Mercedes C43 AMG W202

By far the most powerful car in its class, the C43 AMG can truly be considered a 4-door muscle car. New camshafts and freer-breathing, larger-diameter intake and exhaust systems increase the peak output to 302 horsepower, 27 more than the engine it is based on used in the E430 sedan. A heavier-duty five speed manual transmission is borrowed from the SL500 and used to handle the extra power produced. Although on paper the C43 looks like it should be a sizzling performer, it disappoints both in the 0-60 and 1/4 mile acceleration test, where it trails its two main competitors, the BMW M3 and Audi S4 by at least 0.3 seconds in each test, despite the 52 and 62 horsepower advantage over the S4 and M3, respectively.As for handling, the C43 benefits from firmer springs, stiffer shock damping and thicker anti-roll bars, all adding up to a vehicle with excellent handling dynamics and unparalleled precision through the turns. All-wheel vented disc brakes help the C43, which by the way is over 200 lb heavier than the BMW M3, stop in record braking distance. Its 112 ft stopping distance from 60 mph is good enough to topple a Ferrari F355. Furthermore, the 155 mph top speed betters its aforementioned competitors by over 10 mph each.The C43 does have some faults, however. The sport-tuned suspension and low-profile tires combine for an extra-firm ride that becomes downright harsh on rough roads, while the interior lacks a tilting steering-column and dual-zone climate control, features that should be considered a must have for a vehicle that costs $55K, or $15K more expensive than any of its competitors. Not only that, but the rear bench is inhospitable for long trips considering the ultra-tight legroom, worse even than the M3. In the end, for the true performance enthusiast this will probably not matter, as the extra money could be considered a sound investment for its muscle car-like V8 engine and exhilarating braking and handling capabilities. - by Traian Popescu

See more: Mercedes C43 AMG W202 Photos, Mercedes C43 AMG W202 Technical Data