From the crucible of the Nürburgring’s “Green Hell,” Mercedes-AMG introduces a vehicle that blurs the lines between racetrack and road: the Benz Gtr Amg. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a symphony of motorsport technology meticulously engineered for the ultimate driving experience. The AMG GT R takes the front-mid-engine concept, transaxle configuration, and the potent V8 Biturbo engine to exhilarating new heights, delivering a staggering 577 hp. Extensively modified suspension, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and intelligent lightweight construction coalesce to forge a driving experience that is as visceral as it is refined.
Even before you hear the roar of its engine, the exclusive “AMG green hell magno” paintwork proclaims the Benz GTR AMG’s pedigree. Born and bred in the relentless “Green Hell” of the Nürburgring, this sports car is visually and technically sculpted for peak performance. Wider fenders, both front and rear, accommodate an increased track width, ensuring tenacious grip and breathtaking cornering prowess. The redesigned front fascia with active aerodynamic elements, a prominent rear aerofoil, and a new rear fascia incorporating a double diffuser, all work in concert to maximize aerodynamic efficiency and ensure unwavering grip. Lightweight forged wheels, shod with cup tires as standard, are further testament to the Benz GTR AMG’s unwavering commitment to driving dynamics. Innovative features like active rear-wheel steering, a nine-way adjustable traction control system, and adjustable coil-over suspension with electronic control amplify the driving experience, offering unparalleled levels of precision and customization. Crowning the assertive front end, the new AMG Panamericana grille, with its iconic vertical fins, makes its production vehicle debut on the Benz GTR AMG, a feature first showcased on the Mercedes-AMG GT3 customer-sport racing car.
Alt text: Striking Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R in exclusive AMG Green Hell Magno paint, showcasing its aggressive stance and motorsport origins.
Mercedes-AMG’s relentless pursuit of performance and expansion of its top-tier product range culminates in the Benz GTR AMG. Professor Thomas Weber, then Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, underscored this commitment: “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 collaboration is the lifeblood of the Benz GTR AMG, infusing it with the spirit of competition and a relentless drive for innovation.
Tobias Moers, former CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, captured the essence of the Benz GTR AMG with palpable enthusiasm: “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.” The Benz GTR AMG is more than just a car; it’s an experience, an adrenaline-fueled embodiment of AMG’s motorsport heritage.
| Mercedes-AMG GT R | |
|---|---|
| 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 | 3,428 lbs (Euro spec; US spec may vary) |
| Power-to-weight ratio | 5.94 lbs/Horsepower (Euro spec; US spec may vary) |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.5 s (est.) |
| Top speed | 198 mph |
As the third and most formidable member of the AMG GT family, the Benz GTR AMG stands as the undisputed flagship of the AMG model range. Engineered with track dominance as its core mission, the Benz GTR AMG is a showcase of pioneering technologies, drawing heavily from AMG’s extensive motorsport endeavors in AMG GT3 customer racing and the fiercely competitive German Touring Car Masters Series (DTM). Blistering performance figures – 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 198 mph – are not just numbers; they translate directly to exhilaratingly fast lap times on the racetrack. The exclusive “AMG green hell magno” paint serves as a constant visual reminder of the car’s Nürburgring origins, the legendary “North Loop,” a place synonymous with automotive испытание and triumph. The Benz GTR AMG’s razor-sharp racetrack prowess is further honed by intelligent lightweight construction utilizing aluminum and carbon, strategic body shell reinforcements, a potent Handcrafted 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine mated to a specifically calibrated seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, advanced aerodynamics with active elements, and an innovative suspension system featuring active rear-wheel steering and uniball joints.
Alt text: Close-up of the Benz GTR AMG Panamericana grille, highlighting its vertical chrome fins inspired by the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing car and AMG GT3.
The foundation of the Benz GTR AMG’s exceptional handling lies in its front mid-engine and transaxle configuration, a proven formula inherited from the AMG GT and AMG GT S. This layout optimizes weight distribution, achieving a rear-biased split of 47.3 to 52.7. Coupled with the car’s remarkably low center of gravity, this translates to unparalleled agility and the ability to sustain phenomenal cornering speeds. Boasting a power-to-weight ratio of 5.94 lbs. per hp, the Benz GTR AMG decisively claims pole position within its performance segment.
Synergy Between Design and Aerodynamic Expertise
The development of the Benz GTR AMG witnessed an unprecedented level of collaboration between aerodynamics engineers and designers. The guiding principle of AMG’s design philosophy, “Dynamic Presence,” shaped the car’s more athletic and strikingly distinct aesthetic. Here, form unequivocally follows function, and function, in turn, enhances form. Every design element serves a technical purpose, contributing to the car’s enhanced driving dynamics, while aerodynamic specialists masterfully translated the designers’ vision into tangible reality. This synergistic approach even spawned a groundbreaking innovation, now the subject of patent applications.
Beyond the powerfully sculpted body and motorsport-derived components, the new AMG Panamericana grille commands attention. This distinctive feature, directly imported from the realm of motorsport, makes its standard-production debut on the Benz GTR AMG. Its 15 chrome-plated vertical fins are a direct homage to the new AMG GT3 racing car. The fundamental design of this radiator grille traces its lineage back to the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing car, victor of the grueling Panamericana road race in Mexico in 1952.
Unleashed Potential, Even at a Standstill: The Front End
The low-slung front section and aggressively forward-leaning radiator grille create a captivating “shark nose” profile, visually lowering the car’s stance and projecting an image of latent power. This design also strategically lowers the vehicle’s back-pressure point, optimizing cooling airflow and enhancing overall aerodynamic efficiency.
The more pronounced V-shape and arrow-like contours of the front end amplify its dynamic visual appeal, embodying the Benz GTR AMG’s unrestrained forward momentum, even when stationary. A front fascia featuring a completely redesigned jet-wing design (inspired by the A-wing) broadens the car’s visual presence, giving it a more planted, road-hugging appearance. The large outer air intakes integrated into the front fascia, reminiscent of jet engine inlets, ensure that the increased cooling demands of the Benz GTR AMG’s high-performance powertrain are met. Aerodynamically sculpted horizontal fins within these intakes effectively channel airflow towards the radiators.
The wide front splitter plays a crucial role in reducing lift at the front axle. Additional Air Curtains positioned at the outer edges of the front fascia smooth airflow, contributing to the Benz GTR AMG’s improved drag coefficient. These Air Curtains, with their narrow, vertical openings, precisely direct airflow towards the wheel arches, optimizing flow characteristics in this critical area. To guarantee optimal airflow through the double wheel arch radiators, the Benz GTR AMG incorporates innovative wheel arch liners with specialized cooling-air slits.
Revolutionary Active Aerodynamics Profile in the Underbody
A truly remarkable engineering achievement lies in the completely new active aerodynamics profile, discreetly integrated into the underbody ahead of the engine. At speeds exceeding 50 mph in RACE mode, this carbon fiber component, weighing a mere 4.4 lbs., automatically extends downwards by approximately 1.6 inches, dramatically altering airflow dynamics. This ingenious mechanism generates the Venturi effect, effectively “sucking” the car closer to the road and reducing front-axle lift by an impressive 88.2 lbs. at 155 mph.
This translates directly to enhanced steering feel for the driver. The Benz GTR AMG exhibits even sharper steering response during high-speed cornering and demonstrates superior directional stability. Particularly during aggressive cornering maneuvers and under high lateral acceleration, the Benz GTR AMG delivers remarkably agile responses with clear, communicative steering feedback, while maintaining exceptional controllability at all times.
Furthermore, this active profile contributes to a reduction in drag coefficient, while maintaining consistent downforce on the rear axle. This innovation was conceived through advanced computer simulations and rigorously refined during extensive wind tunnel testing. Real-world validation was achieved through exhaustive test drives, including demanding sessions on the Nürburgring’s North Circuit. The discreet integration of this aerodynamics profile within the underbody ensures seamless harmony with the car’s overall silhouette.
When the electrically actuated profile extends, the radiator air outlet at the front end opens, precisely guiding airflow towards the double rear diffuser, optimizing its aerodynamic performance. This enhances rear axle handling stability and simultaneously reduces temperature buildup in critical rear-end hotspots. The aerodynamics package also contributes to optimized braking performance by channeling cooler air directly to the wheel discs. Engineered for durability, the component is spring-mounted, allowing it to flex upwards in the event of unforeseen road debris.
Active Air Management: Louvers for Optimized Airflow
Another technological highlight enhancing the Benz GTR AMG’s aerodynamic prowess is the active air management system. This system employs vertical louvers positioned in the lower section, directly behind the front fascia. Electronically controlled, these louvers can open and close in approximately one second via an electric motor, precisely regulating airflow and optimizing aerodynamic performance.
Alt text: Close-up view of the Benz GTR AMG’s active air management system louvers behind the front fascia, showcasing its innovative aerodynamic technology.
Under normal driving conditions, including at top speed, during braking, and during high-speed cornering, the louvers remain closed. This configuration minimizes drag and directs airflow towards the underbody, further reducing front lift. Only when predefined component temperatures reach critical thresholds and cooling air demand is exceptionally high do the louvers open, allowing maximum cooling airflow to reach the heat exchangers.
The comprehensive aerodynamics concept of the Benz GTR AMG ensures an optimal balance between lift and downforce across all operating conditions, and achieves a reduced drag coefficient compared to the AMG GT and GT S models.
Powerful and Elongated: The Side Profile
The front fenders, crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, contribute an additional 1.8 inches to the Benz GTR AMG’s overall width at the front, creating space for the wider track and larger wheel and tire combinations. The powerfully sculpted fenders further accentuate the car’s inherent longitudinal dynamism. A distinctive fender vent, featuring a stylized fin and a large air outlet for engine bay heat dissipation, further differentiates the model. This fin is perforated and incorporates the iconic AMG diamond logo with five slats.
The side view is further enhanced by the new, optional AMG Performance forged wheels finished in matte black. These exceptionally lightweight 10-spoke wheels are exclusive to the Benz GTR AMG, featuring 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 rears are a substantial 12.0 J x 20. The lightweight design of these wheels yields a trifecta of benefits: reduced overall weight, minimized rotational mass, and decreased unsprung mass. These reductions enhance efficiency and performance, while also enabling 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, uniquely finished in yellow for the Benz GTR AMG. New side sill panels visually lower the car’s stance, while high-gloss black inserts add a touch of individualization. The door mirror housings also feature high-gloss black caps.
The Benz GTR AMG comes standard with a high-grade carbon fiber roof, reinforcing the car’s high-contrast aesthetic and lowering its center of gravity.
Width and Aerodynamic Optimization: The Rear End
The rear end of the Benz GTR AMG is equally replete with striking innovations. New aluminum side walls widen the rear by a total of 2.2 inches, accommodating the larger 20-inch wheels and wider track. These enhancements contribute to improved traction and enable higher cornering speeds.
The widened rear fascia design, incorporating 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.
A discreet air outlet integrated between the tail lamps further aids in dissipating heat generated by the rear silencer. A defining characteristic of the Benz GTR AMG is the large, centrally positioned exhaust tip with a center spar, integrated into the rear fascia. It is flanked by two additional black exhaust tips on the left and right within the diffuser.
The large, fixed rear wing, mounted on the hatch, significantly increases downforce on the rear axle. The aerofoil mounts are painted in the vehicle’s body color, while the blade is finished in high-gloss black. The blade’s angle is manually adjustable, allowing for fine-tuning based on driving conditions and racetrack demands – a technique directly borrowed from motorsport.
The cumulative effect of all aerodynamic enhancements is a 342 lbs increase in surface contact at top speed compared to the standard AMG GT. The Benz GTR AMG delivers maximum grip, exceptional drivability, and a powerfully proportioned design that seamlessly integrates aerodynamic functionality. Remarkably, despite its increased engine output, wider body, larger tires, substantial rear aerofoil, heightened cooling demands, and increased downforce, the Benz GTR AMG achieves a lower drag coefficient (Cd) than the AMG GT.
Personalized Setup: AMG Coil-Over Suspension
The suspension system of the new Benz GTR AMG is meticulously engineered for racetrack applications. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers on both front and rear axles are crafted entirely from forged aluminum to minimize unsprung mass. The double-wishbone configuration ensures precise wheel location with minimal elastic movement. High camber and toe-in stability contribute to exceptional cornering speeds and provide the driver with optimal road feel when pushing the car to its limits.
Uniball spherical bearings on the lower wishbones of the rear axle are another motorsport-inspired element. These bearings exhibit significantly greater wear resistance compared to conventional wishbone bushings and, due to their design, eliminate play, ensuring consistent toe-in and camber even under extreme loads. This results in even greater driving precision for the Benz GTR AMG.
Furthermore, the rear axle is equipped with a thicker tubular anti-roll bar, specifically adapted to the heightened driving dynamics requirements of the Benz GTR AMG and designed with a hollow core to save weight.
The new AMG coil-over suspension is purpose-built for the Benz GTR AMG. Mirroring professional motorsport practice, drivers can customize their suspension setup and infinitely adjust spring pre-load manually. This allows for precise control over dive and roll behavior, as well as the Benz GTR AMG’s grip characteristics, tailoring them to individual preferences or specific racetrack conditions.
Alt text: Detailed view of AMG GT R suspension components highlighting lightweight forged aluminum wishbones and motorsport-derived uniball spherical bearings.
The coil-over suspension is paired with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system. This electronically controlled system automatically adjusts damping force at each wheel based on driving conditions, speed, and road surface. Damping characteristics are modulated rapidly and precisely via two separate valves for rebound and compression forces within the dampers. Increased damping stiffness during cornering and braking effectively minimizes body roll. Continuous damping adjustment based on speed ensures optimal road contact, even at high velocities, enhancing safety.
Drivers can adjust the adaptive damping characteristics via a button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT or by selecting AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three modes are available: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus,” each with a distinct purpose. “Comfort” is optimized for public roads, while “Sport” is ideal for demanding racetracks like the Nordschleife, offering a balance of dynamic driving and maximum ground contact. “Sport Plus” is best suited for smoother, modern Grand Prix circuits like Hockenheim, prioritizing structural rigidity and ultimate track performance.
Complementing the advanced suspension are wider front and rear tracks 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 enable faster lap times and offer up to 50 percent greater mileage on the racetrack.
Agility and Stability: Active Rear-Wheel Steering
The Benz GTR AMG exhibits heightened steering responsiveness thanks to standard-fit active rear-wheel steering, a technology debuting on a Mercedes-AMG model. This system delivers an ideal blend of agility and stability – handling characteristics that are typically in direct conflict.
Two steering actuators replace conventional control arms on the Benz GTR AMG’s rear axle. The core of the system comprises two electro-mechanical actuators (electric motors with jackscrews) that operate “by-wire,” electronically adjusting rear wheel toe angle within a predefined map, independent of the steering wheel input. The maximum toe angle change on the rear wheels 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. This significantly enhances the Benz GTR AMG’s agility when initiating turns, resulting in greater driving enjoyment and reduced steering effort, particularly on tight, winding roads, narrow racetracks with frequent directional changes, or during slalom maneuvers. Further benefits include improved maneuverability and a tighter turning circle in everyday driving situations, especially advantageous for parking.
Above 62 mph, the system steers the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, virtually lengthening the wheelbase and enhancing handling stability. Simultaneously, lateral force buildup on the rear wheels becomes significantly faster during directional changes, accelerating steering response. Drivers will notice the Benz GTR AMG’s immense rear axle grip and robust stability during rapid directional changes, eliminating any perceived twitching at the rear end.
Active rear-wheel steering not only enhances cornering performance but also aids the driver during sudden evasive maneuvers, improving active safety and making the Benz GTR AMG more controllable at the limit.
The standard 3-stage ESP® system, offering “ESP ON,” “ESP SPORT Handling Mode,” and “ESP OFF” settings, works in perfect harmony with the limited-slip differential and is meticulously tuned to the Benz GTR AMG’s exceptional driving dynamics. The ESP OFF mode programming is directly derived from the AMG GT3 racecar.
Nine Levels of Grip: AMG TRACTION CONTROL
In ESP OFF mode, another groundbreaking innovation empowers the driver to exert even greater influence over the Benz GTR AMG’s handling characteristics. The new AMG TRACTION CONTROL system, also a direct import from motorsport, allows drivers to pre-select the slip level on the driven rear axle across nine distinct levels. Mirroring the current AMG GT3 system, it precisely manages grip at the driven wheels without compromising ESP®-based stabilization. Specific characteristic maps are programmed into the vehicle’s electronics.
Control is facilitated by a dedicated rotary switch located on the center console, beneath the ventilation outlets. Each setting progressively allows for more rear wheel slip, catering to varying road conditions and driving styles. Level 1 prioritizes maximum safety reserves for wet conditions, while Level 9 permits maximum rear axle slip for ultimate drift-oriented driving. A luminous LED band encircling the rotary switch visually indicates the current setting, a display logic also rooted in motorsport. The selected level is also displayed in the instrument cluster’s central screen.
AMG’s advanced development offers a significant advantage over conventional systems by proactively anticipating driving situations using a virtual µ(mu) simulator and other data processed by a control unit within milliseconds. The maximum permissible slip on the driven rear wheels is calculated based on the selected AMG TRACTION CONTROL level. When wheel slip reaches this threshold during acceleration, the traction control system modulates engine output to maintain the desired slip level and ensure continued acceleration. The electronic limited-slip differential’s effect is also integrated into the adjustment parameters. This seamless, lag-free control enhances both driving enjoyment and overall performance.
This system provides invaluable assistance during one of the most challenging driving aspects: precisely managing engine torque and torque application when accelerating out of corners. Precise power delivery during corner exit is a critical element for achieving fast lap times.
Electronically Controlled: Rear-Axle Limited-Slip Differential
The Benz GTR AMG is equipped as standard with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the rear axle, integrated within the compact transmission housing. Its rapid and sensitive control elevates physical handling limits to new heights. It not only further enhances driven wheel grip but also increases cornering speeds at the limit. The system operates with variable locking effect during acceleration and deceleration, and is meticulously tuned to accommodate diverse handling conditions and road friction coefficients.
Variable Ratio: Speed-Sensitive Sports Steering
The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable steering ratio, enhancing vehicle handling and agility at lower speeds while maintaining stability and driving safety at higher speeds. The power assist system is particularly sophisticated, responding not only to vehicle speed but also to lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. This results in exceptional driver feedback and a precise connection to the road.
Race-Ready Interior Design
The Benz GTR AMG’s interior is meticulously designed to provide the driver with an optimal driving environment, drawing significant 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, further underscore the Benz GTR AMG’s unique character.
The wide dashboard, reminiscent of a powerful wing, continues the aviation-inspired design theme. Four central spotlight-style vents and individual vents at the dashboard’s edges reinforce this impression. Combined with high beltlines, concave door paneling, and a dynamic center console, the Benz GTR AMG presents an exceptionally sporty cockpit, integrating the driver seamlessly thanks to the low seating position.
The dominant center console, shaped like a NACA air intake duct, and authentic, high-quality materials evoke a direct connection to motor racing. The centrally positioned, free-standing central display is another striking visual element. Attention to detail extends to the AMG DRIVE UNIT controls, arranged in an eight-cylinder V layout. These controls emphasize the center console’s powerful and high-tech character.
The new AMG Interior Night package is also available, featuring high-gloss black finishes on shift paddles, steering wheel bezel, door sills, and trunk cross member, further enhancing sportiness when combined with the standard AMG Interior Piano Lacquer package. Customers can also opt for matte black carbon fiber trim.
Lightweight Performance: More Equipment, Less Weight
Weight is a critical factor influencing sports car performance. Mercedes-AMG employs an intelligent material mix for the Benz GTR AMG’s structure: various aluminum alloys for the chassis and body, steel for the trunk lid, and magnesium for the front deck. The exceptionally light magnesium front deck reduces inertia ahead of the front axle, enhancing vehicle agility.
The weight-optimized spaceframe is constructed from die-cast and extruded aluminum sections. The high bending and torsional strength of this design allows for 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. The driver experiences a sports car with maximum dynamics and outstandingly precise responses.
Numerous additional measures contribute to weight reduction as part of AMG’s lightweight-performance strategy. Carbon fiber, a lightweight and high-strength motorsport material, plays a key role, utilized for components such as the front fenders, roof, and torque tube connecting the engine and transmission.
The carbon-fiber torque tube, weighing just 30.6 lbs., 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 provides an extremely flexurally and torsionally stiff connection between the engine and transmission. This direct drivetrain connection enhances driving dynamics and contributes to the vehicle’s balanced weight distribution. 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 new carbon-fiber tunnel cross brace in the Benz GTR AMG replaces three separate aluminum components from the standard GT. Mounted beneath the exhaust system and torque tube, this lightweight component, designed by AMG experts, reduces weight while simultaneously increasing torsional rigidity.
The carbon tunnel brace significantly stiffens the body, enhancing its resistance to the high torsional loads encountered during racing. It effectively braces the two vehicle sides together in the torque tube tunnel area, increasing torsional rigidity by approximately 7.5 percent. This improvement is particularly noteworthy given the already high torsional rigidity of the standard AMG GT. Drivers immediately perceive the Benz GTR AMG’s exceptionally precise driving feel, even under extreme loads at the dynamic limits. The increased body composure allows for even better control in challenging racetrack conditions, such as fast, bumpy corners.
Two diagonal braces in the engine bay, also crafted from carbon fiber in the Benz GTR AMG, stiffen the front end and represent a weight reduction of approximately 50 percent compared to traditional steel components.
Composite Wheel-Catch Struts: Intelligent Material Mix
AMG’s lightweight construction experts employ an intelligent material mix for the wheel-catch struts, utilizing a composite material. In the event of an accident, these components help guide and capture the front wheels onto the side members as part of the intended crash kinematics. These composite struts are approximately 50 percent lighter than equivalent steel components. Compared to carbon fiber, the composite material offers the advantage of greater deformability while maintaining good material strength.
Fade-Resistant Brakes: Consistent High Performance
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 finished in yellow.
An optional ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available, offering 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.
Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo: More Power, Torque, and Response
The heart of this high-performance athlete beats stronger than ever. The Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine in the Benz GTR AMG produces a formidable 577 hp, a 74 hp increase over the previous top-of-the-range engine in the GT S. Peak torque of 516 lb-ft is available from 1,900 to 5,500 rpm.
Alt text: Powerful Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine of the Benz GTR AMG, showcasing its twin-turbo setup and “One Man – One Engine” philosophy.
This performance increase is achieved through new turbochargers with modified compressor machining, smaller wastegate aneroid capsules, and refined engine mapping. Boost pressure has been increased from 17.4 psi in the AMG GT to 19.6 psi. Exhaust ports have been optimized, compression ratio modified, and the entire combustion process retuned.
Correspondingly modified accelerator characteristics, charge-pressure build-up, and transmission parameters ensure even more spontaneous engine response to load changes and faster gear shifts. A 1.5 lbs lighter two-mass flywheel compared to the AMG GT S further contributes to the car’s exceptional agility.
The eight-cylinder engine delivers thrilling spontaneous response, precisely measured power output, and linear power delivery with potent thrust across the entire engine speed range, enhancing controllability at the limit. Sophisticated engine control electronics account for driving conditions and adjust accelerator characteristics based on lateral g-forces.
The Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine features twin-scroll turbochargers positioned within the V configuration (‘hot inside V’). This design results in a compact engine, instantaneous turbocharger response, and low exhaust gas emissions thanks to optimized airflow for close-coupled catalytic converters. This fundamental principle of the AMG V8 family is further optimized for the Benz GTR AMG, enabling enhanced performance. Maximum charge pressure reaches 19.6 psi, and turbochargers can spin at up to 186,000 rpm.
For optimal power output in high ambient temperatures, Mercedes-AMG employs indirect air-to-water intercooling. Intercoolers with optimized air and water flow feature a separate, two-stage low-temperature water circuit. The first stage uses two parallel coolers in the wheel arches, while the large front radiator acts as the second stage, resulting in a more effective system than in the AMG GT S. Downstream water-cooled intercoolers effectively cool charge air compressed and heated by the turbochargers before it enters combustion chambers, maintaining consistently low temperatures even under full load. A large radiator at the front ensures controlled cooling of the low-temperature circuit water. Extremely short charge-air ducting contributes to optimal responsiveness.
The combination of twin turbocharging and direct injection with spray-guided combustion enhances thermodynamic efficiency and power output. Fast and precise piezo injectors spray fuel at high pressure into eight combustion chambers. Multiple injections occur on demand, ensuring a homogenous fuel/air mixture. Fuel delivery is electronically controlled and fully variable, operating between 1,450 and 2,900 psi.
The aluminum crankcase, produced using sand casting technology and featuring a closed-deck design, provides extreme strength while minimizing weight and enabling high injection pressures up to 2,030 psi.
NANOSLIDE® cylinder liner coating, also used in MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One engines, is significantly harder and more wear-resistant than conventional cast-iron liners. Reduced friction, combined with aluminum forged pistons, further enhances efficiency.
Four overhead camshafts control 32 valves. Camshaft adjustment on intake and exhaust sides optimizes throttle response and gas cycle across operating points.
Dry sump lubrication ensures constant oil supply under high lateral forces and allows for lower engine mounting, reducing the center of gravity and enabling high lateral acceleration.
The Benz GTR AMG’s engine is hand-assembled in AMG’s Affalterbach production plant, adhering to the “One Man – One Engine” philosophy. Each engine is assembled by a highly skilled engine builder who adheres to stringent quality standards. This engineer is responsible for every stage of assembly, from crankshaft installation to wiring and oil filling, as evidenced by their signature on the AMG engine badge.
AMG Performance DCT: Enhanced Racetrack Suitability
The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, configured in a transaxle layout at the rear axle, has been extensively revised by AMG engineers, with hardware and software modifications enhancing its racetrack suitability. First gear features a longer ratio, while seventh gear and the final drive have shorter ratios, resulting in more agile acceleration and highly responsive accelerator pedal inputs.
Shift performance and response time limits have been significantly improved. The RACE START function is now even more impressive thanks to increased starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip control, and racetrack-ready sports tires. Transmission cooling has also been upgraded to meet the rigorous demands of racing.
Drivers can tailor the Benz GTR AMG using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT controller, offering “C” (Comfort), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport Plus), and “I” (Individual) modes. “RACE” mode optimizes the dual-clutch transmission’s shift strategy for racetrack use, prioritizing shortest shift speeds and an emotionally charged engine sound. The “M” button on the center console allows manual transmission mode activation in any drive mode.
Dynamic Engine and Transmission Mounts: Comfort and Agility
Dynamic engine and transmission mounts are standard in the Benz GTR AMG. These mounts play a crucial role in transaxle designs, balancing comfort and handling. Softer mounts improve comfort by decoupling noise and vibration, while stiffer mounts enhance handling and agility.
Mercedes-AMG resolves this conflict using dynamic mounts that continuously and almost instantaneously adjust stiffness based on driving conditions. A special control unit, using CAN data and linked to the electronic limited-slip rear differential, identifies driving situations and ensures optimally balanced driving dynamics. AMG’s advanced implementation independently actuates engine and transmission mounts, further improving driving precision and lateral dynamics.
Pure AMG Sound: Performance Sports Exhaust System
The specially developed exhaust system delivers authentic racing car sound and saves approximately 13 lbs. compared to the AMG GT S system, utilizing titanium for the rear silencer and thin-walled stainless steel for the exhaust system’s front section.
The large, hexagonal, centrally positioned tailpipe tip in the rear fascia emphasizes the Benz GTR AMG’s motorsport character. Two additional tailpipes are located within the diffuser. Their tips are carbon fiber-sheathed, protecting the diffuser from high exhaust temperatures, a detail inspired by motorsport. The exhaust system features two infinitely variable exhaust flaps as standard, directly influencing the Benz GTR AMG’s sound.
Exhaust flaps open and close based on the selected AMG DRIVE SELECT mode and can be individually controlled via a dedicated button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT. “Comfort” and “Sport” modes prioritize a comfortable, low-frequency V-8 sound. “Sport Plus” and “RACE” modes deliver a far more emotional and aggressive sound composition.
Market Introduction
The Mercedes-AMG GT R premiered on June 24, 2016, at Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands, a historic British racing circuit. The Benz GTR AMG was expected to arrive in US dealerships by mid-2017.
*European specification adapted for the USA; US figures may vary.
