W203 C32 (2001-2004)

3.2-litre V6, supercharged, 260kW/450Nm, 1560kg

It was V8 out, twin-screw supercharged V6 in as AMG chased after the howling atmo E46 M3. Didn’t sound as good, but was just as fast, 0-100km/h taking a fairly handy 5.2sec. Five-speed auto only, although nice and smooth against the M3’s jerky SMG. Offered also as coupe and wagon.