From F1 to production model

The C 43 4MATIC showcases technology derived directly from Formula 1 cars in the latest generation of MercedesAMG’s four-cylinder engine.

Developed entirely by the brand in Affalterbach, BadenWurttemburg, it’s the world’s first series production vehicle to feature an innovative electric exhaust gas turbocharger.

The turbocharger is operated via a 48-volt electrical system, which also feeds the belt-driven starter-generator (RSG).

The C 43 4MATIC’s engine produces 300kW of power and 500Nm of torque. In certain driving situations, a brief boost of 10kW can be supplied by the RSG.

Other AMG attributes include permanent all-wheel drive (AWD) with rear-biased torque distribution as well as standard rear-axle steering, a speedshift MCT 9G transmission and ridecontrol suspension with adaptive damping system.

The turbocharging system is the same technology used by the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team. A small electric motor directly on the turbocharger shaft accelerates the compressor wheel before the exhaust gas flow takes over.

This results in higher torque at low revs. The turbocharger operates at speeds of up to 175,000rpm to enable high airflow rate.

The technology boosts the twolitre in-line engine to help the C 43 4MATIC achieve a rated output of 300kW at 6,750rpm with maximum torque of 500Nm at 5,000rpm.

As a result, the car accelerates from 0-100kph in 4.6 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250kph, while the turbo technology results in a combined consumption of 9.4l/100km.

The permanent AWD features a torque distribution between the front and rear axles of 31 to 69 per cent respectively for dynamic handling and improved traction.

AMG’s dynamics control system enhances the electronic stability programme, which can be adjusted in three stages.

The “on” setting offers high safety, “sport” allows higher drift angles and “off” can be used on closed tracks. Complementing this, the adaptive damping system continuously adjusts each wheel.

The new C 43 4MATIC is equipped with rear-axle steering operating with a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees.

This allows the rear wheels to turn in the opposite direction to the front to generate the effect of shortening of the wheelbase. This results in a smaller turning circle, which is noticeable during parking.

And the car’s exhaust sound is controlled via an exhaust gas flap. Its actual engine sound is picked up by a sensor in the exhaust system and fed into the interior.

Exterior AMG features include the radiator grille with vertical struts in chrome, the front apron with flics, sporty air intakes and chromeplated trim, matching door-sill panels, the diffuser-look rear apron and two round twin-tailpipe trim elements. The C 43 4MATIC is fitted with AMG light alloys and 20-inch tyres as standard.

Inside, AMG seats feature a distinctive upholstery layout in leather finished in black, brown, red or black with red inserts. The C 43 4MATIC retails from $145,900.

As Mercedes-AMG ushers in new models inspired by F1, some are getting Final Edition makeovers.

The C 63 S Cabriolet has been made more eye-catching with paintwork in graphite-grey magno with special yellow and dark-grey decals.

There are cross-spoke alloys –19-inch on the front and 20-inch at the rear – while performance receives a boost thanks to an AMG ceramic front-braking system.

Inside, there are performance front seats and steering wheel. The seats are finished in nappa grey and black with yellow stitching.

The cabin boasts dark aluminium and matt carbon-fibre, while a Final Edition badge can be found on the centre console.

Its stablemate – the C 63 S Coupe Final Edition – gets the same appointments as the cabriolet with AMG’s aerodynamics package added. Its limited-run badge is located externally on the C-pillar.