AMG, now synonymous with high-performance Mercedes-Benz vehicles, began its journey in 1967 thanks to the vision of two former Mercedes engineers, Erhard Melcher and Hans Werner Aufrecht. Initially focused on designing and producing racing engines, AMG quickly expanded its expertise to vehicle upgrades and bespoke customizations. By 1990, Mercedes-Benz officially recognized AMG’s prowess, forging a cooperation agreement that brought AMG’s performance enhancements into Mercedes showrooms and to a broader audience. The close relationship culminated in Mercedes-Benz acquiring a controlling stake in AMG by the late 1990s, and eventually full ownership, integrating AMG as an integral part of the Mercedes-Benz brand. Today, Mercedes-AMG represents the pinnacle of performance engineering within the Mercedes-Benz portfolio. Let’s delve into the history and explore the diverse range of Mercedes-AMG models that have captivated automotive enthusiasts for decades.
From its inception, AMG was driven by a passion for motorsport and a desire to translate racing technology into road-legal vehicles. In the 1970s, beyond engine tuning, AMG pioneered vehicle customization, a burgeoning market that fueled the company’s growth and attracted international clientele. By 1976, Mercedes-AMG, then a team of around a dozen specialists, established its dedicated workshop and office space in Affalterbach, which remains the heart of AMG operations. A significant milestone arrived in 1984 when AMG officially became an engine manufacturer. This was largely thanks to Erhard Melcher’s innovative development of an independent cylinder head featuring four valves per cylinder, showcasing AMG’s engineering ingenuity.
The 1980s also saw the birth of an icon: “The Hammer.” In 1986, AMG’s installation of a potent 5.0-liter V8 engine into a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe resulted in a vehicle that achieved global fame and solidified AMG’s legendary status, particularly in the United States. This period also marked the start of formal collaboration between Daimler-Benz and AMG, initially as racing partners. Their partnership reached new heights with the Mercedes-Benz 190 in motorsports. Entered in races by AMG with manufacturer backing, this race car achieved remarkable success, securing a total of 50 DTM victories between 1988 and 1993, further cementing AMG’s performance credentials.
The evolving relationship led to DaimlerChrysler AG acquiring a majority stake in AMG on January 1, 1999, recognizing the significant growth and market position AMG had achieved. By January 1, 2005, DaimlerChrysler completed the acquisition, taking full ownership. This pivotal step allowed the newly formed Mercedes-AMG GmbH to leverage the extensive resources and global reach of the Daimler Group, propelling AMG into a new era of performance vehicle manufacturing. From classic models that defined an era to the cutting-edge performance vehicles of today, Mercedes-AMG continues to represent the ultimate in Mercedes-Benz performance and luxury.
