Explore the power, history, and standout models of the Mercedes-Benz AMG lineup — the performance division redefining luxury driving.
If you’re exploring the world of Mercedes-Benz and keep seeing the letters “AMG” pop up, you’re not alone in wondering what sets these vehicles apart. Let’s go back to 1965 to explore AMG’s rich history and philosophy to discover what makes their vehicles special. After that, we’ll take a look at some of the most impressive and popular modern AMG models to see why AMG collaborations are in a league above the rest.
AMG stands for Aufrecht, Melcher, and Großaspach — the names of people and places tied to the brand’s legacy. Together, these names form the heart of what would become the performance division of Mercedes-Benz.
Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher were two engineers with a passion for motorsports and precision engineering. After their employer, Daimler-Benz, discontinued all motorsports activities in the 1960s, Aufrecht and Melcher continued work on their 300 SE racing engine at Aufrecht’s garage in Großaspach, Germany.
Long before AMG became an official partner of Mercedes-Benz, the duo built a name for themselves by pushing the limits of performance. In 1965, their modified Mercedes-Benz 300 SE sedan won 10 races in the German Touring Car Championship — a feat that announced AMG’s arrival as a force in racing.
AMG’s success on the track continued, culminating in the creation of iconic performance engines and Mercedes upgrades that defined a new era of driving. By 1990, AMG had made such an impact on the racing world that Mercedes-Benz officially brought them into their family — forming a full partnership with AMG to produce Mercedes-Benz AMG vehicles on the production line.
Since then, Mercedes-AMG has only doubled down on its racing heritage, which can be seen most dramatically in its unmatched domination of Formula 1. From 2014–2021, Mercedes-AMG won eight consecutive Formula 1 World Constructors’ Championships — and it’s this championship DNA that flows into every AMG model you see on the road.
To understand AMG is to understand the relentless, passionate pursuit of power, precision, and racing spirit. AMG doesn’t just build vehicles — it crafts machines for drivers who crave exhilaration and demand more from every turn of the wheel.
From humble garage beginnings to conquering the pinnacle of motorsports, the spirit of AMG is one of engineering without compromise. When you see an AMG badge, you’re looking at a symbol of high performance. Every AMG vehicle features an engine built under the “One man, one engine” philosophy, where a single master technician assembles each powerplant from start to finish and tops it off with a signed plaque on the engine’s intake. It’s a process that emphasizes detail, pride, and mechanical artistry.
But AMG is more than numbers and accolades. It’s the growl of a high-performance engine paired with the luxury and handling you expect from a Mercedes-Benz. It’s the way your pulse quickens as you carve through corners. It’s the confidence that comes from knowing your vehicle was built with the same spirit that dominates the world’s most prestigious tracks.
By now, AMG’s philosophy should be clear, but what exactly can you expect from an AMG model in comparison to a standard Mercedes-Benz brand vehicle? While all Mercedes-Benz models embody luxury and innovation, their AMG models take things to the next level:
*It’s worth noting that if you don’t need the performance upgrades of a true AMG model, you can opt for “AMG Line” vehicles, which typically include AMG styling (wheels, trim, etc.) without full performance upgrades. It’s a great way to get that sporty AMG look while staying within a more modest budget.
Part of the Mercedes-AMG GT series, the GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe is the epitome of AMG — where ultimate performance meets luxury. Beneath its sporty four-door shell rests a beast of a powerplant — a biturbo 4.0L V8 engine. When combined with its permanently synchronous electric motor, the GT 63 is capable of making an astounding 831 horsepower (hp) at 5,500–6,500 revolutions per minute (rpm). But power is useless without something to transfer it to the ground, which is exactly why AMG paired the 4.0L with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT® 9-speed automatic transmission, enabling this mechanical prodigy to go from 0–60 mph in a neck-snapping 2.8 seconds.
The GLE 63 S Coupe is a luxury SUV that embodies the spirit of the GT 63 S but provides additional space for transport needs or up to five passengers, offering both versatility and performance in one package. Backed by a quick-shifting AMG SPEEDSHIFT® 9-speed automatic transmission, you’ll find a handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with hybrid assist under the hood, which makes an incredible 603 hp at 5,750–6,500 rpm. This package isn’t just fun for the whole family, it’s really fun — so fun that it’s capable of going from 0–60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds.
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE integrates cutting-edge hybrid technology with AMG’s renowned performance engineering. At its heart lies an AMG 2.0 inline-4 engine, complemented by an electric exhaust-gas turbocharger, a rear-mounted electric motor, and a 9-speed automatic transmission. This advanced powertrain delivers a combined output of 671 hp at 6,750 rpm and 752 lb-ft of torque, enabling acceleration from 0–60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. Best of all, the C 63 S E gets 36 miles per gallon (MPG) in the city and 38 MPG on the highway when taking advantage of its electric motors.
If you’re looking for excellent performance and jaw-dropping gas mileage, this one is for you. AMG’s E 53 Hybrid sedan pairs the versatile 9-speed SPEEDSHIFT® transmission with a turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 and electric motor to deliver 577 hp at 5,800-6,100 rpm, obtaining 0–60 mph times of 3.9 seconds. The cherry on top? The E 53 Hybrid does all of this while getting 54 mpg in the city and 65 mpg on the highway.
AMG vehicles are about more than specs and speed — they’re about feeling alive behind the wheel. Whether you’re commuting in style, heading out on a weekend adventure, or just want a ride that makes every drive something special, AMG models deliver.
Thinking about upgrading to an AMG Mercedes-Benz? From handcrafted engines to track-inspired performance, AMG models deliver a thrilling driving experience unlike any other. Visit Ed Hicks Imports today to explore our AMG lineup and schedule a test drive to feel the difference!
