What is AMG?
Mercedes-Benz's high-performance division, responsible for the most powerful and track-focused versions of the brand's road cars.
AMG is the performance arm of Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1967 by Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher. The name combines their initials with Grossaspach, Aufrecht's birthplace. What began as an independent engine-tuning workshop became so successful in motorsport and road-car upgrades that Mercedes took a majority stake in 1999 and full ownership in 2005.
AMG models are distinguished by hand-built engines, each assembled by a single technician who signs a plaque on the engine cover under the "one man, one engine" philosophy. Historically AMG was synonymous with large naturally aspirated and twin-turbo V8s, though the range now spans turbo four-cylinders, inline-sixes and hybrid powertrains derived from Formula 1 technology.
Models wear designations such as C 63, E 63, GT and the SLS and One hypercars. AMG competes directly with BMW M and Audi Sport, and its cars are known for muscular performance, an aggressive exhaust note and a more visceral character than standard Mercedes models.
