A45 AMG Tow rating

[mpit]

So, I've been searching for a while for an interesting daily car that would be capable of towing a Caterham on a little Brian James clubman or similar.

You can imagine my joy when after lustfully looking at the cool little A45 for daily duties for a good year now, someone informs me that they are rated for towing.

See here: http://www.parkers.co.uk/mercedes-benz/a-class/amg...

The trouble is, when searching further on the internet, I can't find any examples of installations or tow bar products full stop.

Is it the case that it's rated in some countries and not others, or is parkers wrong?

Can anyone help keep a dream alive?

[WhiteAMG45]

Hi I have had a look at brochure there is cost option but you need to check with dealer the issue is there is rear diffuser fitted and may not let you fit on the A45 but on lesser models it may fit because there no diffuser
I hope that helps

[WhiteAMG45]

Hi
This forum may be able to help you
http://www.aclassclub.co.uk/forum/a45-amg-forum_fo...

[Utterpiffle]

I don't mean to be the bringer of bad news, but nearly all AMG's are not type approved to tow - I am pretty sure the Parkers link you gave is incorrect.

See here on the Merc website - change dropdown to a45, and scroll down.

http://www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/content/unitedkingd...

I have the same problem with my e63. All models are approved for 2100kg, the AMG is approved for 0kg. There is plenty of room to fit one, but the chassis plate says it's not allowed.

[Mammasaid]

Utterpiffle said:

I don't mean to be the bringer of bad news, but nearly all AMG's are not type approved to tow - I am pretty sure the Parkers link you gave is incorrect.

See here on the Merc website - change dropdown to a45, and scroll down.

http://www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/content/unitedkingd...

I have the same problem with my e63. All models are approved for 2100kg, the AMG is approved for 0kg. There is plenty of room to fit one, but the chassis plate says it's not allowed.

Agreed, probably due to the exhaust layout I would imagine.

[mpit]

Utterpiffle said:

I don't mean to be the bringer of bad news, but nearly all AMG's are not type approved to tow - I am pretty sure the Parkers link you gave is incorrect.

See here on the Merc website - change dropdown to a45, and scroll down.

http://www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/content/unitedkingd...

I have the same problem with my e63. All models are approved for 2100kg, the AMG is approved for 0kg. There is plenty of room to fit one, but the chassis plate says it's not allowed.

Well, it's not just AMGs, it's just about every interesting car and supposedly more to do with image than anything else! B8 S4 is the only other semi-interesting thing I've found rated for towing.

But... what you linked me to is relevant to a new A45 and even Parkers suggests the Facelift isn't rated.

I presume that if I went to look at a pre-facelift, the towing capacity would be on a sticker on a door shut somewhere or something?

[Utterpiffle]

mpit said:

I presume that if I went to look at a pre-facelift, the towing capacity would be on a sticker on a door shut somewhere or something?

Yes exactly. There are four numbers on the door shut sticker. The second one down is the towing capacity. On my car it shows "---- kg".

Edit. This:



1. Vehicle identification plate
2. Vehicle manufacturer
3. EU type approval number
4. Vehicle identification number (VIN)
5. Maximum permissible gross vehicle weight
6. Permissible towing weight
7. Maximum permissible front axle load
8. Maximum permissible rear axle load
9. Paint code

[Utterpiffle]

mpit said:

Well, it's not just AMGs, it's just about every interesting car and supposedly more to do with image than anything else! B8 S4 is the only other semi-interesting thing I've found rated for towing.

I was also told it is to do with the gearbox. On the faster cars the gearbox is nearer it's limit. Towing stuff therefore is bad and not approved by the manufacturer. Disclaimer: that might be bks

[ecain63]

I'm led to believe that AMG, RS and //M cars are not allowed to tow due to the diffs. Excess heat caused by increased load etc. With the 4matic system on the A45 being so sensitive to traction I'd suggest it's not an ideal car to use as a lugger of trailers.

[Ex Boy Racer]

Current RS6 and M5 both are allowed to tow