What’s happened to AMG? | The Car Podcast #92

AMG is Mercedes-AMG, the performance division of Mercedes-Benz. In enthusiast circles, “AMG” usually refers to high-performance engines and chassis tuning that AMG developed and then scaled after Mercedes acquired the company.

“Pre-merger” and “post-merger” are a shorthand for how AMG’s character changed after Mercedes’ acquisition and integration. The idea is that the cars and engineering philosophy before the deal felt different from what came after.

The “merger with Chrysler” refers to the corporate tie-up that brought Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler under a shared ownership structure. In this context, the host uses it as a timeline marker for how AMG products changed—starting with early models that “weren’t great” and later improving.

The Mercedes-Benz CLK 55 is a performance-oriented version of the CLK coupe/convertible line, known for its V8 power and AMG-style tuning. In this segment, Chris Harris describes owning one in 1999 and says it “looked nice” but wasn’t very good, setting up a contrast with later AMG models.

The Mercedes-Benz C43 is an AMG-tuned C-Class variant that uses a V8 (the host explicitly calls it “The V8 one”). Here it’s used as an early example of AMG getting better over time, described as “that wasn’t bad” and “quite good.”

The Mercedes-Benz SLS is a flagship AMG supercar built around a naturally aspirated V8 and famous for its dramatic gullwing doors. The host calls it the “peak,” praising both its shape and the way it drives, including the “madness of the gullwing doors.”

Gullwing doors are a door design that hinges at the roof so they swing upward like wings rather than opening outward. The host specifically links this feature to the Mercedes-Benz SLS’s “madness” and overall visual impact.

The Mercedes-Benz E63 wagon is an AMG version of the E-Class estate, typically paired with a high-output V8 and aimed at combining practicality with serious performance. The host says “I had a E63 wagon 2011” and calls it “brilliant,” making it a personal highlight in the AMG timeline.

The BMW 6 Series is a larger, more upscale BMW designed for comfort and style, typically as a coupe or convertible (and in some years other body styles). The podcast mentions an E63 wagon from 2011, highlighting how BMW’s larger models can be both enjoyable and practical. It’s discussed here as part of a personal ownership experience.

The Mercedes-Benz SL63 is an AMG performance variant of the SL roadster, known for its powerful V8 and grand-touring character. The host mentions his SL63 2010 with “49,000 miles” and says he bought it for “20 something K under 25 K,” then calls the engine “mega.”

The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive sedan (and wagon/other body styles in some years) known for balancing everyday usability with sporty driving. It’s often discussed because specific performance variants and generations became benchmarks for enthusiasts. In the podcast context, it’s mentioned alongside the E46 M3, highlighting how certain 3 Series eras became collectible and iconic.

The BMW M Coupe (E36) is a rare, two-door performance model built on the E36-generation 3 Series platform. It’s notable because it’s a distinct M model with a specific body style and limited availability, which makes it a talking point among enthusiasts. The podcast’s “couldn’t tell you if it exists anymore” comment reflects how uncommon it can feel compared with more mainstream BMW M cars.

A launch color is a specific paint shade chosen for a model’s debut, often used on early cars or marketing examples. Enthusiasts track these because the “launch” shade can become part of the car’s identity and collectability.

The BMW E46 M3 is a performance version of the 3 Series (E46 generation) known for its sharp steering feel and engaging chassis balance. In this segment, it’s used as a benchmark for what “nice to drive” used to mean before AMG’s rise.

The Mercedes-Benz E63 wagon refers to the AMG-tuned E-Class estate (wagon) that blends family practicality with high-performance AMG engineering. Here it’s mentioned as something you could comfortably use for long trips with multiple passengers, highlighting AMG’s shift toward everyday usability.

A V8 is an engine with eight cylinders arranged in a “V” shape, typically known for smooth power delivery and strong sound. Here, the hosts use V8 as a shorthand for the classic AMG identity, arguing that if V8s disappear, “AMG is gone” in a cultural sense.

The SLS is the Mercedes-AMG SLS, a halo supercar built around a classic AMG performance formula. The host mentions it because it wasn’t the very first AMG product “as a model,” using it as an example in the brand’s history discussion.

“Goldwing doors” is a reference to gullwing-style doors, which pivot upward instead of swinging out normally. On cars like the Mercedes-Benz SLS, this design is both a styling signature and a practical detail that affects how you enter and exit the car.

Lewis Hamilton is a Formula 1 driver whose association with AMG Mercedes is used here as an example of how the brand leaned into high-profile motorsport credibility. The host frames Hamilton’s presence as part of AMG’s marketing push during the period they’re discussing.

Traction is how much grip the tires have on the road before they start to slip. In performance-car discussions, it often comes up when comparing how different brands’ cars put power down—especially under acceleration or in lower-grip conditions.

A “four-door electric coupe” describes a body style that blends coupe-like styling with a four-door layout, powered by an electric drivetrain. The host uses it as a critique of how a major automaker’s lineup is evolving—suggesting it’s a late-stage misstep before the company fully commits to electrification.

“Group think” is a decision-making failure mode where a team prioritizes consensus over critical evaluation. Here, it’s used to explain why a large organization might push certain products or strategies even if they’re not the best idea.

“Technobor” is a coined/used word in the Top Gear review context to describe how an electric AMG can feel like it’s “eating” or overwhelming technology with its own tech-first approach. The point is that the car’s behavior and identity are dominated by software and electronics rather than traditional mechanical feel.

“Naturally aspirated” describes an engine that draws air in without forced induction (no turbocharger or supercharger). The phrase is used here to contrast traditional engine character—where response and sound come more directly from the engine—with an electric car’s software-defined behavior.

The “E63” is the Mercedes-AMG E63, a high-performance version of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class built around AMG’s V8 performance focus. The speaker specifically mentions “four-litre” and “twin-by-tower,” pointing to the E63’s twin-turbo V8 era and how it used to define AMG’s character.

Mercedes is the automaker being discussed, specifically its performance-car strategy and how its cars fare in group tests. In this segment, the hosts are contrasting Mercedes’ results against rivals like Audi, and questioning why Mercedes keeps showing up if the cars get “hammered.”

A group test is a structured comparison where multiple cars are evaluated side-by-side under the same conditions. The hosts use it to describe how Mercedes cars were repeatedly “annihilated,” and how that affected the brand’s perceived competitiveness.

Audi is the rival brand being referenced in the comparison. The hosts use Audi as a baseline for handling criticism (“understeers”) versus Mercedes’ perceived shortcomings (“too expensive and isn't fast enough”).

A locking differential is a drivetrain setup where the differential is forced to behave more like a solid connection, so both wheels on the same axle rotate together. That can improve traction and reduce the tendency for one wheel to spin, which is why the hosts bring it up as a fix for the car’s behavior in tests.

The Mercedes C-Class C 63 is being cited as a turning point for the brand’s performance reputation in the mid-2000s. The hosts specifically tie it to the introduction of the normally aspirated M 156 V8, which helped change the “hierarchy” of what felt best in that era.

The M 156 engine is Mercedes-Benz’s naturally aspirated V8 used in performance models like the C 63 (mid-2000s). The hosts discuss its power output range (roughly in the 440–450 hp neighborhood) to explain why it was such a noticeable step up versus earlier perceptions.

Normally aspirated means the engine makes power without a turbocharger or supercharger, relying on atmospheric pressure and engine design to draw in air. In this segment, the hosts emphasize that the M 156 engine in the referenced Mercedes was normally aspirated, which is part of why it felt so strong and changed expectations.

An “automatic gearbox” is a transmission that shifts without the driver using a clutch pedal. In modern performance cars, how the automatic behaves—shift timing, responsiveness, and control modes—can make a big difference to feel.

“MCT” stands for Mercedes-Benz Multi-Clutch Transmission, a dual-clutch-style gearbox used in some AMG models. A “paddle shift” lets the driver command gear changes using steering-wheel paddles, while the transmission still handles the actual clutching and shifting.

“Dovetail” here is describing how multiple parts of the drivetrain and engine management blend together—throttle response, shift behavior, and torque delivery—so the car feels seamless. It’s a subjective way of saying the powertrain transitions are well synchronized.

Formula One (F1) is the top tier of open-wheel motorsport, where teams develop technologies and strategies under extreme performance constraints. The host is tying AMG/Mercedes’ motorsport involvement to a broader plan for road cars.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class (often called the G-Wagen) is a rugged luxury SUV known for its boxy design and off-road capability. In the podcast context, it’s mentioned alongside the idea of a pace car and how the G-Class became a better-selling model over time. That makes it a relevant example of how a distinctive vehicle can grow into a mainstream luxury icon.

“Higher margin” means the company keeps more profit per car sold after covering costs. In automotive terms, a higher-margin model can fund development and marketing while making the overall business look “endlessly good,” even if sales volumes aren’t the only factor.

Ola Kalenius is a Mercedes executive mentioned here as the current boss of Mercedes. The host connects him to AMG’s past by saying Kalenius previously led Volvo’s AMG-related role, framing him as someone who might have protected AMG’s identity.

A four-cylinder hybrid is a powertrain that combines a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. The “hybrid” part means it can use electricity for propulsion and/or assist the engine, which changes how the car delivers power and efficiency compared with a pure gasoline setup.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a mid-size luxury sedan (and wagon in some markets) designed to mix comfort, refinement, and performance. In the podcast context, it’s mentioned in relation to the E 63 AMG, emphasizing how engine choices and performance versions shaped what people expected from the model. The discussion highlights how the lineup’s “V8 vs not” perception mattered to buyers.

The Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG is AMG’s high-performance take on the iconic G-Class, known for its boxy, off-road-capable design and big-engine character. In this segment, it’s singled out as a “magnificent thing,” with the host praising its distinctive styling details like the side exhaust.

Side exhaust means the exhaust outlets are positioned along the side of the vehicle rather than exiting at the rear. It’s a styling and packaging choice that can also affect how the car’s sound projects around the body.

BMW’s “M” cars are the brand’s performance models, developed by BMW M GmbH with more aggressive tuning and hardware than standard BMWs. The host contrasts Mercedes changing its model range with BMW still producing its M-car lineup.

The Mercedes-AMG GT is a two-door sports car built by AMG (Mercedes' performance division). It’s known for its distinct styling and for being positioned as a direct competitor to Porsche’s 911 in the “premium sports coupe” space.

The Porsche 911 is the benchmark sports car that many other performance brands try to beat in lap times and prestige. In this discussion, the host is referencing how Mercedes-AMG and Nissan’s GTR-era cars chased the 911’s performance and reputation. That “beating the 911” mindset is a big part of why these rivalries shaped modern performance-car development.

Lap times are the measured time it takes a car to complete one circuit around a track. They’re a key metric for comparing performance because they reflect acceleration, braking, cornering, and overall efficiency together. In this segment, “beat lap times” is shorthand for chasing real-world track pace, not just marketing numbers.

Mercedes-AMG is the performance division of Mercedes-Benz, known for turning regular Mercedes models into high-output sports cars and hot estates. Here, the host argues that Mercedes-AMG has become “almost invisible” in the performance conversation, especially compared with Audi’s continuing success. That’s why the segment focuses on AMG’s shifting relevance rather than just any single model.

The Audi RS6 is a high-performance wagon (estate) built around a powerful, fast, everyday-friendly package. In this segment, the host contrasts it with Mercedes-AMG’s perceived decline, saying the RS6 has kept going while AMG felt “almost invisible.” They also frame it as the default choice for a certain kind of buyer, especially in London.

Brand equity is the added value a brand name creates beyond the product itself—think of how strongly people recognize and trust it. In automotive terms, it affects sales, pricing power, and how quickly new models are accepted.

The Mercedes-AMG GT is a sports car line built around AMG’s performance engineering and styling. In this segment, the host mentions a newly launched AMG GT and then expands on the idea of adding more body styles.

A V12 is an engine with 12 cylinders arranged in a “V” shape (two banks of six). It’s often associated with smoothness and high power in performance cars, which is why the speaker frames it as part of AMG’s older, bigger-engine identity.

The Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car known for strong acceleration and a reputation for being a serious track-capable machine. The podcast’s “four litres was big enough” comment points to the engine size and performance focus that made the GT-R stand out. It’s discussed as an example of a “proper” performance car in the conversation.

The BMW M5 is BMW’s performance sedan, combining a powerful engine with a chassis tuned for high-speed driving and everyday practicality. The podcast mentions it in the context of engine size and power, noting that an M5 still used a four-liter V8 in the era being discussed. That’s why it comes up when comparing how performance cars evolved.

To hybridise means adding an electric motor and battery system alongside a combustion engine to improve efficiency and emissions. The speaker credits BMW with making hybrid performance work, and suggests AMG may be constrained by cost or complexity.

A hybrid vehicle uses both an internal-combustion engine and an electric motor/battery system. In this segment, the host criticizes a “numbers game” approach to selling hybrids, tying it to emissions rules rather than enthusiast demand.

“Zero emissions” mandates are government requirements pushing automakers toward vehicles that produce no tailpipe emissions, typically accelerating the shift to battery-electric cars. The host frames this as a policy-driven “emissions game” that influences what brands prioritize selling.

BMW’s M is its performance sub-brand, used for higher-output engines and track-focused tuning. Here it’s mentioned alongside AMG and Audi’s RS to frame a “straight-line performance” reputation that’s being challenged by new technology.

Audi’s RS is its performance sub-brand, typically reserved for the most powerful and aggressively tuned versions of Audi models. In this segment, RS is grouped with AMG and BMW M as part of the traditional “fast in a straight line” argument.

“Straight line argument” refers to the idea that performance brands earn their reputation by being quickest in a line—typically measured by acceleration and drag-race-style results. The host contrasts that traditional strength with how electric cars can suddenly make it easier to beat those cars from a stop.

The Tesla Model 3 is an electric sedan that became a benchmark for everyday EV acceleration, largely because electric motors deliver instant torque. The host uses it as an example of how electric cars can outperform traditional performance brands in straight-line races.

The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV built by Tesla, positioned as a practical family-oriented EV. The podcast references how electric cars changed the market, with Tesla models becoming widely discussed as alternatives to traditional performance and efficiency choices. Model Y is part of that broader shift toward mainstream electric vehicles.

“Traffic lights” here is shorthand for stop-and-go, short acceleration events where EVs often feel especially strong. The discussion uses that real-world scenario to argue that looks, handling, and driver feel can matter more than peak straight-line speed.

EV means “electric vehicle,” a car powered by one or more electric motors instead of a gasoline engine. The hosts are contrasting EV straight-line acceleration with the feel and confidence people get from traditional performance cars like the BMW M3.

The Jaguar X350 is the long-wheelbase XJ generation from Jaguar’s mid-2000s era, built around a V8-powered luxury/performance blend. The host specifically calls out its V8 and “long wheelbase” character, and also mentions it being “all aluminium,” which points to Jaguar’s lightweight construction approach for that era.

“MOT in a box” is an enthusiast slang phrase for a used car listing where the paperwork looks fine (it has an MOT pass) but the underlying condition isn’t actually verified. The implication is that you’re buying based on a document rather than a thorough inspection of the car’s real mechanical and body condition.

A heated seat uses electric heating elements in the seat cushion and backrest to warm the occupant. If it fails on one side (like the passenger side), it usually points to a switch, wiring, or heating element issue rather than the whole system.

The Peugeot 106 XSI is a small, early-1990s hot-hatch style Peugeot known for being light and fun to drive. In this story, it’s used as an example of a buyer getting misled on a used car purchase.

An anti-roll bar (also called a sway bar) connects the left and right suspension so the car resists rolling when you corner. A clunk over a bump can point to a worn or failed link or bushing that allows the bar to move or knock.

A drop link is the short connecting rod between the anti-roll bar and the suspension. If a drop link fails, the anti-roll bar can knock or clunk because it’s no longer properly controlling roll stiffness.

The Ferrari 275 GTB is a classic Ferrari sports car known for its desirability and historical significance. The podcast mentions a low purchase price figure and calls out its V12, emphasizing how special it is and how compelling a story it represents. It’s discussed because it’s a legendary model that many enthusiasts dream about owning.

The Ferrari 456 M GT is a grand touring Ferrari from the 2000s, aimed at combining performance with long-distance comfort. The podcast notes strong agreement about whether to buy a Ferrari 456, suggesting it’s viewed as a compelling choice among certain enthusiasts. It comes up because it’s a specific, less “obvious” Ferrari model that still carries real desirability.

The Ferrari 456 is a front-engine, V12 grand tourer from Ferrari, known for its elegant styling and long-distance comfort. In enthusiast circles it’s often discussed as a more affordable entry point to older Ferrari ownership, but it can be expensive to maintain depending on condition.

The Ferrari 599 is a front-engine V12 grand tourer that’s widely regarded as a more modern-feeling alternative to older Ferraris like the 456. The host’s point is that while the 599 costs more upfront, the total ownership experience can be better over time.

The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine roadster built around balance and handling, with the engine mounted behind the seats. The host is talking about advising someone who asked for Boxster advice, and steering them toward a group of people who “do understand Porsches” and Boxster owners.

Buying a car at auction often means you can’t inspect it the same way you would with a private sale, so you may be taking on unknown condition risks. The host’s “buying it blind” comment highlights that auctions can limit how much you can verify before bidding.

“Buying it blind” means purchasing without having full, reliable information about the car’s true condition—like hidden damage, wear, or mechanical issues. In enthusiast terms, it’s especially relevant for used performance cars where prior maintenance and accident history can be hard to confirm.

The Audi S3 is a performance-focused compact car, typically based on the A3 platform but tuned for stronger acceleration and sportier driving. The podcast mentions it in the context of shoppers comparing it to another performance option, reflecting how it fits into the “dailyable hot hatch/sport compact” category. It’s discussed because it’s a common choice for people wanting performance without moving up to a much larger car.

The Ford Focus RS (Gen 1) is the first-generation Focus RS hot hatch, known for its turbocharged performance and all-wheel-drive traction. It became a cult favorite because it combined everyday usability with serious grip and power.

The Honda NSX (Gen 2) is the second-generation Acura/Honda supercar known for its mid-engine layout and hybrid-electric assist system. In enthusiast circles, it’s often discussed in terms of how it drives and how it can be tuned or visually modified, like lowering it.

“Evo” here refers to Evo magazine’s review rating system, where cars are scored with star ratings. When the speaker says “five stars in Evo,” they mean the car was judged highly by that publication’s testing and evaluation process.

Nigel Mansel (spelled “Mansel” in the transcript) is a Formula 1 driver who won the World Championship in 1992. The host mentions his win in Hungary and describes how he fought through the race to reach the podium despite issues.

Hungary is referenced here as the location where Nigel Mansel won the 1992 World Championship race that the speaker remembers. In Formula 1 context, this points to the Hungarian Grand Prix, a circuit event used to decide or swing championship outcomes.

The Williams FW14B is a Formula 1 car from the early 1990s, built by Williams and driven by Nigel Mansell in 1992. It’s notable for its competitive engineering package during the era when F1 cars were evolving rapidly in aerodynamics and electronics.

Silverstone is the famous Formula 1 circuit in the UK, known for fast corners and heavy braking zones. It’s a common benchmark venue for comparing driver pace and car performance because lap times are so sensitive to setup and track conditions.

Qualifying is the session where drivers set their fastest lap to determine the starting order for the race. In Formula 1, qualifying pace is a big indicator of how well the car is working over one lap, not just in race trim.

Luffield is a well-known corner at Silverstone, famous for being a technical section where braking, turn-in, and traction all matter. Because it’s hard to get right, it’s a good spot for spectators to judge how quickly a car is through a specific part of the lap.

A double apex is a cornering line where you hit two apex points—turning in, briefly straightening, then turning in again. It changes the balance and traction demands compared with a single-apex line, which is why drivers often talk about it in terms of how “demanding” the corner feels.

A gap like “1.8 seconds faster” is a large margin in racing and usually indicates a meaningful advantage in either car performance, driver pace, or both. In lap-time comparisons, seconds matter because they reflect cumulative differences across many braking and cornering phases.

Barcelona refers to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, a common F1 venue used to test how cars and tires behave under hot conditions. The host notes it was “incredibly hot,” which increases tire wear and makes strategy and degradation even more important.

In Formula 1, “tire deck” is shorthand for the tire’s performance window over a stint—how quickly it loses grip as the laps go on. When the host says it’s “massive,” they mean the tires stay effective for longer, which changes how teams can plan stints and pit stops.

Tire degradation is the rate at which a tire loses performance during a stint, usually measured as lap-time loss over time. The host uses it to explain why two cars on the same tires can separate as the tires wear, making strategy and timing crucial.

A three-stop strategy in Formula 1 means the car makes three pit stops during the race, typically to change tires and manage fuel/track position. More stops can be faster if tire performance drops quickly, but it’s also higher risk because timing and traffic matter.

The virtual safety car (VSC) is an F1 race control mode where cars must slow down without a physical safety car on track. It changes the timing advantage of pit stops and can “bunch up” the field, which is why the host says it may have helped Lewis’s strategy.

A stint is the period between pit stops on a specific set of tires. The host praises Lewis’s stints as “spot on,” meaning his tire use and lap timing were well matched to the car’s grip and the race conditions.

Grip is the tire’s ability to provide traction so the car can accelerate, brake, and corner without sliding. The host describes Lewis driving “right to the edge of the grip,” meaning he was extracting maximum cornering performance without losing control.

Lando Norris is an F1 driver who competes for McLaren and is known for detailed feedback about car behavior. In this segment, he’s quoted saying the Ferrari was “untouchable” in fast corners, highlighting how strong its high-speed cornering performance was.

Ferrari is the Italian Formula 1 team whose cars are known for their V6 turbo era engines and long history of racing success. In this segment, “Ferrari” is being discussed in the context of engine upgrades and competitiveness.