Mercedes-Benz AMG - used performance bargains

AMG, or Aufrecht, Melcher and Großaspach (named after the company's two founders and Hans Werner Aufrecht's birth town) began as an engine builder in 1967.

Working on Mercedes-Benz cars, the automaker's vehicles and racing program gradually developed closer links and by 1990, Daimler AG took a controlling interest in the company. By 2005, AMG became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler – though official AMG production cars stretch back to 1993 with the C-class based C36.

Now, those early AMGs are conspicuous performance bargains, boasting mighty engines – with comfortable cabins and continent-crossing ability – for the kind of money you'd associate with a lightly-used Dacia Sandero.

As ever, one must tread wisely, but buy smart and these understated evo heroes can be yours for very little outlay.

Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG

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The first officially-sanctioned AMG is also one of the cheapest to buy nowadays. Based on the W202-generation C-class that debuted in 1993, the AMG version followed in 1995. The C280’s 2.8-litre inline-six block formed the basis of AMG’s hand-built engine, bored out to 3.6 litres.

The result was 276bhp at 5750rpm and 284lb ft delivered at 4000rpm. Unfortunately, the driver’s only method of gear selection was an archaic 4-speed automatic transmission, so lazy performance rather than incisive control was the order of the day.

Now, it’s possible to find C36s for under £3000, though it’s wise to spend a little more to find a fully-serviced example. Bear in mind that low prices are no guarantee of low running costs either: the supercharged lump guzzles fuel (you might just nip 30mpg on a motorway run), parts can be expensive and rust is a constant issue on Mercedes of this era. But it’s handsome and brisk, and prices can’t remain low forever.

Find Mercedes C-class for sale on Classic and Performance Car

Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG

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Before you decry AMG’s recent decision to downsize engines and introduce turbocharging to chase power gains, remember that a similar strategy was also implemented a decade ago with the C32 AMG.

The W203-generation C-class featured much more rounded styling than its predecessor – not universally appreciated, it has to be said – and the outgoing C43 AMG’s V8 made way for a supercharged V6. As with the latest turbo AMGs though, what the C32 lacked in aural joy it made up for in power: 349bhp and 332lb ft of torque, to be precise.

evo first drove the C32 in issue 31, giving it a solid four-star score. We called it ‘fast and largely flawless’, with the caveat that it was a little too grown-up to match the fun of BMW’s M3. Prices begin at around £4,000, and as a newer car than the C36 it’s easier to come across one with history. Early niggles should now be sorted, but rust is once again an issue.

Find Mercedes C-class for sale on Classic and Performance Car

Mercedes-Benz SLK32 AMG

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We first drove the SLK32 AMG in the same issue as the C32 saloon. We gave it the same four-star score too, though its character was distinctly different from that of the C-class despite its identical powertrain.

With ‘van-like recirculating ball steering’, a ‘lumpy ride’ and ‘less than entirely convincing body rigidity’, you shouldn’t go into an SLK32 purchase expecting a richly detailed, Boxster-like sports car experience.

Instead, treat it as the ‘good-looking hot rod’ we described it as, enjoy the performance – 5.2 seconds to 62mph is still quick by modern standards – and you’ll have a fun weekend toy. That hard folding roof should still work too… no, it really should, as repairs aren’t cheap unless you’re handy with a spanner. Oh, and like other Mercedes of the era, SLKs rust like a trawler in the Bering sea.

Find Mercedes SLKs for sale on Classic and Performance Car