Mercedes-Benz Whensday: The Return Of The E43 In Mercedes-AMG Form

2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 VS 2002 Mercedes-Benz E430

To get more acquainted with the new 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 and celebrate its introduction, let’s take a step back 15 years to the last time Mercedes-Benz offered the Mercedes-Benz E430. Produced from 1998 to 2002 with the W112 body style, the E430 was actually a star in its day. It was extremely advanced for its time period and for the lucky ones that are still driving one today, it is a member of the family.

Engine Performance

In 1998, the E430 was introduced with a 4.3L V8, putting out 275 horsepower. Of course, the Mercedes-AMG E43 does a lot better than this with a 3.0L biturbo V6 and almost 400 horsepower, but the roar of the V8 and the optional manual transmission made the E430 a true driver’s car. Now, the E43 has 9-speeds instead of five (or six) and instead of just having an economy air conditioner, it also has five DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes to further enhance the driving experience.

Interior

One of the only complaints about the E430 of yesteryear was the interior. Drivers said it lacked the luxury that the S-Class, and even the C-Class, had at the time. Even with heated seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a voice-activated cell phone feature, the E430 still did not live up to the standards of luxury drivers. Is it a coincidence then that the E43 has one of the most advanced interiors in the industry? It has 24.6 total inches of LCD display, the world’s first touch-pad steering wheel, and seats you will fall asleep in. If you have any questions about the W112 Mercedes-Benz E430 or the all-new W213 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43, leave a comment below. Have you ever owned an E430? Tell us what you think of it!