What makes it an AMG?

[AndyRC]

Being new to AMG ownership I had erroneously thought all AMGs had "hand built" engines put together by one person who had their signature placed proudly on it. Whilst looking at the W205 C43 and C63 it became clear that was not the case. Would it have stopped me buying a C43 if it had been the "right car for me" I doubt it. Having now bought a W204 C63 and enjoy the glorious V8 built by Benjamin Schlund I'm far less sure that I'd want an AMG without that something special which sets it apart from other Mercedes products. So without wishing to offend anyone, my question is how do fellow enthusiasts view what makes a MB an AMG?

I'm sure there are plenty of differing views out there

 

[Deleted member 113659]

The mats.

 

[Jrattan]

5.5L+ engine... everything else is pretend

 

[KillerHERTZ]

Pre 2012 - if the engine came from Affalterbach
Post 2012 - If it came with AMG on the bootlid from factory (unless de-badged from factory)

 

[E55BOF]

Pre 2012 - if the engine came from Affalterbach
Post 2012 - If it came with AMG on the bootlid from factory (unless de-badged from factory)

Some would say that post-2012 if there would be only two numbers on the bootlid it's an AMG, but if there are more then it is not. Some would say that if it would say AMG anywhere on the car from the factory, then it is an AMG.

Both views are correct, but from differing viewpoints...

P.S: Even the Affalterbach engines are not really hand-built as most of us would understand it; they are assembled on a production line by one man, rather than by several.

 

[daveenty]

5.5L+ engine... everything else is pretend

No longer the case.

The M177/8 is a pretty impressive bit of kit. Only 4.0 Litre though making over 600bhp straight out of the box.

 

[Deleted member 37751]

Only a proper AMG if it’s got the AMG windscreen wipers.

 

[John]

AMG must have ridiculous power output with a burbling V8 or V12.

And it must then be furnished with many of the features all the standard cars need money to opt for.

And it must also be the finest looking version of the car in the line up.

Or an "AMG" keyring would suffice...

 

[Deleted member 113659]

Or an "AMG" keyring would suffice...

That’s great news. Means I’ve got a proper AMG van.

 

[E63S]

Having to wait over 6 months for it to arrive...

 

[Cyclone1]

what makes a MB an AMG?

The unmistakable noise........

 

[rOckyAMG]

The smile when you start the car with a cold start and and you wake the kids at the same time.

 

[daveenty]

The smile when you start the car with a cold start and and you wake the kids all the street at the same time.

Fixed that for you.

 

[markjay]

...P.S: Even the Affalterbach engines are not really hand-built as most of us would understand it; they are assembled on a production line by one man, rather than by several.

I agree, but to be fair... how far back do we take it? Hand-mining the iron ore from the ground.....?

 

[E55BOF]

Now you're being silly...

To me, 'hand-built' conjures up an image of a master craftsman using all his considerable skills lovingly to assemble a piece of machinery pretty much with hand tools only, like a prototype for which the rigs and jigs have not yet been built, or perhaps like a bespoke full race engine from a small engine tuner.

 

[rOckyAMG]

Fixed that for you.

thanks

 

[Bobby Dazzler]

Now you're being silly...

To me, 'hand-built' conjures up an image of a master craftsman using all his considerable skills lovingly to assemble a piece of machinery pretty much with hand tools only, like a prototype for which the rigs and jigs have not yet been built, or perhaps like a bespoke full race engine from a small engine tuner.

It's still very impressive to see in person. I would recommend that anyone who has the opportunity to do so, visits the AMG engine plant in Affalterbach.

 

[DannyHall]

Despite popular belief, not the AMG badge on the back.

 

[C43AMG]

It's still very impressive to see in person. I would recommend that anyone who has the opportunity to do so, visits the AMG engine plant in Affalterbach.

Yes i agree, i actually met the man who built my engine Mr Becker and the factory tour was very impressive. When we arrived ( Bryan,Matt and Harry ) they had the Union Jack Flying a nice touch + Four AMG's driving all that way from Calais was very interesting!!! Highly recommended.

 

[oldguy57]

Despite popular belief, not the AMG badge on the back.

Someone stuck an AMG badge on the back of mine. Can't trust anyone these days...