Launched in 2001, the Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG proved faster, rarer and subtler than the contemporary BMW M3 (E46).

Comprehensively reworked by AMG, the newcomer’s 3.2 litre V6 featured a new crankshaft, conrods, pistons, lightweight camshafts and hardened valve springs.

Force-fed via a twin-scroll IHI supercharger, the free-revving powerplant developed some 349bhp / 339lbft.

The ride height was lowered by 30mm, the suspension stiffened and the brakes uprated, while the five-speed automatic transmission was recalibrated to shift thirty-five percent faster.

Although limited to 155mph, Autocar found the super saloon capable of 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds (though, 180mph was rumoured to be possible if the relevant electrics were disabled).

Just 326 C32 AMG Saloons are thought to have been supplied new to the UK.

The accompanying original invoice shows that the late Tony Brooks received a ‘special discount’ of some €9,000 when ordering chassis 035160 direct from the factory; a measure perhap...