The AMG Hammer: True sleeper sedan
The AMG Hammer began its life as a W124 E-class sedan, while the W124 family also included the 300 CE coupe, which was introduced in 1987. This sleek and stylish two-door coupe was designed to offer both luxury and performance, and was powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produced 177 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. Like the W124 sedan, the 300 CE coupe was known for its excellent build quality, luxurious interior, and advanced features for its time.
AMG, who at the time were not a subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz, wanted to take things to the next level by creating a true “sleeper” car that could rival some of the fastest sports cars of the era. The Hammer’s interior was upgraded with a number of features to match its high-performance capabilities. The seats were made of high-quality leather, and the steering wheel and dashboard were unique to the AMG package. Additionally, the AMG Hammer’s production numbers were limited, making it a rare and exclusive car. It is estimated that only around 30 examples were produced, with most being sold in Europe.
To achieve this, AMG modified the W124’s chassis and suspension to handle the increased power from the modified 6.0-litre DOHC 32-valve M117 560SEL V8 engine. They also upgraded the brakes and installed wider tires to improve traction and handling. The result was a sedan that was not only fast in a straight line, but also agile and responsive in corners.
The AMG Hammer was a standout model in the pre-merger AMG lineup, and it helped to establish AMG’s reputation as a leading high-performance tuner of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. It also paved the way for future collaborations between AMG and Mercedes-Benz that eventually led to the creation of the AMG performance division as we know it today.
The 300 CE coupe, on the other hand, was designed to be a sleek and stylish two-door coupe that offered both luxury and performance. It was powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produced 177 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque.
The AMG Hammer was available with an optional AMG Aero Kit and 17-inch wheels, which were designed to enhance the car’s performance and styling even further. The Aero Kit included a front spoiler, side skirts, and a rear bumper diffuser, all of which helped to improve the car’s aerodynamics and reduce lift at high speeds. The 17-inch wheels were wider and lighter than the standard wheels, and they were wrapped in high-performance tires that provided improved grip and handling.
The AMG Aero Kit and 17-inch wheels were not only functional but also added to the car’s aggressive and sporty appearance, further reinforcing its status as a high-performance vehicle. These upgrades were popular with AMG Hammer buyers and helped to distinguish the car from other Mercedes-Benz models on the road. To put in perspective how fast the Hammer truly was, it managed to beat Ferrari Testarossas, Porsche 911s and Corvettes. It represents the pinnacle of automotive engineering and thus it deserves a spot as one of the most interesting cars ever produced.