1997 Mercedes-AMG E36 – Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 13.10.2020

A true modern classic hand-built hot rod from AMG’s independent era: 400 made worldwide, 49 delivered to Australia

Australian motorists love the Mercedes-AMG brand, buying more AMG models per capita than any other market in the world.

But before AMG became the Daimler-owned powerhouse it is today; they were an independent hot-rod outfit who built their reputation fitting imposing bodykits and producing prodigious power out of standard Mercedes offerings – perhaps in a similar vein to what HSV was to Holden.

AMG’s popularity lead to an official venture with Daimler-Benz to market AMG-improved models in 1993 and later in 1998, AMG was bought out by Daimler-Benz.

 Best known for their bent-eights, not all AMGs were V8-powered though.

This 1997 Mercedes-AMG E36 predates Daimler’s buy-out of AMG, and represents one of the rarest AMG variants of its era with just 400 produced worldwide and just 49 sold to Australia.

Based on the pedestrian E-class, the factory 2.8lt M104 engine was stroked and bored to 3.6lts, and modified with forged pistons, improved intake and exhaust and a re-tuned ECU. Its 206kW output may seem meagre today, but back in the late-90s, this was a genuine Porsche 911-rivalling sleeper.

Earlier AMGs are already appreciating rapidly, and this one is very keenly priced.

The rego lapsed back in June, so the seller has adjusted the price to reflect the need for roadworthy and registration - and also to "attend to minor bodywork".

The car is described to be in beautiful running condition, and – depending on what said-bodywork is needed (unfortunately no further photos have been attached) – may be a very astute purchase for someone looking to own a useable modern classic saloon.

Based in New South Wales, you can find the E36 AMG listed for $19,999.

Check out the full listing here!

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