From the crucible of the world’s most demanding racetracks emerges a vehicle that redefines the boundaries of road-legal performance: the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R. Never before has Mercedes-AMG infused a production car with such a potent dose of motorsport DNA. This exceptional machine, the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG, is engineered to deliver an unparalleled driving experience, seamlessly blending track-honed technology with everyday usability.
The foundation of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is a meticulously crafted front-mid-engine concept, featuring a transaxle configuration and a formidable 577 hp V8 Biturbo engine. Coupled with an extensively reworked suspension system, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and intelligent lightweight construction, the AMG GT R is purpose-built for dynamic driving exhilaration. Its visual identity is instantly striking, often showcased in the exclusive “AMG green hell magno” paint, a nod to its rigorous development at the infamous “Green Hell” of the Nürburgring.
The widened stance of the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG, achieved through broader front and rear fenders, facilitates an increased track width. This enhancement translates to superior grip and blistering cornering speeds. Aerodynamic efficiency is elevated by a newly sculpted front fascia with active elements, a prominent rear aerofoil, and a redesigned rear fascia incorporating a double diffuser. These features collectively optimize aerodynamic balance and ensure tenacious grip at high velocities. Lightweight forged wheels, shod with standard cup tires, are another key component in maximizing driving dynamics. Further bolstering its performance arsenal are advanced systems such as active rear-wheel steering, a nine-stage adjustable traction control system, and adjustable coil-over suspension with electronically controlled damping.
A defining visual cue of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is the distinctive AMG Panamericana grille. This iconic grille, characterized by its vertical fins, made its global debut on the Mercedes-AMG GT3 customer-sport racing car and now graces an AMG production vehicle for the first time, solidifying the AMG GT R‘s motorsport lineage.
Mercedes-AMG’s relentless pursuit of performance innovation culminates in the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG, expanding the pinnacle of their product portfolio. Professor Thomas Weber, then Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, emphasized this, stating, “Our sports-car and performance brand AMG has its roots in motorsport and, ever since its formation, has repeatedly faced up to the competition on the racetrack. These genes are particularly prevalent in the new AMG GT R. Boasting a wealth of technological innovations, the new top-of-the-range model is proof of the close collaboration between our constructors of racing cars and road-going vehicles.” This statement underscores the deep connection between AMG’s racing and road car development programs, perfectly embodied by the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Tobias Moers, former CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, further elaborated on the driving experience: “With the new AMG GT R, we have reached the next level of driving performance. This road-going sports car with motor-racing genes and innovative technical solutions offers an ultimate driving experience that allows people to feel our motorsport origins in every fiber. It combines the driving dynamics of our AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday practicality of the AMG GT. Those with gasoline in their veins will be thrilled by the radical longitudinal and lateral acceleration, the precise turn-in and the sensational grip. We have modified all performance-relevant components and linked them together intelligently for maximum driving dynamics,” highlighting the visceral and engaging nature of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R: Performance Data at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo with Dry-Sump Lubrication |
| Displacement | 3,982 cc |
| Output | 577 hp at 6,250 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 516 lb-ft at 1,900-5,500 rpm |
| Driven Wheels | Rear-wheel drive |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission |
| Weight (Euro spec) | 3,428 lbs |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio (Euro spec) | 5.94 lbs/Horsepower |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph (est.) | 3.5 s |
| Top Speed | 198 mph |
As the flagship model in the AMG GT family, the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R represents the pinnacle of AMG’s engineering prowess. Engineered with rigorous racetrack demands in mind, its development drew heavily on AMG’s extensive motorsport experience in AMG GT3 customer racing and the fiercely competitive German Touring Car Masters Series (DTM). The raw performance figures – a blistering 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 198 mph – are a testament to its capabilities, promising scorching lap times on any circuit. The signature “AMG green hell magno” paint not only visually connects the car to the Nürburgring Nordschleife, nicknamed the “Green Hell,” but also underscores the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG’s deep-seated racing pedigree.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R achieves its sharpened racetrack performance through a synergistic blend of intelligent lightweight construction, incorporating aluminum and carbon fiber, reinforced body shell elements, a potent Handcrafted 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine paired with a specifically tuned seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, innovative aerodynamics with active components, and a state-of-the-art suspension system featuring active rear-wheel steering and uniball joints.
The front mid-engine configuration and transaxle layout, proven hallmarks of the AMG GT and AMG GT S, contribute to an optimal rear-biased weight distribution (47.3 to 52.7 percent). This, combined with the vehicle’s remarkably low center of gravity, results in exceptional agility and allows for astonishingly high cornering velocities, making the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R a true track weapon.
Boasting a power-to-weight ratio of just 5.94 lbs. per horsepower, the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG commands a leading position in its performance segment.
Aerodynamic Harmony: Where Design Meets Engineering
The development of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R witnessed an unprecedented level of collaboration between aerodynamics specialists and design engineers. The guiding principle was AMG’s “Dynamic Presence” design philosophy, which shaped the car’s more athletic and assertive aesthetic. In this pursuit, form and function became inextricably linked. Every design element serves a technical purpose, contributing to enhanced driving dynamics, while the aerodynamics experts masterfully translated the designers’ vision into aerodynamic reality. This symbiotic relationship even spawned a groundbreaking innovation, now patent-pending, highlighting the advanced engineering behind the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG.
Beyond the aggressively sculpted bodywork and motorsport-derived components, the new AMG Panamericana grille commands immediate attention. This distinctive feature, directly borrowed from motorsport, makes its production debut on the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R. Its 15 chrome-plated vertical fins are a direct homage to the new AMG GT3 racing car. The fundamental design of this grille traces its lineage back to the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing car, which triumphed in the legendary Panamericana road race in Mexico in 1952, further cementing the AMG GT R‘s historical and motorsport connections.
Aggressive Front-End Design: Unbridled Forward Momentum
The low-slung front section and the forward-leaning radiator grille create a striking “shark nose” profile, visually lowering the car’s stance and conveying an impression of inherent speed and aggression. This design also serves a functional purpose by lowering the vehicle’s back-pressure point, thereby optimizing cooling airflow and enhancing aerodynamic efficiency. This meticulous attention to detail is a hallmark of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The more pronounced V-shape and arrow-like design of the front end amplify the dynamic visuals, embodying the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG’s relentless forward thrust, even when stationary. A front fascia featuring a completely redesigned jet-wing motif (inspired by the A-wing design) broadens the perceived width and gives the car a more grounded, road-hugging appearance. The generously sized outer air intakes in the front fascia, reminiscent of jet engine inlets, are crucial for meeting the increased cooling demands of the AMG GT R’s high-performance powertrain. These intakes are equipped with two aerodynamically optimized horizontal fins that effectively channel airflow towards the radiators.
The wide front splitter plays a key role in reducing lift at the front axle, contributing to enhanced stability at high speeds. Additional Air Curtains, positioned on the outer edges of the front fascia, manage airflow turbulence, improving the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R’s aerodynamic drag coefficient (Cd). These Air Curtains, with their narrow, vertical apertures, precisely guide air towards the wheel arches, optimizing airflow characteristics in this critical area. To ensure optimal airflow through the double wheel arch radiators, the AMG GT R incorporates innovative wheel arch liners featuring specialized cooling-air slits, demonstrating the comprehensive approach to thermal management.
Active Underbody Aerodynamics: A Hidden Innovation
A remarkable engineering achievement is the completely new active aerodynamics profile, discreetly integrated within the underbody ahead of the engine. In RACE mode and at speeds exceeding 50 mph, this lightweight carbon component, weighing a mere 4.4 lbs., automatically extends downwards by approximately 1.6 inches, dramatically altering airflow dynamics. This deployment generates the Venturi effect, effectively “sucking” the car closer to the road and reducing front-axle lift by around 88.2 lbs. at 155 mph. This sophisticated system is crucial for the exceptional handling of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The driver directly experiences the benefits of this technology through enhanced steering precision during high-speed cornering and improved directional stability. Particularly during rapid cornering maneuvers and under significant lateral acceleration, the AMG GT R exhibits heightened responsiveness with clear steering feedback, all while maintaining exceptional control.
Furthermore, this active underbody profile contributes to a reduced drag coefficient while preserving downforce on the rear axle, demonstrating a holistic approach to aerodynamic optimization.
This groundbreaking innovation underwent rigorous development, initially utilizing computer simulations and subsequently refined through extensive wind tunnel testing. The results were validated through comprehensive test drives, including demanding sessions on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. The discreet integration of the aerodynamics profile within the underbody ensures it seamlessly blends with the overall silhouette of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
When the electrically actuated profile is deployed, the radiator air outlet at the front end opens, precisely directing airflow towards the double rear diffuser, optimizing its aerodynamic effectiveness. This enhances rear axle handling stability and simultaneously reduces temperature build-up in critical rear-end components. Moreover, the aerodynamics package contributes to optimized braking performance by channeling increased cool air specifically to the wheel discs, further exemplifying the meticulous engineering of the AMG GT R. To safeguard against potential damage, the component is spring-mounted, allowing it to flex upwards upon encountering obstacles.
Active Air Management: Louvers for Optimized Airflow Control
Another technological highlight that refines the aerodynamics of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is the active air management system. This system utilizes vertical louvers positioned in the lower front fascia, directly behind the grille. These electronically controlled louvers can open and close within approximately one second via an electric motor, dynamically adjusting airflow and, consequently, aerodynamic performance.
Normally, these louvers remain closed – including at top speed, during braking, and during high-speed cornering. This closed configuration minimizes drag and directs air towards the underbody, further reducing front lift. Only when predefined component temperatures reach critical thresholds and cooling air demand becomes particularly high do the louvers open, allowing maximum cooling airflow to reach the heat exchangers, ensuring optimal thermal management for the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The comprehensive aerodynamics concept of the AMG GT R ensures an ideal balance between lift and downforce across all operational scenarios, while also achieving a reduced drag coefficient compared to the AMG GT and GT S models.
Broad Shoulders, Powerful Stance: The Side Profile
The front fenders, constructed from ultra-lightweight carbon fiber, contribute an additional 1.8 inches to the overall width of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R at the front. This widened stance accommodates the increased track width and larger wheel/tire combinations, enhancing both handling and visual aggression. The powerfully sculpted fenders further accentuate the car’s longitudinal dynamics. A distinctive fender vent, featuring a stylized fin and a large air outlet for dissipating heat from the engine bay, further distinguishes the AMG GT R. This vent is perforated and incorporates the AMG diamond logo with five elegant slats.
The side view is further enhanced by the optional new AMG Performance forged wheels in matte black. These exceptionally lightweight 10-spoke wheels are exclusive to the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG and feature a meticulously engineered design, including a drop-center rim, a milled groove, and two high-sheen rim rings of varying widths. The front wheels measure 10.0 J x 19, while the rear wheels are a substantial 12.0 J x 20. The lightweight design of these wheels yields multiple benefits: reduced overall weight, lower rotational inertia, and minimized unsprung mass. These advantages translate to improved efficiency, enhanced performance, and more precise suspension and steering response, positively impacting chassis and suspension control systems.
The open design of the wheels provides an unobstructed view of the brake calipers, finished in a distinctive yellow hue, exclusive to the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R. New side sill panels visually lower the car’s profile, while high-gloss black inserts add a touch of individualization. The door mirror housings also feature high-gloss black caps, further enhancing the car’s sporty aesthetic.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R comes standard with a high-grade carbon fiber roof, underscoring the vehicle’s high-contrast design and contributing to a lower center of gravity.
Rear-End Dominance: Width and Aerodynamic Mastery
The rear end of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R showcases a multitude of striking innovations. The new aluminum side walls broaden the rear by a total of 2.2 inches, creating space for the larger 20-inch wheels and wider track. These dimensional changes contribute to improved traction and enable higher cornering speeds, vital for racetrack performance.
The widened rear fascia design, featuring large outer vent openings and vertical swaging, optimizes airflow at the rear, as does the double diffuser. The double diffuser also enhances overall heat dissipation from the exhaust system by effectively venting warm air during driving.
A small air outlet, integrated between the tail lamps, further aids in dissipating heat generated by the rear silencer. A defining visual element of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is the large, centrally positioned exhaust tip with a center spar, located within the rear fascia. It is flanked by two additional black exhaust tips on either side within the diffuser, creating a distinctive and aggressive rear aesthetic.
The substantial, rigid rear wing, mounted directly on the hatch, significantly increases downforce on the rear axle. The aerofoil mounts are painted in body color, while the blade itself is finished in high-gloss black. Reflecting its motorsport origins, the precise angle of the wing blade can be manually adjusted to suit different track conditions or driving preferences, a feature directly derived from racing technology and crucial for optimizing the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R‘s performance.
The cumulative effect of all aerodynamic enhancements is a remarkable increase in surface contact at top speed by 342 lbs. compared to the standard AMG GT. The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R therefore offers maximum grip, exceptional drivability, and a powerfully proportioned design that seamlessly integrates its aerodynamic functions. Remarkably, despite its increased engine output, wider body, larger tires, prominent rear aerofoil, heightened cooling demands, and increased downforce, the AMG GT R achieves a lower drag coefficient (Cd) than the AMG GT, highlighting the sophisticated aerodynamic engineering.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension: Tailored for Track Precision
The suspension system of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is meticulously engineered for uncompromising racetrack performance. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers on both the front and rear axles are manufactured entirely from forged aluminum to minimize unsprung mass. The double-wishbone suspension design ensures precise wheel location with minimal elastic deformation. The high camber and toe-in stability facilitate high cornering speeds and provide the driver with optimal road feedback at the limits of adhesion, essential for track driving in the AMG GT R.
Uniball spherical bearings on the lower wishbones of the rear axle are directly inspired by motorsport. These bearings are significantly more wear-resistant than conventional wishbone bushings and, due to their design, eliminate play, ensuring that toe-in and camber remain consistent even under extreme loads. This translates to even greater driving precision for the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Furthermore, the rear axle is equipped with a thicker tubular anti-roll bar, specifically tuned to the heightened driving dynamics requirements of the AMG GT R and designed with a hollow core to save weight.
The new AMG coil-over suspension is bespoke to the Mercedes-Benz GTR AMG. Mirroring professional motorsport practice, drivers can fine-tune their personal suspension setup and infinitely adjust the spring pre-load manually. This allows for precise control over dive and roll characteristics, as well as grip levels, enabling drivers to tailor the AMG GT R to their individual preferences or specific racetrack demands.
The coil-over suspension is paired with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system. This electronically controlled system automatically adjusts damping at each wheel based on the prevailing driving situation, speed, and road conditions. Damping characteristics are modulated rapidly and precisely by two separate valves for rebound and compression forces within the dampers. A firmer damping rate, for instance during cornering and braking, effectively minimizes body roll. Continuous damping adjustment based on speed also ensures optimal road contact even at high velocities, enhancing safety and control in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Drivers can adjust the adaptive damping characteristics at the touch of a button via the AMG DRIVE UNIT or by selecting different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three damping modes are available: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus.” Each mode is designed for a specific driving scenario: “Comfort” is ideal for everyday road use; “Sport” is optimized for challenging racetracks like the Nürburgring Nordschleife, providing highly dynamic handling on undulating surfaces with maximum ground contact; and “Sport Plus” is best suited for flatter, modern Grand Prix circuits such as Hockenheim, conveying a high degree of structural rigidity for ultimate track performance in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Complementary suspension enhancements include the wider front and rear track and standard-fit Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, sized 275/35 ZR 19 at the front and 325/30 ZR 20 at the rear. These street-legal racing tires facilitate faster lap times and offer up to 50 percent greater mileage on the racetrack, further demonstrating the track-focused nature of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Agility and Stability Redefined: Active Rear-Wheel Steering
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R exhibits even sharper steering responsiveness thanks to standard-fit active rear-wheel steering, a technology making its debut on a Mercedes-AMG model. This system achieves an ideal fusion of agility and stability – handling characteristics that typically present a trade-off.
Two steering actuators replace conventional control arms on the rear axle of the AMG GT R. At the core of the system are two electro-mechanical actuators (electric motors with jackscrew) that operate independently of the mechanical steering linkage. This “by-wire” system electronically adjusts the rear wheels within a predefined operating map. The maximum toe angle change on the rear wheels of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is 1.5 degrees.
At speeds up to 62 mph, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels, effectively shortening the wheelbase virtually. This enhances the AMG GT R’s agility when cornering, resulting in increased driving enjoyment and reduced steering effort – particularly on tight and winding roads, narrow racetracks with frequent directional changes, or during slalom maneuvers. Additional benefits include improved maneuverability and a tighter turning circle in everyday driving situations, especially beneficial for parking.
Once the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R exceeds 62 mph, the system steers the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, effectively lengthening the wheelbase virtually and enhancing handling stability. Simultaneously, lateral force builds up significantly faster on the rear wheels during directional changes, resulting in quicker steering response. Drivers will notice that the AMG GT R delivers exceptional grip on the rear axle and robust stability during rapid directional changes, eliminating the twitchiness often perceived at the rear end in high-performance cars.
Active rear-wheel steering not only enhances cornering prowess but also assists the driver during sudden evasive maneuvers, improving active safety and making the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R more controllable at the limits of its performance envelope.
The standard 3-stage ESP® system, offering “ESP ON,” “ESP SPORT Handling Mode,” and “ESP OFF” settings, works in perfect synergy with the limited-slip differential and is meticulously calibrated to the exceptional driving dynamics of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R. The programming for the ESP OFF mode is directly derived from the AMG GT3 racecar, highlighting the car’s racing DNA.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Grip Amplified to Nine Levels
In ESP OFF mode, another groundbreaking innovation empowers the driver to exert even greater influence over the handling characteristics of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R: the new AMG TRACTION CONTROL system. This system, directly transplanted from motorsport, allows drivers to pre-select the slip level on the driven rear axle across nine distinct stages. Mirroring the technology in the current AMG GT3 race car, it precisely manages grip on the driven wheels without compromising the stabilization provided by the ESP® system. Corresponding characteristic maps are programmed into the vehicle’s electronics.
Control is managed via a dedicated rotary switch situated on the center console, below the ventilation outlets. Depending on the selected setting, the system permits varying degrees of slip on the rear wheels, a particularly valuable feature in fluctuating road conditions. Level 1 is calibrated for driving in wet conditions with a high margin of safety. Level 9 unlocks maximum slip on the rear axle, enabling highly skilled drivers to explore the absolute limits of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R’s performance. A luminous band of LEDs encircling the rotary switch visually indicates the current setting – a display logic also inspired by motorsport. The selected setting is also displayed within the instrument cluster’s central display.
The AMG-developed system possesses a significant advantage over conventional traction control systems by proactively anticipating situations using a virtual µ(mu) simulator and other data processed by a control unit in fractions of a second. The maximum permissible slip on the driven rear wheels is calculated based on the chosen AMG TRACTION CONTROL level. When the wheels reach this slip threshold during acceleration, the traction control system modulates engine output to maintain the pre-set slip level, allowing the vehicle to continue accelerating with optimized traction. The influence of the electronic limited-slip differential is also integrated into the system’s control parameters. This seamless and instantaneous control enhances both driving pleasure and overall performance in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
This system provides crucial assistance during one of the most challenging aspects of performance driving: precisely modulating engine torque and torque application when accelerating out of corners. Precise power delivery upon corner exit is paramount for achieving fast lap times, and the AMG TRACTION CONTROL system in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is engineered to optimize this critical element of performance driving.
Electronically Controlled Rear-Axle Limited-Slip Differential: Enhanced Traction
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R comes standard with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the rear axle, seamlessly integrated within the compact transmission housing. Its sensitive and rapid control elevates physical handling limits to unprecedented levels. It not only further enhances the grip of the driven wheels but also increases cornering speeds at the limit. The system operates with variable locking action during acceleration and deceleration, and is meticulously calibrated to accommodate diverse handling conditions and road surface friction coefficients, ensuring optimal traction and stability in the AMG GT R.
Speed-Sensitive Sports Steering: Variable Ratio Precision
The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable steering ratio, enhancing vehicle handling and agility at lower speeds while maintaining unwavering driving stability at higher velocities. The power assistance is particularly sophisticated, responding not only to vehicle speed but also to lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. The result is that the driver enjoys exceptional feedback and feel for the road, thanks to the direct connection and responsiveness of the steering system in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Race-Ready Interior: Sport-Focused Design
The interior of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is meticulously designed to provide the driver with an ideal environment for high-performance driving, drawing strong inspiration from motorsport. AMG Performance Seats, also featured in the AMG GT S, upholstered in Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber, are standard equipment. These seats provide essential lateral support even during extreme driving maneuvers. Optional yellow seat belts, dials with yellow accents, AMG Black Piano Lacquer interior trim, and specialized controls, including those for the new AMG TRACTION CONTROL system, further underscore the unique character of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The wide dashboard design evokes the image of a powerful wing, continuing the aviation-inspired design theme. Four central spotlight-style vents and individual vents at the dashboard’s extremities reinforce this impression. Combined with the high beltlines, concave door paneling, and dynamic center console, the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R interior exudes exceptional sportiness and seamlessly integrates the driver into the cockpit, thanks to the low seating position.
The dominant center console, shaped like a NACA air intake duct, and the authentic, high-quality materials employed, create the impression of being directly transplanted from a race car. Positioned centrally, the free-standing central display serves as another eye-catching feature. Attention to detail is further evident in the AMG DRIVE UNIT controls, arranged in a V-layout reminiscent of eight cylinders. These controls emphasize the powerful and technologically advanced nature of the center console in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The new AMG Interior Night package is also available, featuring high-gloss black finishes for the shift paddles, steering wheel bezel, door sills, and trunk cross member. This package, in conjunction with the standard AMG Interior Piano Lacquer package, further accentuates the interior’s sporty character. Customers can also opt for trim elements in matte black carbon fiber, further personalizing their Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
AMG Lightweight Performance: More Equipment, Less Weight
Weight management is a critical factor influencing the performance of any sports car. Mercedes-AMG employs an intelligent material mix in the structure of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R. Various aluminum alloys are used for the chassis and body, steel for the trunk lid, and magnesium for the front deck. This exceptionally lightweight front deck element reduces inertia ahead of the front axle, enhancing the vehicle’s agility and responsiveness.
The weight-optimized spaceframe is constructed from die-cast and extruded aluminum sections. The high bending and torsional strength of this design enables the absorption and transfer of extreme linear and transverse forces from the drivetrain and suspension. Unwanted flex is minimized, resulting in precise and direct vehicle response. Consequently, the driver experiences a sports car with maximum dynamic capabilities and outstanding precision, hallmarks of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
A multitude of additional measures contribute to weight reduction as part of AMG’s lightweight-performance strategy. Carbon fiber, a lightweight and high-strength material derived from motorsport, is extensively used to achieve ambitious weight targets. Carbon fiber is the material of choice for components such as the front fenders, roof, and the torque tube connecting the engine and transmission in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Weighing a mere 30.6 lbs., the carbon-fiber torque tube is approximately 40 percent lighter than its already weight-optimized aluminum counterpart in the AMG GT. As a structural component of the transaxle drivetrain, it establishes a connection between the engine and transmission with exceptional flexural and torsional stiffness. This facilitates a very direct drivetrain connection, beneficial for driving dynamics, and also contributes to the vehicle’s balanced weight distribution in the AMG GT R. Further weight savings are achieved through standard-fit forged wheels, a titanium rear silencer, and reduced soundproofing materials.
Carbon-Fiber Tunnel Cross Brace: Maximizing Torsional Rigidity
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R features a new carbon-fiber tunnel cross brace, replacing three separate aluminum components found in the standard AMG GT. This cross brace is mounted beneath the exhaust system and torque tube. AMG engineers designed this lightweight component to reduce weight while simultaneously increasing torsional rigidity.
The carbon tunnel brace significantly stiffens the body structure, enhancing its resistance to the high torsional loads encountered during aggressive driving, especially on track. It effectively braces the two vehicle sides against each other in the torque tube tunnel area, increasing torsional rigidity by approximately 7.5 percent. This improvement is particularly noteworthy given that the standard AMG GT already boasts a high level of torsional rigidity. Drivers of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R will immediately perceive an exceptionally precise driving feel, maintained even under extreme vehicle loads at the dynamic limits. The enhanced body composure allows for even greater control of the AMG GT R, particularly in challenging racetrack conditions such as fast and bumpy corners.
Finally, two diagonal braces within the engine bay further stiffen the front end. In the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R, these braces are also constructed from carbon fiber, resulting in weight savings of approximately 50 percent compared to traditional steel components.
Composite Wheel-Catch Struts: Intelligent Material Mix
AMG’s lightweight construction specialists employ an intelligent material mix for the wheel-catch struts, crafted from a composite material. In the event of an accident, these components help guide and contain the front wheels towards the side members as part of the vehicle’s crash kinematics. These composite struts are approximately 50 percent lighter than comparable steel components. Compared to carbon fiber, the composite material offers the advantage of being significantly more deformable while maintaining robust material strength, optimizing safety and weight efficiency in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
High-Performance Braking: Fade-Resistance and Consistent Power
The high-performance composite brake system ensures exceptional deceleration and high fade-resistance, featuring internally ventilated and perforated 15.4-inch diameter brake discs on the front axle and 14.2-inch discs on the rear axle. The brake calipers are painted in yellow, visually distinguishing the braking system of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
A ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. This system offers advantages including a weight saving of over 37 lbs., extended service life, and even greater fade resistance, thanks to ceramic brake discs measuring 15.8 inches in diameter at the front and 14.2 inches at the rear, further enhancing the track capability of the AMG GT R.
Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo: Power, Torque, and Responsiveness
The heart of this high-performance athlete, the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R, beats stronger than ever. The Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine delivers a formidable 577 hp, a 74 hp increase over the previous top-of-the-range engine in the AMG GT S. Peak torque remains at a massive 516 lb-ft, available across a broad rev range from 1,900 to 5,500 rpm.
This power increase was achieved through enhancements including new turbochargers with modified compressor machining, smaller wastegate aneroid capsules, and refined engine mapping. Boost pressure from the turbochargers has been elevated from 17.4 psi in the AMG GT S to 19.6 psi in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R. Additionally, the exhaust ports have been optimized and the compression ratio modified, resulting in a comprehensively retuned combustion process.
A correspondingly revised accelerator pedal mapping, charge-pressure build-up, and transmission parameters ensure even more spontaneous engine response to load changes and even faster gear shifts. The two-mass flywheel, weighing 1.5 lbs. less than its counterpart in the AMG GT S, also contributes to the heightened agility of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The eight-cylinder engine delivers thrillingly spontaneous response, precisely metered power output, and linear power delivery with potent thrust across the entire engine speed range. This characteristic makes the car significantly more controllable at the limits of its performance. To achieve this, the sophisticated engine control electronics factor in the current driving state and adjust accelerator pedal mapping based on prevailing lateral g-forces, ensuring optimal control in the AMG GT R.
The Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine features proven twin-scroll turbochargers, positioned not externally to the cylinder banks but within the V configuration – a “hot inside V” design. This configuration offers benefits including a compact engine design, instantaneous turbocharger response with minimal turbo lag, and reduced exhaust gas emissions thanks to optimized airflow to the close-coupled catalytic converters. This core principle of the new AMG V8 family has been further refined for the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R, enabling even greater performance. Maximum charge pressure reaches 19.6 psi, and the turbochargers can spin at speeds up to 186,000 revolutions per minute.
For optimal power output even in high ambient temperatures, Mercedes-AMG employs indirect air-to-water intercooling in the AMG GT R. With optimized air and water flow, the intercoolers feature a separate, two-stage low-temperature water circuit. The first cooler stage incorporates two parallel coolers within the left and right wheel arches. Combined with the large radiator at the front of the vehicle as a second radiator stage, the system is even more effective than in the AMG GT S. Downstream water-cooled intercoolers ensure that the charge air, compressed and heated by the turbochargers, is effectively cooled before entering the combustion chambers, maintaining a consistently low temperature even under full load. A large front-mounted radiator ensures controlled cooling of the water circulating within the low-temperature circuit. Extremely short charge-air ducting contributes to optimized responsiveness in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The combination of twin turbochargers and direct injection with spray-guided combustion enhances thermodynamic efficiency and power output. Highly precise and rapid piezo injectors spray fuel at high pressure into the eight combustion chambers. Multiple injections occur on demand, ensuring a homogenous fuel/air mixture. Fuel delivery is electronically controlled and fully variable, with fuel pressure ranging from 1,450 to 2,900 psi.
The aluminum crankcase is manufactured using sand casting technology and features a closed-deck design. This ensures extreme strength while minimizing weight and enabling high injection pressures up to 2,030 psi in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The NANOSLIDE® coating on the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula One engines of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS. It is significantly harder than conventional cast-iron liners and exhibits reduced wear. Furthermore, its reduced friction, in conjunction with aluminum forged pistons, helps to improve engine efficiency.
Four overhead camshafts control a total of 32 valves. Camshaft adjustment on both the intake and exhaust sides enables excellent throttle response and optimizes the gas cycle for each operating point in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Dry sump lubrication ensures a consistent oil supply even under high lateral forces and allows for a lower engine installation position, moving the center of gravity closer to the road and forming the foundation for high lateral acceleration capabilities in the AMG GT R.
The engine for the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is meticulously hand-assembled in AMG’s Affalterbach production facility, following the “One Man – One Engine” philosophy. Each engine is assembled by a highly qualified engine builder who adheres to the strictest quality standards. This engineer is responsible for every step, from installing the crankshaft and camshafts to wiring the engine and filling it with oil – a testament to individual craftsmanship clearly evidenced by the signature on the AMG engine badge.
AMG Performance DCT: Enhanced for Racetrack Demands
The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, configured in a transaxle layout at the rear axle, has undergone extensive revisions by AMG engineers to optimize it for racetrack performance in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R. Both hardware and software have been modified. First gear in the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission features a longer ratio, while seventh gear and the final drive have shorter ratios. This configuration results in more agile acceleration overall and exceptionally spontaneous response to rapid accelerator pedal inputs.
Previous limitations governing shift performance and response times have been significantly surpassed. The RACE START function is now even more impressive, thanks to increased starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip control, and racetrack-ready sports tires. Furthermore, transmission cooling has been adapted to meet the more demanding thermal loads of racetrack driving in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Drivers can tailor the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R to their individual preferences using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT controller. Various modes are available: “C” (Comfort), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport Plus), and “I” (Individual). The “RACE” mode optimally calibrates the dual-clutch transmission’s shift strategy for racetrack use – prioritizing the shortest shift times and a highly emotive engine sound. By pressing the separate “M” button on the center console, the driver can engage manual transmission mode in any drive setting, providing ultimate control over gear selection in the AMG GT R.
Dynamic Engine and Transmission Mounts: Comfort and Agility Harmonized
Dynamic engine and transmission mounts are standard equipment in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R. Engine and transmission mounts play a critical role in transaxle designs. Softer mounts enhance comfort by effectively decoupling noise and vibration, while stiffer mounts generally improve handling and agility.
Mercedes-AMG resolved this inherent conflict by implementing dynamic mounts that continuously and almost instantaneously adjust their stiffness based on prevailing driving conditions and handling demands. A specialized control unit identifies driving scenarios based on CAN data, communicating with the electronic limited-slip rear differential to ensure optimally balanced driving dynamics in the AMG GT R. AMG has further refined this technology by independently actuating the engine and transmission mounts. This innovative solution provides a substantial improvement in driving precision and lateral dynamics, enhancing the overall driving experience in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
AMG Performance Sports Exhaust System: Pure Sound Unleashed
The specially developed exhaust system not only delivers an authentic racing car sound but also contributes to weight savings, reducing weight by approximately 13 lbs. compared to the AMG GT S, thanks to the use of titanium for the rear silencer and thin-walled stainless steel for the front section of the exhaust system in the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The large, hexagonal tailpipe tip, centrally positioned in the rear fascia, emphatically underscores the car’s motorsport character. Two additional tailpipes are located to the left and right within the diffuser. Their tips are sheathed in carbon fiber, mirroring motorsport practice, to protect the diffuser from high exhaust temperatures. The exhaust system features two infinitely variable exhaust flaps as standard, directly influencing the sound of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
The exhaust flaps open and close depending on the selected AMG DRIVE SELECT mode, but can also be individually controlled via a dedicated button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In “Comfort” and “Sport” modes, the low-frequency V8 sound is tuned for comfort. In “Sport Plus” and “RACE” modes, the sound composition becomes significantly more emotive and aggressive, delivering the raw and visceral soundtrack expected of a high-performance machine like the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R.
Market Introduction
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R made its global debut on June 24, 2016, at Mercedes-Benz World, located at the historic Brooklands racing circuit in England. The car was anticipated to arrive at US dealerships by mid-2017, bringing its unparalleled blend of motorsport technology and road-legal performance to American enthusiasts.
*European specification adapted for the USA; US figures may vary.
