austinholloman

The C43 is a very nice car and the build quality is great but so is the C32. The C32 is faster with out a doubt in my mind but the C43's engine sounds absolutely amazing. This is actually hard for me because I love the 90's style Mercs but the C32 could still pass for a brand new car to someone who doesn't know much about cars. The C43 is classic though. I am trying to buy one or the other right now and can't make up my mind.... Im leaning toward the C32 though because a member has one for sale at a kick *** price. If everything works out, I will most likely go for it and turn my back on the C43 I have always wanted....

saer1one

You wont be disapointed and you will forget about the c43..

austinholloman

A part of my thinks this is true but at heart I am a 90's style Mercedes guy when it comes to rare cars. Now if this was a normal everyday car like the c300 with a killer price I would go for it but for the car I am going to keep and hope one day will be worth more then I paid for it, im going to have to go for the C43. If the engine isn't enough for me then I will skip this little baby and go right for the C55 but keep my w202 body. The E55 and CLK55 is a turn key drop in for the C43 and then I truly would have a rare and very fast car. Faster then even a slightly modified C32 and I would get to keep the NA V8 reliability I love and older style I can't live with out. Hard choice...

c32kompressor

The C32 would out perform a C43 n/a anyday of the week. The c43 is also an amazing car aswell but it just doesn't compare to the 32, to say its the worst amg ever made is simply mad

Newzchspy

Talk Talk Talk, dude I will believe it when I see it that 1. YOU drop a 55 engine in YOUR 2. C43?? And I will offer to race you for $$ in either the "slightly modified" C32 or the Kleemann S7? Run your car , NOT your mouth and LETS GO!!! Or as my buddy Ahmad says, Nut Up or shut up!!!

Don't trash the C32 because you don't have one. Fastest 5.4 conversion on Dragtimes is 13.3 at 102???

Fastest C32 is 12.2 at 115!!

ddtham

I test drove the C43 couple of years back and expected to be blown away after driving my C280 for years. I was very impressed with the interior and how the door panels "hug" you more than the standard 202. My complaint was how sluggish the car feels from lower rpm, even though it was obviously faster than C280 .

The stock 32 however, is a lot faster from all speed and gives you the "hold on to your pants" feeling everytime you gun it. Now modded, it's a different story.

I ran a 208 CLK55 a while back, and we both couldn't hear his V8 rumble over my SC whine (C3P intake, weather stripping removed). Talk about a sweet sound...

If you really want to invest in 90s MBs, get the W201 190E 2.3-16 (there's one for sale in my local classified in Metallic Black) or W124 500E .

austinholloman

OK this isn't about nutting up or shutting up. It'd about a lighter car than the stock c32 having a bigger engine (e55 5.4) and more hp. Sure a c32 can run a low 12. Mom can run a 5 with a jet in her *** too.... and I'm not complaining about the c32 because I don't own one. I'm in the market for either a c43 or c32. The c43 I was is 8k and the c32 for sale on this board right now that I am looking is 7k. So if I wanted one I could have and even save some money getting it. Fact of the matter is, I like the c43 more period. Not because it's faster or ever will be, because I do and that's it.

Also a 500e is a great car and I do love them. With the e500 front end for 1994 it looks like a bigger c43. I Just don't want to pay 10-15k for a nice one and there is no engine swaps for it or aftermarket and the same 4 spd tranny amg used for the c36. I think I'm going the right direction with the c43 and down the line dropping in a 5.4, if its not enough, ill super charge it and then really be put down some good times.

Newzchspy

[QUOTE=austinholloman;4338275]OK this isn't about nutting up or shutting up. It'd about a lighter car than the stock c32 having a bigger engine (e55 5.4) and more hp. Sure a c32 can run a low 12. Mom can run a 5 with a jet in her *** too.... and I'm not complaining about the c32 because I don't own one. I'm in the market for either a c43 or c32. The c43 I was is 8k and the c32 for sale on this board right now that I am looking is 7k. So if I wanted one I could have and even save some money getting it. Fact of the matter is, I like the c43 more period. Not because it's faster or ever will be, because I do and that's it.

Then let us know when you NUT UP and get that C43 with the 55 motor?? Would love to see it run!!

In the meantime, we're all driving our 32/55 and enjoying the hell out of them!!

OH and BTW, just a few hours ago you were hatin on the C32 for Sale for $7K:AustinHolloman wrote: " And the c55 is even faster than the c32 and the 5.4 from the e55 and clk55(same engine) is a direct swap for the c43. Drop in and turn key. Hmmm and I would keep the classic body style I love and get NA V8 reliability. Food for thought." Last edited by austinholloman; Today at 08:57 AM.

And you KNOW the C55 is faster than the C32 how??? Track Times, QTR. Time Slips, Dyno? Help me out here??

ddtham

I was wondering why you were calling this guy out, and then I checked the C32 for 7K at the classified thread

It sounded to me that some people are using this $7K price as a benchmark price for C32s now

Holloman, if you really like C43s, go get them as the price has already bottomed out. You might be able to buy a nice C43 for $8K, but I guarantee you won't find a nice 32 for that price.

Good luck with your search!

jturkel

buy a prius...down the road, do a TT setup on it. you'll be very happy with that....

Newzchspy

You mean a Pious!!!

saer1one

Or you can go with a Tesla swap..

austinholloman

You need to read this entire post but im not talking about a c43 made into a c55. Im talking about the real C55 and it is faster stock than a C32 stock. And when did I hate on the C32 being for sale for 7k. I hated on you for acting like a C32 is some unattainable car for me to purchase. Please, these cars are now with in two or three grand price difference from C43 and they are both cheap. You act like you $10k car is still worth 65k shut up. No one cares. Keep your car it might makes your dic* bigger. I personally don't give a shi* what you do. This thread was a huge deciding factor in what model to pick. And to end this, I really like the C32 its a great car for modding and it can really kick some ***. One of the best mercs around for putting money into and really making something out of it but that's just not my style. To all of you who weren't total dic*s, your cars are awesome. To all else, east shi*. Peace.


[QUOTE=Newzchspy;4338306]

Newzchspy

[QUOTE=austinholloman;4338816]You need to read this entire post but im not talking about a c43 made into a c55. Im talking about the real C55 and it is faster stock than a C32 stock. And when did I hate on the C32 being for sale for 7k. I hated on you for acting like a C32 is some unattainable car for me to purchase. Please, these cars are now with in two or three grand price difference from C43 and they are both cheap. You act like you $10k car is still worth 65k shut up. No one cares. Keep your car it might makes your dic* bigger. I personally don't give a shi* what you do. This thread was a huge deciding factor in what model to pick. And to end this, I really like the C32 its a great car for modding and it can really kick some ***. One of the best mercs around for putting money into and really making something out of it but that's just not my style. To all of you who weren't total dic*s, your cars are awesome. To all else, east shi*. Peace.

1. Wow, tough guy!!

2. You're talking about a "real C55" as to opposed a fake one or a C43 converted to one? hmm??

3. Thought the C32 was all "plasticky" and not as good looking as the C43, yet you're getting one now. HMM??

4. And where is it listed or stated or proven that the C55 is indeed faster than a C32 or vice versa for that matter?? Except for the Kleemanns, not a single C55 has defeated a C32 in Dragtimes?? HMM??

5. Time to go back to the C43 forums. Maybe they'll pay some attention to you there. Now go buy that 117 K mileage C32 for $7,000 and show us what you can do.




ALL I CAN SAY IS, Nut Up or shut up!! Bring it on........................

austinholloman

Wow your wrong in this thread too.

I wasn't the person that said these car are plasticy, I think you have me really confused with some one else based on how you talking to me... I think the C32 is a really bad *** tuner car! But that's not what I am in the market for! If I didn't already have my E36 4 Door M3, I would go for the C32! I just want something with a V8 that isn't 20K Otherwise, I would be ALLLLL OVER A 2005 C55 oil leaks and all! Yeah a C43 with a 5.4 would be a fake one.. haha I don't get you dude but your entertaining to say the least.


[QUOTE=Newzchspy;4338844]

austinholloman

Im starting to like this guy I think...

Autotechnica

A C32 is very different than an E36 M3. Saying that you wouldn't get a C32 because it's too much like your M3 is just nuts. They aren't even in the same league. A C32 is often compared to an E46 M3. BTW, if you can see my signature you will notice that I have a real M3 (1994 Euro spec E36 M3 w/ 282HP, not the daft US spec 240HP). Anyways, even though I have the eurospec M3, my C32 still blows the doors off my M3. Very average cars can beat a USA spec E36 M3, takes quite a bit to beat a C32. BTW, you keep repeating yourself saying that a C32 is not what you want and a C43 is. Then it seems like you've already made up your mind? I've owned a C36 as well. I hated almost everything about it and heard the trannys were sensitive as hell. It wasn't anything special. It really felt like AMG's first car as the performance left a lot to be desired. I can't comment on the C43 as I've never driven one. W202's looked ok back in the day, but now they really just look like old mercs. Without the performance to back it up, I don't understand what the appeal is. I doubt they will ever become classics. To each his own. If you like the C43, that's fine, just don't compare a C32 to a C43, because the C43 loses in every single way. If you like classics, the 190E's EVO's or Cossies are the ones to get. Those are classics.

Also if you're on a budget and looking to spend 7K? Definitely go for the C43. I've never even seen a C32 for 7K in my area. When I bought mine 5 months ago there were 12 2002 C32's for sale and they were all over $16,000CDN. For $7,000 you're either looking at a really high milage car or a real lemon.

Bry

LawRens

[QUOTE=Newzchspy;4338844]should i (and other 36/43 owners) be insulted?


lulz

austinholloman

Does everyone here drag race their C32? If so, that's odd. I am comparing the two base on interior size and handling feel. My E36 and it still is a real one, has all after market suspension on it, so it fits my tracking needs just fine. I DO NOT drag race so I have what I need in this area and there are MORE than enough after market parts for the M3 making it my tuner car. Why is this so hard for people to understand. The C43 will be a daily driver with a very good amount of power. The C43 has a newer five speed tranny, the C36 had a four speed auto also used in the 500e/e500 not as much fun to drive imho. If you haven't driven a C43 and that's EZ to believe because they only brought 1147 to the states/4200 TOTAL IN THE WORLD! (never going to be a classic? HAHA) then that's why you don't get what I am saying and this is all falling on deaf ears.

"The car was manufactured for a little more than two years – from the end of 1997 to the spring of 2000 for a total of 4,200 units 20% of which are estates and 80% saloons." Wikipedia

"C43 AMG for the US Market



THE BEGINNING

Wednesday, April 22, 1998:

Mercedes unveils latest in Super Sedan line



PRESS RELEASE: Montvale, NJ - Mercedes-Benz dealers across the U.S. have begun taking delivery of the new C43 supersedan, a limited-production V8-powered version of its popular C-Class sedan. The new C43 is modified by AMG, Germany’s top automotive customizer and race 'tuner,' who has been partnered with Mercedes-Benz for decades.



Only 1,500 of these ultra-performance cars will be imported to the U.S. over a three-year period. Priced at $52,750, the mid-size C43 features a modified version of the new-generation V8 engine from the full-size E430 sedan. With higher-lift modular camshafts and a freer-flowing intake and exhaust system, horsepower is boosted to 302 (up 10 percent over the standard 275 hp figure) for superb overall performance, including 0-60 mph acceleration of 5.9 seconds.
TOTAL PRODUCTION

1998 579 units

1999 546 units

2000 22 units ?



Total C43s for the US Market = 1147 units



Updated information on model year 2000 production...

It was recently reported that there were actually (25) model year 2000 C43 vehicles imported to the USA

Number of units & colors
(1) Burgundy

(4) Obsidian Black

(6) White
(7) Black
(7) Silver

(1) equipped with blue/black two-tone leather (silver car)

(10) equipped with black leather

(14) equipped with silver/black two-tone leather"

-c43amg.com



Look up what your talking about now and then. This is a VERY low production car. It WILL be a classic.

THIS is WHAT MAKES THE CAR SPECIAL and why the C32 is even around. Show some respect. Don't forget where your cars came from.


"The C43 AMG marked the start of a wave of extreme performance automobiles we plan to offer American clients," notes Robert Allan, Mercedes-Benz USA AMG / designo / Special Vehicles Product Manager. "This was the first compact car with our new-generation, three-valve/twin-spark V8. At 302 horsepower, it offered very high power output, and our clients took that element very close to their hearts. In fact, the AMG-modified engine was what owners loved the most, since it combined that high performance with the expected refinement of a Mercedes-Benz."

Autotechnica

Since when did simply the fact that a car was low production make it a classic? Most classic cars that are well known today came from cars that were produced in large numbers. If classics are rare today it's because they are old, not because the production numbers were low. I never said a C32 would become a classic. IMO the W203 chassis and design was a huge break through for Mercedes. The W202 was exactly what Mercedes eventually broke away from. The C43 will be rare, but a classic? No. I keep bringing up power because I don't understand what other things make the C43 special? The engine? yes pretty cool. However, It looks like a regular sedan and the performance isn't that great. It's far too ordinary. Anyways, if you're trying to get away from the E36 M3, the W202 is even more similar to your E36 M3 than the C32 is. The W202 and E36 are relatively the same size, shape, year. Again, why even bother asking which car to buy when you already have your mind made up? Get the C43 and be happy. I have nothing against the C43, I just don't understand your comparisons. The C43 is inferior in every way, not just power. I'm not dissing the C43, it's just an older car and it's not as good, just need to face facts. My eurospec M3 is 1 out of 45 shipped to Canada. It's rare, but it won't ever be a classic. Anyways, the C43 is a good car. However, comparing it to a C32 really doesn't make much sense. That's what this whole thread is about. If the C32 is a terrible car, than the C43 is even worse. Merc's top notch quality was gone in the late 80's. IMO all mercs made after the early '90s didn't have great quality.

BTW, I don't drag race any of my cars.. ever. I actually auto-x and do lapping days with BMWCC clubs and others as well on a regular basis. I have a about 10 years experience on the track, so I would never buy a car just because it was fast in a straight line. My eurospec M3 is fully track prepped with roll cages and racing harnesses. Still street legal though.

saer1one

Classic, my dads 1986 Mercury Sable is a classic but there is no demand for it, therefore it will never be in the same tier as a 1969 Camaro SS.. Classic..

Tump43

Wow, what a debate. I have nothing but my personal experience to offer. I owned a C43 and loved it. It was a great car for the times. However, when it came time to trade her in, I was deciding between the C32 and the C55. Hands down the interior of the C55 was, IMHO, superior to the C32, so I picked up a C55. I also love this car. However, before it was seriously modd'ed, I lost a street race to a tweaked C32. The C32 was the fastest car produced by MB for a short time and is still a very quick car. It is easier to mod than a C55 (so I hear), but I still like the interior style and the reliability of the NA V8 of the C55 much better.

On the same note, I was so underwhelmed by the interior of the C63 that I will not get that car either -- drove lots of them at an AMG challenge at the Pocono race track. Also, stock, the C63 does not impress me power or handling wise compared to my modified C55 -- so, it makes sense for me to wait for a new C or move to a different animal altogether. I have been considering the CL 65 AMG ... (don't mention this to my wife)

austinholloman

Exactly. There will always be a market for low production AMG cars. Always. The 500e is really nothing special either and the tranny is very aged but people can sell them still today for $10-20k because they were low production and a beast of their time. No one can predict the future but based on the way people by old Mercs that were low production models for large amounts, I don't see why this car would change that trend. After all, there is nothing BAD about the car either. Dated sure. But no major known issue to drive people away from buying it later down the line. As far as styling, I think they can still look very good but thats my taste. If these cars are ugly and dated, then I guess I am a fan of ugly and dated cars....







I also agree that I would skip the C32 and go for the NA C55 for the same reasons. I also feel the C63 is majorly lacking the in interior department and would wait it out.

austinholloman

Looks like 12.93 @ 107mph is the fastest time for a C43/C55 swap. Fyi.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXZ71AHVmhI

saer1one

1969 Camaro SS is not a low production car..