1996 MERCEDES-BENZ (W202) C36 AMG

Introduced in 1995, the Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG C36 was an exclusive and expensive high-performance compact sedan. At a list price of AUD$154,900, it’s not surprising that so few were sold in Australia, and certainly not many in such bold colours as this Imperial Red example from 1996. Powered by what started as a 2.8-litre straight-six cylinder engine, AMG’s wizards bored, stroked and further fettled them to 3.6-litres, to produce 206kw / 280hp with 385Nm of torque. These earlier C36 models were fitted with a four-speed automatic transmission to drive the rear wheels. The odometer shows 300,520km.

This Australian-delivered example has recently been treated to a partial restoration. Purchased approximately 18 months ago, in that time the current owner has had it resprayed in its original colour, fitted new brakes and rotors, stabiliser bars, tail shaft bearings and doughnuts, gaskets and seals, and a new transmission loom, fuel pump, coils, HT leads, iridium spark plugs, and all filters, along with a full service. In addition, the sunroof was replaced and the transmission rebuilt.

The car is thought to have never been in any accidents. All panels, trims and factory AMG bodykit parts sit straight with even gaps throughout. All of the light lenses are in great condition, with no visible cracks or damage. There are some scratches on the glass, but apart from that, the car presents very well and there are no other cosmetic issues noted by the vendor. All four tyres are in good condition, fitted to correct 17-inch ‘Monoblock’ wheels.

The interior is in very good condition for the age and mileage. During the partial restoration, the current owner fitted a new roof lining and new leather armrests, and has had the windows tinted. The gauges and instruments are in working condition, with no known faults or active warning lights, and all of the other electrical ancillary systems work as they should. The boot is clean and contains the original emergency kit, spare wheel and tyre with a new battery alongside, and a manual fire extinguisher.

The engine bay is neat and tidy, and has been partially customised with a matching red finish to the engine’s rocker cover. The vendor notes a small oil leak; however, the car is in excellent mechanical order overall, given the extensive recent overhaul described above.

Included in the sale are the original owner’s manuals and logbooks. Currently registered in New South Wales, it will be sold with the matching custom registration plates.

This Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG would make a great weekender for a small family to enjoy getaways and day trips, rewarding its driver with the sporting heritage of AMG whilst cosseting the other occupants in typical levels of luxury. Relatively discreet yet powerful and purposeful, the C36 was well regarded in its time, and is a true modern classic today. Having already been refreshed in many aspects and key areas, it promises many more years of enjoyment.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases