What does AMG mean on a Mercedes-Benz?
AMG is an abbreviation that stands for 'Aufrecht, Melcher and Großaspach'. The first two words refer to the founders of AMG, whose names were Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhand Melcher. The final word is the name of a German village, where the pair would develop and hone engines through a passion for motorsport.
Aufrecht and Mercher built their legacy on bringing performance technology to regular road users, which remains a core value of the AMG division to this day.
What is more, AMG's popularity means there are plenty of fine examples to choose from on the used car market. So, we decided to highlight five of the best Mercedes-AMG models currently available.
Mercedes-AMG A-Class
It almost seems nonsensical to brand the Mercedes-AMG A-Class an entry-level car. After all, its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 421bhp in the A 45 S specification, which is truly remarkable. Even if you opt for the lower-spec A 35, there is still a substantial 306bhp on tap. Hardly entry-level, then.
Both the aforementioned models come with the brand's clever 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, which distributes power effectively for maximum grip and acceleration. In fact, A 35 models only need 4.7 seconds to achieve 0 to 62mph, while the more powerful A 45 S takes just 3.9 seconds.
The beauty of the AMG A-Class is that you can choose between understated and extroverted. Regular models get subtle AMG bodystyling that allow the A-Class to fly under the radar, while Premium Plus (A 35) and Plus (A 45 S) models get an AMG aerodynamic package, which includes larger wheels, a spoiler, and other exterior enhancements.
Search Used Mercedes-AMG A-Class
Mercedes-AMG C-Class
The regular Mercedes-Benz C-Class continues to be a huge success for the company, and the AMG models simply build on those foundations with enhanced performance.
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S models garner a lot of interest because of the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine that lives beneath the bonnet. Producing 476bhp and deploying that power to the rear wheels via a 9-speed automatic gearbox, the C 63 S needs just 3.9 seconds to get to 62mph from a standstill.
The most recent versions of the AMG C-Class are available as a Coupé or Cabriolet. The Coupé has an undeniable air of elegance thanks to its sweeping silhouette, while the Cabriolet provides front-row access to the AMG's incredible soundtrack.
C 43 models have a more understated look about them, but still benefit from AMG bodystyling and a number of subtle design features. C 63 S cars have a more notable presence and get larger wheels, a higher top speed and a variety of unique exterior enhancements.
Search Used Mercedes-AMG C-Class
Mercedes-AMG GLC
There was a time when a Mercedes-AMG SUV did not exist. However, times have changed and the company now has a class leader in the form of the AMG GLC.
Sharing the same engine choices as the aforementioned AMG C-Class, the AMG GLC produces astonishing levels of power. Despite the weight increase over the AMG C-Class, the GLC 63 model only takes 4.0 seconds to get to 62mph, which is remarkable in a family SUV. This drops to 3.8 seconds in the 'S' model, thanks to a power output of 510bhp.
The large AMG alloy wheels and purposeful AMG bodystyling ensure the AMG GLC looks as good as it performs. Despite the performance available, the AMG GLC still offers a spacious cabin and a 550-litre boot, making it ideal for families who want an eye-catching SUV with a strong turn of pace.
Search Used Mercedes-AMG GLC
Mercedes-AMG CLA
In essence, the Mercedes-AMG CLA is an AMG A-Class underneath. However, it is packaged in different bodystyles that will suit those who do not want a hatchback.
Available as a Coupé or Shooting Brake, which is what Mercedes-Benz call an estate, the AMG CLA has a silhouette that is more reminiscent of the larger models in the AMG range. Plus, at 460 litres, the boot is actually bigger than what you will find in the AMG A-Class (370 litres in the hatchback).
Because it is based on the AMG A-Class, the AMG CLA boasts the same range of engines, with both the A 35 and A 45 S utilising a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The previously mentioned 4MATIC system ensures there is astonishing levels of grip, while the beautifully-smooth automatic transmission makes for effortless acceleration.
Despite the performance on tap, both AMG CLA models will return fuel economy (mpg) in the 30s.
Search Used Mercedes-AMG CLA
Mercedes-AMG GT
Truly encapsulating the ethos of precision engineering and innovation, the Mercedes-AMG GT is everything an AMG should be, and more.
With its long, sweeping bonnet and low-slung body shape, the AMG GT boasts heritage as well as presence. Only two seats can be found inside, but they place the driver and passenger at the epicentre of the action, which is enhanced by the focused, yet elegant, interior design.
Under the bonnet there is a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine. Complemented by two turbochargers, the AMG GT produces an astounding 557bhp and 501lb ft. With power sent directly to the rear wheels via a 7-speed sports transmission, the AMG GT will demolish the 0 to 62mph dash in under 4.0 seconds.
With a limited-slip differential optimising torque distribution and an AMG Performance exhaust system enhancing the drama, the Mercedes-AMG GT is nothing short of sensational.
Search Used Mercedes-AMG GT
Discover Mercedes-AMG with Stratstone
With so many fantastic Mercedes-AMG models to choose from, it was genuinely difficult to pick five to place on this list. However, the models above demonstrate just how versatile the Mercedes-AMG range is, meaning you can experience scintillating performance in a package that suits your needs.
Although we can supply any of the models above, we also have a huge array of other used Mercedes-AMG models to choose from, which you can discover by looking through our used car section. Alternatively, you can take a look at our range of approved used Mercedes-Benz vehicles.