Mercedes Benz C32 AMG Review - Is The Cheapest AMG Worth Buying?

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  • Опубликовано: 1 окт 2024
  • In today's video I am driving one of Affalterbach's oddest cars - the often forgotten C32 AMG. Based on the W203 generation Mercedes C Class, the C32 was powered by a revised version of the C320's V6, but with a big supercharger strapped to it. The car had a reputation for being fast in a straight line, and that's it - but is there more to it?
    #Mercedes #AMG #C32
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Комментарии • 322

  • @Fc-cb3tn
    @Fc-cb3tn 3 года назад +303

    Just when you think the C32 is unworthy of being an AMG, remember the new C63 is a hybrid 4 cylinder.

    • @damilolaakanni
      @damilolaakanni 3 года назад +18

      Yes. And consider also that there was a C36 AMG before this car. And that didn't have a V8 either. Plus, the C36 never came with a manual transmission from the factory.

    • @wasdwasdwwasd
      @wasdwasdwwasd 3 года назад +15

      Has any AMG been a manual though? It's not really a Mercedes thing.

    • @damilolaakanni
      @damilolaakanni 3 года назад +1

      @@wasdwasdwwasd I doubt.

    • @Freimopp777
      @Freimopp777 3 года назад +6

      @@wasdwasdwwasd A manual 500 SEC AMG Widebody does exist

    • @plxton
      @plxton 3 года назад +1

      Mercedes don't really do manual transmission, the only proper Mercedes that had manual in recent times was the 190E, and that was for a good first to second launch.
      Mercedes is all about efficiency (sometimes blueefficiency... sorry) and it's more efficient to have automatic gearboxes for their cars. AMG just build on what is there, and make the car even more refined and efficient. That's also why the new 4cyl is coming in, it makes more sense in stats. It doesn't sit right with me either, but AMG has been declining since 2010 in my view. I'd say the CL600, SLS, E/SL55 were really the last great AMG's. The W204 (6.2) was the edge of the subtlety and the 205 just became about the badge and 0-62 times for the flex generation.

  • @geraint8989
    @geraint8989 3 года назад +44

    Having owned a C32 I can confirm that it is useless in snow. You can't turn traction control off so applying smooth power is impossible and so - therefore - is making it up even a modestly inclined driveway (other than sideways).
    It's good fun otherwise though - it doesn't kill M3s of similar vintage, it annihilates them.

    • @kristoffer3000
      @kristoffer3000 2 года назад +5

      You could just try having proper tires on it.
      My dad had a W203 and it was pretty decent in the snow, it even made it up the hill where I live which is utterly brutal, something my W210 and my current W211 also does rather well.
      I'm Norwegian so just know our winters are much much harsher than UK winters.

    • @dagurorarinsson2827
      @dagurorarinsson2827 11 месяцев назад +1

      @lifesshorthavefun1832 theyre about the same on the highway but the c32 has a much higher tuning potential because its a supercharged engine so just a pulley and tune wil get you 100hp extra

  • @jamesstaggs4160
    @jamesstaggs4160 3 года назад +38

    I think the early to mid 2000s was the best era for cars. Much earlier and the cars don't make enough power and there was alot of tech they hadn't yet figured out yet, so it often doesn't work very well. Go much later and you get cars with too many nannies, too much tech and start to get heavy due to regulations. I think 1999-2007 is the sweet spot for cars.

    • @GoldenCroc
      @GoldenCroc 3 года назад

      Funny, I would say the exact opposite, it was the worst era. For just the same reasons, too low power, too much immature tech and still the same weight as today. Are you maybe thinking of platforms that started their lives in the 90s? I am genuinly struggling to think of an example that fits what you said, but I can think of loads that fits what I think?

    • @-BuddyGuy
      @-BuddyGuy 10 месяцев назад

      I personally prefer the simplicity of 90s car interiors, as well as the sportiness of their exteriors. Euro NCAP was the turning point for car looks beyond the late 90s, when high bonnets, high sills, fat bumpers/doors etc. started to effect the aesthetics and weight on cars. New tech in the 90s was VTEC, widespread electronic fuel injection (mostly just port injection which was great), OBD2 diagnostics, ABS, disk brakes, and fuel/oil that isn't far off what we have today. Body geometry on mass produced cars could be more complex with curves due to CAD and CNC for the moulds. The 00s brought more widespread continuously variable valve timing, aluminium (usually fake) detailing all over interiors, more emissions equipment, more reliable engines in the short term with planned obsolescence in the long term (especially on German cars). But there weren't any seismic shifts and in my opinion it was the 00s were a softened/refined version of the 90s that I could do without. I prefer an R32 skyline to an R34, a DC2 Integra to a DC5, or an E36 M3 to an E46 for example. But I like them all.

  • @kerryt5r
    @kerryt5r 3 года назад +75

    Re:space saver - they do come with them. If you get a front puncture, you put the space saver on the back and the rear wheel on the front to clear the callipers

    • @adogmcdizzle
      @adogmcdizzle 3 года назад +2

      That’s what I do with my S211 E55 AMG

    • @steve0680657
      @steve0680657 3 года назад +13

      Helpful when you're on a hard shoulder in the rain...

    • @onelyone6976
      @onelyone6976 3 года назад +3

      @@steve0680657definetily not ideal, but still better than being stranded on a shoulder in heavy rain with nowhere to go and nothing you can do, other than call a tow truck, that you don’t know when it might show up

    • @steve0680657
      @steve0680657 3 года назад +2

      @@onelyone6976 personally I'd just buy a full size wheel on eBay and keep it in the boot.

    • @Dockhead
      @Dockhead 3 года назад +1

      @@steve0680657 a normal mans thinking. i like it.

  • @virumzzgaming
    @virumzzgaming Год назад +4

    The C32 AMG is a full bred AMG. The first official AMG model was the C36 back in 93, which was a straight 6. The C36 was replaced with the C43. 90s and early 00s saw AMG go back and forth between 6 and 8 cylinders.
    I have a C32 and the power delivery is unreal. The amount of times people look as I pull off because it just looks like an old merc banger. The Look on a New C43 AMG owner as he struggled to pull away haha. The gearboxes arnt DSG and shouldn't be compared as such. Before DSG, triptronic and older auto boxes where all slower. However, well maintained boxes with fresh oil etc performs significantly better.

  • @joshg4312
    @joshg4312 3 года назад +6

    C32 m112k was the prototype for the m113k.. near identical sans 2 cylinders
    I really wish you had driven a better example.. Mines pushing 500bhp, zero rust, fast shifting TCU and my spare tire clears the front calipers

  • @wasdwasdwwasd
    @wasdwasdwwasd 3 года назад +21

    My dad had one of these back in the day. Very quick and surprisingly well put together given the reputation of early 2000s Mercs but it had absolutely abysmal fuel economy. He sold it for a 118d cabrio (brown with red seats) which was a questionable choice.

  • @jimmyb269
    @jimmyb269 3 года назад +8

    Mine only came with the foam spray no spare wheel, and think James forgot to mention how fast these are , as quick as cla45 AMG and quicker than a few hot hatches S3 , golf r , I only drive mine to hunt down modern cars and smoke them, mines standard with decat and induction kit.

  • @Mashmarriner69
    @Mashmarriner69 3 года назад +24

    What are the chances. I've literally just bought myself one of these this week. Same colour and everything.

    • @jakejameson5318
      @jakejameson5318 3 года назад +1

      A blessing.

    • @noname-xq5ie
      @noname-xq5ie 3 года назад

      How much is for sale

    • @Mashmarriner69
      @Mashmarriner69 3 года назад

      @@noname-xq5ie what do you mean?

    • @noname-xq5ie
      @noname-xq5ie 3 года назад

      Sorry , is it for sale ?

    • @Mashmarriner69
      @Mashmarriner69 3 года назад +2

      @@noname-xq5ie unfortunately not mate. Going to be my daily for abit. In garage not getting all the little issues sorted out on it

  • @ca9968
    @ca9968 3 года назад +48

    The SLK with this engine was an absolute hooligan to drive!

    • @davebethell1
      @davebethell1 3 года назад +11

      I had an SLK32 AMG, it was an awesome car...in a straight line. Since it left the drive I have always regret selling that car, 12 years on and they are still worth the same money I sold it for.

    • @Pufferkusser
      @Pufferkusser 3 года назад +1

      @@davebethell1 I had a SLK32 as well, same story as above. Running a SLK55 now, a better car in every way but I still have a soft spot for the 32 and check them out in the classifieds regularly.

    • @alech8336
      @alech8336 3 года назад +1

      I had a long chat with an owner of a c32 AMG when I purchased my 190. He described the bodywork on them as 'a consumable' - he had already replaced some panels twice, and rust was coming through again!

    • @DuBstep115
      @DuBstep115 3 года назад +1

      @@davebethell1 People can hate SLK all they want but R171 SLK 350 was one of the best cars I ever owned. Cheap price, SLK32 level of performance as it had 272hp trough 6 speed manual and 5.4sec 0-100 time and with AMG bodykit it was a nice looking roadster.

    • @georgeapplegate2091
      @georgeapplegate2091 3 года назад

      That's interesting to know, will keep that in mind.

  • @JeremyMilligan1024
    @JeremyMilligan1024 2 года назад +17

    As a C32 owner for 8 years. I can say without a doubt, the C32 is always worth buying. At the stupid low prices they have been at for years; I've even considered buying a couple more as parts cars.

    • @josephtdi8764
      @josephtdi8764 Год назад +6

      Don’t do that....... butchering the limited supply remaining for the rest of us just so you can keep yours going,

  • @morgman43
    @morgman43 3 года назад +19

    This is unusual for an AMG engine in that it escaped Mercedes and was also fitted to the Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6. Now there's a rare car.

    • @NewDesignVinylGraphics
      @NewDesignVinylGraphics 3 года назад +1

      Im in ontario, canada and theres a few around where i am. Definitely pretty unique cars

    • @brunobegic3841
      @brunobegic3841 2 года назад +2

      Those Crossfire's are getting quite desireable nowadays. Not because they are any good to drive or anything but because of the transmission. If you're thinking of manual swapping your C32, C55, E55 etc, a Crossfire is one of the best ways to get a 6-speed manual that fits perfectly without needing any custom adapter plates.

  • @seigma5340
    @seigma5340 3 года назад +12

    I used to daily a mercedes w202 C200, very comfortable, but I wanted an E36. Then I got an E36 and discovered I didn't like it as much as I thought. The quality of many interiors felt cheap, the plastic felt like they would come apart in your hands, the ride was sharp but every country road would feel like the car was ready to fall into pieces because of the vibrations. Not to mention all the grannies looking at you like you're some sort of dangerous teenage driver. My first E36 was when I discovered I was a Mercedes driver, just wanted some more grunt and power. Now I think I understand what used to be the target of these older AMGs.

  • @ravennexusmh
    @ravennexusmh 3 года назад +11

    If it doesn't have it. A later CLS 2.8 turn steering rack and ml power steering pump helps to liven these things up. Works in the w211 cars too.

  • @EvoraGT430
    @EvoraGT430 3 года назад +17

    The tin-worm is definitely affecting that car, just as expected.

  • @rpwdpm
    @rpwdpm 3 года назад +9

    I still have my 2003 C32 AMG sedan, it has just 52k miles on it. Bone stock southern California car, no rust or interior squeakies. The motor in these was the first AMG product to feature the builder's signature plaque on top of the engine, which they added some time after the beginning of production for the 2003 model year (the car in your video doesn't appear to have the plaque, so I am guessing it's either a 2002 or early 2003 model). Mine does have a full-size spare, but it is a black painted wheel in a different style from the silver twin-5-spoke alloys, and does clear the brakes. The problems in these are relatively minor and well-known...crankshaft position sensor, aux intercooler pump, the climate control vent gears, and the seat heater element (not the lumbar element) all tend to fail early on, as they have in my car with just 52k miles. Thanks again for the video.

  • @JayMaverick
    @JayMaverick 3 года назад +17

    Ooh one of my favorites from a long time ago. Then they started rusting and the C55 came along with its extended bonnet.

    • @dyslexiksteve2488
      @dyslexiksteve2488 3 года назад

      Did it have an extended bonnet? Every days a school day

    • @ravennexusmh
      @ravennexusmh 3 года назад +1

      @@dyslexiksteve2488 I think used the c209 coupe front as that came with V8 option.

    • @maz500
      @maz500 3 года назад +4

      I think it was a CLK front end swap

    • @petescarport
      @petescarport 3 года назад

      I have one with zero rust. Out in Florida we don’t usually get any rust.

    • @dyslexiksteve2488
      @dyslexiksteve2488 3 года назад +1

      @@petescarport in the uk they rust bad. I have citroens that are older that have last rust.

  • @matthewpotter8491
    @matthewpotter8491 3 года назад +8

    I have to say, I’ve always found this era of merc design rather drab. It’s like a mini s class (and I didn’t like the look of that very much). Its predecessor and successor were much better looking cars IMO.

  • @MilitaryHistory2011
    @MilitaryHistory2011 3 года назад +4

    You reversing during the intro really threw me off for some reason

  • @richiesorge5099
    @richiesorge5099 3 года назад +11

    My acquaintance with your channel started with a C55, this one is a lovely sequel to it. Thanks, Sir!

    • @simonorr594
      @simonorr594 3 года назад

      Yeah - they are super reliable, unlike this supercharged C32. It's cool, and Kudos to the owner, but a lot more hassle to own than the N.A. C55. Still fancy one, tho!

  • @realnutteruk1
    @realnutteruk1 3 года назад +2

    Fewer!!! If the ratios are countable, you have fewer of them!!!.... Less is for uncountable things, like sugar, flour or sand...... yes, pedant, I know....

  • @hexgraphica
    @hexgraphica 3 года назад +6

    Funnily the current AMG engine the the Huayra is 3 valve per cylinder. They sport a passion for the 3 valves as much smart had one for 3 spoke wheels.

  • @hungrysurfer9471
    @hungrysurfer9471 3 года назад +1

    If the new C63 has only 4 cylinders, or a touch screen, no thanks. V8 or V12 please and no hybrid gubins. Analogue round dials and some buttons as well. For driving a clutch and 6 gears please. A limited slip diff too... Mechanical Quaife with no electronic diff clutches. No cheap parts from China either... Not one nut, bolt or chip. Just high quality parts from German factories with german 🍞 engineers making everything.

  • @adebrade172
    @adebrade172 3 года назад +5

    Not many left now, build quality was crap that era of mercedes, shame interesting car.

  • @grandmasracecar
    @grandmasracecar 3 года назад +5

    I was an apprentice at Mercedes when these were new and most the blokes on the floor were more excited about the 2nd hand C36 or C43 W202. Plus a E55 or SL500 was a lot more fun on a post service test drive...

  • @ericwright8498
    @ericwright8498 Год назад +1

    Good review. Is the 3.2 litre supercharged engine reliable in these? Anything regarding the engine to look out for?

  • @th3b0untyhunter
    @th3b0untyhunter 3 года назад +4

    If you get an issue with front tyre then you jack up the back first and put the space saver on in place of the back wheel, and then the good rear wheel replaces your dodgy front.
    Not ideal, but certainly what I was told regarding my own AMG by a dealer

  • @slartybartfast666
    @slartybartfast666 3 года назад +19

    I loved mine - it was so stealth it was great to surprise old Porsches and M3s along A roads. With good, modern rubber it gripped pretty well. Put a beaded seat cover on it and you can park in any taxi rank too :)
    I did 60K in it but in the end it was too expensive to run up and down the motorway. I never really saw 28MPG and that was rolling at 65 along the M4 :)

    • @KingofInterns
      @KingofInterns 3 года назад +3

      That's strange as my c55 estate routinely gets 30-33mpg cruising at 75 mph. Even when I put 3 bikes on the roof and stick to 60mph cruise I get 28mpg...
      The C32 is supposed to be slightly more economical than the C55 if you don't wind up that supercharger so something must have been awry with your engine.

    • @slartybartfast666
      @slartybartfast666 3 года назад

      @@KingofInterns that's possible. I did also have a smaller pulley and remap from eurocharged but even after I took it off and set back to stock it was thirsty.

    • @dwoolwichpoly9086
      @dwoolwichpoly9086 2 года назад +1

      3.2 Supercharged and 5.4 naturally aspirated are thirsty by default so you have to be willing to pay for the fuel to drive those cars. If not, LPG convert it and your fuel price is literally halved

    • @KingofInterns
      @KingofInterns 10 месяцев назад

      ​@@dwoolwichpoly9086not where I live. LPG costs 1.50 litre

    • @dwoolwichpoly9086
      @dwoolwichpoly9086 10 месяцев назад

      @@KingofInterns are you in the UK? Even now is 89-90p per litre which is expensive but still better than petrol

  • @FIN4LBO55
    @FIN4LBO55 3 года назад +4

    had one of these when I was younger it was tuned up to 400bhp+ with a eurocharged pulley and a few others bits and pieces. Great car, as said more of a gt car than a sports car but great to do miles in and still quicker than your average car on a back road, the ability to overtake was like driving a motorbike instant power whenever you wanted it! I always remember the steering feeling really heavy but not really having much feel or feedback.

  • @petescarport
    @petescarport 3 года назад +2

    I just restored one on my channel with 270k miles and abused. It was tracked all the time and now runs great. About to tune it.

    • @SuperEman500
      @SuperEman500 3 года назад

      I found one in my area, a 2002, C32 AMG, with 135,000 Miles for $3,500, only thing is i'm not sure about how reliable it would be,, i have a decent warehouse job, i make $17 an hour but not sure if that's enough money to maintain it.

  • @Kref3
    @Kref3 3 года назад +5

    I cannot hear anyone saying „Tim“ on youtube anymore without thinking about Jonathan Pie. Have to check what he has been up to lately… immediately after this video.

  • @PumaSpeedster
    @PumaSpeedster 3 года назад +1

    For this money you could get a b7 S4 and I'd rather have one I think, v8 and better gearboxes HOWEVER there is something about the Merc I can't put my finger on. Mabey because you'd just look like another grandad then blister past someone on a slip road

  • @X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X
    @X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X 3 года назад +17

    I love the idea of a C class with a CLK front end - it looks rather good, too!

    • @5amH45lam
      @5amH45lam 3 года назад +2

      Yep...still! 👍

    • @charliekarting3401
      @charliekarting3401 3 года назад +1

      The C55 gets the CLK front end

    • @X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X
      @X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X 3 года назад +2

      @@charliekarting3401
      Thanks, my comment was done regarding the C55, not the C32

    • @RossEnzo
      @RossEnzo 3 года назад +2

      Stop you’re making me miss my C55!

    • @georgeapplegate2091
      @georgeapplegate2091 3 года назад

      @@RossEnzo I was thoroughly disappointed with the c55, the C63 is where it's at. Worlds apart when mercedes got their shizzle together and produced one of the finest euro muscle cars.

  • @ColonelBobfed
    @ColonelBobfed 3 года назад +4

    For all its flaws it really adds character, very charming performance estate!

  • @AKU-hs2rj
    @AKU-hs2rj 3 года назад +3

    Sounds like the perfect car for me (love plain looking sleepers) in Germany a decent one still costs over 10k though

  • @sukhoi3572
    @sukhoi3572 3 года назад +4

    Costs less then as a used fiesta in the UK at the moment, seems like a steal!

  • @plxton
    @plxton 3 года назад +4

    Hmm I was thinking of buying a C32 the other day actually. I fancy a daily that’s a little different from my other daily.

  • @Manu-Official
    @Manu-Official 3 года назад +2

    Seeing bills on bog standard mercs, there is no such thing as a cheap AMG.

  • @MultiCarlThomas
    @MultiCarlThomas Год назад +2

    SLK32 AMG was the first V6

  • @Stevevol1
    @Stevevol1 3 года назад +2

    Love mine, 5 years now with no issues except the air con compressor needs replacing. 2002 C32 Sedan with no rust issues. Regards, from South Africa.

  • @dyslexiksteve2488
    @dyslexiksteve2488 3 года назад +7

    W124 e36 would be good to see. Good luck finding one.

    • @rubenhaftvani800
      @rubenhaftvani800 3 года назад +4

      Lots of other rare AMG variants I would love to see;
      W210 E36/E50/E60
      SL73
      190 E 3.2
      w140 S70

    • @dyslexiksteve2488
      @dyslexiksteve2488 3 года назад

      @@rubenhaftvani800 190e 3.2. That must have been an amg own build? The 129 sl60 is a good one as well.

    • @drews6616
      @drews6616 3 года назад +1

      I’d love to see a W124 E36 too! AMG of the old school.

  • @alpmtb
    @alpmtb 3 года назад +2

    Stock C200k with M111 5 speed still pulls like a rocket, weird but appealing shooting brake rear end design, great video. RiP Murray

  • @petem6226
    @petem6226 3 года назад +2

    I've got a C32 AMG wagon. Brilliant car.

  • @michaelgriffiths7937
    @michaelgriffiths7937 3 года назад +17

    So strange I literally thought yesterday I’d love for you to review this car

    • @kiwihame
      @kiwihame 3 года назад +2

      You know you're living in a simulation when...

    • @shazboz
      @shazboz 3 года назад

      :)

    • @antoniobatista8009
      @antoniobatista8009 3 года назад

      Is not strange, is love. Mate you gay :) Happy for you

  • @francescosalvioli
    @francescosalvioli 3 года назад +2

    i think there has been also a diesel AMG version named C30 cdi...at least for the italian market, i saw one of these years ago...

  • @robertiddon
    @robertiddon 3 года назад +1

    I think this is a terrifically ugly car from an era where car design was going very wrong, rusts for fun, unreliable, wobbly old mess but dammit if it's not top-tier bangernomics - It's brill

  • @markbrown3908
    @markbrown3908 Год назад +1

    Originally they can when no spare, rear is wider then the front. Just a can of tyre weld.

  • @Sihijuoma667
    @Sihijuoma667 3 года назад +4

    Maybe first supercharged was W202 C36 AMG. I had C32 few years ago. It was awfully rusty underneath the plasstic skirts. It was fixed and it was really good car for many many purposes. Engine was suprisingly powerful almost brutal. I now drive W210 E55 AMG. A bit slower but much more mature and i love it.

    • @fabssgarage
      @fabssgarage 2 года назад +1

      C36 was not supercharged.

    • @Sihijuoma667
      @Sihijuoma667 2 года назад

      @@fabssgarage Okay, I have to admit i was wrong. I really thought they would be. In my hometown when these were almost new I saw someone accelerate with one and it whined like crazy. Might have been supercharghed afterwards or something. And after that I just have thought they would all be supercharged.

    • @fabssgarage
      @fabssgarage 2 года назад

      @@Sihijuoma667 it was a nice torquey engine...produced decent amount of power in it's era (not the best, just decent). Although it's a great engine and I'd love to have that specific engine in my 129 engine bay anyway lol cheers

  • @cyprianmulenga9540
    @cyprianmulenga9540 3 года назад +2

    E350 is gr8 the if you exclude any AMG engine's of that Era. That E350 was quick enough in my top 5 memorable Rides in a Mercedes . My family has the CL 500 very nice GT ride . I've been in the CL600 now that car is different . Then 2016 S65 is beautiful I love the power in that very entertaining ride .Then every one knows about the C63 and its nature .

  • @tedsmart5539
    @tedsmart5539 3 года назад +4

    Lets see a review of the C30 Sportcoupe with the diesel!!!

    • @TonySoprano-p6i
      @TonySoprano-p6i 3 года назад

      It would be a great review but I doubt he can get his hands on one
      Don’t think we got them here

  • @martinlaver007
    @martinlaver007 3 года назад +2

    As you rightly point out, this was designed as a motorway muncher. Perhaps when they weren’t quite sure what adding the AMG badge was meant to do.

  • @brianiswrong
    @brianiswrong 3 года назад +2

    The start of the video,with you going backwards and the railings moving forward made me look twice😀

  • @onelyone6976
    @onelyone6976 3 года назад +3

    Never even knew this existed in the first place, I guess you learn something new every day

  • @renorti1
    @renorti1 3 года назад +1

    get a good one and the c32 is a greatly under estimated car they are quick and drive well, dont know why they did,t fit the engine to the c coupe body though.

  • @Birmingham_racing
    @Birmingham_racing 3 года назад +1

    Never liked the design on these I prefer the previous generation much nicer

  • @dmiolesh
    @dmiolesh 3 года назад +2

    I own one, it's pretty fun to drive

  • @Perrygrant
    @Perrygrant 3 года назад +1

    I don’t agree with much of what’s been said in this review, I have owned mine for a year and it’s put a smile on my face everyday.

  • @georgeapplegate2091
    @georgeapplegate2091 3 года назад +1

    James, firstly sorry I've not caught up on your videos for sometime, I always enjoy them and the way you out the review across. At the start of covid my w204 125 edition C63 decided to cook itself after an oil leak, for which I had the part, and was going to Mercedes Bath to be fitted, was all ready to have the work done. I went out on the Friday to my local shell for 80 litres of the good stuff and had a little fun on the way home, it's hard not to when you've got 520 hp and that sound. Got home, parked up, sat down. 5 mins later and my gf shrieks your cars on fire!! I'd ensured i.cooled it down post drive, and I spring into action and get buckets and start throwing them into the engine bay. The neighbours thankfully called the brigade, I carried on my bucket charade and asked the gf to get the hose on the go as I didn't want 80 litres going up right next to my house. Thankfully I managed to keep it semi under control till the fire brigade showed up. I got 1k less than I paid for it. Merc phoned me Monday to say they couldn't fix the car due to covid and I chuckled and said it's no longer with us. I really miss it, for its seemingly well known foibles of the post 2010.models, around cooling and oil leaks it's still the most fun car bar an Evo vi gsr I had in my 20s. So as I was furloughed I didn't know now if going out and buying another C63 would be wise as the work situation played out for longer than expected.. I ended up sticking 12 into the house and have 10/12 k.left and found a nice low milage c32 for sale, the interviews been an eye opener, it sounds like the gearbox might wind me up a bit compared to the c63s 7multitronic box that shifted rapidly. I've test driven a c55 in the past and it just felt slow hence looking at these. I think given its done most of its depreciation Vs a 125i (2013 2.0 turbo) I think the Merc would be the more stable at holding its price. Now I'm wondering if I should say balls to it, life's too short and get another 63 or risk a c32/55 in the time being till I pass a lengthy 6 month probation in my new job. I'm glad you've done a review on the c55, I'll go and check that out. Thanks for the continual good reviews. 👍🏻

  • @racekorthings7165
    @racekorthings7165 3 года назад +2

    The steering box on those earlier c and clk class cars get loose over time. A simple tightening of 3 bolts in the driver side wheel well may help slacken it back up. I have an 02’ clk55 with 230k miles that has similar on center play.

    • @raycroal
      @raycroal 3 года назад

      i know the bolts you mean i put a socket on mine and couldn't budge them, do they adjust the steering box or tighten the box in position? i have play in my steering rack at the minute according to my garage

    • @ronaldn6609
      @ronaldn6609 3 года назад

      The C32 and al w203's had rack an pinion unlike the clk. The loose steering he would be experiencing is the fact the car is 20 years old and most likely has 20 year old bushes.

  • @dyslexiksteve2488
    @dyslexiksteve2488 3 года назад +3

    I have never seen the c30. Think they were only in lhd but sure someone will put me right.

    • @t2p
      @t2p 3 года назад

      Lhd only

    • @joshbacon8241
      @joshbacon8241 3 года назад

      Why was the C30 CDI AMG left-hand-drive only and never built in right-hand-drive?

    • @dyslexiksteve2488
      @dyslexiksteve2488 3 года назад +1

      @@joshbacon8241 with the older merc diesels you would not get a turbo because the steering box was in the way. However I've no idea why this was not brought to the UK as a W203 has a steering rack.

  • @josephtdi8764
    @josephtdi8764 Год назад +1

    I am obsessed with this for bang for buck

  • @Pascal-rs6vt
    @Pascal-rs6vt 3 года назад +1

    Aren't C30cdi AMG's cheaper?

  • @wheelieschulz1204
    @wheelieschulz1204 2 года назад +1

    For the Automatic an oil change really helps. To get it downshift fast step on the gas really fast , if you put it slow it doesn't kick down

  • @fidelcastro9579
    @fidelcastro9579 3 года назад +2

    That engine in the SLK32 made it a bit lively.

  • @michaelminner3723
    @michaelminner3723 3 года назад +1

    i have a c240 2003 wagon. its a tank and comfortable. not flashy or fast but takes care of u if u take care of it

  • @Gorilla_Jones
    @Gorilla_Jones 11 месяцев назад

    FYI, I need to say this again. THESE ONLY HAVE A REPUTATION FOR RUSTING IN THE UK!!!! In the rest of the world, especially here in the states where the country isn't a wet sponge like the UK these cars don't rust.
    These are wonderful cars. I've owned mine for 15 years and it has no squeaks or rattles. Seems you get to drive a bunch of beat up cars. SMH

  • @petem6226
    @petem6226 3 года назад +1

    If the steering is light and doesn't react, it's fked.
    Mine steers properly.

    • @vr6Hero
      @vr6Hero 3 года назад +1

      This is mine and everything has been checked by my specialist. Several bushings changed and steering fluid flushed and I think it's fine. Better than my previous Audi! Depends what you are used to.

    • @petem6226
      @petem6226 3 года назад +2

      @@vr6Hero the comments about the steering and the gearbox really threw me.
      Ok, the steering isn't as sensitive as a 911 but it's sharp enough with plenty of feel.
      The gearbox is very quick for a 2002 box - it's the same AMG speedshift version of a 722.6 as used in the SLR. It's not as quick as DSG, but it's a great auto box.
      I've had 911s, Cosworths, Integrales, all kinds of stuff and this review doesn't match my experience of the C32 at all, and I've owned a C32 for 3.5 years!

    • @Petrospect
      @Petrospect 3 года назад +1

      @@petem6226 Old comment but I saw HSG Automotive's vid on it who called it a hot hatch that happens to be rwd, auto and much more lively than an equivalent C55 which has an apparently lazier V8 compared to this V6. C55 HSG sized up to be more of an older person's buy, more like a Jag while the C32 is a lot more like a car aimed towards a younger buyer. Lively. The kind of car people who wouldn't necessarily think about a MB would enjoy quite a bit.
      That kind of sold it to me.
      He enjoyed the steering in the same way he liked the W210 E55, a big personality mismatch to what the car looks like it'd be. A lot more direct and fun than you'd think.
      Bit of an anti-Merc in that it's a lot more sharp.
      The gearbox also comes with praise from most of the people who have been into this era AMG, quite good for what it is.
      From what I saw W210 E55 and this C32 sound to me like great underrated cars.
      The two I'm the most curious about.
      C55 is quite a bit more up there price wise but I don't see how it could be this big of an upgrade to the C32 other than the V8.

  • @1982craigyboy
    @1982craigyboy 2 года назад +1

    I love these, feels like a lot of things you commented negatively about it are actually not negatives at all and are part of the cars appeal. It’s not meant to be a track capable car like an M3, which I appreciate you do acknowledge yourself, but the more laid back gearbox, suspension, steering etc are perfectly in keeping with the estate powerhouse of the car. They were a stunningly fast family car that had the capability to entertain as well. For me now I would love to get my hands on one as a daily driver. Comfy, practical, very quick, chews up the miles but also can turn on the smiles on the B roads when you get the chance

  • @JustinsSupercars
    @JustinsSupercars 3 года назад

    It’s not a forgotten AMG really. It’s engine is well known and desired in the car community. The problem is that these cars have huge rust problems that’s why nobody really cares about them. Who wants a rusty AMG?

  • @nabahmadi5012
    @nabahmadi5012 3 года назад +1

    re: space saver, sounds like someone taken the special AMG space saver and thrown in a standard space saver.

  • @jaoshi7993
    @jaoshi7993 3 года назад +1

    That gearbox is broken, it probably doesn't think at all when you press the gas or loosen your foot from the gas.

  • @skilgour44
    @skilgour44 3 года назад +1

    When this is all over, come to Australia and drive my Ford Falcon XR8.

  • @clearviz100
    @clearviz100 3 года назад +1

    Had mine for almost two years now and a lovely vehicle all round and the space saver spare wheel clears both front and rears perfectly.

  • @jimmyb269
    @jimmyb269 3 года назад +3

    Yes yes yes same as mine 😊

  • @vibingwithvinyl
    @vibingwithvinyl 3 года назад +1

    Someone needs to get a mint Saab 9000 Aero for James to review.

  • @MrRedders
    @MrRedders 3 года назад +1

    I had one of these as my first family car. Great thing! Mine did have the smaller diameter pulley and dyno'd 370bhp. It was very comfortable. Not a sporty car but on kick down it certainly had the ability to overtake. I deleted the centre resonator which helped with the noise aspect tremendously. Not too loud but gave a proper burble. ruclips.net/video/LrWsLjH0SaU/видео.html Apologies, the video is terrible quality.
    Eventually I sold it because of rust. Both front and rear arches, the bottoms of the doors, the boot. Not great for rust. Or fuel economy. Or reliability really.......but I loved it and was genuinely sad to sell it.

  • @joshbacon8241
    @joshbacon8241 3 года назад +4

    In left-hand-drive markets, there was also a diesel version called the C30 CDI AMG, with a 228bhp 3.0-litre turbo diesel inline-5.
    But why wasn’t it built in right-hand-drive?

  • @LC-km9kp
    @LC-km9kp 3 года назад +1

    E36 amg was a car I wanted to get would be nice to see a review if anyone has one

  • @lewisconnell1234
    @lewisconnell1234 3 года назад +1

    Hi mate i got a range rover velar d300 first addition if you want to review it

  • @5555petros
    @5555petros 3 года назад +1

    Always had a soft for the W203, problems and whatnot.

  • @theofficialstig
    @theofficialstig 3 года назад +1

    cool supercharger whine on the outside shots.

  • @shotta287
    @shotta287 2 года назад

    Interesting engine but terrible build quality, rust issues and awfully slow automatic gearbox. Much rather have a B5 RS4 although they are much more expensive.

  • @jayrahman6035
    @jayrahman6035 3 года назад +1

    I would say the predecessor of this is the C36 AMG.

  • @jozzerful2
    @jozzerful2 Год назад

    Unfortunately I recently had to change my tyre to the space after a while trying to trade the look the same place this you need to buy new shorter bolts or you will be there all day also when you do take off the space saver get rid of the bowls with the space saver wheel as quick as you as I am embarrassed to say I was trying to put on a standard wheel with the nuts off of the space let's just say they were made for the space over for and I discovered this just as I had an annoying cramped muscle in my back l that felt like it was going to lock but never did I even got a friend out with one of those massaging oscillation;-) wink no needless to say I did waste a lot of time pissing around the I also have got to say that spray form you can get for a real hard pickle you break down in the middle of nowhere the wheel must be flat priority you putting any the can it's self is strong enough to put air into the wheel and raise it but you must drive lll keeping their pool of resin at the bottom of the wheelbest you can if you drive too fast it will go like water in the bucket when you were at the beach and you were a kid you waved to book it over your head and the water would stay in the bucket this is the reason why you must they say when you use this your tyre is done if I had not had it it would have been destroyed in about 15-minutes and my wheel along with it serious guys this is a real lifesaver read the instructions did what I was told then after the fact I used whatever pressure was left I used from the canister to try to get a bit more pump into now that goes without saying you cannot do this too long after the foam has set p you have to deal with pretty much have to do it in the same time but I have used this three times in my life and I have driven on the tire in all situations the first one I drove it for 2-years never had a load up to my second one same thing I never had a problem the only thing was I was changing their tyres off of my car and that was also the cause of my last one been disengaged after driving on it for 15 months so if you have s*** if you have four of these you are pretty much madeI'm sure they're out with other people out there and I hope to hear from them because a lot of people say they change the tire when they got back to who is going to be honest in the comments and admit they did exactly what if you don't have a problem you leave it especially considering it wasn't damage on as everyone else that opens up a whole other can of worms ok I've rounded on for long enough I want to know how many people have used the spray farm longer than they were recommended like don't be a sheep it will not record my Hannibal Lecter snake tongue effect

  • @EugVR6
    @EugVR6 3 года назад +1

    A friend of mine had one of these with the supercharger turned upto 10, with 450hp it really moved.

    • @SE-42
      @SE-42 3 года назад

      Do you know if he had any issues with it after tuning?

  • @fabssgarage
    @fabssgarage 2 года назад

    Very good car, an me e46 couldn't with me in that car...sold it last year with a full stage 2 and almost 300k km...very reliable sleeper. Unfortunately it was too sober on the looks and too thirsty

  • @thesecondopinion8047
    @thesecondopinion8047 3 года назад +1

    The reversing at the start of the video is trippy.

  • @m4rt1n66
    @m4rt1n66 3 года назад +1

    The actual forgotten amg is the c30 cdi 😅

  • @colegromis9243
    @colegromis9243 3 года назад

    If you can’t appreciate this car for what it is, you suck as a person. You have to understand time and eras

  • @DM-st5mo
    @DM-st5mo 3 года назад +1

    My favorite 🤩👍🏼👊🏼🇻🇪

  • @peterktori9116
    @peterktori9116 3 года назад

    ( GOD YOURE HAIR IS A MESS. PUT ME OFF WATCHING. AND SHAVE TO.)

  • @AdamAus85
    @AdamAus85 3 года назад

    Hmmm, never seen one of these in Australia, maybe we didn't get it. Always liked this shape c class, although the interior wasn't that great.

  • @K1lostream
    @K1lostream 2 года назад

    I loved Murray Walker - always made me laugh when he got excited (which was most of the time) and said something ridiculous! Such gems as "...but here is now, and there is Damon Hill"! and "...the beak of Ayrton Senna's chicken is pulling ahead"!
    Good-bye, Murray and, like Jay said; Thanks.

  • @jameseaton2693
    @jameseaton2693 3 года назад

    Nice review but 5k for a winter beater. A bit rich for my taste, I bought a BMW e46 touring 320(manual)for £950 from Facebook market space. I have spent about £400 so far on getting an MOT and make it drive ok. That includes a full service, 4 new budget tyres and a stage one map. I would imagine it just as much fun as the amg.

  • @PaulabJohnson
    @PaulabJohnson 3 года назад

    Slk 32 came without a space saver, just a can of tyre foam.
    The engine is a peach, I had it in my slk 32 and did 50k in it. It was faultless, replaced the intercooler pump with a Johnson cm30 marine pump with a metal impellor (unlike the plastic in the original bosch ). James is correct, it's not an M3 rival but a mini gt
    It wasn't perfect but it's 20 years old..how many cars in 2000 had 350 bhp?

  • @davespooney8472
    @davespooney8472 3 года назад

    Strangely, this car deserves an Alpina badge.
    That auto box though. Great for pootling round town.
    The C43 is my fave AMG with the slush boxes. The N/A 55 lump being pretty much plug and play. Get some decent manifolds on and they are modern car quick.

  • @maxwellmattison6224
    @maxwellmattison6224 3 года назад

    Oh James, have you NOT been in the #BMWE46325IXSWagon? It has AWD, a Supercharger, has 4 doors and hatch, and every M3 feature as well! #TheLostFalcon_MarkOne->

  • @Patdog130
    @Patdog130 3 года назад

    im watching this as im about to buy one, but i have to remember, all the smack hes talking is probably because hes USED to having these stupid powerful cars. for me this is my most powerful yet

  • @grayfool
    @grayfool 3 года назад

    AMG's attitude seems to be "if in doubt, use a bigger hammer" fits with Mercs of old, the 6.3 and 6.9 S class models come to mind immediately. Who needs subtle when you can do shouty so well. Except this one doesn't appear to shout much at all.

  • @Mashmarriner69
    @Mashmarriner69 3 года назад +3

    I have a C32 S203 in silver just like this same year too. But with the Eurocharged smaller pulley, ECU & TCU map, H&R Springs, K&N filters, 2nd cats and resonator delete. With apparently 400bhp.
    James if you ever wanted to compare the standard C32 like this one you drove to a modified C32. Like you said in this review. Get in touch.