The first Mercedes was a racing car and its most recent successor carries this heritage forward. With the new Mercedes-AMG GT, the Mercedes-AMG sports car brand is moving into a new sports car segment. The GT is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. Its front mid-engine design with a rear transaxle and use of intelligent aluminium lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience. Its newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine underscores the hallmark AMG driving performance. The first sports car engine with internally mounted turbochargers ("hot inside V") and dry sump lubrication is configured in two output ratings: as a GT with 456 hp and as a GT S with 503 hp. The new GT combines driving dynamics and first-class racetrack performance with superb everyday practicality and efficiency that sets new standards in the segment.
It has everything you would expect from an authentic Mercedes-AMG sports car – from the characteristic styling and thoroughbred motorsport technology to the optimum weight distribution. The drive system tailored to consistently delivering driving dynamics perfectly complements this set-up. The centrepiece of the Mercedes-AMG GT is the new 4.0-litre V8 biturbo, which responds instantly with extreme power right at low revs and delivers outstanding performance. Top figures such as 3.8 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and a top speed of 310 km/h, combined with the outstanding driving dynamics will undoubtedly translate into extremely fast laps on the racetrack.
At the same time, the two-seater is a comfortable and reliable companion for everyday motoring thanks to its practical deck lid, easily accessible luggage compartment and high level of comfort on long journeys. It also features an extensive list of Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems, which ensure the high level of safety expected from Mercedes-AMG.
“With the new Mercedes-AMG GT, we are venturing out into a challenging sports car segment with its top-class competitive field. This is an incentive and motivation for us at the same time to prove to sports car enthusiasts around the world the kind of performance that AMG is capable of”, says Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.
“With the new GT we are positioning Mercedes-AMG even more aggressively than to date as a dynamic sports car brand”, says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “With its technological substance, the Mercedes-AMG GT fulfils our high aspirations with regard to driving dynamics, agility and sportiness. The new GT is the second sports car developed fully independently by Mercedes-AMG. The car is manufactured according to the motto 'Handcrafted by Racers' – which perfectly encapsulates our heritage and our spirit.”
The first Mercedes was a racing car and its most recent successor carries this heritage forward. With the new Mercedes-AMG GT, the Mercedes-AMG sports car brand is moving into a new sports car segment. The GT is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. Its front mid-engine design with a rear transaxle and use of intelligent aluminium lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience. Its newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine underscores the hallmark AMG driving performance. The first sports car engine with internally mounted turbochargers ("hot inside V") and dry sump lubrication is configured in two output ratings: as a GT with 456 hp and as a GT S with 503 hp. The new GT combines driving dynamics and first-class racetrack performance with superb everyday practicality and efficiency that sets new standards in the segment.
It has everything you would expect from an authentic Mercedes-AMG sports car – from the characteristic styling and thoroughbred motorsport technology to the optimum weight distribution. The drive system tailored to consistently delivering driving dynamics perfectly complements this set-up. The centrepiece of the Mercedes-AMG GT is the new 4.0-litre V8 biturbo, which responds instantly with extreme power right at low revs and delivers outstanding performance. Top figures such as 3.8 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and a top speed of 310 km/h, combined with the outstanding driving dynamics will undoubtedly translate into extremely fast laps on the racetrack.
At the same time, the two-seater is a comfortable and reliable companion for everyday motoring thanks to its practical deck lid, easily accessible luggage compartment and high level of comfort on long journeys. It also features an extensive list of Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems, which ensure the high level of safety expected from Mercedes-AMG.
“With the new Mercedes-AMG GT, we are venturing out into a challenging sports car segment with its top-class competitive field. This is an incentive and motivation for us at the same time to prove to sports car enthusiasts around the world the kind of performance that AMG is capable of”, says Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.
“With the new GT we are positioning Mercedes-AMG even more aggressively than to date as a dynamic sports car brand”, says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “With its technological substance, the Mercedes-AMG GT fulfils our high aspirations with regard to driving dynamics, agility and sportiness. The new GT is the second sports car developed fully independently by Mercedes-AMG. The car is manufactured according to the motto 'Handcrafted by Racers' – which perfectly encapsulates our heritage and our spirit.”
The models at a glance:
Mercedes-AMG GT S
Mercedes-AMG GT
Displacement
3982 cc
3982 cc
Output
503 hp at 6250 rpm (6000-6500 rpm*)
456 hp at 6000 rpm
Max. torque
479 lb-ft at 1750-4750 rpm (1750-5000 rpm*)
443 lb-ft at 1600-5000 rpm
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
3.8 s
4.0 s
Top speed
310 km/h**
304 km/h**
* In conjunction with AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package; ** Electronically limited.
The combination of aluminium spaceframe, V8 biturbo engine with dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle, locking differential, sports suspension with aluminium double-wishbone suspension and the low curb weight delivers racetrack performance. The front mid-engine design and rear transaxle configuration makes for a beneficial weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent between the front and rear axle. In conjunction with the vehicle's low centre of gravity, this translates into extremely agile handling and permits high cornering speeds. With a favourable power-to-weight ratio, the Mercedes-AMG GT S self-confidently lines up alongside the very best in its segment.
Exterior design: Sporty emotion and sensual purity
“The new Mercedes-AMG GT is a sports car in its purist form", says Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design Daimler AG. “Breathtaking proportions, powerfully sculpted surfaces and flowing lines turn the new AMG into a contemporary sports car which embodies the spirit of the glorious Mercedes sports cars. The GT is a consummate combination of beauty and intelligence”.
The new Mercedes-AMG GT embodies sportiness and emotion as an expression of sensual purity. The two-seater is characterized by hallmark rear-wheel-drive proportions. The V8 biturbo front mid-engine ensures optimum weight distribution, which forms the basis for superb driving dynamics. The long hood with its pronounced powerdomes, the greenhouse which has been moved far back, the large wheels and broad tail end make up the distinctive looks. Additionally, the large deck lid conceals a practical luggage compartment.
Muscular and dramatic
Gracefully arched surfaces give the Mercedes-AMG GT its sensuous character and the appearance of artist’s sculpture. Viewed from the side, the dome-shaped, arched roof line and the frameless doors are eye-catching features. A muscular element sculpted out of the side wall creates a sense of lightness and movement, even when the vehicle is at a standstill. The surfaces and lines of the side wall flow into the rear-end with a dramatic tapered effect. The GT deliberately avoids lines in the shoulder region in favour of one lower down extending into in the rear bumper, which stretches the body and makes it appear lighter. The side air outlets, each with two fins, represent a modern touch on a classic feature of Mercedes-Benz sports cars.
The creative interaction of diverse design elements lends the coupe a superior, self-confident front: the three-dimensional diamond radiator grille with central Mercedes star, a broad single lamella and tastefully accented by the AMG logo stands in the centre of the front end. LED High Performance headlamps with stylized "eyebrows" as daytime running lamps, side lights and indicators, as well as three separate high-beam reflectors lend the GT its characteristic look.
Large air intakes in the front apron optimize the flow of air to the cooling modules, while the characteristic A-wing design with a front splitter makes the sports car appear low-slung and wide. Finished in high-gloss black on the GT S, the front splitter accentuates the aggressive look.
Broad shoulders for an emotional appearance
With its wide stance, broad shoulders and narrow tail light design, the rear area creates an emotional appearance at every angle. The licence plate bracket is located in the lower part of the bumper, allowing the Mercedes star to be placed prominently on the smooth-surfaced rear deck lid. The rear features an electronically retractable rear spoiler, which is concealed from view while the car is at a standstill. The black diffuser insert with integrated tailpipes accented by a trim strip in matte iridium silver inspired by the A-wing design of the front, creates a visual sense of lightness across the entire rear end.
The tail lights underline both the sporty styling of the rear, as well as the attention to detail and sophistication – form and function combine in a unique way to create a perfect unit.
Interior: Sensuality, emotion and perfection
The interior design also embodies maximum emotion and sensual purity. Radically low, sporty proportions create a unique sense of spaciousness. Clearly drawn components and their authentic materials underscore the dynamic character and create instant excitement: anyone opening the door discovers an exciting interplay between the deep, sloping dashboard and a dominant, arched high centre console, a design which evokes emotions and impresses with its perfection.
The central "aviation design" theme, which is the hallmark of Mercedes-Benz sports cars, has been restyled. The extreme emphasis on the width of the dashboard, which creates an impression of a powerful wing dominates the cockpit of the GT. Four central spotlight-style vents and the individual vents at each end of the dashboard reinforce this impression. The combination of high beltlines, concave-shaped door paneling, low seating position and a dramatic centre console design, makes the GT feel like you are slipping into the cockpit of fighter jet.
The dominant centre console with features lifted straight from motor racing by virtue of its styling that is reminiscent of a NACA air intake. Its surfaces are available with numerous trim options providing the customer ultimate stylistic choice of silver chrome, matte carbon fiber, high-gloss carbon fiber, black diamond and matte silver fiberglass. Positioned centrally, the free-standing display is easily and quickly seen while driving for minimal distraction while providing modern stylistic flair. Attention to detail is also echoed in the AMG DRIVE UNIT controls: they are arranged like eight cylinders in a V layout, emphasizing the powerful and high-tech impression made by the centre console.
Outstanding precision and a superior quality feel thanks to the finest materials with superb workmanship are also apparent on the sports seats, the performance steering wheel and the instrument cluster. The most important control for sports car fans is located in the AMG DRIVE UNIT on the left-hand side: the button for starting the engine, which is labelled "Engine Start Stop" and illuminated in red.
The newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine
The new high-performance engine springs to life at the push of a button. The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine was developed specifically for the GT. The innovative eight-cylinder engine boasts outstanding power delivery, performance figures on a par with motor racing, lightweight construction as well as high efficiency and environmental compatibility. It features the brand's hallmark emotive V8 engine sound, along with immediate response and high pulling power.
The new AMG V8 engine (internal designation M178) stands out with its precise power output, which is easily a match for a naturally aspirated engine. The linear power delivery makes it easy to handle the vehicle even at its limits. As part of this process, the sophisticated ECU even factors in the current driving condition and adjusts the accelerator response depending on the lateral forces generated.
With a displacement of 3982 cc, the V8 uses a range of technologies which are already being used in the 2.0-litre turbo engine in the CLA 45 AMG – presently the most powerful, series-production four-cylinder engine in the world. Both engines have the same bore/stroke ratio, providing the basis for high revving ability. The fuel piezo direct injection used at Mercedes-Benz is responsible for the mixture formation. The spray-guided combustion process was further developed in the third generation to meet all future legal requirements.
First sports car engine with 'hot inside V' and dry sump lubrication
The new AMG V8 engine has two turbochargers which are not mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks but rather inside the V configuration – experts call it a 'hot inside V'. The benefits are a compact engine design, optimum response from the turbochargers and low exhaust gas emissions thanks to optimum air flow for the close-coupled catalytic converters. The dry sump lubrication also ensures the oil supply even with high lateral forces and allows the engine to be installed lower, thus moving the centre of gravity closer to the road and forming the basis for high lateral acceleration. The new Mercedes‑AMG V8 biturbo engine is the world's first sports car engine with 'hot inside V' and dry sump lubrication.
Performance exhaust system with fully variable exhaust flaps
The Mercedes-AMG GT S is equipped as standard with an AMG performance exhaust system with fully variable exhaust vanes. This allows the driver to vary the engine sound depending on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT mode. The driver may experience the V8 with a focus on comfort and relaxed, long-distance journeys or with a more powerful, emotive, motorsport-inspired touch. The AMG DRIVE UNIT includes a separate button to control the exhaust vanes directly. The exhaust note of the Mercedes-AMG GT has its own tonal characteristics which denote the car’s membership of the AMG family but also distinguish it clearly from other high-performance cars.
A tradition of hand-built excellence: "one man, one engine"
The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine is produced in Affalterbach according to the "one man, one engine" principle. In the AMG engine shop, highly qualified master engine builders assemble the engines by hand according to the strictest quality standards. Once completed, this impeccable standard is clearly visible on the AMG engine plate, as it bears the engine builder's actual signature. "One man, one engine" ties in with Mercedes-AMG's unique motorsport genes, which exude innovative strength by virtue of the technology transfer from the racing series – from Formula 1, the DTM to the involvement in customer racing with the SLS AMG GT3.
Seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration
When it comes to the power transmission of the new GT the Mercedes-AMG engineers rely on a combination of front mid-engine and seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle – this layout has already successfully established itself in the SLS AMG. The weight distribution with its ratio of 47 percent (front) to 53 percent (rear) is achieved in part from this configuration. The efficiency, shift speed and precision of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission have been further optimized for usage in the new sports car. Thanks to the larger gear ratio spread, the pronounced torque plateau of the V8 turbo engine can be used optimally. The drivetrain's overall design is ideal for an uncompromising sports car. At the same time, the exacting requirements in terms of everyday practicality, noise level, ride comfort and fuel consumption have been met.
To transfer the driver's shift commands from the steering wheel mounted paddles even more directly; communication between the engine and transmission has been fundamentally revised. This means that the previous limits of shift performance have been increased while the response time has been substantially decreased. The driver can individually tailor the GT to their wishes with the aid of AMG DYNAMIC SELECT. Various modes are available: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport Plus) and – entirely new – "I" (Individual). The manual "RACE" drive program reserved exclusively for the GT S optimally adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of racetrack usage – including fastest shift speeds and highly emotive engine performance. By pressing the "M" button, the driver can activate the manual transmission mode in any drive mode.
Electronic rear-axle locking differential as standard in the GT S
The GT comes as standard with a mechanical rear-axle locking differential which ensures outstanding traction and superb driving safety in all driving conditions. The GT S is fitted as standard with an electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential, which is likewise integrated into the compact transmission housing. The electronic function provides even more sensitive, faster control than the mechanical solution, thus pushing the limits of handling dynamics even further. It not only further improves the traction of the driven wheels, but also increases the cornering speeds at the limits. The system operates with a variable locking effect in acceleration and overrun mode, and is perfectly tuned to the various driving conditions and road surface friction coefficients.
Double-wishbone suspension from motorsport
Driving dynamics and comfort on long journeys; racetrack performance and everyday practicality: the new Mercedes-AMG GT delivers on all counts. A great deal of attention was paid to the seamless integration of all mechanical and electronic systems during design, development and testing. From the suspension, through 3-stage ESP®, locking differential, steering, aerodynamics and tires to the brakes – only successful precision engineering and the concerted networking of individual specialist disciplines serves to produce the required results and thus the exhilarating sports car driving experience, characterized by superb precision and clear feedback.
The AMG GT uses the technological DNA of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, one of the most successful sports cars in recent years. Thanks to the optimum weight distribution of 47 percent (front) to 53 percent (rear), the vehicle's low centre of gravity and the selected suspension layout, the driver benefits from precise steering response, formidable agility, low inertia when changing direction, and outstanding traction. Double-wishbone suspension is used at the front and rear – a technology adopted straight from motorsport.
Wishbones, steering knuckles and hub carriers on the front and rear axle are manufactured entirely out of forged aluminium in order to reduce the unsprung masses. The double-wishbone concept locates the wheel clearly, with minimal elastic movements. The high camber and track rigidity not only results in high cornering speeds, but also provides the driver with an optimum road feel when cornering at the limit. An extremely direct connection of the shock absorber on the rear hub carrier reduces vibrations and undesirable wheel load fluctuations. Highly neutral behaviour and defined, predictable responses at the tire grip limit were important development objectives for the dynamic handling experts at Mercedes-AMG.
Mercedes-AMG GT S with electronically controlled damping
The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping comes as standard on the Mercedes-AMG GT S, or as an option for the GT. The driver can adjust the damping characteristics at the push of a button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT or by using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three stages are available: "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport plus".
The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable steering ratio: this enhances vehicle handling and agility at low speeds while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. The power assistance is a particular highlight: it responds not only depending on the given road speed, but also according to the current lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. As a result, the driver has a perfect feel for the vehicle thanks to the direct feedback from the road. The standard-fit 3-stage ESP® with the "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" functions works in perfect unison with the locking differential and is tuned optimally to the outstanding driving dynamics and safety requirements.
AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package available as an option for the GT S
The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package further augments dynamism and agility. It is available exclusively for the GT S and includes dynamic engine and transmission mounts. The engine and transmission mounts assume an important function in the case of a transaxle design: soft mounts improve comfort since they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. Handling and agility benefit, however, from an overall stiffer mount set-up.
Mercedes-AMG resolves these conflicting objectives using dynamic mounts, which adjust their stiffness continuously and instantly to the respective driving conditions and handling. The special control electronics in the AMG CHASSIS CONTROLLER, (ACC), provide this function. The ACC detects driving situations on the basis of CAN data, is connected to the electronic rear-axle locking differential and thus ensures optimum, balanced driving dynamics. AMG has gone a step further when implementing this technology: the engine and transmission mounts are even actuated independently of each other. The advantage: this innovative solution provides an additional substantial improvement in driving precision and lateral dynamics.
A specific engine application in the DYNAMIC SELECT "RACE" drive mode and in the manual "M" transmission mode makes the GT S even more dynamic. The package also includes tauter spring and damper tuning, more negative camber at the front axle as well as an adapted speed-sensitive sports steering system. The performance steering wheel in black DINAMICA microfiber and yellow highlights in the instrument cluster round off the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package.
Optional ceramic high-performance composite brake system
Excellent deceleration characteristics and high fade resistance come courtesy of the high-performance composite brake system – on the GT with internally ventilated, perforated 360-millimetre brake discs all-round; on the GT S with discs measuring 390 millimetres in diameter at the front, to cope with the higher performance, as well as red brake callipers. A ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available for both models as an option. Its advantages: lower weight, longer service life and even better fade resistance thanks to the ceramic brake discs with a diameter of 402 millimetres at the front and 360 millimetres at the rear.
Forged wheels and sports tires as an option
As standard, the GT is shod in 10-spoke light-alloy wheels, 9 x 19 (front) and 11 x 19 (rear), with 255/35 R 19 and 295/35 R 19 tires. On the GT S the dimensions are 9 x 19 (front) with 265/35 R 19 tires and 11 x 20 (rear) with 295/30 R 20 tires. Numerous design and colour variants are optionally available for both models. In combination with the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package, specially developed sports tires (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2) are available for the GT S as an option – ideal for aspiring racing drivers on closed-off circuits.
Aluminium spaceframe with intelligent material mix
Mercedes-AMG has gone for an intelligent material mix on the body of the GT. Chassis including greenhouse and body are made of aluminium alloy, the deck lid of steel and the radiator core support of magnesium. This extremely light element at the front reduces the inertia ahead of the front axle, thus improving the vehicle's agility. Over 90 percent of the weight-optimized spaceframe is made of aluminium components.
The bodyshell weighs 231 kilograms – a benchmark figure in the sports car segment. There were three key objectives during the design and development of the bodyshell structure: optimum strength, low centre of gravity and low weight. The high bending and torsional strength of the entire design enables extreme linear and transverse forces from the powertrain and suspension to be absorbed and transferred. Unwanted flexibility is thus reduced, with the vehicle responding rigidly and directly. As a result, the driver experiences a sports car with maximum dynamism that responds with excellent precision. The aluminium spaceframe also provides the basis for outstanding passive safety.
The Mercedes-AMG GT is produced at Mercedes-Benz in Sindelfingen. The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine is manufactured at Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach.
Aerodynamics for high balance and effective cooling
The GT was developed with one clear objective in mind: transferring the high power to the road to enhance driving dynamics and handling safety at medium and high speeds. Thanks to the aerodynamic configuration, critical driving situations can be avoided – such as with a sudden evasive manoeuvre at high speed. The front-end design reduces lift to the desired level and helps route air to and from the cooling modules. The flow of cooling air also improves brake performance with the help of special brake cooling ducts.
The design of the extensively encapsulated underfloor guarantees optimum airflow out of the oil cooler in the underfloor area and provides effective airflow for the rear diffuser. As an active component of the aerodynamics, the Mercedes-AMG GT comes with an extendable rear spoiler that is integrated into the design silhouette. Depending on the drive mode, the spoiler extends and retracts at various speeds. In combination with rear diffuser with no leading edges, the downforce on the rear is maintained in the aerodynamically relevant speed range.
Active and passive safety of the very highest calibre
The brand with the star boasts hallmark active and passive safety of the very highest calibre. The Mercedes-AMG GT adopts numerous Intelligent Drive assistance systems that are familiar from the new S-Class. Standard equipment includes:
COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
ADAPTIVE BRAKE
ATTENTION ASSIST
Tire pressure monitoring system
Adaptive Highbeam Assist
PRE-SAFE® system
PARKTRONIC
Reversing camera
Blind Spot Assist
The standard-fit restraint systems not only include three-point seat belts with belt tensioners and belt force limiters, but also front airbags, combined thorax/pelvis sidebags, windowbags and kneebags, for the driver and front passenger respectively.
Interior with outstanding quality and superb everyday practicality
The sportily designed cockpit in carbon-fiber look provides information with two classic circular instruments in a 2-tube look and a 320 km/h speedometer scale. The performance steering wheel with its three-spoke design sits perfectly in the hand: it comes with aluminium shift paddles, 12-o'clock marking and a steering wheel rim in black nappa leather with flattened bottom section. The sports seats in nappa leather with integral head restraints and AMG lettering provide optimized lateral support when driving dynamically.
The DYNAMIC SELECT Controller, the buttons for starting the engine, the 3-stage ESP® and, when specified, the electronic damper control are located on the left in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The volume control as well as the buttons for the manual transmission drive mode, the ECO start/stop function and, again when specified, the selectable exhaust system are fitted on the right-hand side. The driver operates the seat heating, PARKTRONIC, the hazard warning lights and, depending on the model variant and equipment, the extendable rear spoiler using the buttons in the top control panel in the roof frame.
The GT S comes with even more sophisticated equipment and appointments, including:
Instrument cluster with 360-km/h speedometer scale and red colour highlights
Performance steering wheel, black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber
AMG emblem embossed in the centre armrest
Trim in matte silver fibreglass or in black diamond
As an alternative to the standard-fit Interior Silver Chrome package, the customer can choose from various other packages. Carbon-fiber trim elements are available in a choice of matte and high-gloss finish. Highlights include the trim in matte silver fiberglass and the Interior Black Diamond package, all offered for the first time.
The superb everyday practicality of the Mercedes-AMG GT is also expressed in the airy feeling of spaciousness. In addition, the good all-round visibility and the high headroom demonstrate that sporty dynamism and comfort on long journeys are not mutually exclusive – not necessarily a given in this segment. The luggage compartment capacity of 350 litres will hold two golf bags either lengthways or crossways. The large deck lid makes loading easy; an integral retractable luggage cover comes as standard.
