It turns a normally mild-mannered C-Class family sedan into a heavy hitting tarmac burner.

Other German manufacturers have gone the same way – towards V8s and away from sixes – Audi's S4, BMW's new M3. Petrol prices mustn't be a concern for them.

But there's a lot to be said for a naturally aspirated big cube engine over a turbo – easier to drive for starters, less explosive mid-range response, potentially longer-lived engine, excellent sound.

The C55 AMG also gains just about every goodie available on the C-Class options list, and more street presence courtesy of a mild body kit and 18in alloys.

Engine is shared with other models in the AMG lineup, the CLK for starters. Lacks the supercharger of other models but doesn't really need the extra grunt.
Acceleration times are blisteringly fast – around the low 5 second mark for 0-100kmh even better on the move.
Engine spins like a turbine, smooth as silk, lovely exhaust burble (four tail pipes) that can at times become intrusive. Has 270kW/510Nm.
Fuel economy surprisingly good if you can resist the right foot.
Five speed auto only for this market says it's an autobahn specialist – true to some extent.
Transmission user friendly for everyday use, sequential manual mode available if you must but not necessary.
Features all the upgrades on regular C-Class that came through this year. Better interior, better paint, better safer.
As an AMG model, brakes, wheels, tyres, suspension are highly developed.
Fabulous to drive but stability/traction control intrusive.
Looks fairly innocuous on the street, not enough "wow" factor except for exhausts.
Electric driver's seat is difficult to organise, has a mind of its own with memory settings.
Paddles behind steering wheel spokes for up and down changing.
Impressive audio system, annoying climate con- trol other stuff is good.
Has five star Euro NCAP crash rating
First V8 in a Benz C-Class
Good turning circle, large boot, weighs 1695kg