Mercedes-AMG GT | |
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Overview | |
Manufacturer | Mercedes-AMG |
Production | October 2014 – present |
Model years | 2015 – present |
Assembly | Sindelfingen, Germany |
Body and chassis | |
Class | Sports car/grand tourer (S) |
The Mercedes-AMG GT is a series of 2-door sports cars produced by German automobile manufacturer Mercedes-AMG. The car was introduced on 9 September 2014 and was officially unveiled to the public in October 2014 at the Paris Motor Show. [1] While not directly replacing the SLS AMG (competing in a different segment), it is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. The Mercedes-AMG GT went on sale in two variants (GT and GT S) in March 2015, while a GT3 racing variant of the car was introduced in 2015. A high performance variant called the GT R was introduced in 2016. A GT4 racing variant, targeted at semi-professional drivers and based on the GT R variant, was introduced in 2017. In 2021, a new variant called the AMG GT Black Series was released. All variants are assembled at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen, Germany.
The first-generation AMG GT in October 2021. That same month, Mercedes-Benz announced the new Mercedes-AMG R232 SL-Class as the direct successor for the roadster version. [2] [3] [4] The second-generation coupe version of the GT, which was introduced nearly a year after the first-generation was discontinued, was redesigned on the same platform as the SL, but retains the name AMG GT.
First generation (C190/R190) | |
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Overview | |
Manufacturer | Mercedes-AMG |
Model code | C190 (Coupe) R190 (Roadster) |
Production | |
Model years | 2015–2023 2021–2023 (AMG GT Black Series) |
Assembly | Sindelfingen, Germany |
Designer |
|
Body and chassis | |
Body style | |
Layout | Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive |
Platform | Mercedes-AMG Transaxle Spaceframe platform |
Related | |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 4.0 L M178 (Mercedes-AMG) twin-turbocharged V8 6.2 L M159 V8 (AMG GT3) |
Transmission | 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G-Tronic dual-clutch |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 2,630 mm (103.5 in) [11] |
Length | 4,546 mm (179.0 in) [11] |
Width | 1,939 mm (76.3 in) (GT, GT S) 2,007 mm (79.0 in) (GT C, GT R) [11] |
Height | 1,288 mm (50.7 in) [11] |
Kerb weight | 1,554–1,645 kg (3,426–3,627 lb) |
Chronology | |
Successor | Mercedes-AMG SL-Class (R232) (Roadster) |
The interior of the Mercedes-AMG GT was previewed on 16 April 2014. [12] The car made its debut on 9 September 2014 and was officially unveiled to the public in October 2014 at the Paris Motor Show. The GT's exterior design was kept similar to that of the preceding SLS AMG, with wide wheel arches, lower bodywork, and fastback sloping roofline of the SLS AMG, but using conventional forward-opening doors instead of the iconic gullwing style pioneered by the 300 SL in the 1950s. It also employed an upgraded and shortened version of the Transaxle Spaceframe platform used by the SLS. [13]
The vehicle structure is made up of 93% aluminium, with the front module base made up of magnesium. [14] The exterior lead designer was Mark Fetherston, whose previous works include the W176 A-Class, the CLA-Class, and SLS AMG. [8] The interior, designed by Jan Kaul, features a large centre console and decorative elements in a leather and carbon polymer design. [9] The trunk offers room for a medium-sized suitcase.
Two engine power output options were offered: the GT, with 340 kW (462 PS; 456 hp), and the GT S with 375 kW (510 PS; 503 hp). [1] The GT generates 600 N⋅m (443 lb⋅ft) of torque, and the GT S generates 650 N⋅m (479 lb⋅ft) of torque. [1]
Shortly after its introduction, Mercedes-AMG CEO at the time, Tobias Moers promised a Black Series variant of the Mercedes-AMG GT. [15] The new high performance variant was called the AMG GT R. [16]
The Mercedes-AMG family was given a facelift in 2017, along with the introduction of the GT C roadster variant and the Edition 50 model, which is a limited-edition derivative of the GT C variant. The key improvements made as part of the facelift include increased power output from the M178 engine for the GT and GT S variants (10 kW and 9 kW respectively) [17] and the inclusion of the 'Panamericana' grille from the GT3, GT4 and GT R variants as standard equipment for all variants. [18]
The GT uses a front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, with the engine positioned inside of the vehicle's wheelbase (behind the front axis). The spaceframe chassis and body are made out of aluminium alloys, while the trunk lid is made of steel and the hood is made of magnesium. [1] The suspension system is a double wishbone unit at the front and rear, with forged aluminium wishbones and hub carriers.
The car is powered by a 4.0-litre M178 twin-turbocharged V8 engine. The engine is in "hot inside V" configuration—with exhaust manifolds and turbochargers inside the cylinder banks to reduce turbo lag—and uses dry-sump lubrication. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT dual-clutch transmission; the GT S variant employs an electronically controlled mechanical limited-slip differential. [19] In a road test executed by Car and Driver , the GT S accelerated from 0–97 km/h (60 mph) in 3.0 seconds, completed the quarter mile in 11.2 seconds and attained a top speed of 311 km/h (193 mph). [20]
The GT S was the Formula 1 safety car for the 2015, 2016 and 2017 seasons, having made its debut in that role at the 2015 Australian Grand Prix. [21] [22] The GT R was used as F1's safety car from 2018 to 2021. [23] Since 2022, the GT R was replaced by the Black Series. [24]
The GT is the entry level variant of the Mercedes-AMG GT family. The M178 engine in this variant is tuned to an output of 340 kW (462 PS; 456 hp) and 601 N⋅m (443 lb⋅ft) of torque, with the key differences between this and its more expensive siblings being a mechanical limited-slip differential, an absorbent glass mat battery, the lack of the "Race Mode" setting in the AMG Dynamic Select adaptive drivetrain system, the lack of the AMG Ride Control adaptive suspensive system, and a passive AMG Sport Exhaust System. Keyless-Go is also an optional feature, as opposed to standard equipment. The GT is equipped with 19-inch wheels at the front and rear.
The GT S is a more highly equipped variant of the Mercedes-AMG GT. The M178 engine in this variant is tuned to an output of 375 kW (510 PS; 503 hp) and 651 N⋅m (480 lb⋅ft) of torque. The key mechanical differences the GT S gains over the GT include an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, "Race Mode" and "Race Start" mode settings in the AMG Dynamic Select adaptive drivetrain system, AMG Ride Control adaptive suspensive system, an AMG Performance Exhaust System with dynamic flaps, and a lithium-ion battery. Keyless-Go is standard equipment, as is a staggered set of wheels (19-inch at the front, 20-inch at the rear).
As with many other recent Mercedes-AMGs, at the time of introduction a limited production "Edition 1" series was issued of the GT S. 375 examples were sold worldwide, and include a gloss black aerodynamic set including a front splitter, lower wheelwell extensions, a carbon fibre roof, a fixed rear wing, red interior accents and red brake calipers, and various other extras. [25]
The GT C is a performance oriented variant of the Mercedes-AMG GT. The M178 engine in this variant is tuned to an output of 410 kW (557 PS; 550 hp) and 502 lb⋅ft (681 N⋅m) of torque. While the GT C retains the key mechanical differences the GT S gains over the GT, it also has a wider body (2,007 mm (79 in)) and active rear steering, which the GT S does not have (even as options). In the United States, the Lane Tracking and AMG Dynamic Plus option packages are standard equipment on the GT C.
A limited-edition model, the Edition 50, was released as part of the debut of the GT C variant at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show. The Edition 50 features: a choice of two shades of matte paint known as designoGraphite Grey Magno and designo Cashmere White Magno; black chrome exterior trim, headlight surrounds and forged / cross-spoke wheels; a two-tone silver pearl or black against grey quilted-leather interior which features a micro-suede wrapped steering wheel; and, "Edition 50" and "1 of 500" lettering on the steering wheel bezel and 12 o'clock mark in silver pearl. In the United States, the Edition 50 is limited in production to 50 coupes and 50 roadsters. Globally, the Edition 50 is limited to 500 units, which explains the "1 of 500" on the steering wheel. [26] [27] [18]
The GT R is a high-performance variant of the Mercedes-AMG GT and was introduced at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on 24 June 2016. The M178 engine in this variant is tuned to an output of 430 kW (585 PS; 577 hp) at 6,250 rpm and 700 N⋅m (516 lb⋅ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm. The GT R accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.6 seconds and has a claimed top speed of 319 km/h (198 mph). [28]
While the GT R retains the key mechanical differences the GT C gains over the GT S, it also gains manually adjustable coilover springs (in conjunction with the AMG Ride Control suspension of the base models), an active underbody fairing, a manually adjustable rear wing, and a 9-mode AMG Traction Control system. As befitting of a high-performance variant, the GT R loses Keyless-Go, the integrated garage-door opener, the heated and power-folding side mirrors, the auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors and reverts to the basic light-weight 4-speaker audio system that the GT comes with, but these features can still be added as options.
When it was launched, the GT R had several cosmetic changes compared with the standard car, notably the vertical slats in the front grille, an adjustable rear wing, new front air intakes and new front and rear diffusers. The styling of the GT R is more comparable to that of the AMG GT3 race car. However, the base GT variant gained several of these cosmetic changes as part of a mild facelift in the 2017 model year. The GT R went on sale in November 2016, with deliveries beginning in 2017. [29] For the 2018 Formula One World Championship, the GT R became the official Formula 1 safety car. During the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix, the Safety Car ran a red livery rather than the traditional silver to commemorate Scuderia Ferrari's 1,000th Grand Prix start. For the 2021 F1 season, the GT R Safety Car permanently wears a red livery (along with the Mercedes F1 Team's sponsor CrowdStrike) rather than the traditional silver to increase the chances of drivers seeing the Safety Car in poor visibility. It will also share the role with the Aston Martin Vantage.
It completed a lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife track in 7:10.92, in a test conducted by German magazine Sport Auto , [30] making it the fastest rear wheel driven road-legal production car around the track at the time [31] and the 5th fastest lap time for a road-legal production vehicle around the track at the time.[ citation needed ]
A roadster version was introduced in March 2019 and would be limited to 750 units. [32] It was discontinued in 2021 when the Black Edition was released which it replaced.
Mercedes-AMG introduced the GT R Pro at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show. The GT R Pro is a more track focused variant of the AMG GT line up and based on the GT R. This variant would be limited for 750 units worldwide with a starting price tag of USD $200,645. The GT R Pro retains all key mechanical differences of the GT R gains over the GT C with other minor upgrades, the GT R Pro uses the same engine and power output of the GT R, which is rated at 430 kW (585 PS; 577 hp) at 6,250 rpm and 700 N⋅m (516 lb⋅ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm. And retains the same 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time 3.6 seconds and the top speed of 319 km/h (198 mph).
New upgrades includes, new manually adjustable coil-over suspension setup, lightweight anti-roll bars, electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts, GT R's optional carbon-fiber roof and carbon ceramic brakes became standard, new carbon-fibre bucket seats, lightweight forged wheels 19-inch on front and 20-inch on rear which were exclusive for the GT R Pro, same Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 semi-slick tires which were also used in the GT R, new carbon-fibre braced active aerodynamic front splitter and canards, new front fenders with GT3 inspired vents, new rear diffuser with canards, new side skirts, updated rear wing with a small gurney for increase downforce while reducing weight.
Interior upgrades includes, a 10.25-inch digital instrument binnacle and infotainment system, a Burmester surround sound system, keyless go and parking assist. On exterior, new racing stripes offered in Gloss Light Green when combined with the Selenite Gray Magno color exterior, or stripes in Matte Dark Gray with all other exterior colors. The unique accent stripes can also offered for the GT R Pro.
For the GT R Pro, Mercedes-AMG also offered an optional track package which adds a full steel roll-cage, four-point harnesses and a 2 kg fire extinguisher. With all these upgrades curb weight has been reduced by 25 kg (55 lb), and with track package equipped 40 kg (88 lb) of weight reduced over the GT R.
In November 2018, Mercedes-AMG conducted a test at Nürburgring Nordschleife for the new GT R Pro, and the car completed a lap time, driven by Maro Engel, set a lap time of 7:04.632 minutes around the track, making it the 8th fastest lap time for a road-legal production vehicle around the track at the time. [33] [34]
The GT and GT C roadsters are the roadster versions of the GT and GT C coupés, and were announced shortly after the introduction of the GT R variant. [35] Both variants made their debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The GT and GT C roadsters utilise the active air management system found on the GT R variant to help with cooling and airflow performance. The GT C roadster retains the wider bodywork of the GT C coupé, and the GT roadster has a slightly higher first and lower seventh gear with a longer final drive compared to the GT coupé. The GT and GT C roadsters feature a three-layer fabric roof built around an aluminum, magnesium and steel structure, available in black, red or beige, and which can open and close in 11 seconds up to speeds of 50 km/h (31 mph). The GT C roadster, like the GT C coupé, has a limited "Edition 50" model, celebrating AMG's 50 years of existence. [36] [35]
Mercedes-AMG official announced that its AMG GT Black Series and AMG GT Dark night officially listed special edition models, Mercedes-AMG GT models launched a total of 2, The prices are US$576,612 and $229,594. [37]
The GT Black Series is a high-performance variant of the Mercedes-AMG GT and was officially revealed on Mercedes-AMG's YouTube channel on 9 July 2020. The M178 engine in this variant is tuned to an output of 537 kW (730 PS; 720 hp) at 6,700–6,900 rpm and 800 N⋅m (590 lb⋅ft) of torque at 2,000–6,000 rpm. Referred to as the M178 LS2, the engine has a slightly higher redline at 7,200 rpm compared to the GT R's 7,000 rpm, and uses a flat-plane crankshaft instead of a cross-plane crankshaft, turning out in different firing order. Additionally, the M178 LS2 uses a smaller compressor wheel, resulting in an increase in boost from the GT R's 135 to 170 kPa (19.6 to 24.6 psi). The GT Black Series accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds though it was tested at 3.0 seconds and has a claimed top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). [38]
The suspension is unique, with a carbon-fibre anti-roll bar with two adjustment settings for the front axle, and an iron anti-roll bar with three adjustment settings for the rear axle. Like previous Black Series vehicles, the camber is manually adjustable for both the front and rear axles. Handling has been improved with carbon-fibre panels at the front and rear, as well as carbon-ceramic brake rotors and Black Series specific brake pads. The wing has an active aero flap, and contributes to a total maximum downforce of more than 400 kg (882 lb) at 249 km/h (155 mph). The Michelin Pilot Cup 2 R tires are specific to the car, and are available in M01A soft and M02 hard compounds. [39]
Carbon-fibre is used extensively for most of the body, including the hood, roof, hatch and underbody. The exterior gains an enlarged grille, based on the Mercedes-AMG GT3, large air outlets on the hood, manually adjustable front splitter, and upgraded rear wing as part of a major aerodynamic kit. The interior features standard AMG performance bucket seats, and uses microfiber for the steering wheel, door and instrument panels. [40]
On 4 November 2020, The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series recorded a lap time of 6:43.616 with driver Maro Engel behind the wheel at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, making it the fastest lap time ever recorded for a road-legal production vehicle around the track at the time.
In 2022, Mercedes-AMG launched the AMG GT Track Series, a track-only car based on the AMG GT Black Series. The car was created to celebrate the 55th anniversary of AMG, and thus only 55 models will be sold. [41] A single one of these cars raced as an invitational entry at the Red Bull Ring in the 2022 GT2 European Series. [42]
Only 5 units of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 55 were sold, each costing €625,000. [43]
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 Pro is a non-competitive track day version of the Mercedes-AMG GT2. This car features a 739 bhp engine, more powerful than its racing counterpart. [44]
Model | Year of introduction | Engine | Power (at rpm) | Torque (at rpm) | CO 2 | Fuel consumption | Acceleration 0–100 km/h [0–62 mph] (seconds) | Top speed |
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GT | 2015 | M178 3,982 cc (243.0 cu in) twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine | 340 kW (462 PS; 456 hp) at 6,000 | 600 N⋅m (443 lbf⋅ft) at 1,600–5,000 | 216 g/km | 9.3 L/100 km (25 mpg‑US) | 4 [4] | 300 km/h (190 mph) |
GT S | 375 kW (510 PS; 503 hp) at 6,250 | 650 N⋅m (479 lbf⋅ft) at 1,750–4,750 | 219 g/km | 9.4 L/100 km (25 mpg‑US) | 3.8 [3.8] | 310 km/h (190 mph) | ||
GT R / GT R Pro | 2017 | 430 kW (585 PS; 577 hp) at 6,250 | 700 N⋅m (516 lbf⋅ft) at 1,900-5,500 | 259 g/km | 11.4 L/100 km (20.6 mpg‑US) | 3.6 [3.6] | 319 km/h (198 mph) | |
GT Roadster | 350 kW (476 PS; 469 hp) at 6,000 | 630 N⋅m (465 lbf⋅ft) at 1,700-5,000 | 219 g/km | 9.4 L/100 km (25 mpg‑US) | 4 [4] | 302 km/h (188 mph) | ||
GT C Roadster | 410 kW (557 PS; 550 hp) at 5,750-6,750 | 680 N⋅m (502 lbf⋅ft) at 1,900-6,750 | TBA | TBA | 3.7 [3.7] | 317 km/h (197 mph) | ||
GT Facelift | 2017 | 350 kW (476 PS; 469 hp) at 6,000 | 630 N⋅m (465 lbf⋅ft) at 1,700–5,000 | 216 g/km | 9.3 L/100 km (25 mpg‑US) | 4 [4] | 304 km/h (189 mph) | |
GT S Facelift | 384 kW (522 PS; 515 hp) at 6,250 | 670 N⋅m (494 lbf⋅ft) at 1,800-5,000 | 219 g/km | 9.4 L/100 km (25 mpg‑US) | 3.8 [3.8] | 310 km/h (190 mph) | ||
GT S Coupe and Roadster Second Facelift [46] [47] [48] [49] [50] [51] [52] [53] | 2020 | 390 kW (530 PS; 523 hp) at 5,500–6,750 rpm | 670 N⋅m (494 lb⋅ft) at 2,100–5,250 rpm | 296–297 g/km | 12.9–13.0 L/100 km | 3.8 [3.8] | 314 km/h (194 mph) | |
GT Black Series | 2021 | M178 LS2 3,982 cc (243.0 cu in) twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine | 537 kW (730 PS; 720 hp) at 6,700-6,900 | 800 N⋅m (590 lbf⋅ft) at 2,000-6,000 | TBA | TBA | 3.2 [3.2] | 325 km/h (202 mph) |
GT Track Series | 2022 | 540 kW (730 PS; 720 hp) at 6,700-6,900 | 850 N⋅m (627 lbf⋅ft) at 2,000-6,000 | |||||
GT2 Pro | 2023 | |||||||
GT3 | 2016 | M159 6,208 cc (378.8 cu in) naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine | 542 hp (550 PS; 404 kW) | TBA | TBA | TBA | 3.0 [3.0] | 332 km/h (206 mph) |
GT3 Evo | 2020 | ??? km/h (??? mph) | ||||||
GT4 | 2017 | M178 3,982 cc (243.0 cu in) twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine | Up to 375 kW (510 PS; 503 hp) | Up to 600 N⋅m (443 lbf⋅ft) | 3.5 [3.5] | |||
GT2 | 2023 |
Second generation (C192) | |
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Overview | |
Model code | C192 |
Production | 2023–present |
Model years | 2024–present |
Assembly | Sindelfingen, Germany |
Designer | Slavche Tanevski [54] |
Body and chassis | |
Body style | 2-door 2+2 liftback/fastback coupé |
Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel-drive (4MATIC+) |
Platform | MSA |
Related | Mercedes-AMG SL-Class (R232) |
Powertrain | |
Engine |
|
Electric motor |
|
Transmission | 9-speed Mercedes-AMG Speedshift MCT 9G-Tronic automatic |
Hybrid drivetrain | Mild Hybrid (EQ Boost) Plug-in (63 S E-Performance) |
Battery | AMG 400-volt High Performance Battery, 4.8 kWh |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 2,700 mm (106.3 in) |
Length | 4,728 mm (186.1 in) |
Width | 1,984 mm (78.1 in) |
Height | 1,354 mm (53.3 in) |
Kerb weight | 1,775–1,970 kg (3,910–4,340 lb) |
The second generation AMG GT was unveiled on 19 August 2023, eleven months after the previous generation was discontinued, at Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in America. It will use the same platform as the new SL and will only be offered as a coupe. It is bigger and heavier than its predecessor, will have all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission, as well as a 2+2 cabin setup. At the beginning of sales, there will be two V8 models, the 469 hp GT55, and the 577 hp GT63, while the E-performance plug-in hybrid will follow later.
Type | Model | Engine code | Displacement | Power | Torque | Top speed | 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | Transmission | Layout | Cal. years |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Petrol | GT 43 | M139 I4 turbo (electrified) | 1,991 cc (2.0 L) | 310 kW (416 hp; 421 PS) @ 6750 rpm | 500 N⋅m (51.0 kg⋅m; 369 lb⋅ft) @ 3250-5000 rpm | 280 km/h (170 mph) | 4.6 sec | 9-speed automatic AMG Speedshift MCT | RWD | |
2024–present | ||||||||||
Petrol | GT 55 | M177 | 3,982 cc (4.0 L) V8 | 350 kW (469 hp; 476 PS) @ 5,500-6,500 rpm | 700 N⋅m (71.4 kg⋅m; 516 lb⋅ft) @ 2,250-4,500 rpm | 295 km/h (183 mph) | 3.9 sec | AWD | ||
2023–present | ||||||||||
Petrol | GT 63 | M177 | 3,982 cc (4.0 L) V8 | 430 kW (577 hp; 585 PS) @ 5,500-6,500 rpm | 800 N⋅m (81.6 kg⋅m; 590 lb⋅ft) @ 2,500-5,000 rpm | 315 km/h (196 mph) | 3.2 sec | |||
2023–present | ||||||||||
Petrol | GT 63 PRO | M177 | 3,982 cc (4.0 L) V8 | 450 kW (603 hp; 612 PS) @ 5,500-6,500 rpm | 850 N⋅m (86.7 kg⋅m; 627 lb⋅ft) @ 2,500-5,000 rpm | 317 km/h (197 mph) | 3.2 sec | |||
2024–present | ||||||||||
Petrol PHEV | GT 63 S E-Performance | M177 | 3,982 cc (4.0 L) V8 | 816 PS (805 hp; 600 kW) @ 5,500-6,500 rpm | 1,420 N⋅m (145 kg⋅m; 1,050 lb⋅ft) @ 2,500-5,000 rpm | 320 km/h (200 mph) | 2.8 sec | |||
2024–present | ||||||||||
In March 2015, Mercedes-AMG presented the AMG GT3, a race version of the GT, at the Geneva Motor Show, which employs the M159 6,208 cc (378.8 cu in) V8 naturally aspirated engine also used in the SLS AMG GT3. It consists largely of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer to decrease the vehicle's weight to under 1,300 kg (2,866 lb) to comply with FIA regulations for races. [55] In 2016, AKKA ASP, Black Falcon, HTP Motorsport and Zakspeed competed in the Blancpain Endurance Series. Zakspeed also competed in the ADAC GT Masters. They claimed a 1-2-3-4 and 6 at the 24 Hours Nürburgring.
In the 2016 Super GT GT300 class, the AMG GT3s made their Super GT debut with Goodsmile Racing with Team UKYO, the number 11 GAINER team, LEON Racing, and Rn-sports opting to use the AMG GT3s in favor of the SLS AMG GT3s that they used in the previous season. Two Mercedes customer teams, R'Qs Motor Sports and Arnage Racing, opted to continue using the SLS AMG GT3s. Both of them would switch to AMG GT3s during the 2018 season, switching from SLS AMG GT3 and Ferrari 488 GT3 respectively.
New Zealand born driver Craig Baird gave the new AMG GT3 its first race win anywhere when he took out race 1 of round 2 of the 2016 Australian GT Championship at the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit on 17 March 2016. [56] The round was held as a support race to the 2016 Australian Grand Prix.
Riley Technologies entered two customer AMG GT3s in the 2017 IMSA SportsCar Championship GTD class. One of the teams cars finished 3rd in class and 20th outright at the 2017 24 Hours of Daytona before going on to win the GTD class and finish 16th outright in the 2017 12 Hours of Sebring. As of June 2019, a total of 130 GT3 cars were sold. [57]
A GT4 version of the Mercedes-AMG GT was presented at the 2017 24 Hours of Spa. This customer racing car is based on the GT R road version and it made its debut in the ROWE 6 Stunden ADAC Ruhr-Pokal-Rennen race, the fifth round of the 2017 VLN season. [58] [59] The car received significant upgrades for the 2022 season. [60]
An updated version of the GT3 was introduced at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in June 2019 for the 2020 season of the FIA GT3 category. New technologies include an automatic data logger and analysis system, a function to automatically start the engine when the car is lowered from its in-built air jacks along with new brake and traction control systems. The design was also updated in line with the design of the new design update of the AMG GT road car with the changes being the new headlamps and the grille with the latter providing better protection for the radiator. The front splitter and rear wing were tweaked in order for faster adjustments. The car uses the same 6.2-litre V8 engine as the previous model rather than the 4.0-litre V8 engine of the road car, its engineers stating the user friendliness and reliability of the engine as the main factor of its retention. [61]
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 was unveiled in December 2022, created for participation in the SRO GT2 category. The car features a 707 bhp 4.0-liter biturbo V8 AMG engine, making it the most powerful customer Mercedes car yet. [62] The car made its racing debut during the first round of the 2023 GT2 European Series at Monza, and won its first race during the second round at the Red Bull Ring. [63]
Calendar year | Production | US sales | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
2015 | ~8100 | 1,277 | GT, GT S |
2016 | ~4800 | 1,227 | GT, GT S |
2017 | ~6400 | 1,608 | GT & Roadster, GT S, GT C Edition 50 & Roadster, GT R |
2018 | ~5500 | 1,525 | GT, GT S, GT C, GT R |
2019 | ~4700 | GT, GT S, GT C, GT R & Roadster, GT R Pro | |
2020 | ~1800 | GT, GT C, GT R & Roadster, GT Black Series | |
2021 | ~2100 | GT Black Series, GT C & Roadster, GT & Night Edition |
Official US Sales figures for 2019, 2020 and 2021 also include the X290 GT 4-door coupe. [64]
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Brabus GmbH is a German high-performance automotive aftermarket tuning company founded in 1977 in Bottrop. Brabus specialises mainly in Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and Smart vehicles. They have also modified other vehicles including Porsche.
The Pagani Zonda is a mid-engine sports car produced by Italian sports car manufacturer Pagani. It debuted at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show. Produced on commission in limited units, as of 2019 a total of 140 cars had been built, including development mules. Variants include a 2-door coupé and roadster variant, along with a third new variant being the barchetta. Construction is mainly of carbon fibre.
The second generation Mercedes-Benz SLK, internally designated model R171, is a two-passenger, front-engine, rear-drive, retractable hardtop roadster, unveiled at the 74th Geneva International Motor Show—and manufactured and marketed for model years 2004–2010.
The R230 generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class was introduced at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show and 2001 Bologna Motor Show, replacing the R129. The R230 underwent revisions in 2006 and 2008, and was superseded by the new SL-Class R231 in 2011.
The Aston Martin Vantage is a series of hand-built sports cars from the British automotive manufacturer Aston Martin. Aston Martin has previously used the "Vantage" name on high-performance variants of their existing GT models, notably on the Virage-based car of the 1990s. The modern car, in contrast, is the leanest and most agile car in Aston's lineup. As such, it is intended as a more focused model to reach out to potential buyers of cars such as the Porsche 911 as well as the exotic sports and GT cars with which Aston Martins traditionally compete.
The M156 is the first automobile V8 engine designed autonomously by Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Mercedes-AMG, as previous AMG engines have always been based on original Mercedes engines. The engine was designed to be a naturally aspirated racing unit, and is also used in a number of high-performance AMG-badged Mercedes-Benz models. The engine was designed by Bernd Ramler, famed by the design of the Porsche Carrera GT's 5.7-liter V-10 engine.
The Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is a GT1 sports car built and produced by Mercedes-Benz in conjunction with their then motorsport partner AMG. Intended for racing in the new FIA GT Championship series in 1997, the CLK GTR was designed primarily as a race car. As such, the production of road cars necessary in order to meet homologation standards of GT1 was a secondary consideration in the car's design, i.e. the CLK GTR was a homologation special.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204) is the third generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It was manufactured and marketed by Mercedes-Benz in sedan/saloon (2007–2014), station wagon/estate (2008–2014) and coupé (2011–2015) bodystyles, with styling by Karlheinz Bauer and Peter Pfeiffer.
The Porsche 911 GT2 is a high-performance, track-focused sports car built by the German automobile manufacturer Porsche from 1993 to 2009, and then since 2010 as the GT2 RS. It is based on the 911 Turbo, and uses a similar twin-turbocharged engine, but features numerous upgrades, including engine enhancements, larger brakes, and stiffer suspension calibration. The GT2 is significantly lighter than the Turbo due to its use of rear-wheel-drive instead of all-wheel-drive system and the reduction or removal of interior components. As a result, the GT2 is the most expensive and fastest model among the 911 lineup.
The Dodge Viper is a sports car that was manufactured by Dodge, a division of American car manufacturer Chrysler from 1992 until 2017, having taken a brief hiatus in 2007 and from 2010 to 2012. Production of the two-seat sports car began at New Mack Assembly Plant in 1991 and moved to Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in October 1995.
Reiter Engineering GmbH & Co Kg, commonly known simply as Reiter Engineering, is a German racing team and racing car manufacturer established in 2000 by motorsport engineer Hans Reiter.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a front mid-engine, 2-seater, limited production sports car developed by the Mercedes-AMG division of German automotive manufacturer Mercedes-Benz, with the assistance of David Coulthard. The car is the successor to the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren and was described by Mercedes-Benz as a spiritual successor to the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, mainly because it was inspired by the latter. SLS stands for "Super Leicht Sport".
Maro Engel is a German professional racing driver based in Monaco. He is a Mercedes-AMG factory driver since 2008 & brand ambassador since 2017.
Group GT3, known technically as Cup Grand Touring Cars and commonly referred to as simply GT3, is a set of regulations maintained by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) for grand tourer racing cars designed for use in various auto racing series throughout the world. The GT3 category was initially created in 2005 by the SRO Motorsports Group as a third rung in the ladder of grand touring motorsport, below the Group GT1 and Group GT2 categories which were utilized in the SRO's FIA GT Championship, and launched its own series in 2006 called the FIA GT3 European Championship. Since then, Group GT3 has expanded to become the de facto category for many national and international grand touring series, although some series modify the ruleset from the FIA standard. By 2013, nearly 20 automobile manufacturers have built or been represented with GT3 machines.
The Mercedes-AMG C-Coupé DTM is a silhouette racing car designed by Mercedes-Benz for the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters championship. Mercedes-Benz chose the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt to present the new 2012 DTM AMG Mercedes C-Coupé. It is the successor to the AMG-Mercedes C-Klasse race car which was permanently retired after the 2011 season. Since 2015 the car has been renamed Mercedes-AMG C63 DTM. The C-Coupé DTM was initially based on the C204 Mercedes-Benz C-Coupé; for the 2016 season it was updated to reflect the new C205 Mercedes-Benz C-Coupé body style.
The Aston Martin Vantage is a two-seater sports car built by British manufacturer Aston Martin since 2018. It replaced the previous model which had been in production for 12 years.
The Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé is an executive car (E-segment) introduced in 2018 by Mercedes-AMG. It is marketed as a five-door variant of the AMG GT two-door sports car. Despite the name and style, the GT 4-Door Coupé is closely related to E63 wagon with its performance chassis, and is featured by the AMG-specific rear frame and a different front axle for better kinematics.