MERCEDES-BENZ C 43 AMG

INTRODUCTION

With a scintillating twin-turbo V-6 engine and a sport-tuned suspension, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG C43 is worthy of the storied AMG name. This compact rocket comes in sedan, coupe, and convertible forms, each with an ever-increasing starting price. Buyers seeking a luxury car won't be satisfied by the C43's ride—it ranges from stiff to punishing depending on the road and the drive-mode setting. Where the C43 will impress luxury-minded buyers is in the cabin, which is trimmed in rich materials and offers an upscale atmosphere along with a plethora of features.

Carried over from 2016's C450 sedan, the C43's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 is a gem. Powerful and torque rich, the 385-hp engine pairs with a new nine-speed automatic transmission that swaps cogs with both speed and precision. The boosted six has deep wells of power and never feels overwhelmed or overworked when you call upon it. Despite the boost in power from 362 to 385 horses, the 2019 C43 sedan delivered the same 4.1-second zero-to-60-mph time at our test track as the 2017 model we last tested. While Mercedes-AMG equips the C43 with a pair of steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, we found the nine-speed gearbox a competent enough companion when left to its own devices. 

Befitting its AMG badging, the dynamically adept C43 is a joy to pilot through twisty two-lanes. Credit its quick steering that's both direct and precise, as well as its rear-biased all-wheel-drive system that allows a dollop of chassis rotation before requesting additional assistance from the front wheels. The suspension can be adjusted between Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ settings. All three modes are needlessly stiff, however, and make driving over rough pavement a bone-jarring experience.

FEATURES
  • Bolt on Installation
  • Fits OEM brackets
  • Saves weight versus the factory components
  • Dramatic improvement in sports car sound and power throughout the RPM range
  • Mandrel-bent T304L stainless steel for optimum flow and maximum durability
TECHNICAL DATA
Maximum power 
OEM EXHAUSTXCENTRIC EXHAUST
HP385 AT 6100 RPM392 HP AT 6100 RPM
Maximum torque 
OEM EXHAUSTXCENTRIC EXHAUST
NM520 at 1800-5800 RPM527 at 1800-5800 RPM
FEATURES
  • Bolt on Installation
  • Fits OEM brackets
  • Saves weight versus the factory components
  • Dramatic improvement in sports car sound and power throughout the RPM range
  • Mandrel-bent T304L stainless steel for optimum flow and maximum durability
INCLUDED IN THE KIT
  • Aggressive performance exhaust system
  • Remote Control System
  • Xcentric Valvetronic Mufflers
  • Stainless steel Clamps
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