Six new 43 series models, 50 years of driving track record.
Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Mercedes AMG family, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia recently launched six 43 series models at the Sepang International Circuit – the E 43 4MATIC, SLC 43, C 43 4MATIC, C 43 4MATIC Coupé, GLC 43 4MATIC and GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé.
Before we move on to more detailed breakdowns of the new models, let’s take a brief look at the key difference between the 43 badge and the earlier introduced 45, 63 and 65 badges: the engine.
Specifically, the 43 models are equipped with a 3.0 litre V6 biturbo engine. In comparison, the 45 models house a 2.0 litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, the 63 models have a V8-powered engine with varying displacements, and the 65 models have a 6.0 litre V12 engine.
Another key feature unique to the 43 series is the bold red aluminium inserts in the engine cover, breaking away from the trademark plaques the AMG series has long been known for. Paired with 9G-TRONIC transmission allowing quick multiple downshifts, all six 43 models are capable of reaching from 0-100km/h under the 5-second mark as well as hit top speed of 250km/h.
With the exception of the SLC 43, the other five 43 models feature the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, characterised by the rear-biased torque distribution of 31% on the front axle to 69% on the rear axle. Thanks to the increased torque on the rear end, the 43 models handle corners effortlessly and boast improved traction when accelerating.
Here is a closer look at each of the six AMG 43 models available in Malaysia.
The performance masterpiece: Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC
On the exterior, the E 43 4MATIC is characterised by 20-inch five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black, with two chrome-plated quad-flow exhaust tailpipes on the rear end conveying a particularly sporty aesthetic. Inside the elegant body, the instrument panel features black AMG Nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching providing a sporty appeal.
Output: 295 kW / 401 hp
Torque: 520 Nm at 2500-5000 rpm
0-100 km/h: 4.6 seconds
Price: RM 658,888*
The superior roadster: Mercedes-AMG SLC 43
The most noticeable characteristic of the AMG SLC 43’s design is its electrohydraulic vario-roof. Along with the new semi-automatic boot separator that moves down when the roof is opened, the MAGIC SKY CONTROL is another debuting feature which lightens or darkens the glass roof with a touch of a button. This allows for an open-air ride on the cooler days and welcomes shade when the sun comes to play. Aside from the roof, the vehicle is defined by a long hood with the passenger compartment repositioned far to the rear, steep radiator front with diamond grille, front splitter in silver-chrome and front spoiler in A-wing design.
Output: 270 kW / 367 hp
Torque: 520 Nm at 2000-4200 rpm
0-100 km/h: 4.7 seconds
Price: RM 570,888*
The racetrack limousine: Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC
Making an entry in the AMG family, the C 43 4MATIC’s exterior features detachable body parts and trim in silver chrome, matt iridium silver and high-gloss black, two tailpipe trim elements in a twin-tailpipe design, and 19-inch AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black. The interior includes a multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section, sports seats with enhanced lateral support and an exclusive AMG instrument cluster with AMG menu.
Output: 270 kW / 367 hp
Torque: 520 Nm at 2000-4200 rpm
0-100 km/h: 4.7 seconds
Price: RM 499,888*
The aesthetic racer: Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé
The C 43 4MATIC Coupé includes the distinctive AMG styling front apron with sporty distinctive air intakes, diamond meshes, silver chrome trim, as well as the rear apron with matt iridium silver diffuser insert. Down below, the silver chrome front splitter ensures an optimal flow of air to the cooling modules. Other highlights include the black exterior mirror housings, the high-gloss black waistline trim strip and window frame, as well as the two chrome-plated tailpipes with centre divider.
Output: 270 kW / 367 hp
Torque: 520 Nm at 2000-4200 rpm
0-100 km/h: 4.7 seconds
Price: RM 548,888*
The sports SUV: Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC
Building on the AMG Exterior line, the GLC 43 4MATIC has silver chrome coloured and high-gloss black features, and black-painted, high-sheen 21-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. On the tail end, two four-pipe chromed tailpipe trims exude a modern sporty appeal. With the optional Night Package, striking design elements in black underscore the sporty, expressive character of the vehicle.
Output: 270 kW / 367 hp
Torque: 520 Nm at 2500-4500 rpm
0-100 km/h: 4.9 seconds
Price: RM 538,888*
The powerful statement: Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé
In contrast to the GLC 43 4MATIC, the GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé A-pillar features a flatter slope angle, which interplays between the high beltline and wide shoulders to lend the vehicle its dynamic looks. There is also a Night package with striking black elements, heat-insulating dark-tinted glass starting from the B-pillar and black chrome-plated tailpipe trim elements.
Output: 270 kW / 367 hp
Torque: 520 Nm at 2500-4500 rpm
0-100 km/h: 4.9 seconds
Price: RM 580,888*
*All prices quoted are on-the-road without insurance.