The most powerful AMG V8 series engine of all time, the most expressive design, the most elaborate aerodynamics, the most intelligent material mix, the most distinctive driving dynamics: for the new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, the Affalterbach designers have pulled out all the stops when it comes to the art of vehicle design.
The new super sports car perfectly embodies the brand’s rich tradition in motorsport, as well its many years of expertise in developing complete vehicles which impress in every respect. The result is an output of 537 kW (730 hp) from a V8 engine with a “flat” crankshaft, combined with active aerodynamics and a design which stems directly from the current AMG GT3 racing car.
Exclusive automotive rarities
At Mercedes-AMG, the Black Series has been synonymous with a very special type of car since 2006: uncompromisingly sporty, with an expressive design and the most consistent technology transfer from motorsport to series production. Black Series models are exclusive automotive rarities. They have not been developed to gather dust in collectors’ garages, but for high-speed use on racetracks, despite being approved for roads. The AMG GT Black Series represents a new highlight in this tradition: it is the most powerful Mercedes-AMG with a V8 series engine.
AMG milestone
In order to emphasise the redefinition of the super sports car, the engine specialists in Affalterbach have once again further developed the tried-and-tested 4.0-litre biturbo unit – despite it already being renowned for excellent driveability, power delivery and torque progression. The specifications were clear: significantly more power than the previous flagship model of the AMG GT family, an even more agile throttle response, maximum torque – all of which meant that a radical change was needed in the form of a new, “flat” crankshaft.
“The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive highlight and continues a tradition established in 2006. The sixth version of its kind is another AMG milestone and impressive proof of the incredible development expertise in Affalterbach. I am proud of the team who have created a unique super sports car, which now represents the absolute peak of our successful GT family. The performance, looks and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are second to none. This project was a fantastic end to my work at AMG, for which I am truly thankful,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The most powerful V8 series engine from Mercedes-AMG
The new GT Black Series engine may be based on the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with dry sump lubrication, but it has been given the new internal code M178 LS2 due to the numerous modifications. It achieves 537 kW (730 hp) at 6,700-6,900 rpm and delivers a maximum torque of 800 Nm at 2,000-6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are adapted to the new firing order and further improve the gas cycle.
0-200 km/h in under nine seconds
What does the engine do for the AMG GT Black Series? It gives it a completely independent character, which is not only reflected in the type of power delivery, but also in its very particular sound pattern. And it enables highly impressive driving performance: the two-door vehicle shoots from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, and to 200 km/h in under nine seconds. The top speed is 325 km/h.
Bonnet with two large exhaust air openings
Another direct derivative from motorsport is the new carbon-fibre bonnet, with two large exhaust air outlets made from black finished carbon surfaces. The large outlets guide the warm air, which is fed from the diagonally positioned cooling pack, out of the engine compartment. This technology is also directly derived from motorsport and increases the overall downforce. At the same time, the air resistance is reduced, and the air mass flow for cooling the engine is optimised. The air is also specifically guided around the A-pillars and side windows to the rear, where it increases the efficiency of the new rear aerofoil concept. The seamlessly integrated louvres (air slots), with five fins in the body colour and exhaust air openings behind the wheels in the front carbon-fibre wings, help to increase downforce at the front axle by means of effective wheel arch ventilation. The air flowing around the vehicle is also optimised by the new, significantly larger and wider side sill panels with black carbon-fibre elements, which merge into vertical blades at the front and rear. Additional cooling air ducts are integrated into the side sill panels for brake cooling at the rear axle.
Two-stage rear aerofoil concept
The rear view is characterised by the new rear apron with a large diffuser, two rounded twin tailpipe trims on the outside left and right, side wheel arch ventilation, and the innovative rear aerofoil concept. Both aerofoil blades are made from carbon fibre, can be mechanically adjusted and therefore adapted to various track conditions. The second, lower positioned blade was made particularly small and narrow because this is ideal for the air arriving from the front of the car. The light yet robust carbon-fibre aerofoil supports, painted matt black and specially designed based on extensive simulations also increase aerodynamic efficiency. They are bolted to the carbon-fibre tailgate, which is also black.
Four different activation strategies can be run, depending on whether AMG DYNAMICS Basic, Advanced, Pro or Master has been selected. Some of these strategies also involve driving dynamics recognition, for example, Master: the flap is permanently inclined and extended up to 250 km/h. When the speed exceeds 250 km/h, it retracts in order to reduce the air resistance and thus reach the top speed more quickly. However, if the driver brakes suddenly or steers into a corner, the flap immediately returns to its extended position in order to optimise braking and cornering thanks to increased downforce and air resistance. The flap can also be retracted or extended by the driver using a separate button in the centre console.
Orange as an exclusive contrasting colour
The interior design emphasises the pole position of the AMG GT Black Series: exclusive nappa leather is combined with sporty DINAMICA microfibre in black with orange contrasting topstitching. The instrument panel and the newly designed lightweight door panels, which are now equipped with loop pull handles instead of conventional handles, are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfibre. Further orange contrasting topstitching, matt black carbon-fibre trim and the Interior Night Package add further striking highlights. The AMG carbon-fibre bucket seats (not available in the USA, Canada and China) combine low weight with optimum lateral support. In the USA, Canada and China, the Black Series is equipped with AMG Performance seats as standard. The interior is also optionally available with grey contrasting topstitching.
Even closer to motorsport with AMG Track Package
The AMG Track Package is available as an option in several markets (only in combination with the AMG carbon-fibre bucket seats – not for the USA, Canada and China). It comprises a roll-over protection system, 4-point seatbelts for driver and front passenger, and a 2 kg fire extinguisher (both items exclusively designed for racetrack use). The lightweight bolted titanium-tube cage of the roll-over protection system consists of a main roll bar, a brace for mounting the seat belts, two rear braces and a diagonal X-brace at the rear. The system further increases the already excellent vehicle rigidity and thus also has a positive influence on the vehicle’s driving dynamics. It also increases passive safety.
