If you don't care about refinement or technology, and if you want to feel like a little kid again, the v-6 C43 is the right thing. The popping and banging of the exhaust is truly addictive. It will keep you smiling. You will not miss the improved acceleration of the new 4 cylinder C43.
I test drove the 2023 C43. It has 2 HUGE cons for sure. 4 Cylinders + Slower 0-60. Though, in my opinion makes up for it in the interior and the Turbo always spinning is great and I don't feel any Turbo lag. The interior is what really won me over. I'm not a big car guy, I don't know much about the engines but I like to drive cars. I feel like this car is for the people that want a comfy daily that has some up take in it every once in a while to make it fun. If you want more speed, I would of deff gone with M3. I also test driven the M3 and its faster no doubt, comfy ride as well. For me, it lacked in interior. The screen reminds me of the upcoming 2024 Hyundai Sonata. It was a tough choice but I got the 2023 C43 (Lease always lease IMO). I have put 1000 miles in it, and it is fun without a doubt. People may hate it but once they sit in it, it's fun. Not the fastest, 0-60 4.6 per Mercedes though my draggy has it at 4.2 and once you pass 60 it really picks up. I would of loved a v6 in the car for sure though but I don't think it's as bad as some people say it is. ( FYI I bought the 2023 C43 with almost all options. Just missing ventilated seats.) I paid a lot and I could of gotten an M3 but I really liked the car! Just my small review.
Thanks for sharing! I think many people will love the new C43 but I feel It's target audience has evolved a little from the previous generation. There will be a lot of people that prefer the older v6 combustion emotions while there will be a new market of people that love the new model model for It's technology and comfort while also being a very fast car.
@@seanphan2373absolutely spot on! I'm one of those who's in your corner here by loving the technology and interior with the power when wanted, rather than being a petrol head wanting the V6.
I bought the 2023 c43 as well. I find the tire noise high (on 20") and transmission unpredictable and clunky at low speeds. Otherwise an amazing daily driver. Loads of fun just driving around town. A lot of the modern high performance (I had a twin turbo V8 BMW 8 series) demand huge speeds to experience the thrills.
I dont like anything about the new C43. I drive the 2019 model as a coupe and i would never want to trade it in. The Interior is Timeless IMO and the best from AMG yet. The sound of the V6 is much more sporty and beautiful. Ive been a mercedes Fan for my whole life, but seeing what AMG is doing with downgrading every V6 or V8 to a 4 Cylinder is not gonna go well, especially with these Prices! BMW will be (or already is) ahead of AMG.. very unfortunate but it is the truth.
I just picked up my 2023 C43 today. Absolutely love it, only bummed out that I have to wait 1500km to break the engine in to be able to fully enjoy its performance. Great video as always!
Congrats! It is an amazing car when you think of the total package. You will love it when you get that first Sports+ kick down once the engine is ready! Wishing you many happy kilometres!
@@hasnaataliihi, yes it is recommended as per the AMG techs and my sales consultant. Specially because this model year is a hand-built engine, the break in period ensures the engine isn’t over stressed prematurely in its life. Hope this helps. 😊
@@ABAUTOAMG Thank you for your comment. Yes, it is an absolute delight driving this thing. I immediately noticed the rear wheel steering when taking U-Turns or on winding roads and feel this feature is very understated in the car industry and should be more widely accepted. I initially was a HUGE fan of CLA 45’s which is how I discovered your channel. Hopefully, I will start a youtube channel myself to show it off and highlight all the upgrades I do to it, for other fellow AMG lovers out there. Cheers! 😊
Recently swapped my 2017 C43 Cabriolet for a 2020 E450 Cabriolet. Pretty much the same 3 litre V6, but boy do I miss those pops and bangs. The refinement is on another level, however, and it still shifts when you want it to. But nothing will replace being able to throw the C43 around the lanes of North Wiltshire with the roof down whilst it growls and barks at you. They could fill it full of Haribo and Kinder Eggs but I'd still not want a 4 pot AMG. I think it's actually a crime against humanity.
I’ve had a 2019 C43 with night package for 4 years and still absolutely love it. I haven’t driven the new one yet but I doubt the sound would be as good as W205. At these prices I think the old one is an incredible value compared to the new one!
I’ll definitely keep my ang c43 coupe as the engine and exhaust note it’s something to die for appreciate the new tech in the new car, but with the digital dash in mine it doesn’t seem dated to me , Great video Adam
Thanks Lee, I still think the previous C43 interior looks great in the 2019 facelift. The facelift really did help with the wider screen, newer software and digital dials. I've been looking at 2019+ C63's recently as I love the V8 and I'm still smiling when I sit in the interior. I would happily own one.
All the ‘’good’’ things you mentioned in the new C43 you can find in the c200 so I’d rather go for that. Got almost the same engine anyway or a cla45 and save some money
Very nice video. I am going to buy the c43 or the cla 45s. Which one would u choose? Cla 45s or c43? And what are the main aspects for your choice? Thank u
Thank you. For me it’s the CLA45s hands down it’s just much more sporty and more fun which is the main draw for me. The C43 however is more comfortable and much nicer inside. Both amazing cars but ultimately comes down to what your after the most in terms of fun to comfort.
@@ABAUTOAMG i think comfort is more important for me. With 1,85 and 100 kilos the CLA 45 s is maybe too small and hard for me. One last question mate: which one of the cars will be have the more stabil price in the coming 2 years? That would effect my decision, too. Thank u for your answer
The V6 had the M276 engine, which Mercedes made in 3.0 and 3.5 liter NA and then the 3.0 twin turbo. This engine was used for more 13 years in many Mercedes Benz models for its reliability. While the M139 has been shown to be reliable, will Mercedes rely on the M139 for another decade as it relied on the M276? I have the NA M276 and the twin turbo M276. The first thing you should worry about in all M276 are your spark plugs. Change them between 50K and 60K miles.
I've bought a few beemers over the years and have always enjoyed a great experience but I fancied a change and went for a 23 plate lexus as a first time experience with a hybrid but I must say miss the sound of the beemer and that pure petrol engine. I've always been curious about the AMG experience and I like the look of the cla45s plus and the gt63 so will look at one of these in the future. The gt63 is also pricey but after watching Adam enjoying his cla45s I'm swaying towards that. What do you guys think based on your AMG experiences ?. Cheers.
I think Mercedes will fix the c43 in a year or two. Also have a friend who is a mechanic at Mercedes and he told me they had 6 new c43 at service with check engine lights at 300 -700 miles.
Hi, love your videos snd found them ace as I look for a c43…can I ask..? I have found a lovely c43 but it has the dial dashboard, I really wanted the digital dash, do you think the digital is a big positive..??? Thanks
Hey, No problem. This depends on a few things. What year is the C43 you are looking at? If it’s pre 2019 it’s the older non facelift where no cars had digital dash. Then they introduced the dash in the facelift but some cars were not spec’d with it. So it’s either a low spec facelift which I personally would avoid since the dash is great or it’s a preface lift which is fine if you want that year since the dash was not an option so your not missing out.
Great review Adam. As always, brilliant camera work. Unfortunately this is the world we live in. For me, the best balance of this engine+body is the CLA. But, owning one, I can absolutely see why some people might go for a slightly more civilised version. Packaging that, albeit phenomenal, engine into a V6 classic was always going to draw comparisons. MB might have been better letting it die and calling it something new. Which it is.
Great review! thank you. I've been trying to decide between C43 and a C300h - this review really makes we want to go a bit crazy and get one over the more sensible C300h, it seems like the C43 may not have a much clout as older version but the tech, the interior, sound it makes probably wins me over on this... next stop, Test drive.
Good thoughts, AB, nicely done. Like you, I can judge both generations of the car. I am 6 weeks into a 2024 GLC 43 SUV, after three years in the same vehicle circa '21. What do I miss about the old car? The incredibly unique sound signature that the V-6 provided when driven in a "spirited" manner w/the sport exhaust open, and... its classic M-B "bank vault" feel. OK, that's two things. What do I prefer about the new car? Let me count the ways... 0.) it's two inches lower and feels much wider, especially with 265 front and 295 rear section 21" Conti SportContact 7s - tires that grip and grip well past the bounds of what should be possible, 1.) the handling is spectacular with the 48v electronically controlled shocks vs. AirMatic in my prior car, 2.) the steering feel is deliciously heavy and progressive and gorgeous, 3.) the engine sounds (different but) really great, 4.) the 48v mild hybrid system is genius (it can deliver 13 HP and 110 lb/ft of torque instantly) - and it not only charges the battery via near-seamless braking regen, but it can recover battery charge from the e-turbo motor on decel, and it can recover charge energy from the movements of the suspension/shocks (!), 5.) the brakes are _clearly_ better than the 2021's, 6.) the engine goes from calm to frenetic in 250 milliseconds and 7.) the MCT 9 speed is super precise and sharp. And that's just the start. Oh, you heard that the old car was 0.2s faster 0-60? Whatever, people, you're missing the freaking point. I didn't even mention the tech in this car, the crazy steering wheel (yeah, it took a while but the entire cockpit experience is great), the Tidal HiFi integration, the T-Mobile internet hotspot that enables high-rez audio streaming to the Burmeister system, the HUD (!) set to Race with the ribbon tach hanging 2 feet past the left front headlight in any light conditions.... and so much more. My last GLC 43 SUV felt like a strong and solid Mercedes-Benz, and the 2024 GLC 43 feels like an athletic sports car to me - even though it's an SUV. This feeling, IMHO, has nothing to do with the engine plaque - the V-6 motor in the 2021, "AMG-Line" or not, was awesome, too. If you have the last generation V-6, hang on to it - it is an amazing car. I debated keeping both cars but it made no fiscal sense to me. If you're looking for a GLC 43 SUV and you don't test drive the latest generation, you might make a sub-optimal choice. Just MHO, people, I'm just a guy with zero cred except that I love cars, and I love to drive. Enjoy your choices and take care.
Hi Don, thank you for such a great detailed break down. It’s nice to hear views from someone that clearly appreciates both cars for what they are. I think if I were going down the SUV route I’d absolutely go for the new one since it’s so much more comfortable with the nice new interior and the engine setup is great for an overall car/daily. If you have an opportunity to own either of these lovely cars though you will be happy. I hope you enjoy many happy miles in your car :)
2017-2018 is a great year and the exhaust does sound better but It's not as severe as you might think I did a side by side driving comparission here: ua-cam.com/video/sezKhK2ZFPA/v-deo.htmlsi=xVO0ZfHB9tWImfPj I personally prefer the 2019 because you get the much more aggressive rear with the quad pipes and the interior is much nicer and refined. They improved the gearbox a lot more than people realised also. Having driven both a lot I noticed a huge difference. That's why the facelifts have held value better than the preface lift. Don't get me wrong though the pre-facelifts are still amazing cars.
Great content, been awhile since we’ve interacted. I still have my ‘17 AMG C43, in brilliant blue! I love the MBUX and newer ambient lighting from when I had loaners, the augmented navigation is awesome too. But i feel the body lines and interior design on the w205s have a greater sense of sophistication over the new w206 platform. I also prefer my pre-facelift v6 and it’s louder exhaust notes.
Thanks Keith. I’d say it handles better than the previous generation C43 but the CLA45s feels tighter and more nimble. As a result though the C43 feels more comfortable. Overall though the CLA45s is more sporty I’d say.
Adam, great honest review, but I have a question for you...is it worth the 10k hike on your faster 45s?....I tried the estate version after waiting so long for my current car, and looks wise the new 43 didn't do it for me personally. Maybe in the future with night package etc it maybe more appealing!. But for me the previous generation 43 is better. Soon we have the more expensive 63 appearing, be interesting if you can get your hands on one of those to compare again. Great vid again though mate. Cheers
Hey Tony, It’s a tricky one. The CLA45s is more fun to drive and much sportier from my experience. The 4 cylinder makes sense in the CLA since it’s the smaller and more nimble car. It’s like a grown up hot hatch. While the C43 was more of a big engine muscle with daily practicality. It feels strange having the 4 cylinder engine in the new model. I feel like the new C43 is designed for the new generation of drivers so technology is the main focus. I think previous AMG owners and more traditional petrolheads aren’t going to be as interested in this generation. It’s a hard sell when you think about it because you could get a really nice C63 or event an AMG GT on the used market for the the price of the new 43. It’s still an amazing car but I think the target audience is changing as the world is rapidly evolving. It may feel like a hard sell for us traditional buyers but these will probably sell well with the new generation of buyers that I think Mercedes-Benz are targeting.
I love the shape of the new C43 more than predecessor, but that is all. I traded in my 40k mile 64 reg white Golf R, a really great car for a 20 plate now done 15k mile V6 C43 just for the glorious sound a yr and half ago Absolutely love the car apart from gearbox. Can be a little jerky somtimes . A few months ago Cooling fan issue ....coming on every journey when switching off engine, finally gone away. Cure I think was 200 mile return journey ! Am 70 yrs but love my cars !!
I get the same cooling fan issue in mine, interesting theory on the long journey element, mine was doing a lot through winter on very cold days so id assumed some sort of sensor issue. Been fine ever since spring
Ah! If it helps I think it’s normal behaviour for the car. This was a press car and when I pulled up to film this I had to stand and wait for 10 minutes for the fan to stop. The fan sometimes runs after a drive to keep the engine cool. It’s because when the car is not moving there is no active air to flow in and cool the engine. I had the exact same with the AMG GT had to wait for the fan to stop after a drive once it was cooled down to start filming 😅
Just literally found your review on this bad boy would love a review on the exact same car but the estate version as I'm seriously considering this bad boy but an estate!!👌🏻👍🏻
Hello Abauto, Maybe make a updated video about the c43 & cla45s?. Maybe you can get your hands on the new C63se performance wich is coming to the UK soon. Would love to know how the new ones performance is. From the video I’ve seen it is definitely a overall improvement from the previous Gen. It’s just the v8 that the people are missing. I still don’t really understand why they at least couldn’t put the v6 in there. It makes no sense since the new E450 2024 will get the v6. Which makes no sense since it is not even a AMG. At least they could have made the new c43 sound better. And the C63se with the v6 would have been the perfect car. Greetings from Germqny
Hey Paul, Great idea! I think I'm going to create a similar video to when I compared the old C43 with the CLA45s but with the new one. Ranking it in each field, will be interesting to see!
i just have my c43 2020 4matic but dont have exhaust button what can i do in this situation i wanna be more lauder can they add me this button in authorised service after that ?
Hi Adam, I note from a previous vid. that your CLA45 puts out 421 bhp & the new C43 400bhp. 21 bhp isn’t a lot,but, . If it’s the same engine, where has the 21bhp gone ?
Hey David, Sorry for the confusion the engine is the same but it’s a slightly different setup it’s mounted longitudinally and is the core 45 rather than the slightly higher horsepower 45s.
Hey Tony, I'd say they are quite similar when you put your foot down in terms of speed. The CLA45s feels faster though because It's not quite as refined as the C43. The C43 is bigger and more comfortable which is nice but It does mean less drama when you floor it. If I took the same person out for a drive in both cars I'm sure they would say the CLA45s feels quicker due to how much sportier the setup is.
Help Adam/guys .. torn between choosing between the CLA45S & 2022 C43 everything about this car making sense tech etc but I can’t get over the sound of the new C43 or lack of to be more specific any kinda exhaust mod information ?? Downpipe etc ? For the C43 would be appreciated to give it that more aggressive AMG sound we all know and love that the CLA45s has that this car should have come with as they share the the same engine Its the only thing missing from this car !!
Hey, My thoughts driving these back to back is that the CLA45s is a lot more fun to drive but the interior and tech is amazing in the C43. Something about the new C43 is a bit boring and less exciting than the CLA45s. I think looks wise the C43 just looks like a normal C class, it’s very understated which some will like while the CLA45s looks much more special and screams performance car. I personally love the over the top sporty looks of the cla45s it makes it feel special every time I get in. Same with the drive, it’s stiffer, louder and more juvenile while the C43 is the more sensible adult that can still hang with the kids when needed. They are such different cars.
Sorry mate, although it feels like the new C43 is faster, it actually is NOT faster than the old C43. See here: ua-cam.com/video/rR-ogVMp1s0/v-deo.htmlsi=zf2VNE0lTo-ohn6_&t=410. I owned the old C43 Cabrio and totally regret selling it back to Mercedes, but they were paying big for it during COVID. Perhaps they knew the new C43 would be inferior. The truth is, the new C43 doesn't at all sound as awesome as the previous C43. So, it doesn't sound better, isn't faster and costs more. Sounds like a losing proposition for me. My recommendation is buy a used C43 and enjoy a far better car for far less money.
No need to apologise I actually agree with you. I mentioned at the end of the video that I prefer the old one. The v6 has much more charm and is more fun. The new one is more refined and has better comfort and tech but the old one is just more fun.
definite vote to @leejarvis3024 I purposely purchased the 2023 C43 Coupe, 6 cyls gonna kick a low 4 pot all day long, the deep tone cannot be replicated when you have 2 missing cylinders!, looks very much like a larger A class inside. not for me im afraid
Welp... I just tried the new C43, and compared to my mopf C43... I would chose the mOPF W205 anyday over that... Let alone the fact that literally everything is on displays, a 4 cylinder and virtually no emotions... And all that for almost double the price?! My C43 with 30.000km mileage, full spec designo matte grey sedan has cost me 53.000€... The new C43 STARTS at 83k... I'd rather just get a C180 as a daily as lease, and my C43 as a "fun" car... No reason to get the new c class with a big engine in my eyes.
Just FYI for people watching the video, the engine in the CLA 45s is the 310 kW (416 hp) 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) variant, and the C43 has the 300 kW (402 hp) 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) variant so the CLA 45s had just a tad bit more HP. If you want more luxury, the C43 is better, and if you want better handling get the CLA 45s.
I don’t get Mercedes why bring out a new C43 when they are replacing the whole C class and E class range with the new CLE which in my opinion is way better looking and they’ll likely be a new AMG version with a 6 cylinder engine. Also Mercedes new 45s without the centre console cursor and the new steering wheel don’t do it for me it’s like they’ve upgraded the car but downgraded it at the same time. Can’t wait to see a new CLE though I think Mercedes have produced on smart looking car there but i bet any AMG version will be in the £100k region.
I will take v6 over 4 any day. This guy sounds like MB marketing department. He needs to be honest. I have driven 3L v6 and on-line 4 (not the AMG version) and V6 wins hands down any day for long distance fatigue free drive. My daily is SLC43 and won't give up that car any time soon.
There are counter speed elements in this new C43. Just picked one... The old C43 already an overweight car @17xx kgs and now the new version broke the 18xxkgs mark. How could a heavier car be faster? Ask Lewis Hamilton.
the price developement is not tolerable anymore in my opinion, i wont buy any mercedes at this point anymore, my newest cla 220d Was 65k € here in germany, its just ridiculous.. Inflation bla bla, they all look for excusses to scam customers..
The flipped over grille looks hideous, sorry - not a patch on the 2015 C43 Car. Mercedes are experimenting and having a bit _too_ much casual downtime lol. Give Us the CLS rear seat bench back lads!
I test drove 2020 C43 the v6 3.0, it felt so slow and sluggish. Then I test drove CLA45S upon launch (so hard to get the test slot), and immediately placed a booking then. Way better raw power and eagerness which I didn't get in C43. Just too plain and the sound was not even that good compared to a v8.
Way too much screen, terrible bright red (i saw in another video) and exhaust is pityful. Yes its much faster but while achieving that the best part of the car is gone. I rather take the old ass speedometer from previous generation
Hideous. Give me an instrument cluster that looks like an instrument cluster. I don’t want a giant tablet in the middle, give me knobs and buttons, and reduce the screen size
It's a shame that cars are loosing the sounds we grew up with and love. They do sound a lot better in person than videos though so It's worth trying one for yourself but you can't beat the sound of the older V6 and V8 engines.
@@ABAUTOAMG yes from what I heard it’s definitely good . We’ll see next year in July if the C63se is really that good. I’ll keep you updated if you have interest
Me being 100% honest, without an exciting engine sound, i’d rather have a CLA45s, it looks better imo and if I care about comfort i’d get a regular C. I feel like the C AMGs have lost their place, I think Mercedes overestimated how much people care about pure speed
The C AMG’s lost their place a while ago.. they got too pricey and those looking for better performance numbers would just pay the extra money for the E63.
If you don't care about refinement or technology, and if you want to feel like a little kid again, the v-6 C43 is the right thing. The popping and banging of the exhaust is truly addictive. It will keep you smiling. You will not miss the improved acceleration of the new 4 cylinder C43.
The older version is still hands down the best looking version, especially when it's blacked out. They can keep all that extra tech.
Maybe in your opinion
@@lukaspaasilinna7092 Duh
And the engine and sounds are the main selling point. W205 does look better though too
@@MarcusLeonard307truly exceptional sound, get the asr module and you’ll be even more surprised :)
@@bosslikedkI concur, I think the w206 looses its personality and balance of luxury and sport the w205 does so well.
I test drove the 2023 C43. It has 2 HUGE cons for sure. 4 Cylinders + Slower 0-60. Though, in my opinion makes up for it in the interior and the Turbo always spinning is great and I don't feel any Turbo lag. The interior is what really won me over. I'm not a big car guy, I don't know much about the engines but I like to drive cars. I feel like this car is for the people that want a comfy daily that has some up take in it every once in a while to make it fun. If you want more speed, I would of deff gone with M3. I also test driven the M3 and its faster no doubt, comfy ride as well. For me, it lacked in interior. The screen reminds me of the upcoming 2024 Hyundai Sonata. It was a tough choice but I got the 2023 C43 (Lease always lease IMO). I have put 1000 miles in it, and it is fun without a doubt. People may hate it but once they sit in it, it's fun. Not the fastest, 0-60 4.6 per Mercedes though my draggy has it at 4.2 and once you pass 60 it really picks up. I would of loved a v6 in the car for sure though but I don't think it's as bad as some people say it is. ( FYI I bought the 2023 C43 with almost all options. Just missing ventilated seats.) I paid a lot and I could of gotten an M3 but I really liked the car! Just my small review.
Anyone else like the C43? Curious, maybe I'm the worst car guy lol. I wonder if there are anyone else who likes this car besides me.
Thanks for sharing! I think many people will love the new C43 but I feel It's target audience has evolved a little from the previous generation. There will be a lot of people that prefer the older v6 combustion emotions while there will be a new market of people that love the new model model for It's technology and comfort while also being a very fast car.
@@seanphan2373absolutely spot on! I'm one of those who's in your corner here by loving the technology and interior with the power when wanted, rather than being a petrol head wanting the V6.
I have 2023 c43, got it about 2 months ago. It actually is as fast as my 2020 c43 via dragy.
I bought the 2023 c43 as well. I find the tire noise high (on 20") and transmission unpredictable and clunky at low speeds. Otherwise an amazing daily driver. Loads of fun just driving around town. A lot of the modern high performance (I had a twin turbo V8 BMW 8 series) demand huge speeds to experience the thrills.
I dont like anything about the new C43. I drive the 2019 model as a coupe and i would never want to trade it in. The Interior is Timeless IMO and the best from AMG yet. The sound of the V6 is much more sporty and beautiful. Ive been a mercedes Fan for my whole life, but seeing what AMG is doing with downgrading every V6 or V8 to a 4 Cylinder is not gonna go well, especially with these Prices! BMW will be (or already is) ahead of AMG.. very unfortunate but it is the truth.
Your c43 isn't a real AMG the end...oh and the v6 Is gone anyway its a straight 6 in the amg 53s
okay jeff@@jeffcheek8654
Yeah, right. And damn Formula 1 for daring to put these awful engines in their racing cars. HOW DARE THEY!
P.S.: The old 6 cylinder was a production motor so, it was by definition not AMG (which are hand built by one technician.) So…
Yup I agree they are Les powerful than a base model m3 and charge you like it's a m6 lol
I just picked up my 2023 C43 today. Absolutely love it, only bummed out that I have to wait 1500km to break the engine in to be able to fully enjoy its performance. Great video as always!
Congrats! It is an amazing car when you think of the total package. You will love it when you get that first Sports+ kick down once the engine is ready! Wishing you many happy kilometres!
why does it have to hit 1500km?
@@hasnaataliihi, yes it is recommended as per the AMG techs and my sales consultant. Specially because this model year is a hand-built engine, the break in period ensures the engine isn’t over stressed prematurely in its life. Hope this helps. 😊
@@ABAUTOAMG Thank you for your comment. Yes, it is an absolute delight driving this thing. I immediately noticed the rear wheel steering when taking U-Turns or on winding roads and feel this feature is very understated in the car industry and should be more widely accepted.
I initially was a HUGE fan of CLA 45’s which is how I discovered your channel. Hopefully, I will start a youtube channel myself to show it off and highlight all the upgrades I do to it, for other fellow AMG lovers out there. Cheers! 😊
thanks bro i didnt know@@raiyankabir5948
Recently swapped my 2017 C43 Cabriolet for a 2020 E450 Cabriolet. Pretty much the same 3 litre V6, but boy do I miss those pops and bangs. The refinement is on another level, however, and it still shifts when you want it to. But nothing will replace being able to throw the C43 around the lanes of North Wiltshire with the roof down whilst it growls and barks at you. They could fill it full of Haribo and Kinder Eggs but I'd still not want a 4 pot AMG. I think it's actually a crime against humanity.
I’ve had a 2019 C43 with night package for 4 years and still absolutely love it. I haven’t driven the new one yet but I doubt the sound would be as good as W205. At these prices I think the old one is an incredible value compared to the new one!
True but you’d hear that sound as the real AMG with the hand built engine passes you on the track.
@@Frankie5Angels150if Mercedes claims it as amg I will go with that
Could careless what people like you think
I’ll definitely keep my ang c43 coupe as the engine and exhaust note it’s something to die for appreciate the new tech in the new car, but with the digital dash in mine it doesn’t seem dated to me , Great video Adam
Thanks Lee, I still think the previous C43 interior looks great in the 2019 facelift. The facelift really did help with the wider screen, newer software and digital dials. I've been looking at 2019+ C63's recently as I love the V8 and I'm still smiling when I sit in the interior. I would happily own one.
Fantastic review Adam! Always love watching your channel. The perfect person to review this car too with the fact you had the previous generation.
All the ‘’good’’ things you mentioned in the new C43 you can find in the c200 so I’d rather go for that. Got almost the same engine anyway or a cla45 and save some money
Very nice video. I am going to buy the c43 or the cla 45s. Which one would u choose? Cla 45s or c43? And what are the main aspects for your choice? Thank u
Thank you. For me it’s the CLA45s hands down it’s just much more sporty and more fun which is the main draw for me. The C43 however is more comfortable and much nicer inside. Both amazing cars but ultimately comes down to what your after the most in terms of fun to comfort.
@@ABAUTOAMG i think comfort is more important for me. With 1,85 and 100 kilos the CLA 45 s is maybe too small and hard for me. One last question mate: which one of the cars will be have the more stabil price in the coming 2 years? That would effect my decision, too. Thank u for your answer
Awesome review, but as you said the V6 is special. The sound at every rpm is just so fabulous. And with a little bit of tuning it can be even more!
The V6 had the M276 engine, which Mercedes made in 3.0 and 3.5 liter NA and then the 3.0 twin turbo. This engine was used for more 13 years in many Mercedes Benz models for its reliability. While the M139 has been shown to be reliable, will Mercedes rely on the M139 for another decade as it relied on the M276? I have the NA M276 and the twin turbo M276. The first thing you should worry about in all M276 are your spark plugs. Change them between 50K and 60K miles.
Do you think the C43 Cabriolet version will be collectibles item? In the future of course? When there’s less about I guess …
You do sound design better than most sound design engineers who work on major film productions
I've bought a few beemers over the years and have always enjoyed a great experience but I fancied a change and went for a 23 plate lexus as a first time experience with a hybrid but I must say miss the sound of the beemer and that pure petrol engine.
I've always been curious about the AMG experience and I like the look of the cla45s plus and the gt63 so will look at one of these in the future.
The gt63 is also pricey but after watching Adam enjoying his cla45s I'm swaying towards that.
What do you guys think based on your AMG experiences ?.
Cheers.
Great review mate.
Other reviews have mentioned the transmission is jerky/hesitant. Did you find this to be the case?
Thanks! I actually had no issues with the transmission during my time with the car. Was seamless but I only had limited time with the car.
I think Mercedes will fix the c43 in a year or two. Also have a friend who is a mechanic at Mercedes and he told me they had 6 new c43 at service with check engine lights at 300 -700 miles.
Hi, love your videos snd found them ace as I look for a c43…can I ask..? I have found a lovely c43 but it has the dial dashboard, I really wanted the digital dash, do you think the digital is a big positive..??? Thanks
Hey, No problem. This depends on a few things. What year is the C43 you are looking at? If it’s pre 2019 it’s the older non facelift where no cars had digital dash. Then they introduced the dash in the facelift but some cars were not spec’d with it. So it’s either a low spec facelift which I personally would avoid since the dash is great or it’s a preface lift which is fine if you want that year since the dash was not an option so your not missing out.
Great review Adam. As always, brilliant camera work. Unfortunately this is the world we live in. For me, the best balance of this engine+body is the CLA. But, owning one, I can absolutely see why some people might go for a slightly more civilised version. Packaging that, albeit phenomenal, engine into a V6 classic was always going to draw comparisons. MB might have been better letting it die and calling it something new. Which it is.
I got a c200 as a courtesy car for a day. The car looks amazing although I'm not sure about the centre screen not being angled towards the driver
Great review! thank you. I've been trying to decide between C43 and a C300h - this review really makes we want to go a bit crazy and get one over the more sensible C300h, it seems like the C43 may not have a much clout as older version but the tech, the interior, sound it makes probably wins me over on this... next stop, Test drive.
Good thoughts, AB, nicely done. Like you, I can judge both generations of the car. I am 6 weeks into a 2024 GLC 43 SUV, after three years in the same vehicle circa '21. What do I miss about the old car? The incredibly unique sound signature that the V-6 provided when driven in a "spirited" manner w/the sport exhaust open, and... its classic M-B "bank vault" feel. OK, that's two things. What do I prefer about the new car? Let me count the ways... 0.) it's two inches lower and feels much wider, especially with 265 front and 295 rear section 21" Conti SportContact 7s - tires that grip and grip well past the bounds of what should be possible, 1.) the handling is spectacular with the 48v electronically controlled shocks vs. AirMatic in my prior car, 2.) the steering feel is deliciously heavy and progressive and gorgeous, 3.) the engine sounds (different but) really great, 4.) the 48v mild hybrid system is genius (it can deliver 13 HP and 110 lb/ft of torque instantly) - and it not only charges the battery via near-seamless braking regen, but it can recover battery charge from the e-turbo motor on decel, and it can recover charge energy from the movements of the suspension/shocks (!), 5.) the brakes are _clearly_ better than the 2021's, 6.) the engine goes from calm to frenetic in 250 milliseconds and 7.) the MCT 9 speed is super precise and sharp. And that's just the start. Oh, you heard that the old car was 0.2s faster 0-60? Whatever, people, you're missing the freaking point. I didn't even mention the tech in this car, the crazy steering wheel (yeah, it took a while but the entire cockpit experience is great), the Tidal HiFi integration, the T-Mobile internet hotspot that enables high-rez audio streaming to the Burmeister system, the HUD (!) set to Race with the ribbon tach hanging 2 feet past the left front headlight in any light conditions.... and so much more. My last GLC 43 SUV felt like a strong and solid Mercedes-Benz, and the 2024 GLC 43 feels like an athletic sports car to me - even though it's an SUV. This feeling, IMHO, has nothing to do with the engine plaque - the V-6 motor in the 2021, "AMG-Line" or not, was awesome, too. If you have the last generation V-6, hang on to it - it is an amazing car. I debated keeping both cars but it made no fiscal sense to me. If you're looking for a GLC 43 SUV and you don't test drive the latest generation, you might make a sub-optimal choice. Just MHO, people, I'm just a guy with zero cred except that I love cars, and I love to drive. Enjoy your choices and take care.
Hi Don, thank you for such a great detailed break down. It’s nice to hear views from someone that clearly appreciates both cars for what they are. I think if I were going down the SUV route I’d absolutely go for the new one since it’s so much more comfortable with the nice new interior and the engine setup is great for an overall car/daily. If you have an opportunity to own either of these lovely cars though you will be happy. I hope you enjoy many happy miles in your car :)
Great video getting mine on Tuesday. Can't wait
Congrats! 🎉 Hope it all goes well. Nothing like a car collection day! 😁
I think the ideal model year is 2017-2018. 2019+ received a severely muted PE in addition to some less favorable tuning options.
2017-2018 is a great year and the exhaust does sound better but It's not as severe as you might think I did a side by side driving comparission here: ua-cam.com/video/sezKhK2ZFPA/v-deo.htmlsi=xVO0ZfHB9tWImfPj I personally prefer the 2019 because you get the much more aggressive rear with the quad pipes and the interior is much nicer and refined. They improved the gearbox a lot more than people realised also. Having driven both a lot I noticed a huge difference. That's why the facelifts have held value better than the preface lift. Don't get me wrong though the pre-facelifts are still amazing cars.
One of the things i noticed right away was the seat headrest, its a lot more comfortable looking and doesn't force your neck forward.
Ah yep the seats are really lovely. I'd happily take it for a long drive! :)
Great content, been awhile since we’ve interacted. I still have my ‘17 AMG C43, in brilliant blue! I love the MBUX and newer ambient lighting from when I had loaners, the augmented navigation is awesome too. But i feel the body lines and interior design on the w205s have a greater sense of sophistication over the new w206 platform. I also prefer my pre-facelift v6 and it’s louder exhaust notes.
Amazing video like always, Adam! In terms of mountain road driving, speed, and handling, how does the new C43 compares to the CLA45s?
Thanks Keith. I’d say it handles better than the previous generation C43 but the CLA45s feels tighter and more nimble. As a result though the C43 feels more comfortable. Overall though the CLA45s is more sporty I’d say.
I don’t know man….. I own a GLA45 and love it, but losing that V6 for the 43 doesn’t sit right with me.
Adam, great honest review, but I have a question for you...is it worth the 10k hike on your faster 45s?....I tried the estate version after waiting so long for my current car, and looks wise the new 43 didn't do it for me personally. Maybe in the future with night package etc it maybe more appealing!. But for me the previous generation 43 is better. Soon we have the more expensive 63 appearing, be interesting if you can get your hands on one of those to compare again. Great vid again though mate. Cheers
Hey Tony, It’s a tricky one. The CLA45s is more fun to drive and much sportier from my experience. The 4 cylinder makes sense in the CLA since it’s the smaller and more nimble car. It’s like a grown up hot hatch. While the C43 was more of a big engine muscle with daily practicality. It feels strange having the 4 cylinder engine in the new model. I feel like the new C43 is designed for the new generation of drivers so technology is the main focus. I think previous AMG owners and more traditional petrolheads aren’t going to be as interested in this generation. It’s a hard sell when you think about it because you could get a really nice C63 or event an AMG GT on the used market for the the price of the new 43. It’s still an amazing car but I think the target audience is changing as the world is rapidly evolving. It may feel like a hard sell for us traditional buyers but these will probably sell well with the new generation of buyers that I think Mercedes-Benz are targeting.
Crazy how a brand new a45s or cla45s in 2023 costs almost as close as a 2016 c63s brand new back then.
Yep! Prices have gone crazy :(
I love the shape of the new C43 more than predecessor, but that is all. I traded in my 40k mile 64 reg white Golf R, a really great car for a 20 plate now done 15k mile V6 C43 just for the glorious sound a yr and half ago Absolutely love the car apart from gearbox. Can be a little jerky somtimes . A few months ago Cooling fan issue ....coming on every journey when switching off engine, finally gone away. Cure I think was 200 mile return journey ! Am 70 yrs but love my cars !!
I get the same cooling fan issue in mine, interesting theory on the long journey element, mine was doing a lot through winter on very cold days so id assumed some sort of sensor issue. Been fine ever since spring
Ah! If it helps I think it’s normal behaviour for the car. This was a press car and when I pulled up to film this I had to stand and wait for 10 minutes for the fan to stop. The fan sometimes runs after a drive to keep the engine cool. It’s because when the car is not moving there is no active air to flow in and cool the engine. I had the exact same with the AMG GT had to wait for the fan to stop after a drive once it was cooled down to start filming 😅
Just literally found your review on this bad boy would love a review on the exact same car but the estate version as I'm seriously considering this bad boy but an estate!!👌🏻👍🏻
How about a Carwow style drag race video between the old C43 and this new C43! I can provide the W205 😎
The new one is not that good. Glad I have my 2021 C43 Estate. Way better!
Hello Abauto,
Maybe make a updated video about the c43 & cla45s?. Maybe you can get your hands on the new C63se performance wich is coming to the UK soon. Would love to know how the new ones performance is. From the video I’ve seen it is definitely a overall improvement from the previous Gen. It’s just the v8 that the people are missing. I still don’t really understand why they at least couldn’t put the v6 in there. It makes no sense since the new E450 2024 will get the v6. Which makes no sense since it is not even a AMG. At least they could have made the new c43 sound better. And the C63se with the v6 would have been the perfect car.
Greetings from Germqny
Hey Paul, Great idea! I think I'm going to create a similar video to when I compared the old C43 with the CLA45s but with the new one. Ranking it in each field, will be interesting to see!
i just have my c43 2020 4matic but dont have exhaust button what can i do in this situation i wanna be more lauder can they add me this button in authorised service after that ?
For some reason your voice made me to get a feeling that you are Joe Achilles of Mercedes Benz world.
As a fan of Joe this made me smile 😅
Hi Adam, I note from a previous vid. that your CLA45 puts out 421 bhp & the new C43 400bhp. 21 bhp isn’t a lot,but, . If it’s the same engine, where has the 21bhp gone ?
Hey David, Sorry for the confusion the engine is the same but it’s a slightly different setup it’s mounted longitudinally and is the core 45 rather than the slightly higher horsepower 45s.
Are you going to go back to the C43 ?
can you show the Head up Display at night
Great Video
Hey, thanks for watching. This was a press car so I only had it for the day but perhaps will cover more in the future with the new C43.
Great video Adam 🥳
how does this C43 compared to our C118 Cla45s ? does this quicker than cla45s
Hey Tony, I'd say they are quite similar when you put your foot down in terms of speed. The CLA45s feels faster though because It's not quite as refined as the C43. The C43 is bigger and more comfortable which is nice but It does mean less drama when you floor it. If I took the same person out for a drive in both cars I'm sure they would say the CLA45s feels quicker due to how much sportier the setup is.
Great video 📹 nice honest opinions.......im thinking of changing my 2020 c43........decisions- decisions lol 😆
I done a track day at MB world in this car and thought it was fantastic.
New one of course.has more modern look than the old one and still stands classy
Help Adam/guys .. torn between choosing between the CLA45S & 2022 C43 everything about this car making sense tech etc but I can’t get over the sound of the new C43 or lack of to be more specific any kinda exhaust mod information ?? Downpipe etc ? For the C43 would be appreciated to give it that more aggressive AMG sound we all know and love that the CLA45s has that this car should have come with as they share the the same engine Its the only thing missing from this car !!
Hey, My thoughts driving these back to back is that the CLA45s is a lot more fun to drive but the interior and tech is amazing in the C43. Something about the new C43 is a bit boring and less exciting than the CLA45s. I think looks wise the C43 just looks like a normal C class, it’s very understated which some will like while the CLA45s looks much more special and screams performance car. I personally love the over the top sporty looks of the cla45s it makes it feel special every time I get in. Same with the drive, it’s stiffer, louder and more juvenile while the C43 is the more sensible adult that can still hang with the kids when needed. They are such different cars.
Sorry mate, although it feels like the new C43 is faster, it actually is NOT faster than the old C43. See here: ua-cam.com/video/rR-ogVMp1s0/v-deo.htmlsi=zf2VNE0lTo-ohn6_&t=410. I owned the old C43 Cabrio and totally regret selling it back to Mercedes, but they were paying big for it during COVID. Perhaps they knew the new C43 would be inferior. The truth is, the new C43 doesn't at all sound as awesome as the previous C43. So, it doesn't sound better, isn't faster and costs more. Sounds like a losing proposition for me. My recommendation is buy a used C43 and enjoy a far better car for far less money.
No need to apologise I actually agree with you. I mentioned at the end of the video that I prefer the old one. The v6 has much more charm and is more fun. The new one is more refined and has better comfort and tech but the old one is just more fun.
definite vote to @leejarvis3024 I purposely purchased the 2023 C43 Coupe, 6 cyls gonna kick a low 4 pot all day long, the deep tone cannot be replicated when you have 2 missing cylinders!, looks very much like a larger A class inside. not for me im afraid
Nice to get your hands on one of the last V6 C43's. They are going to be enjoyed for many years on the used market for sure :)
I have the 2019 and I wouldn’t trade it for this one. I’ll probably upgrade to a 63 v8 in a couple years.
you have to use your hand to open the boot? i just kick my foot under it and it opens c class 220cdi 2017
I’m sure you can use your foot or key on this one it just looked nicer on video to flip the button on the back :)
You can use your foot under it on the new C43 too.
Welp... I just tried the new C43, and compared to my mopf C43... I would chose the mOPF W205 anyday over that... Let alone the fact that literally everything is on displays, a 4 cylinder and virtually no emotions... And all that for almost double the price?! My C43 with 30.000km mileage, full spec designo matte grey sedan has cost me 53.000€... The new C43 STARTS at 83k... I'd rather just get a C180 as a daily as lease, and my C43 as a "fun" car... No reason to get the new c class with a big engine in my eyes.
Is this moonlight white or polar white？
Egg white
Just FYI for people watching the video, the engine in the CLA 45s is the 310 kW (416 hp) 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) variant, and the C43 has the 300 kW (402 hp) 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) variant so the CLA 45s had just a tad bit more HP. If you want more luxury, the C43 is better, and if you want better handling get the CLA 45s.
Lovely. Vehicle but the rear tail pipes encircled with chrome look pretty ordinary.
I don’t get Mercedes why bring out a new C43 when they are replacing the whole C class and E class range with the new CLE which in my opinion is way better looking and they’ll likely be a new AMG version with a 6 cylinder engine.
Also Mercedes new 45s without the centre console cursor and the new steering wheel don’t do it for me it’s like they’ve upgraded the car but downgraded it at the same time.
Can’t wait to see a new CLE though I think Mercedes have produced on smart looking car there but i bet any AMG version will be in the £100k region.
I will take v6 over 4 any day. This guy sounds like MB marketing department. He needs to be honest. I have driven 3L v6 and on-line 4 (not the AMG version) and V6 wins hands down any day for long distance fatigue free drive. My daily is SLC43 and won't give up that car any time soon.
There are counter speed elements in this new C43. Just picked one...
The old C43 already an overweight car @17xx kgs and now the new version broke the 18xxkgs mark. How could a heavier car be faster? Ask Lewis Hamilton.
W205 c43 for me.
the price developement is not tolerable anymore in my opinion, i wont buy any mercedes at this point anymore, my newest cla 220d Was 65k € here in germany, its just ridiculous.. Inflation bla bla, they all look for excusses to scam customers..
Unfortunately the whole market has risen. Even the price of non luxury car brands has gone crazy :(
I waiting my new C43😊
My cla 2023 looks like more room in the front row 😮
The flipped over grille looks hideous, sorry - not a patch on the 2015 C43 Car.
Mercedes are experimenting and having a bit _too_ much casual downtime lol. Give Us the CLS rear seat bench back lads!
So much tyre noise. Probably the runflats are making it worse.
Faster take off as 4wd
oooof less aggressive, looks more like an A class now.
I think they have had to save the aggressive styling for the new C63 so it stands out since it does not have the V8 :(
I test drove 2020 C43 the v6 3.0, it felt so slow and sluggish. Then I test drove CLA45S upon launch (so hard to get the test slot), and immediately placed a booking then. Way better raw power and eagerness which I didn't get in C43. Just too plain and the sound was not even that good compared to a v8.
Way too much screen, terrible bright red (i saw in another video) and exhaust is pityful. Yes its much faster but while achieving that the best part of the car is gone. I rather take the old ass speedometer from previous generation
creepy intro music
👻
6>4 😊
Hideous. Give me an instrument cluster that looks like an instrument cluster. I don’t want a giant tablet in the middle, give me knobs and buttons, and reduce the screen size
To much digital crap, have to keep my old one
still not a real amg. only 4 cylinders
that much money and you get a v4 that sounds like my vacuum cleaner with fake sound blasted trough speakers.
You would take it if it was free . Shut up with your old car please .
It's a shame that cars are loosing the sounds we grew up with and love. They do sound a lot better in person than videos though so It's worth trying one for yourself but you can't beat the sound of the older V6 and V8 engines.
@@ABAUTOAMG yes from what I heard it’s definitely good . We’ll see next year in July if the C63se is really that good. I’ll keep you updated if you have interest
I4 no such thing as V4.
I wouldn't take advice from someone who says "v4" 😂. The car actually sounds amazing, especially us spec.
still no proper foot rest
That 4 banger is pure shite! I’ve driven it. Jerky, quirky, and it sounds like a sewing machine. And did I mention overpriced as well. Hello 340i.
Yawn... Narrating a vid like this ain't your strong point. It adds nothing new, interesting, or fun to the myriad of similar offerings.
Me being 100% honest, without an exciting engine sound, i’d rather have a CLA45s, it looks better imo and if I care about comfort i’d get a regular C. I feel like the C AMGs have lost their place, I think Mercedes overestimated how much people care about pure speed
The C AMG’s lost their place a while ago.. they got too pricey and those looking for better performance numbers would just pay the extra money for the E63.
I think Mercedes know they messed up the C Class badly so they made the CLC with a V6 which will basically be what the C Class should have been
rather keep the c43 and get a tesla instead
Yes, get a tesla. It's meant for people who know nothing about cars.