lower displacement and smaller number of moving parts offer significant benefits in terms of reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. In addition, a belt-driven supercharger provides extremely dynamic torque characteristics. More than 400 Newton metres are already available at a mere 2300 rpm and remain constant up to the rated engine speed of 6100 rpm. This torque band is not only superior by a wide margin to that of any competitor in this segment, it also guarantees pure enjoyment. The torque peaks with a maximum value of 450 Newton metres at 4400 rpm. By way of comparison, this means that the supercharged V6 is just ten Newton metres below the maximum torque of the powerful 5.0-litre eight-cylinder unit which powers the S-Class, the CL-Class Coupé and the SL-Class.

A comparison of the figures shows that the supercharger concept in conjunction with the advanced V6 engine provides the best conditions for top-notch performance together with optimum environmental compatibility. Two further comparisons substantiate the unique status of the new AMG supercharged engine: at 81 kW per litre of displacement it has the highest volumetric efficiency of any series-production petrol engine with a belt-driven supercharger in the world. Its maximum mean pressure, a figure used by engine specialists to describe the absolute performance of an engine, is 17.7 bar at the maximum torque of 450 Newton metres at 4400 rpm. With this value the supercharged V6 occupies the peak position among all series-production spark-ignition car engines with belt-driven superchargers.

Helical belt-driven supercharger for a high charge pressure

A newly designed supercharger lies at the heart of the powerplant and ensures an unusually high air flow rate. This belt-driven charger is of the helical type with cast aluminium and Teflon-coated rotors. At maximum engine speed these achieve up to 20,700 rpm, forcing up to 1200 kilograms of air per hour into the cylinders of the AMG V6 engine. This innovative technology thus produces a significantly higher charge pressure than conventional belt-driven charging systems. To be specific, the supercharger in the Mercedes-AMG produces charge pressures of more than 1.0 bar – that is up to 30 percent more than comparable systems.

Intelligent, electromagnetic supercharger activation

In the interests of the greatest possible efficiency the engineers designed the supercharger so that it would cut in via an electromagnetic coupling as a function of engine speed and load conditions. Jointly developed with specialists at the Japanese company IHI, the supercharger is not continuously driven. Under partial load conditions the 3.2-litre V6 operates purely as a naturally aspirated engine. The supercharger only goes into instant action when the driver wishes to accelerate. There are numerous advantages to this intelligent solution: thermal efficiency, fuel consumption and noise/exhaust emissions all benefit considerably.

The load and engine-speed-dependent activation procedure is carried out by an electromag-netic coupling which obtains its control impulses directly from the newly developed, fully-electronic Bosch ME 2.8.1 engine management system. Naturally the driver feels and hears nothing of the supercharger activation: the build-up of torque is extremely smooth and the supercharged V6 shows its muscles very evenly, with a surge of power already on tap from just above idling speed.

Compact charge air cooler located between the cylinder banks

To improve efficiency even further the specialists at Mercedes-AMG have developed an innovative charge air cooler. Mounted between the cylinder banks, this is connected to a separate radiator located at the front of the vehicle in the fresh air stream. In contrast to conventional air/air systems, where the ignition angle and therefore the engine output must be reduced under certain thermal load conditions, this sophisticated counterflow water/charge-air cooler always enables the full output and torque potential of the supercharged V6 to be exploited.

Individual craftsmanship with a long service life typical of a Mercedes

To achieve these top figures, the technicians at Mercedes-AMG build every engine by hand, ensuring the closest possible tolerances. This is where individual workmanship and skill count: each technician is responsible for a complete engine. With the utmost care, he installs each and every part himself, from the crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons to the supercharger. To achieve the exceptional performance characteristics and the long operating life typical of a Mercedes, the Mercedes-AMG engineers were also obliged to make significant modifications to the mechanics of the engine. The know-how gained during three decades of motor racing was incorporated into this process, as were the strict Mercedes-Benz standards. These modifications included the following:

• a new crankshaft with bearings adapted to the high torque;
• new connecting rods:
• pistons of highly temperature-resistant material defy the high temperatures at peak pressures of more than 90 bar;
• a new balancer shaft suited to the dynamic nature of the engine;
• a new oil pump with a higher throughput for a reliable oil supply to the oil nozzles, whose own throughput was in turn increased by 70 percent, and to optimise the internal engine cooling process;
• lightweight, assembled camshafts:
• harder valve springs to increase the rated engine speed and handle the resulting valve forces.

The modifications to the valve train enabled the rated speed of the series-production engine to be increased from 6000 rpm to 6220 rpm. In addition, the longer stroke and the longer opening times of the intake and exhaust valves allow the six cylinders to be charged more efficiently. To achieve compact installed dimensions for the supercharged six-cylinder Mercedes-AMG dispenses with the usual hot film air mass measurement in the engine management system, integrating a pressure sensor into the charger module instead. The engine management system of the supercharged V6 is the first in the world to meet the strict EU-4 emission standard with this sophisticated technology.

All-new exhaust system with a sound of its own

Technological refinement also marks the exhaust system: with the exception of the two manifolds the complete exhaust system of the C 32 AMG has been redesigned. All four catalytic converters are of ceramic material and feature what is known as thin-wall technology. The larger surface areas in the catalytic converters ensure a reduced exhaust counter-pressure and more rapid heating after a cold start. This benefits both the performance curve and the exhaust emissions. The sound escaping from the characteristic, dual-oval AMG tailpipe is likewise exciting, for the supercharged engine produces a sound with a very special resonance that manages to avoid being irritating.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT for particularly sporty driving

The high-tech six-cylinder engine transfers its power to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission with a one-touch function which the engineers have carefully configured to suit the extremely sporty character of the new AMG models. Designated "AMG SPEEDSHIFT", this new transmission configuration combines the advantages of a five-speed automatic transmission with the dynamism of a manual transmission for the first time, setting new, previously unknown high standards.

The following innovations are outstanding features of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT configuration:

• Active braking downshift: If the brakes are applied with a certain deceleration the transmission automatically executes a downshift – useful before taking a bend in brisk fashion, for example. At a certain level of lateral acceleration the transmission also maintains the same gear through the entire bend, conveying a sense of active and safe driving. Any load-change reactions are avoided. In addition, selection of the correct gear allows the car to be quickly and powerfully accelerated on exiting the bend. Both hands are able to remain on the wheel, for a further increase in driving enjoyment and safety. The almost instantaneous calculation of longitudinal and lateral acceleration forces necessary for the active braking downshift function is carried out by wheel speed sensors acting in conjunction with the transmission management system.
• Optimum gear function: This technology makes overtaking easier by automatically selecting the gear that ensures the best acceleration according to the speed and pre-stored characteristic engine data when the shift lever is moved to the left and briefly held in that position.
• Torque converter lockup: A lighter torque converter with a lower inertia reduces torque converter slip above first gear by means of a mechanical lockup clutch. This means that the V6 engine responds immediately and directly to the accelerator in any driving situation.
• Sporty shift program: The engineers at Mercedes-AMG have also configured the shift program of the automatic transmission with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT function in line with the engine’s dynamic character. The shift points and shift logic are in accordance with the pre-stored characteristic data of the high-performance engine. The result is an up to 35 percent more rapid gearshift response compared with the standard transmission.

Naturally the transmission also shifts down to the correct gear in other situations, intelligently taking account of the driver's requirements by analysing the pedal and driving dynamics. It also rapidly recognises gradients and will use the braking effect of the engine on downhill stretches, for example. This transmission may either be controlled by one-touch shifting (+/-) or manually, and is specifically configured for the uncompromisingly sporty character of the new AMG high-performance cars. The gear currently selected is displayed in the AMG instrument cluster.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT means untrammelled driving enjoyment, for with all these functions it combines the high level of comfort of an automatic transmission with the sporty dynamism of a manual transmission for the first time.

C 32 AMG: sports suspension and generously dimensioned AMG braking system

The sporty handling characteristics of the Mercedes-Benz C 32 AMG are also ensured by the AMG sports suspension, which has been specifically adapted for the dynamics of the car with reconfigured spring/damper units on the three-link front suspension and the multi-link independent rear suspension. Larger stabilisers on the front and rear axles reduce roll when negotiating bends briskly. The body of the C 32 AMG has been lowered by approx. 30 millimetres at the front and rear axles, so that it now hugs the ground more closely. Precise road contact as well as optimum brake cooling is taken care of by 17-inch AMG light-alloy wheels painted sterling silver in the new twin-spoke design, with a width of 7.5 inches at the front and 8.5 inches at the rear. The new model features 225/45 R 17 tyres at the front and 245/40 R 17 rubber at the rear. The new configuration ensures precise handling together with a high level of long-distance comfort and outstanding rolling characteristics.

The newly-developed AMG braking system is always ready to deliver outstanding stopping power. The diameter of the front brake discs has been increased by eleven millimetres as compared with the preceding models C 43 AMG and C 55 AMG – providing the best possible basis for short braking distances and fade-free performance. Perforated, internally ventilated 345 x 30 millimetre brake discs are used at the front, with internally ventilated 300 x 22 millimetre brake discs at the rear.

In emergency braking from 100 km/h, both the new C 32 AMG Saloon comes to a stop after just 36 metres. The anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution, the Electronic Stability Program ESP®, Brake Assist and the acceleration skid control system have been specially adapted to suit the dynamic performance of these cars.

Legendary tradition: the history of Mercedes-Benz supercharged engines

Thanks to the powerful, supercharged engines the new C 32 AMG automatically take one’s thoughts back to the glorious tradition of Mercedes-Benz. The very mention of the term 'supercharged' triggers off a whole host of reminiscences among car lovers, their thoughts going back to the legendary Mercedes-Benz Type S (Sport) models which caused such a sensation on the racetracks towards the end of the 1920s. From these were derived the SS (Super Sport), SSK (Super Sport Kurz = Short) and SSKL (Super Sport Kurz Leicht = Light) – dream cars which featured the most exciting technology.

Words are scarcely enough to describe the power generated by the supercharged engines in these cars. A test report of the time written by a British motoring journalist indicates what happens when the engine of a Mercedes-Benz S begins to deliver its full power: "At this point you think you are travelling quite fast, and of course you are. But then you depress the throttle completely, and the supercharger cuts in with a furious bellow. You feel your neck being snapped backwards and the car shoots forward as if propelled by a rocket." The supercharged sports cars of the twenties were also automobiles with a very special character for Alfred Neubauer, for many years the Mercedes-Benz Racing Manager: "This series of racing cars gave motorsport a specific character both at home and abroad from 1927 to 1933. It is with this type that Rudolf Caracciola gained his world reputation."

Likewise unforgotten are the eight-cylinder Mercedes-Benz models 500 K and 540 K – powerful and sleek sports cars of the thirties. The open-top roadsters from Stuttgart gained a reputation that has lasted to this day, with breathtaking technology that made them the absolute dream cars of their time – a tradition which the C 32 AMG and the SLK 32 AMG now continue, with their own unique highlights.

Model concept and appointments of the C 32 AMG

• High-tech: outstanding market position thanks to supercharged V6
• Athletic: AMG body design for sporty elegance
• Exquisite: full range of luxury appointments with high quality and style

With the C 32 AMG Saloon Mercedes-Benz is presenting a thrilling high-performance car at the top of its class. Unique handling, exclusive and elegant appearance and generous, luxurious appointments underline the car’s outstanding market position. The lively high-performance Saloon guarantees mile after mile of sporty driving enjoyment. In conjunction with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission, the newly-developed 260 kW, supercharged V6 engine with an unrivalled 450 Newton metres of torque represents an exceptionally dynamic package.

The Mercedes-Benz C 32 AMG replaces the C 43 AMG and C 55 AMG, of which approx. 4200 have been produced. Together with the C 36 AMG, the very first complete AMG vehicle, a total of some 9000 sporty C-Class vehicles drove out of the production buildings in Affalterbach and Bremen between 1994 and May 2000. The C 32 AMG has all the attributes necessary to continue this success story. Mercedes-AMG GmbH is expecting a strong demand in all its core markets.

Unique aura by virtue of striking AMG design

Visually, the C 32 AMG immediately confirms its membership of the AMG family of high-performance cars. Its expressive AMG styling combines uncompromising sportiness with the elegance typical of a Mercedes. The striking front apron with its integral fog lights emphasises the car’s powerful character. The special side skirts continue the muscular lines of the front apron and lend the AMG C-Class an air of athleticism even when at standstill. The shape of the imposing rear apron reflects the styling of the front apron and side skirts, harmoniously rounding off the picture in conjunction with the typical AMG rear silencer and the chrome-plated twin tailpipes. The overall design is perfectly complemented by the new twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in sterling silver. The unique status of the potent new AMG model is clearly yet discreetly indicated by the "V6 Kompressor" lettering on the front left wing.

The ultimate combination of interior luxury and ride comfort

Exclusive styling and exquisite appointments predominate in the interior of the C 32 AMG. Aluminium decorative trim in "Quadra" design on the centre console and in the interior door panels emphasise the car’s high-tech character. The special instrument cluster with a 300 km/h speedometer and the height and reach-adjustable AMG leather sports steering wheel with decorative seams in silver are typical AMG features. The AMG sport seats, which are upholstered in fine nappa leather with an option of two-tone leather at no extra cost, perfectly represent the company’s exquisite style. The seats are not only electrically adjustable for height and backrest angle, their special contours also provide optimum lateral support when taking bends at speed. The interior door panels and the selector lever, which is also embellished with a C 32 logo, are likewise lined with finest-quality leather.

The standard appointments in the C 32 AMG leave almost no wishes unanswered: AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission, THERMATIC automatic climate control, multifunction steering wheel with illuminated keys, COMAND, Electric glass sunroof, Headlamp Assist, power windows at front and rear, electric seat height and backrest adjustment, heated front seats, cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC function and central locking with infrared radio remote control are further examples. Typical Mercedes occupant safety is ensured by adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger, high-performance belt tensioners, belt force limiters, windowbags and sidebags in the front doors.

The philosophy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH:
Performance and exclusivity to meet the highest demands

AMG – these three letters have long stood for outstanding, top-class technology, dynamism and exquisite luxury. Thanks to its continuous success the DaimlerChrysler subsidiary Mercedes-AMG is also a profitable, innovative and constantly growing company.

Mercedes-AMG GmbH specialises in the development of unique high-performance cars. This range of expertise includes both series products such as the new C 32 AMG or small-series vehicles like the SL 73 AMG and specially manufactured one-off examples. The company is based in Affalterbach (near Stuttgart) and has responsibility for all its own development processes relating to engines, drive train, suspension, brakes, aerodynamics, interior and design. In addition, Mercedes-AMG GmbH carries out all marketing and sales-related activities autonomously.

"Mercedes-AMG GmbH is the performance division within the DaimlerChrysler group. With our wide range of products we offer exciting high-performance cars and meet even the most demanding customer wishes. Mercedes-AMG GmbH represents both emotional appeal and ultimate performance in equal measure", says Ulrich Bruhnke, the General Manager of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Mercedes-AMG utilises all the advantages of DaimlerChrysler AG

Since its incorporation into the DaimlerChrysler group on January 1, 1999 this highly specialised company has been able to make full use of the group’s technological resources and benefits from its worldwide strength. New AMG cars are included in the specifications booklet from the very start of the conceptual phase and, like every Mercedes-Benz vehicle, pass through every development stage right up to series production maturity. All the high-tech test benches and test tracks operated by DaimlerChrysler are available to the company: on the engine test rigs in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, AMG engines may be seen running directly alongside McLaren-Mercedes Formula 1 powerplants. During development and production, each AMG product is subject to precisely the same quality standards that apply to any other vehicle bearing the Mercedes star. Significant advantages in terms of functionality, quality level and a long operating life rather than retrofitted solutions are the result.

The strength of Mercedes-AMG GmbH lies in the rapid and flexible implementation of very varied customer requests. The model range, which has expanded at an extraordinary rate within a very short time, is proof positive: there is now a choice of five different AMG vehicles in Australia, all of which may be seen as the top-of-the-line models in the relevant Mercedes-Benz model series. Mercedes-AMG also offers an extensive range of accessories and optional equipment ex factory for almost all Mercedes-Benz models. These include striking AMG light-alloy wheels with wide-base tyres, characteristic AMG styling packages and specifically configured AMG sports suspension systems.

Tailor-made individuality from the custom shop

Special customer requests are met by the in-house custom shop, the Manufaktur, where specialists are able to make even the most exotic wishes a reality. There are no limits to the creativeness and outstanding craftsmanship of these Mercedes-AMG specialists: sophisticated modifications to both the technology and bodywork are a matter of course, as are special variations to the interior. The personal taste of the customer is the final arbiter for high-end audio systems, multimedia concepts or individual enhancements incorporating leather upholstery and fine wood. This creates unique and unmistakable works of art which naturally meet all the strict quality standards of Mercedes-Benz while taking the basic Mercedes values of comfort, safety, value retention and environmental compatibility fully into account. The generous service and warranty terms of Mercedes-Benz not only apply to AMG automobiles, but also to any modifications carried out by customer request.

Mercedes-AMG GmbH currently has approx. 470 employees – all of them highly motivated and qualified specialists for whom the ongoing search for the best possible solution is part of their professional identity. General Manager Ulrich Bruhnke: "Emotive products can only be developed and produced by emotionally committed employees. A willingness to work as a team and enthusiasm for ambitious projects of all kinds are an inseparable part of the company philosophy, and are lived on a day-to-day basis by every employee of Mercedes-AMG GmbH."

Mercedes-AMG customers benefit from racing know-how

AMG has been concerned with the professional enhancement of Mercedes-Benz cars since 1967, and is seen as a pioneer in this business. Company founder Hans-Werner Aufrecht has impressively demonstrated the expertise of his company on the international motor racing scene by achieving numerous successes over several decades. A continuous technology transfer from motor racing to series production still benefits every Mercedes-AMG customer.

Mercedes-Benz C 32 AMG Specifications
Engine
No. of cylinders/arrangement		6/V, 3 valves per cylinder
Displacement	cc	3199
Bore x stroke	mm	89.9 x 84.0
Rated output	kW/hp	260/354 at 6100 rpm
Rated torque	Nm	450 at 4400 rpm
Max. engine speed		6220 rpm
Compression ratio		9.0:1
Mixture formation		Microprocessor-controlled fuel injection, supercharger
Transmission
Type		5-speed automatic with AMG SPEEDSHIFT function
Ratios	Final drive	3.06
	1st gear	3.59
	2nd gear	2.19
	3rd gear	1.41
	4th gear	1.00
	5th gear	0.83
	Reverse	3.16
Chassis
Front axle		Three-link axle, McPherson struts, anti-dive, coil springs, gas-filled shock absorbers, stabiliser
Rear axle		Multi-link independent rear suspension, anti-squat and anti-lift, coil springs, gas-filled shock absorbers, stabiliser
Braking system		Hydraulic dual-circuit system with vacuum booster, stepped master brake cylinder, internally ventilated and perforated front disc brakes, internally ventilated rear disc brakes, drum-type rear parking brake, ABS, ASR, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering		Rack-and-pinion power steering, steering shock-absorber
Wheels		Front: 7.5 x 17 ET 37; rear: 8.5 x 17 ET 30
Tyres		Front: 225/45 ZR 17; rear 245/40 ZR 17
Dimensions and weights
Wheelbase	mm	2715
Track front/rear	mm	1493/1478
Overall - length	mm	4528
Overall - width	mm	1728
Overall - height	mm	1415
Turning circle	m	10.76
Boot capacity max.*	l	455
Weight ready to drive (EU)	kg	1635
Payload	kg	480
Gross vehicle weight	kg	2115
Tank capacity/ reserve	l	62/8.0
Performance and fuel consumption
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	s	5.2
Maximum speed	km/h	250
Fuel consumption NEDC comb.	l/100 km	11.5
Emissions category		EU 3/D4
*acc. to VDA measuring method

Standard Features For C-Class Sedan

C 180 and C 200 Kompressor - "Classic Package" Comfort

• Active Service System (ASSYST - displays distance to next service based on the cars` operating data)
• Air Conditioning with electrostatic dust and pollen filter. 100% CFC free. Individual temperature control for driver and passenger. Two rear vents. REST mode can warm the cabin with residual heat when engine is off.
• AM/FM radio/single CD with 7 speakers - aerial integrated into rear window.
• Armrests front (with storage compartment) and rear (with slide-out cupholder)
• Electronic cruise control and variable speed limiter (Speedtronic)
• Engine "touch-start" function
• Driver adaptive 5-speed automatic transmission with tip-shifting feature and gear display in tachometer.
• Front seats with electric height and backrest adjustment.
• Genuine " Calyptus Linea" wood trim on centre console and dome.
• Headrests adjustable up/down and fore/aft front and rear. 3 Headrests and 3 three point seat belts in rear. Rear headrests pneumatically foldable from the front for improved rear vision when rear seats are unoccupied
• Heated rear window
• Heated side mirrors electrically adjustable and integrated turn indicators.
• Integrated first aid kit
• Interior lighting front and rear
• Leather/Tex upholstery
• Outside temperature gauge
• Power-assisted steering with safety steering column
• Power windows with one-touch open/close function
• Remote boot lid release
• Remote central locking system with interior switch and crash sensor for automatic opening. Rolling code signal protects from transmitter cloning
• Speed dependant 2-arm eccentric sweep windscreen wiper with tip function
• Tinted safety glass all around with integrated windscreen band filter.
• Trip computer
• Vanity Mirrors in sunvisors

Safety

• Electronic Stability Program (ESP - prevents wheel slippage when accelerating and swerve of vehicle on slippery surfaces by automatic braking of individual wheels).
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Brake Assist (BAS - automatic brake boosting in emergency situations can shorten braking distance by up to 45%)
• Darkness Activated Headlights
• Child proof locks on rear doors
• Engine immobiliser with electronic drive authorisation system (ELCODE)
• Front, Side and Window airbags. Front airbags with 2-stage release
• Halogen front fog lamps, rear fog lamp
• Seat belts with emergency pre-tensioner and belt force limiter (front)
• Seat occupancy sensor (prevents front passenger airbags and emergency pre-tensioner from deploying if seat is unoccupied)

C 240 Classic (As per C 180 / C 200 Kompressor including additional)

• 16" Wheels with wide tyres (205/55 R16)

C 320 (As per C 240 including additional)

• "Elegance" Package
• Full Leather Upholstery
• Metallic Paint

C 32 AMG (As per C 240 including additional)

• AMG Sports Steering Wheel and Instrumentation
• AMG nappa leather upholstery.
• AMG sports seats - heated.
• Aluminium interior trim.
• AMG exhaust twin tail pipes.
• AMG brakes.
• AMG sports suspension.
• AMG body styling.
• AMG 17" light alloy-wheels.
• COMAND system with navigation.
• CD changer in the Glove Box.
• Glass Electric Sunroof.
• Anti Dazzle rear view mirror.
• Electrically adjustable front seats with memory.
• Rain sensing windscreen wipers.
• Folding rear seat back (1/3rd:2/3rd Split)
• Metallic Paint.

Optional "Elegance" package (Sedan Only) – not available with C 32 AMG

• Alloy wheels - 7 hole design
• Extended Laurel Wood interior trim (centre console, doors and dashboard)
• Exterior Chrome Inserts
• "Elegance" interior and exterior trimmings
• Illuminated vanity mirrors in sunvisors
• Exit lamps in front doors.
• Leather-bound steering wheel and gear shift lever
• Front armrest height adjustable
• Luxury climate control with activated charcoal filter, solar sensors, air quality and dew point sensor.

Optional "Avantgarde" package (Sedan Only)– not available with C 32 AMG

• 16" alloy wheels-5 spoke design with wide tyres (205/55 R16)
• Aluminium interior trim (centre console, doors, dashboard and door pillars)
• "Avantgarde" interior and exterior trimmings
• Cloth upholstery
• Illuminated vanity mirrors in sunvisors
• Leather-bound steering wheel and gear shift lever
• Exit lamps in front doors.
• Luxury climate control with activated charcoal filter, solar sensors, air quality and dew point sensor.