1996 MERCEDES-BENZ (W202) C36 AMG

This 1996 Mercedes C36 AMG stands out as the only Vivianite Green car in Australia, which has been enjoyed as intended and boasts a great factory specification. Under the hood is a hand-assembled 206kw / 280hp 3.6-litre straight-six motor, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The odometer reads 253,882 km.

The C36 marked the beginning of Mercedes-Benz and AMG’s partnership on road cars. Featuring performance and aerodynamic upgrades, it went on to serve as the safety car for the 1996 and 1997 Formula 1 seasons. This particular car was manufactured in 1996, meaning it benefits from the upgraded five-speed automatic gearbox, and was delivered in September 1996. It has been with the current Mercedes enthusiast owner for one year.

Its bodywork is in generally excellent condition, though the photos show a small dent and pair of scratches at the passenger-side front corner. The rare, factory-applied Vivianite Green metallic paintwork is in good condition for its age, with the only defects to note being minor stone chipping on the edge of the bonnet and grille, and the aforementioned scratches. All of the body trims, badging, and light lenses are present and correct. It rides on the original 17-inch AMG ‘Monoblock’ alloy wheels, which would now benefit from refurbishment.

Inside, the AMG’s leather interior is all original and in excellent shape, presenting only modest evidence of its 25 years of service. The leather has developed a soft patina, including the expected creasing, but even high-traffic areas around the driver’s seat present well given the mileage, with no tears in the upholstery. Its carpets, door cards and dashboard trims are in good shape, while there appears to be some sagging of the headlining covering the sliding sunroof panel. The owner notes that a blower fan is currently not working, but that all other electrics, instruments and switchgear are functional.

Jamberoo Service Centre serviced the car in October 2020. At this time, a new battery was installed and voltage checks carried out. The C36’s last documented major service was performed in May 2007 by Mercedes-Benz, which included attending to all suspension parts as well as the engine mounts, mass air flow sensor, and brakes.

The car has an up-to-date pink slip and the Continental SportContact tyres are reported to be in good condition. It will be sold with its original logbooks.

The Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG is a rare modern classic in any form, but in stunning Vivianite Green it is truly unique in Australia, and can be one of only a very small number worldwide. Well-maintained and remaining highly original; this example will appeal to be keen drivers and marque collectors alike.

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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.