KUALA LUMPUR, May 11 — Not exactly rocket science, but brilliant in its simplicity is what I would call the new line of AMG just launched today at the Sepang International Circuit as part of AMG’s 50th anniversary. The AMG 63 Series is currently the ultimate series in the Mercedes Benz saloon/coupe line-up. From below, the hatch and compact models get the AMG 45 Series, a pack of pocket rockets made for the younger generation. What was needed was a ‘bridge’ between the compact AMG 45 Series and the high end AMG 63 Series, and thus the 43 Series was developed. Whereas the AMG 45 Series is based on a transversely –mounted 2.0 litre 4-cylinder turbo-charged engine, and the AMG 63 Series is based on a V8, 4.0 litre bi-turbo engine, the 43 Series is based on a V6, 3.0 litre bi-turbo engine. Interestingly, we note that 4 times a 0.5 litre capacity cylinder equals to a 2.0 litre capacity, while adding another bank of cylinders in a V formation doubles the capacity to 4.0 litres, and then, taking away one cylinder from each of the banks leaves you with 3.0 litres. I wouldn’t be at all surprised of the connecting rods, pistons, cylinder bores and basic design of the combustion chambers of each piston were found to be identical or very similar.

The AMG 43 Series engine, being a V6 bi-turbo unit is designed for performance by the AMG experts. It develops 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Nm of torque. AMG’s engine control units make the power plant extremely spirited, giving 0 to 100 sprinting capabilities of between 4.6 to 4.9 seconds. For the E43 4Matic, the power is further tweaked to 295kW (401 hp) while torque is maintained at 520Nm.

All the AMG 43 Series models are mated to 9G-Tronic (9-speed) transmissions which allow for multiple downshifts for fast sprints and a double declutching function in ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport Plus modes, complete with the ‘brupp-brupp’ blipping of the engine. In manual mode, the transmission accords more control as the auto up-shift is disabled – you can bounce on the rev-limiter of you so wish. As an added bonus, the transmission also features a ‘coasting’ function which helps to save fuel. All models of the AMG 43 Series, with the exception of the SLC 43 are equipped with 4Matic (All-wheel-drive)

The AMG 43 Series features AMG Ride Control – this is sports suspension with AMG-specific components that feature continuous damper adjustments – the user can select three damping levels – “Comfort”, Sport” and “Sport Plus” – all via a button on the centre console. Some of the models are also available with damper height control.

Here are the AMG 43 Series models at a glance:-

  1. AMG E 43 4MATIC – 4-Door E Class Derivative with 401 hp and 520Nm torque, 4.6 seconds 0-100 km/h acceleration, priced at RM658,888.00
  2. AMG SLC 43 – Roadster, 270 kW (367 hp), 520 Nm torque, 4.7 seconds 0 – 100 km/h acceleration, rear wheel drive only, Priced at RM 570,888.00.
  3. AMG C 43 4MATIC – 4-Door C Class derivative, 270 kW (367 hp), 520 Nm torque, 4.7 seconds 0 – 100 km/h acceleration, priced at RM499,888.00
  4. AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupe – 2-door C Class Coupe derivative, 270 kW (367 hp), 520 Nm torque, 4.7 seconds 0 – 100 km/h acceleration, priced at RM 548,888.00
  5. AMG GLC 43 4MATIC – GLC SUV derivative, 270 kW (367 hp) 520 Nm torque, 4.9 seconds 0 -100 km/h acceleration, priced at RM538,888.00
  6. AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe – GLC SUV Coupe derivative, 270 kW (367 hp) 520 Nm torque, 4.9 seconds 0 -100 km/h acceleration, priced at RM580,888.00

The members of the media who attended the launch were given a short stint (1 lap on the South Circuit of SIC) of just under 3.0 kilometres – my first impressions are they are great cars, very well balanced, and very refined, maybe too refined for some. They all handled very well, and the systems are so good they even make an average driver look good. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive takes out the uncertainties in the corners, and helps tremendously in the agility and driving dynamics.

Given the pricing level above, the 43 Series should have no problem finding its way into the hearts of many enthusiasts. We will need a lengthier test drive to give you more – so stay tuned until we can get our hands on one.