1998 MERCEDES-BENZ AMG C43 V8 1998 'FUTURE CLASSIC' - £17,995
FOR SALE JF CLASSIC CARS have for sale a 1998 Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 W202 in Brilliant Silver (paint code 744) a factory-built V8 sports saloon that combines subtle aggression with true AMG engineering. This particular example has been family owned from new, demonstrating rare continuity and care in ownership seldom seen in performance cars of this era DESCRIPTION The Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG was the first C-Class to officially wear the AMG badge, launched in 1997 as a true factory-built AMG model rather than an aftermarket conversion, The C43 AMG was also built in very limited numbers! EXTERNAL A superb example of late-90s Mercedes-Benz design, this C43 AMG presents in exceptional condition with its signature AMG styling. To the front, the box-square original Bosch headlamps remain chip and crack free, complete with integrated headlamp wash-wipe system, the unmistakable chrome and black slat front grille sitting centre stage, Finished in Brilliant Silver (paint code 744), the paintwork gleams front to rear, boasting a deep, glossy finish with uniform reflection across every panel. Each body panel is pin-sharp and true, a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s build quality and the car’s careful ownership. The bodywork overall remains in excellent condition, The wrap-around colour-coded front and rear bumpers remain scuff and damage free, with the rear end finished off by the correct twin chrome AMG exhaust tailpipes, sitting flush beneath the bumper. To the sides, colour-coded, electrically operated and heated door mirrors are completely scuff-free, while the external door handles retain their factory finish and remain unmarked. Original Mercedes-Benz glazing is retained throughout, with fresh, unperished window rubbers, free from fade or marking. Period-correct AMG and Mercedes-Benz badging remains in place on the wings, tailgate and grille all bright, crisp and unfaded. Even the original rear lenses remain in excellent condition, further underlining the vehicle’s careful preservation INTERIOR Step inside the cabin of this AMG C43 and you're instantly greeted by a blend of luxury and performance, all preserved in outstanding original condition. The sports seats are finished in black with light grey inlay panels, detailed with contrasting silver stitching. The black bolsters remain taut and supportive, while the seat centres are unmarked, offering both comfort and aesthetic appeal. The rear seats show minimal to no signs of use, suggesting they may have never been sat in. Matching headrests are present both front and rear The black door cards front and rear are presented in the very best of condition, unmarked and complete with subtle carbon-effect trim detailing to each card. Each front door panel houses the electrically adjustable seat controls, all of which perform flawlessly, including heating functions. Front stowage bins add further practicality. Beneath your feet, the black luxury carpet remains untouched, protected from new by factory-fitted Mercedes-Benz overmats. Overhead, the light grey headlining is tight and unmarked, housing the electrically operated tilt-and-slide sunshine roof, which operates perfectly, accompanied by colour-coded sun visors. Interior lighting is fitted front and rear, offering ambient visibility. Further originality is evidenced by the first aid kit, still housed in its factory-designated cubby within the rear parcel shelf. The black dashboard presents immaculately, featuring a subtle carbon-effect trim running from left to right, giving the interior a sport-luxury balance. A passenger airbag is seamlessly integrated, while a lockable glove box sits beneath. On the dash, directional square heater vents flank the central twin air vents. The carbon-effect centre stack houses a suite of original push-button controls, including: Heated seat function ESP control Hazard lights Headrest release Central locking Anti-hijack alarm Directly below sits the digital climate control system, offering full multi-function control for fan speed, air direction, air temperature and heated rear screen. The original Mercedes-Benz push-button infotainment unit remains in place and is paired with an optional factory-upgrade Bang & Olufsen speaker system, delivering crisp, dynamic sound even by today’s standards. Below sits the carbon-finish ashtray and an unused cigarette lighter, both in pristine condition. The driver’s binnacle houses Cream/Black AMG dials with black digits, centred around the AMG-logoed speedometer displaying a genuine 71,760 miles from new. To the left sit the fuel and temperature gauges, along with an outside temperature display below. To the right is the tachometer, with a digital time clock embedded. All obligatory warning lights illuminate and extinguish as per manufacturer specification. The 4-spoke AMG steering wheel is finished in black leather with perforated grey grip panels, showing no signs of wear, and includes speed limiter and cruise control stalks everything working exactly as intended. Simply put, this is an incredibly original, well-specified, and unspoiled interior that continues to impress 25 years on. ENGINE & TRANSMISSION Under the bonnet lies the factory-original 4266cc naturally aspirated V8 engine, a hallmark of AMG’s engineering excellence during this era. As per factory specification, this M113 V8 power plant delivers 306 PS (302 bhp) and 410 Nm of torque, channelled through a 5-speed automatic transmission engineered to balance performance with refinement. The engine remains in its original configuration, with no aftermarket modifications or enhancements, presenting exactly as it left the AMG production line in Affalterbach. The engine bay itself is a showcase of mechanical cleanliness and originality, featuring correct factory AMG labels, intact data plaques, and manufacturer stickers. Even the factory-painted valve covers and engine ancillaries are clean and corrosion free. Turn the key and the V8 fires effortlessly into life, idling with that distinctive AMG burble before settling into a smooth and quiet rhythm. The 5G-Tronic automatic gearbox shifts seamlessly through all gears, with both manual override and sport modes functioning as intended. This drivetrain delivers the perfect balance of everyday usability and performance capability, just as Mercedes-AMG intended when new. Mechanically unmolested, this is an exceptionally well-preserved, collector-grade example that retains every aspect of its original AMG mechanical specification a true credit to its long-term, single-family ownership from new. WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES Sitting proudly on its original 5-stud 17-inch AMG alloy wheels, this C43 retains its factory-fitted stance and AMG identity. The AMG alloys, finished in correct Mercedes-Benz silver with chrome edging, are free from kerb damage or corrosion, and all four present in superb unmarked condition, including the original centre caps and valve stems. Shod with a matched set of Continental 225/45/R17 performance tyres, each tyre displays ample tread depth and remains in excellent condition, ensuring road-holding and comfort are exactly as Mercedes-AMG intended. Behind each wheel sits the AMG performance braking system, featuring ventilated disc brakes all round. The black AMG-branded calipers remain clean, free of chips or lacquer peel, and provide sharp, confident stopping power. The braking system is complemented by a host of factory-integrated safety systems, including: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) BAS (Brake Assist System) ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) Together, these features ensure both high-speed control and low-speed safety, delivering reassuring performance whether cruising or under firm braking. In short, this C43’s wheel, tyre and braking setup remains completely faithful to its original AMG specification, all components performing as intended and visually presented in near showroom condition. HISTORY First registered on the 4th August 1998 by Dick Lovett (Swindon) Ltd, this exceptional Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG retains a remarkable level of originality and documentation that is rarely seen today. Supplied new and registered by the dealership, it was immediately acquired by Mr Stevens, who has been the sole keeper until earlier this year when he transferred the cars ownership into his wife's name Mrs Stevens, remaining family owned from new for its entire life. Presented in impeccable condition throughout, the car’s pampered existence is evident in every detail. From its pristine interior to the faultless exterior and mechanical originality, this AMG C43 has clearly led a cherished, enthusiast-owned life, always maintained with care and respect. The vehicle still retains its original factory build card, further confirming its authenticity. Accompanying the car is the original Dick Lovett dealer book pack, which includes: Stamped Mercedes-Benz Service Book with entries as follows: 20/08/1999..11586 miles /18/10/2000..22269 miles / 06/03/2002..35647..miles / 11/06/2010.. 66157 miles / 10/10/2022.. 71623 miles Having covered very little miles since 71760 miles in fact MOT HISTORY: 2006..58044 miles / 2007..58121 miles / 2008..58255 miles / 2009..62156 miles / 2010..66954 miles / 2011..70484 miles / 2012..71289 miles / 2013..71409 miles / 2014..71534 miles / 2015..71586 miles / 2016..71606 miles / 2017..71623 miles 2017-2022 storage / 2022..71668 miles / 2022-2024 storage/ 2024..71732 miles / 2025..71750 miles Owner’s Manual Interior Owner’s Guide Technical Data Handbook Exterior Maintenance Manual Autopilot System Audio Guide Mercedes-Benz Dealership Directory Original Radio Code Card Original Mercedes-Benz Pen, still housed within the dealer wallet 2 Original Keys In addition, the history file contains various historic Mercedes-Benz service invoices, receipts for consumables, and a selection of past MOT certificates. The car is currently MOT’d until June 2026, with a clear history to support its genuine 71,760 miles from new. This is an unrepeatable collector-grade example, preserved with unwavering attention to originality and maintenance. In today’s market, it would be exceptionally difficult if not impossible to find another in this condition, ownership pedigree, and documented history. V5 Present & HPi Clear
- 71760 Miles
AUTOMATIC
RHD
- RefCode: 394F7609-B7A0-4E50-B434-000D4035F7CB