So by now you have probably read my First Drive article with the AMG GT Roadster, now it’s time for a slightly tamer Mercedes model – the E400 AMG-Line 4MATIC. Granted, it hasn’t got the most exciting name, but what you have here is a tastefully designed coupe that’s based on the E-Class saloon and features a 3.0 litre V6 engine. It’s able to offer a respectable 328bhp with 480Nm of torque.
So it doesn’t scrimp on performance, but let’s not forget, this is not a full fat AMG model. Despite this, it’s certainly not afraid to get a move on when required – 0-62 comes in 5.3 seconds and the top speed is a predictably limited 155mph. This power is fed to a 9-speed automatic and as the 4MATIC suggests, it’s four wheel drive. As with the AMG GT, the inside is a very pleasant place to be – the dashboard is well finished and the sports seats are comfortable, but more importantly, supportive.
Fire up the engine and you won’t get a loud ‘look at me’ growl from the exhaust, but that’s not to say the engine sounds woeful. Set of and you’ll find the 9-speed auto and just like the transmission in the AMG GT, it’s smooth but also slick, but you can of course make the changes more aggressive by popping the driving mode in to either Sport or Sport Plus. Sure, it’s no fire breathing AMG model that will goad you into sliding around corners in a cloud of its own tyre smoke, but that’s not to say it’s dull.
As you would expect with four wheel drive, the E400 grips well on the twisty stuff and although it’s not the lightest car going, weighing in at almost 1,800kg, it’s pretty enjoyable to chuck this German coupé through the corners. Although it’s not a proper AMG – I know, I’ve already mentioned it – the E400 still offers an exciting drive, yet when you don’t want to tear up the asphalt in fury, you can simply waft along in Comfort mode in a car that is well finished and refined.
It’s a good looking motor too – the model tested was finished in Hyacinth Red, which may sound like a bit of a poncey colour but it did look rather nice. Just as well really as they will cost you £895 extra. As you would expect, the inside is a nice place to be as well and overall I found the E400 AMG Line to be a pleasurable sensation. If you fancy some performance but don’t quite fancy the full-blown lunacy of the E43 Saloon, then the E400 could be a good bet.
