The history of AMG: how an ordinary workshop became a sought-after brand

Sometimes you have to fail in order to achieve great success. The history of the formation of a world famous automobile company, whose products have long enjoyed well-deserved popularity, is a clear confirmation of this theory. The talent and perseverance of two enthusiasts made the unknown workshop a recognized brand of the global automotive industry.


The German company AMG, founded in the summer of 1967 by Hans-Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher, had a humble beginning. It's just that Daimler-Benz abandoned racing models and decided to produce prestigious cars. For this reason, the designers of motors for sports cars remained out of work.


Having rented the cellar of a mill in the small village of Grossaspach (near Stuttgart), the young people set to work with zeal. The abbreviation AMG came from the initial letters of the names of the founders of the company and the place where it all began.

A new brand in the sports car community

The guys continued to do what they knew best. It took four years to create the first offspring. In the artisanal conditions of a village workshop, they developed an iconic version of the racing sedan, pushing off from the Mercedes-Benz 300 SE. The model has undergone dramatic transformations.

The engine displacement was brought to a record 6,8 liters. Immediately almost doubled the power. Now the engine produced 428 hp. With. instead of 247. The number of revolutions per minute increased to 5600. The brake system, camshafts and suspension were modified. The intake manifold began to work differently, many nodes were redesigned. It took about 5 seconds to accelerate the car to the first 100 km / h. She could develop a speed of 265 km / h. They tried to reduce weight, but the car remained bulky and heavy.



The designers of the new racing model ventured to test their invention in daily races in the town of Spa-Francochamps, in Belgium. Among the favorites of Alfa Romeo, Gamaro 7,3 and Ford Capri, the huge bright red car looked awkward and unwieldy, but its debut was an immediate triumph. The situation seemed somewhat similar to the cases of participation in international races of our "Moskvich" (who were also present at those competitions): first - neglect, then - respect.


On a July afternoon in 1971, the racing car of an unknown company, number 35 on board, won in its class, and in the overall standings showed the second result. Ahead was only Ford Capri. After analyzing the first success, the authors took into account all the shortcomings and errors in the design:

✅ "red pig" required the completion of the brakes
✅ modernization of the control system
✅ reduced fuel consumption

Many problems were created by disproportionate tires. Despite serious flaws, this model was the beginning of a huge success for amateur mechanics who swung at the creation of modern racing cars. The victory in the prestigious competition brought AMG a flurry of new orders and an entry to a whole new level.

Two years later, its specialists could offer their clients a full range of services. The company worked on the creation of new powerful motors, braking systems and chassis. Tires have become much wider, metal structures are lighter. Buyers had the opportunity to arrange the car at their discretion. One German businessman even got a unique 1974 SL built in 300 that had air conditioning!

The move of the company to Affalterbach in 1976 had a positive effect on the development of production and the release of new models. Their AMG churned out like pies. W 123 went into serial production. Chrome parts, linings, spoilers became its hallmark.


Modifications with modified headlights and a radiator grille were in great demand. In 1980, at the prestigious exhibition, the 450 SLC AMG received a well-deserved award. Later, S-class cars began to install video systems, built-in mini-bars and other bells and whistles.

Remembering past racing successes, AMG welcomed the 80s with the iconic Mercedes-124-e, better known as the Hammer (hammer). The car came out unique, the basis was the Mercedes-Benz W124. A 8-liter V5,6 was put into it, and the power was increased to 350 “horses”.

The body has also changed a lot. The car has become more agile than the high-speed Lamborghini Countach. Hammer have gained unprecedented popularity, despite the insane cost. The conclusion of the contract followed - Daimler-Benz AG and AMG became partners.

The first fruit of the joint work was the C36 AMG with a 6 hp 280-cylinder engine. With. Introduced in 1993, it has established itself as a reliable and high-status vehicle. Three years later, the E 50 AMG model saw the light of day, awarded at the Geneva Motor Show. Later, cars of the "55th" and "43rd" series were released. The number of new cars was in the tens of thousands. They were sold through a system of dealerships.


The beginning of 1999 was a special year in the recent history of the company. Mercedes acquires shares in a successful brand, their partnership gets a new vector of development. The new ML 55 AMG rolled off the production lines in excess of 11 units. Six years later, the company offered motorists already 000 models. Its 18V6,3 engine was considered the best.

After purchasing all AMG shares, the new owner offers Daimler Chrysler AG in S 55, E 55, J 55 and C 43 trim levels. The engineers boast a new 570 hp engine. With. and a new gearbox. In addition to the production of cars, specialists are actively working with audio systems, computer technology and web design.

The unique AMG Black series deserves special attention. Fully focused on the tracks, cars of this modification have excellent characteristics:

✅ modified transmission
✅ improved aerodynamics
✅ advanced chassis

The Black series includes the SIK 55 Black, SLS Black, SLK 63 Black and C 63 Black modifications. Recently, the GT Black series has been added to it, the first batch of which was released towards the end of 2020.

The world-renowned company has created a unique model SLS AMG, and this authorship belongs to her alone. All components, engine and vehicle systems are independently developed and manufactured by its qualified specialists.

The unique gullwing doors have been updated with a new feature. Two special capsules will unlock the doors when the car falls onto the roof. Fans of fast driving remember the AMG GT, made in 2015. 2019 was marked by an update to this model.


The happy owner of Mercedes-AMG products has the opportunity to drive his car in five modes. The unique AMG Dynamic Select switch installed on the main console changes them without straining the driver's attention. When driving, you can focus on contemplating the beauties of the area through which you are passing. The functions of monitoring the activity of all vehicle systems will be very useful.

This is how, in just half a century, a handicraft auto repair shop from two "Kulibin" has grown into a modern production, numbering several hundred diligent specialists. I would like to believe that their professionalism, knowledge and experience will become the basis for creating new unique models that can meet the most daring expectations.