C36 vs C43

[JohnnyRims]

As per the title really. Considering chopping in the SEC for either one of these - as I understand it the C43 has less bespoke parts so is cheaper to maintain, is a 5 speed as opposed to the usual 4 speed in the C36, and is faster and more powerful? Is it really that much of a no brainer, or is there a reason I might consider a C36?

[mickyveloce]

I`ve had my red C36 for coming up to five years now , and am still a huge fan .

The C36 is essentially a bespoke engine in a standard W202 C-class . Mercedes utilised parts used on existing non AMG models such as SL600 front brakes , whereas the C43 has AMG branded running gear making service / consumables which may prove more costly .

The chances of finding a good condition 43 is much higher , as they`re newer and made in larger numbers , but both cars have fallen in value to such an extent that some current owners don`t treat them as well as they should . That having been said , the C36 appear to be more resistant to rust , and as has been discussed previously on PH , the 5 speed `box in the C43 can be fragile and very costly over 100,000 miles , whereas the 4 speed C36 is hugely strong .

I love my C36 ; it`s a bit raw for a Mercedes and not as cossetting as the V8 car , but it`s quick (Autocar tested it quicker 0-60 than the C43) and also potentially more economical . I can get 30mpg on a run .

Buy on condition and make sure the previous owner has fitted good quality tyres and parts and don`t worry about the mileage . My red car is going in for a re-paint next month and I`ve spent plenty on it to make it reliable and mint .

Overall , either would be rewarding if you bought properly - Good luck !

[Aquanaut]

I had a C36 up till 2008. It had the electronic 5 speed auto rather than the 4 speed. It was a 1996. Great driving experience.

[mickyveloce]

I like the smooth 5-speed ; I have it in my 1990 300-24 SL . The raucous nature of the C36 is suited to the mechanical 4-speed `box though , especially as mine does without the optional LSD (which makes damp weather interesting) .

Let us know if you`ve decided which to go for .

[JohnnyRims]

mickyveloce said:

I like the smooth 5-speed ; I have it in my 1990 300-24 SL . The raucous nature of the C36 is suited to the mechanical 4-speed `box though , especially as mine does without the optional LSD (which makes damp weather interesting) .

Let us know if you`ve decided which to go for .

Thanks for all the input so far.

I've heard that the 5-speed can be less reliable than the 4-speed, with problems especially over 100,000 miles? Having owned a number of 4-speed autos before I find it hard to believe they could ever feel anything other than extremely wafty?

[mickyveloce]

The 36 never feels wafty , nor does it feel clumsy or rough , it's just more noticeable than my SL . I think the 43's torque eventually overwhelms the box over 100000 miles .