How Did Mercedes-Benz and AMG Develop a Relationship?
Few automotive partnerships match the legacy of Mercedes-Benz and AMG®. Their collaboration has redefined performance, blending luxury with motorsport engineering. At Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale, we appreciate how this alliance has shaped some of the most thrilling vehicles on the road. But how did Mercedes-Benz and AMG develop a relationship? The journey started with two engineers, a shared passion for speed, and a relentless drive for excellence.
From a Small Workshop to a Global Force
In the 1960s, Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher worked on high-performance engines at Daimler-Benz. However, when the company halted its motorsports efforts, the duo continued their work independently. They set up shop in a small facility in Burgstall, Germany, and focused on modifying Mercedes-Benz engines for racing. Their efforts paid off in 1965 when a car powered by their engine won ten times in the German Touring Car Championship.
This success laid the foundation for AMG®. By 1967, the two engineers officially founded their company, naming it after their initials and Aufrecht’s hometown of Großaspach. Their reputation for producing powerful racing engines quickly grew, making AMG® a sought-after name among motorsports teams.
A Breakthrough on the Track
AMG® gained worldwide attention in 1971 at the 24 Hours of Spa. Their heavily modified Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 sedan shocked the racing world by securing a class win and finishing second overall. This victory demonstrated AMG® performance capabilities and proved that luxury sedans could dominate the racetrack.
As demand for AMG® modifications grew, the company expanded its expertise beyond racing. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, AMG® customized Mercedes-Benz models for customers seeking more power and unique styling. One of the most legendary results was the AMG®-modified E-Class Coupe, famously known as “The Hammer.” Equipped with a 5.0-liter V8, it became a symbol of raw power and engineering mastery.
The Beginning of an Official Collaboration: The Mercedes-Benz and AMG® Relationship Blossoms
With growing demand, Mercedes-Benz recognized AMG®’s potential. In 1990, the two companies signed a cooperation agreement, allowing AMG® models to be sold through Mercedes-Benz dealerships worldwide. This partnership introduced a new era of performance vehicles, beginning with the 1993 Mercedes-Benz C 36 AMG®. It was the first AMG® model developed with direct input from Mercedes-Benz, solidifying their working relationship.
In 1999, DaimlerChrysler acquired a majority stake in AMG®, integrating its engineering expertise into the Mercedes-Benz family. By 2005, Mercedes-AMG® GmbH was fully owned by Daimler, ensuring that future Mercedes-Benz AMG® models would benefit from factory-backed performance innovations.
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Mercedes-AMG® Today: A Legacy of Power
Today, Mercedes-AMG® remains a leader in high-performance engineering. Every vehicle carries the brand’s signature “One Man, One Engine” philosophy, ensuring each handcrafted AMG® engine meets the highest standards. From the roaring Mercedes-AMG® GT to the powerful GLE 63 S, AMG® models continue to push the limits of luxury and performance.
Their influence extends beyond road cars. Mercedes-AMG® plays a vital role in Formula 1, supplying engines for championship-winning race teams. They also power safety and medical cars used in the sport. The brand’s racing heritage remains strong, inspiring every AMG® model on the market.
Experience Mercedes-AMG® Performance in Scottsdale
The partnership between Mercedes-Benz and AMG® has transformed automotive performance. What began as a small workshop is now a global force, producing some of the most exhilarating vehicles on the road. If you’re ready to experience AMG® performance firsthand, visit Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale to explore our selection of Mercedes-Benz AMG® models.
