Muscular Mercedes a power performer

MERCEDES-BENZ will throw down the gauntlet to the likes of the new BMW M3 and Audi S4 with a super sedan known as the C32 AMG - due here around June, 2001. The flagship of the new C-class range will replace the current C43 and C55, even though it uses a supercharged V6 rather than V8 power. Pricing is yet to be announced but expect it to cost at least $150,000. The C32's force-fed, 3.2-litre engine cranks out a whopping 260kW at 6100rpm and 450Nm at 4400rpm. These figures are almost on par with the 5.4-litre V8 used in the C55 (not sold here) and larger E55. The engine also offers great flexibility as over 400Nm of torque is available at just 2300rpm and remains on tap right up to the rated speed of 6100rpm. Mercedes-Benz claims the super sedan can accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds - faster than a Porsche 911 - on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 250km/h. Its blistering acceleration is all the more impressive considering the C32 is equipped with an automatic transmission. The Tiptronic-style five-speed auto has specially enhanced shift points that are said to provide more sporty driving characteristics. It appears the C32 offers the best of both worlds as its scintillating performance does not come at the cost of frequent visits to the petrol pump. The manufacturer claims the C32 uses just 11.3 litres of premium unleaded per 100km. It also complies with the demanding European EU 4 emission regulations which take effect in 2005. The newcomer points the way to future AMG products as high-performance supercharged engines will be a key ingredient in vehicles developed by Mercedes-Benz's tuning partner. Complementing the C32's searing straight-line performance is a tweaked suspension set-up that features revised spring-damper units all round and a 30mm lower ride height. It rides on a striking set of 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 225/45 R 17 tyres at the front and 245/40 R 17 rubber at the rear. Stopping power is taken care of by 345x30mm ventilated perforated discs at the front and 300x22mm ventilated discs at the rear. Active safety features include anti-lock brakes, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), traction control and the Brake Assist system. Visually, it stands apart from its lesser siblings by its aggressive front airdam with integral fog lights, special side skirts and rear apron. The car's sporting aspirations are also reflected by the characteristic AMG "dual oval" chrome tailpipe, which is said to emit a purposeful growl. Inside, the C32 features a special AMG instrument cluster with a speedometer calibrated up to 300km/h, an AMG leather-bound steering wheel and sports seats upholstered in exclusive nappa leather. "The new C 32 AMG represents a logical progression in our highly successful model strategy," the head of the managerial board of Mercedes-AMG, Dr Wolfgang Bernhard, says. "We have created the sportiest C-class ever to provide a truly engaging driving experience." "But the AMG version of the new C-class is only the beginning: Mercedes-AMG GmbH will be providing even more striking examples of its high-performance supercharged engines in the future." Mercedes-AMG expects to see strong demand for the C32 and aims to build about 3500 models each year. Mercedes-Benz sees a significant role for the C32 in Australia. It will follow the unique M-class ML55 AMG onto the local market. The ML55 is due in Australian dealerships early next year.