Looking to buy - How to be sure it's really AMG?
 

What are the best method(s) to determine for sure that a car is not a poser?
Certainly people can go pretty far in this - probably replacing steering wheel, instrument panels, wheel, body parts, engine covers, etc...

Is there anything that can't be faked very well, or is having an MB Dealer run a VIN the only real way to be certain (if that's even an option?)?

Thanks.

Look at the engine. If anyone by the name of Helmut, Dieter or Klaus signed it, you are OK

As I understand it, the 2003 model year (W209 chassis) was the first year for the engine builder's plaque. Also, the 2003 Cabriolet used the W208 body and chassis.
Therefore, W208's would not have the badge.
Does this mean the 2003 cab's would or would not not have the plaque?

There are those far more knowledgeable than I, so please chime in and help us out.

If you are contemplating the purchase of a W209, (2003 and on) you will find the AMG plaque on top of the engine.

just drive it!

You really want a dealer to perform a PPI. They can tell you if it's "der phaakkar". Explain to the seller that it has to be inspected. If the dealer says it's not a 55, don't pay for the inspection. The dealer won't release his car until somebody pays, so the seller can pay the dealer for wasting your time.

Are the sixth and seventh digits of all W208 55 coupes a seventy-four?

If you vin the number with carfax or a dealership, won't it come back as such?

I like the way you think!

Doesn't it say on the pink sleep the VIN number and the year and model of the car..

I don't think people can get away with just making it look like an AMG...the amg emblem is pretty much everywhere..even on the control arms I think, also the stabilizer bar, it's not just debadging it and changing the engine cover...if someone is gonna do all that just to sell it as a amg then I don't know what their profit is...but i'm not sure maybe it's easier than I think...

Thanks for all your advice! You have definitely assuaged my concerns and I will feel more confident in my purchase with this knowledge.