2012 Mercedes-Benz C 6.2L Petrol · 24 AM

Fuel economy for a 6.2-litre V8 Mercedes of this era is unlikely to exceed 20mpg in real-world driving and could drop well below that in spirited use — budget for substantial fuel expenditure if the car will be driven regularly. Road tax falls into the highest bands for vehicles of this displacement registered in 2012, and the CO2 output will place it firmly in the upper tax brackets. Insurance is also a major consideration: even at discounted specialist rates, expect premiums to reflect the performance potential and value of the vehicle.

Annual maintenance costs for an AMG of this specification are considerably higher than a standard C-Class. Specialist labour rates of £100+ per hour are typical, and major service items such as brake discs, performance tyres, and fluid changes can easily run into four figures annually. Budget-conscious buyers should set aside at least £1,500-£2,500 per year for routine maintenance, with higher sums in years requiring larger service items. Parts availability is generally good through Mercedes-Benz and specialist suppliers, though OEM components carry a premium price.

Although the MOT record shows clean passes with no advisories across all five tests, this only confirms the vehicle met minimum roadworthiness standards at the time of testing. For a high-performance vehicle that has covered very low mileage, particular attention should be paid to the condition of rubber components — bushes, seals, gaiters, and tyres — which can perish during extended storage or infrequent use. The brake system should be inspected for corrosion on discs and seized calipers, especially given the AMG specification likely includes larger, more expensive braking components.

The 6.2-litre V8 engine warrants specific checks for oil consumption, coolant condition, and any signs of head gasket or valve stem seal issues. Listen carefully on startup for timing chain rattle, which is a known concern on some Mercedes-AMG engines of this generation. Inspect the underside of the vehicle for any oil leaks from the engine, transmission, or differential, and check the condition of the exhaust system as AMG-specific components are costly to replace. Tyres should be examined for age-related cracking even if tread depth appears adequate.

Beyond mechanical checks, verify the operation of all AMG-specific features including the performance suspension settings, exhaust valve operation (where fitted), and any driving mode selectors. Confirm the air conditioning functions effectively — a common failure point on older Mercedes vehicles. Finally, check the bodywork carefully for stone chips and evidence of previous cosmetic work, particularly on the front end and bonnet, as even low-mileage cars stored outdoors will show wear on forward-facing panels.