Over the years, we have selected our favorite cars from Affalterbach and selected the best from Mercedes’ in-house tuner.
If you’re looking for sharp handling and precision, choose a BMW M car. For incredible speed and performance, go for an Audi RS car. But a Mercedes-AMG car is the way to go if you want thrilling, sideways fun and lots of excitement with a big smile.
For many years, BMW M, Audi RS, and Mercedes-AMG have had distinct personalities. While these lines are starting to blend as all three brands offer a broader range of vehicles, Mercedes-AMG still stands out as the wild, fun-loving option. Its cars are like that friend who’s always bold and over-the-top during a night out—excitable and unapologetic but impossible not to enjoy.
With over 50 years of experience tuning Mercedes vehicles and 25 years as an official division, AMG has produced a wide range of cars. To highlight some of the best, we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 AMG models, showcasing everything from the exceptionally refined to the delightfully outrageous.
10. Mercedes G65 AMG

The G65 AMG makes our list not because it’s renowned for its driving performance—though we haven’t driven one ourselves, we can confidently say it probably isn’t the best-handling vehicle.
It earns its spot on this list not for its driving prowess but because it’s hilariously over-the-top. Picture a boxy, rugged military vehicle packed with luxury leather and powered by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine with 621bhp. It’s so extravagantly out of touch with today’s standards that it’s impressive it was still available in some markets as recently as 2017. That’s what makes this relic so lovable.
9. Mercedes-AMG One

You know the famous Jurassic Park line about scientists being so focused on whether they could they didn’t stop to think if they should? That quote must have been repeated often during the five long years it took for the Mercedes-AMG One to go from concept to reality.
Can you create a road-going car with a genuine Formula 1 engine? Yes. Should you? Most people involved in developing the Mercedes-AMG One would say, ‘Probably not.’ We don’t know how it drives—aside from a few journalists, Mercedes, and owners who might keep it in a climate-controlled garage rather than driving it. Nevertheless, it’s an engineering marvel, and its existence earns it a spot on this list.
8. Mercedes SL73 AMG

AMG models are now a regular part of the Mercedes lineup, but in the early days, they were much more exclusive and rare. This exclusivity is especially evident in the versions AMG created of the sleek, modernist R129 SL during the 1990s. These specialized models are some of the most unique from that era.
The pinnacle of the AMG-modified R129 SL came with the SL73, an era when the badge reflected the engine size. This model was powered by a massive 7.3-litre V12 engine, producing 518bhp, all within a car almost identical to the more modest SL280. As a testament to its engineering, this powerful engine later found a home in upgraded versions of the Pagani Zonda, further solidifying its legendary status.
7. Mercedes E63 Estate W212

It might be a car journalist cliché, but no AMG list would be complete without a fast estate. We choose the pre-facelift W212 E63 or the S212 if you’re talking about the estate version. This car combines practicality with high performance, making it a standout in performance wagons.
This luxurious estate car boasted a massive boot and hid AMG’s powerful 6.2-litre M156 naturally aspirated V8 under its bonnet (despite Mercedes insisting for years that it’s a 6.3). If you’re wondering about fuel economy, it wasn’t a priority here. And a heads-up: this won’t be the last time you see an M156-powered machine on this list!
6. Mercedes-AMG GT R

The AMG GT had potential, but the original GT R was the car that truly demonstrated AMG’s capabilities beyond just burning rubber. While it could still deliver that thrilling, wild side, the GT R also showcased an impressive range of skills, making it a serious contender among top driver’s cars, rivaling even the best from BMW and, dare we say it, Porsche.
Starting with the standard AMG GT, the GT R made everything more extreme—wider, lower, lighter, and tighter. Powered by a 4.0-litre 577bhp twin-turbo V8, its standout feature was the nine-stage traction control, which ranged from safe and secure to a wild ride where you hope the tree stays out of your way. Wrapped in an aggressive, widened version of the GT’s already stunning body, the GT R was a serious challenger to the Porsche 911 GT3, proving it wasn’t the only one in control.
5. Mercedes SLS AMG

The SLS could have easily become a flashy nod to the past, remembered only for its iconic gullwing doors. Thankfully, it became much more than that. This stunning grand tourer combined elegance with power, thanks to the legendary 6.2-litre M156 engine, making it an unforgettable masterpiece in the AMG lineup.
The hardcore Black Series was impressive, but the original SLS stands out in its timeless beauty. While it may not have been the most refined or sharpest supercar to drive, that wasn’t its main appeal. It was designed for long, comfortable journeys, powered by the thrilling sound of its V8 engine, and making a statement with those signature gullwing doors as you arrived in style.
4. Mercedes CLK GTR

No worries! Here’s the information you’re looking for… just kidding.
The CLK GTR doesn’t have ‘AMG’ in its name, but AMG built it at their renowned Affalterbach facility, so it deserves a spot here. And honestly, do we even need to explain why?
No ’90s GT1 racing homologation special is as cool as the CLK GTR. It featured a powerful 6.9-liter V12 engine producing 622bhp. Although it was a road-legal race car, it boasted a surprisingly luxurious interior. The attempt to connect it to the more ordinary CLK coupe through its grille, headlights, and taillights was amusing and effective. And speaking of CLKs…
3. Mercedes CLK DTM AMG

It was tough to choose between the DTM and Black Series versions of the second-generation C209 CLK coupe. However, we ultimately went with the earlier DTM model.
The CLK DTM was a surprise in the best way. Mercedes-AMG delivered a full-on special edition instead of the usual commemorative stickers and plaques you’d expect after a racing win. This model featured a wider body, reduced weight, and a powerful 5.4-liter V8. It outpaced even the later Black Series with a top speed of 199 mph. Plus, it was uniquely available as a convertible, a feature that continues to amaze and delight enthusiasts.
2. Mercedes AMG Hammer

Second place is awarded to the Hammer, a standout from the pre-Mercedes ownership AMG era. If you haven’t heard of it, the Hammer was a heavily modified version of the W124 Mercedes, the predecessor to the E-Class. Before Mercedes took over, AMG had already created a high-performance variant of this model, the Porsche-assembled 500E.
The Hammer came in various versions, with the top model boasting a 6.0-litre V8 engine that produced 375bhp—quite impressive for a practical saloon car in the late ’80s. It was available as a saloon, a coupe, and even a single estate version. Each Hammer featured flared bodywork, most finished in striking black paint with body-colored split-rim wheels, and all exuded an unmistakable cool factor. But what really sets it apart and nearly earns it the top spot on our list? Its unforgettable name: the Hammer.
1. Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series

The hardcore Black Series models have long been some of the most admired AMGs, and we believe the C63 Black Series represents the peak of this lineage. It featured the M156 V8 engine, now delivering 510bhp and producing an exhilarating roar.
The C63 Black Series also boasted a range of chassis upgrades, including fully adjustable KW suspension, a limited-slip differential, and a three-stage stability control system. These enhancements allowed it to perform long, smoky drifts, embodying the quintessential AMG driving experience.
The C63 Black Series also featured striking, subtly widened bodywork that gave it a formidable presence. Much like the BMW M3 CSL, it transformed a standard compact executive coupe into an ultra-cool, high-performance street machine. This blend of performance and style makes the C63 Black Series our top pick.
Conclusion
Mercedes-AMG has consistently delivered exceptional performance cars that combine luxury with raw power. These vehicles, from the iconic Hammer to the innovative AMG One, showcase the brand’s commitment to engineering excellence and thrilling driving experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the sheer power of the SLS AMG or the track-focused precision of the C63 Black Series, each model on this list represents a significant milestone in AMG’s history. These cars are not just about speed; they embody a passion for driving that has made AMG a celebrated name in the automotive world.
FAQs
Q1: What is AMG, and how does it differ from standard Mercedes cars?
Ans: AMG is Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance division, known for enhancing the brand’s cars with more powerful engines, sportier designs, and upgraded handling. AMG models offer an exhilarating driving experience compared to their standard counterparts.
Q2: What makes AMG cars special?
Ans: AMG cars are built for performance and feature powerful engines, aggressive styling, and advanced technology. They combine luxury and raw speed, offering a unique blend of comfort and racing-inspired engineering.
Q3: Which AMG car is the most powerful?
Ans: The Mercedes-AMG One is the most powerful road-going AMG, featuring a Formula 1-derived engine with over 1,000 horsepower.
Q4: What is the most iconic AMG car?
Ans: Many consider the AMG Hammer, a heavily modified W124 Mercedes, to be the most iconic AMG car. It set the tone for AMG’s reputation as a powerhouse brand.
Q5: Are AMG cars reliable?
Ans: AMG cars are built with precision and care, but their high-performance nature may require more maintenance than standard Mercedes-Benz models. Regular servicing ensures longevity and performance.
Q6: How fast can AMG cars go?
Ans: Most AMG cars have top speeds well over 150 mph, with some models like the AMG GT R and C63 Black Series exceeding 190 mph.
Q7: Is the AMG division still involved in motorsport?
Ans: Yes, AMG is heavily involved in motorsport, especially in Formula 1, where Mercedes-AMG has enjoyed significant success. They also produce high-performance cars that share motorsport technology.
Q8: What is the best AMG car for everyday driving?
Ans: The Mercedes-AMG E63 offers luxury, comfort, and high performance for everyday use, making it ideal for daily commutes and long trips.
Q9: Why is the C63 Black Series so highly regarded?
Ans: The C63 Black Series is considered one of the best AMG cars due to its aggressive styling, track-focused engineering, and powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine, which make it thrilling and dynamic.
Q10: Can AMG cars be used for racing?
Ans: Many AMG cars are designed with racing in mind. Models like the AMG GT R and AMG One are track-ready and feature advanced technologies to perform in competitive racing environments.