The Mercedes-AMG GT R represents the pinnacle of performance, directly translating motorsport technology from the world’s most demanding racetracks to the open road. Never before has a production vehicle from Mercedes-AMG integrated such a profound depth of racing expertise. This exceptional sports car is built upon a front-mid-engine concept with a transaxle, harnessing a formidable 577 hp V8 Biturbo engine. Further enhancing its dynamic prowess are a comprehensively modified suspension system, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and intelligent lightweight construction.
Even at a distance, the exclusive “AMG green hell magno” paint immediately signals this car’s origins, a testament to its extensive development within the notorious “Green Hell” of the Nürburgring racetrack. Wider front and rear fenders accommodate an increased track width, crucial for achieving optimal grip and elevated cornering speeds. A newly designed front fascia incorporates active aerodynamic elements, working in conjunction with a substantial rear aerofoil and a new rear fascia featuring a double diffuser to maximize aerodynamic efficiency and ensure unwavering grip. Lightweight forged wheels, fitted with cup tires as standard, are specifically engineered for peak driving dynamics. Complementary innovations include active rear-wheel steering, a nine-way adjustable traction control system, and an adjustable coil-over suspension with electronic control, all contributing to the unparalleled performance of the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Adding to its distinctive presence, the new AMG Panamericana grille proudly distinguishes the AMG GT R. Its iconic vertical fin design, first seen on the Mercedes-AMG GT3 customer-sport racing car, now makes its debut on an AMG production vehicle.
Mercedes-AMG continues its expansion and elevates its product portfolio with the introduction of the AMG GT R, positioned as the new apex of its range. Professor Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, emphasizes this heritage: “Our sports-car and performance brand AMG has its roots in motorsport and, since its inception, has consistently challenged competition on the racetrack. These motorsport genes are particularly evident in the new AMG GT R. Packed with technological innovations, this new top-tier model is a testament to the close collaboration between our racing car and road vehicle engineers.”
Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, further elaborates on the performance leap: “With the new AMG GT R, we have advanced to the next echelon of driving performance. This road-legal sports car, infused with motor-racing DNA and innovative technical solutions, delivers an unparalleled driving experience, allowing drivers to feel our motorsport heritage in every aspect. It seamlessly merges the driving dynamics of our AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday usability of the AMG GT. Enthusiasts will be captivated by the extreme longitudinal and lateral acceleration, the precise steering response, and the phenomenal grip. We have refined all performance-critical components and intelligently integrated them to achieve maximum driving dynamics.”
Mercedes-AMG GT R: Performance Data at a Glance*
| Feature | 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 |
*European specifications adapted for the USA; US figures may vary.
As the third member of the AMG GT family, the Mercedes-AMG GT R stands as the new flagship model, incorporating groundbreaking technologies and engineered with a clear focus on racetrack performance. Its development heavily leveraged the extensive motorsport experience gained from AMG GT3 customer racing and the German Touring Car Masters Series (DTM). Performance figures like a 0 to 60 mph acceleration in just 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 198 mph, combined with exceptional driving dynamics, promise incredibly fast lap times on any circuit. The exclusive “AMG green hell magno” color visually connects the car to the “Green Hell,” the legendary nickname for the Nürburgring’s North Loop (Nordschleife), underscoring its racetrack roots. Enhanced racetrack capabilities are achieved through intelligent lightweight construction utilizing aluminum and carbon fiber, specific body shell reinforcements, an upgraded Handcrafted 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine paired with a specially tuned seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, innovative aerodynamics featuring active components, and a new suspension system incorporating active rear-wheel steering and uniball joints.
The front mid-engine and transaxle configuration, a proven design from the AMG GT and AMG GT S, contributes to a favorable rear-biased weight distribution of 47.3 to 52.7 percent. This, along with the car’s low center of gravity, results in exceptionally agile handling and enables remarkable cornering speeds, making the Mercedes-AMG GT R a true performer.
Boasting a power-to-weight ratio of just 5.94 lbs. per horsepower*, the Mercedes-AMG GT R asserts its leading position within its performance segment.
Synergy of Design and Aerodynamic Expertise
The development of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R witnessed unprecedented collaboration between aerodynamic engineers and designers. The AMG design philosophy of “Dynamic Presence” serves as the foundation for its significantly more athletic and distinctive appearance. Form follows function, and function enhances form: every element is designed with inherent technical advantages, contributing to enhanced driving dynamics, while aerodynamic experts realized the designers’ vision. This synergy even led to a patented innovation.
Beyond the powerfully sculpted body and motorsport-derived components, the new AMG Panamericana grille immediately captures attention. This unique feature, originating from the world of motorsport, makes its standard-production debut in the AMG GT R. Its 15 chrome-plated vertical fins are inspired by the look of the new AMG GT3 racing car. The fundamental design of this new radiator grille pays homage to the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing car, which triumphed in the legendary Panamericana road race in Mexico in 1952.
Aggressive Front-End Design: Unbridled Forward Momentum
The low-slung front section and the forward-leaning radiator grille create a distinctive “shark nose” profile, visually lowering the car closer to the road. This shape also reduces the vehicle’s back-pressure point, improving cooling airflow and overall aerodynamic performance.
The more V-shaped, arrow-like front end further amplifies the dynamic aesthetics, embodying the Mercedes-AMG GT R’s relentless forward thrust even when stationary. A front fascia with a completely redesigned jet-wing design (evolving from the A-wing concept) broadens the visual stance and gives the car a more planted appearance. The large outer air intakes in the front fascia, reminiscent of jet engines in shape, ensure that the increased cooling demands of the AMG GT R’s powertrain are met. These intakes feature two aerodynamically optimized horizontal fins that effectively channel airflow to 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, improving the Mercedes-AMG GT R’s drag coefficient (Cd). These Air Curtains, with their narrow, vertical openings, precisely direct air towards the wheel arches, optimizing airflow in this critical area. To ensure ideal airflow through the double wheel arch radiators, the Mercedes-AMG GT R also incorporates innovative wheel arch liners with specialized cooling-air slits.
Active Aerodynamics: Underbody Profile Innovation
A standout engineering achievement is the entirely new active aerodynamics profile, discreetly integrated into the underbody ahead of the engine. At speeds above 50 mph in RACE mode, this carbon component, weighing a mere 4.4 lbs., automatically extends downwards by approximately 1.6 inches, significantly altering airflow. This action generates the Venturi effect, effectively “sucking” the car closer to the road and reducing front-axle lift by about 88.2 lbs. at 155 mph.
This aerodynamic enhancement translates directly to the driving experience. The Mercedes-AMG GT R exhibits even sharper steering precision during high-speed cornering and enhanced directional stability. Especially during fast cornering and under high lateral acceleration, the AMG GT R delivers more agile responses with clear steering feedback while maintaining exceptional control at all times.
Furthermore, this system improves the drag coefficient while maintaining consistent downforce on the rear axle, optimizing overall aerodynamic balance.
This innovative system was initially developed through computer simulations and refined through extensive wind tunnel testing. Real-world validation was then conducted during rigorous test drives, including laps on the demanding Nürburgring Nordschleife. The aerodynamic profile remains nearly invisible on the underbody, seamlessly integrating with the car’s overall silhouette.
When the electrically operated profile extends, the radiator air outlet at the front opens, precisely guiding airflow towards the double rear diffuser, ensuring optimal airflow to this critical component as well. This enhances handling stability at the rear axle while simultaneously reducing temperatures in high-heat areas at the rear. The aerodynamics package also contributes to optimized braking performance by channeling more cold air directly to the brake discs. To prevent damage, the component is spring-mounted, allowing it to flex upwards if necessary.
Active Air Management: Louvers for Optimized Airflow
Another technological highlight enhancing the aerodynamics of the Mercedes-AMG GT R is the active air management system. This system utilizes vertical louvers positioned in the lower area directly behind the front fascia. Electronically controlled, these louvers can open and close within approximately one second via an electric motor to optimize airflow and, consequently, aerodynamic performance.
Typically, the louvers remain closed – even at top speed, during braking, and during high-speed cornering. This closed position minimizes drag and directs air towards the underbody to further reduce front lift. Only when predefined components reach certain temperature thresholds and the demand for cooling air becomes particularly high do the louvers open, allowing maximum cooling airflow to the heat exchangers.
The comprehensive aerodynamics concept of the Mercedes-AMG GT R ensures an optimal balance between lift and downforce across all operating conditions and achieves a lower drag coefficient compared to the AMG GT and GT S models.
Broad Stance: Powerful Side Profile
The front fenders, constructed from super-light carbon fiber, contribute to a 1.8-inch increase in the Mercedes-AMG GT R’s front width, accommodating the wider track and larger wheel/tire combinations. The powerfully sculpted fenders further accentuate the car’s longitudinal dynamism. A distinctive fender vent, featuring a stylized fin and a large air outlet for dissipating heat from the engine bay, is another defining characteristic. This vent is perforated and incorporates the AMG diamond logo with five slats.
The side profile is further enhanced by the optional new AMG Performance forged wheels in matte black. These exceptionally lightweight 10-spoke wheels, exclusive to the Mercedes-AMG GT R, feature a sophisticated 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 12.0 J x 20. The lightweight design of these wheels offers three key advantages: reduced overall weight, rotational mass, and unsprung mass. This enhances efficiency and performance while enabling more precise suspension and steering response, positively impacting chassis and suspension control systems.
The wheels provide an unobstructed view of the brake calipers, finished in yellow exclusively for the AMG GT R. New side sill panels visually lower the vehicle’s stance, with high-gloss black inserts adding a touch of individuality. The high-gloss black caps on the door mirror housings further contribute to the cohesive design.
The Mercedes-AMG GT R comes standard with a carbon fiber roof, enhancing the high-contrast aesthetic and lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity.
Aerodynamically Optimized Rear: Emphasis on Width
The rear end of the Mercedes-AMG GT R also incorporates numerous significant innovations. New aluminum side walls widen the rear by a total of 2.2 inches, creating space for the larger 20-inch wheels and wider track. Both of these modifications enhance traction and allow for higher cornering speeds.
The widened rear fascia design, featuring large outer vent openings and vertical swaging, improves airflow at the rear, as does the double diffuser. The overall heat dissipation from the mufflers is optimized, with warm air vented effectively by the double diffuser while driving.
A small air outlet is integrated between the taillights for further dissipation of heat generated by the rear muffler. Another distinguishing feature of the AMG GT R is the large exhaust tip with a center spar, centrally positioned within the rear fascia. This 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, increases downforce on the rear axle. The aerofoil mounts are painted in the vehicle color, while the blade is finished in high-gloss black. Depending on the intended use or racetrack conditions, the precise angle of the blade can be manually adjusted – another motorsport-derived technique.
The culmination of all aerodynamic measures results in a 342 lbs increase in surface contact at top speed compared to the standard AMG GT. The new Mercedes-AMG GT R therefore offers maximum grip, exceptional drivability, and a powerfully proportioned design that seamlessly integrates aerodynamic functions. Remarkably, despite its increased engine output, wider body, larger tires, larger rear aerofoil, increased cooling demands, and enhanced downforce, the AMG GT R achieves a lower drag coefficient (Cd) than the AMG GT.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension: Individualized Track Setup
The suspension system of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R is meticulously engineered for 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 concept 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 limits.
Uniball spherical bearings on the lower wishbones of the rear axle are directly inspired by motorsport. Significantly more wear-resistant than traditional wishbone bushings, their design eliminates play, ensuring that toe-in and camber remain consistent even under extreme loads. This allows the Mercedes-AMG GT R to be driven with even greater precision.
Furthermore, the rear axle is equipped with a thicker tubular anti-roll bar, specifically adapted to the heightened driving dynamics demands of the AMG GT R and designed with a hollow core to save weight.
The new AMG coil-over suspension is specifically developed for the AMG GT R. Mirroring professional motorsport, drivers can personalize their setup and infinitely adjust the spring pre-load manually. This allows for precise control over dive and roll behavior, as well as the grip characteristics of the AMG GT R, tailoring them to individual preferences or specific racetrack conditions.
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 current 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, such as during cornering and braking, effectively reduces body roll. Continuous damping adjustment based on speed also ensures optimal road contact, even at high velocities, enhancing safety.
Drivers can adjust the adaptive damping characteristics at the touch of a button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT or via the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three modes are available: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus.” Each mode offers distinct damping characteristics: “Comfort” is ideal for public roads; “Sport” is optimized for racetracks like the Nürburgring Nordschleife, providing highly dynamic driving on undulating surfaces with maximum ground contact; “Sport Plus” is best suited for smoother, modern Grand Prix circuits like Hockenheim, conveying a high degree of structural rigidity.
Complementing the suspension are the 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.
Active Rear-Wheel Steering: Agility and Stability Combined
The new Mercedes-AMG GT R boasts enhanced steering responsiveness thanks to standard-fit active rear-wheel steering, a first for a Mercedes-AMG model. This system achieves an ideal balance of agility and stability – handling characteristics that typically present a direct trade-off.
Two steering actuators replace conventional control arms on the Mercedes-AMG GT R’s rear axle. At the heart of the system are two electro-mechanical actuators (electric motors with jackscrew) that are electronically controlled and not mechanically linked to the steering wheel. This “by-wire” system adjusts the rear wheels within a predefined operating map. The maximum toe angle change on the rear wheels is 1.5 degrees.
At speeds up to 62 mph, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, effectively shortening the wheelbase virtually. This makes the Mercedes-AMG GT R significantly more agile when initiating turns, resulting in enhanced driving enjoyment and reduced steering effort – particularly beneficial on tight and winding roads, narrow racetracks with frequent direction changes, or during slalom maneuvers. Further benefits include improved maneuverability and a tighter turning circle in everyday driving situations, especially when parking.
Once the Mercedes-AMG GT R exceeds 62 mph, the system turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, virtually lengthening the wheelbase and improving handling stability. Simultaneously, lateral forces on the rear wheels build up considerably faster during directional changes, resulting in quicker steering response. Drivers will also notice the AMG GT R delivering exceptional rear axle grip and strong stability during rapid direction changes, eliminating the twitching sensation often perceived at the rear end.
Active rear-wheel steering not only improves cornering performance but also assists the driver during sudden evasive maneuvers, enhancing active safety and making the Mercedes-AMG GT R 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 optimally tuned to the exceptional driving dynamics of the AMG GT R. The programming for the ESP OFF mode is directly derived from the AMG GT3 race car.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Nine Levels of Grip Precision
In ESP OFF mode, another innovation empowers the driver to exert even finer control over the Mercedes-AMG GT R’s handling characteristics. The new AMG TRACTION CONTROL system, also originating directly from motorsport, allows drivers to pre-select the desired slip level on the driven rear axle across nine settings. Similar to the current AMG GT3, this system manages grip on the driven wheels independently, without affecting the stabilization provided by ESP®. Corresponding characteristic maps are programmed into the vehicle’s electronics.
Control is managed via a dedicated rotary switch located in the center console, below the ventilation outlets. Depending on the selected setting, the system allows for varying degrees of rear wheel slip – extremely helpful in adapting to changing road conditions. Level 1 is programmed for wet conditions with high safety reserves, while Level 9 permits maximum slip on the rear axle. A luminous band of LEDs encircling the rotary switch visually indicates the current setting, a display logic also adopted from motorsport. The selected setting is also displayed on the instrument cluster’s central screen.
This AMG-developed system offers a significant advantage over conventional systems by anticipating situations using a virtual µ(mu) simulator and other data processed by a control unit within 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 modulates engine output to maintain this level, ensuring continuous acceleration with the specified slip. The effect of the electronic limited-slip differential is also integrated into the adjustment scope. This seamless control enhances both driving enjoyment and overall performance.
This system also provides valuable assistance during one of the most challenging driving aspects: optimizing engine torque and torque increase when accelerating out of corners. Precise power delivery when exiting a turn is a crucial element for achieving fast lap times.
Electronically Controlled Rear-Axle Limited-Slip Differential
As standard, the Mercedes-AMG GT R is equipped with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the rear axle, integrated within the compact transmission housing. Its sensitive and rapid control elevates physical handling limits to a new level. 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, perfectly adapting to diverse handling conditions and road friction coefficients.
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 driving safety at higher speeds. The power assistance is particularly noteworthy, responding not only to vehicle speed but also to current lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. This results in the driver having exceptional feel for the vehicle, thanks to direct feedback from the road.
Race-Inspired Interior: Driver-Focused Cockpit
To provide the driver of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R with ideal driving conditions, the interior design is heavily influenced by motorsport. AMG Performance Seats (also featured in the AMG GT S), upholstered in Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber, are standard equipment. They provide necessary 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, underscore the unique character of the Mercedes-AMG GT R.
The wide dashboard design evokes a powerful wing, continuing the aviation 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 Mercedes-AMG GT R creates an exceptionally sporty and driver-centric cockpit, enhanced by the low seating position.
The shape of the prominent center console, reminiscent of a NACA air intake duct, and authentic, high-quality materials suggest a direct lineage from motor racing. The centrally positioned, free-standing central display is another eye-catching element. Attention to detail extends to the AMG DRIVE UNIT controls, arranged like eight cylinders in a V layout, emphasizing the powerful and high-tech nature of the center console.
The new AMG Interior Night package is also available, featuring shift paddles, steering wheel bezel, door sills, and trunk cross member finished in high-gloss black. This package, combined with the standard AMG Interior Piano Lacquer package, further enhances the sporty ambiance. Customers can also opt for trim in matte black carbon fiber.
AMG Lightweight Performance: More Equipment, Less Weight
Weight is a critical factor influencing the performance of any sports car. Mercedes-AMG employs an intelligent material mix for the Mercedes-AMG GT R’s structure. Various aluminum alloys are used for the chassis and body, steel for the trunk lid, and magnesium for the front deck. This exceptionally light front element 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 the overall design enables extreme linear and transverse forces from the drivetrain and suspension to be effectively absorbed and transferred. Unwanted flexibility is minimized, resulting in precise and direct vehicle responses. This translates to a sports car with maximum dynamics and outstandingly precise handling.
Numerous additional measures contribute to weight reduction as part of AMG’s lightweight-performance strategy. Carbon fiber, a lightweight and high-strength material from motorsport, plays a crucial role in achieving ambitious weight targets. Carbon fiber is the material of choice for components such as the front fenders, roof, and torque tube connecting the engine and transmission.
Weighing just 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 creates an extremely flexurally and torsionally stiff connection between the engine and transmission. This enables a very direct drivetrain connection, beneficial for driving dynamics, and contributes to the vehicle’s balanced weight distribution. Further weight savings are achieved through standard-fit forged wheels, a titanium rear muffler, and reduced soundproofing materials.
Carbon-Fiber Tunnel Cross Brace: Maximizing Torsional Rigidity
The new carbon-fiber tunnel cross brace in the Mercedes-AMG GT R replaces three separate aluminum components found in 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 ability to withstand the high torsional loads encountered during racing. It effectively braces the two vehicle sides against each other in the tunnel area housing the torque tube, increasing torsional rigidity by approximately 7.5 percent. This improvement is particularly notable as even the standard AMG GT already boasts a high level of torsional rigidity. Driving the Mercedes-AMG GT R immediately reveals an exceptionally precise driving feel, maintained even under extreme loads when pushing the dynamic limits. The increased body composure allows for even better control of the AMG GT R, especially in challenging racetrack conditions such as fast and bumpy corners.
Finally, two diagonal braces in the engine bay further stiffen the front end. In the Mercedes-AMG GT R, these are also made of carbon fiber, achieving a weight reduction of approximately 50 percent compared to traditional steel components.
Composite Wheel-Catch Struts: Intelligent Material Mix
AMG lightweight construction experts utilize an intelligent material mix for the wheel-catch struts, constructed from a composite material. In the event of an accident, these components aid in guiding and catching the front wheels onto the side members as part of the designed 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 being significantly more deformable while maintaining good material strength.
High-Performance Braking: Fade-Resistance and Consistent Performance
The high-performance composite brake system ensures exceptional deceleration and high fade-resistance with 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 also available. This system offers 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 Engine: More Power, More Torque, Faster Response
The heart of this high-performance athlete beats stronger than ever: the Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine in the Mercedes-AMG GT R produces 577 hp, a 74 hp increase compared to 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.
This performance increase is achieved through new turbochargers with modified compressor machining, smaller wastegate aneroid capsules, and refined engine mapping. Boost pressure from the turbochargers has been increased from 17.4 psi in the AMG GT to 19.6 psi. Exhaust ports have been optimized, and the compression ratio has been modified. The entire combustion process has been recalibrated.
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 two-mass flywheel, 1.5 lbs. lighter than its counterpart in the AMG GT S, further contributes to the agile driving experience.
The eight-cylinder engine impresses with its immediate response, precisely metered power output, and linear power delivery with substantial thrust across the entire engine speed range. This enhanced control is further facilitated by sophisticated engine control electronics that consider the current driving status and adjust accelerator characteristics based on lateral g-forces.
The Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine utilizes proven twin-scroll turbochargers, positioned not on the outside of the cylinder banks but within the V configuration – known as a ‘hot inside V.’ This configuration offers benefits such as a compact engine design, instantaneous turbocharger response without lag, and reduced exhaust gas emissions due to optimized airflow to the close-coupled catalytic converters. This fundamental principle of the new AMG V8 family has been further optimized for the Mercedes-AMG GT R, enabling even greater performance. The maximum charge pressure reaches 19.6 psi, and the turbochargers can reach a maximum speed of 186,000 revolutions per minute.
For optimal power output even in high ambient temperatures, Mercedes-AMG employs indirect air-to-water intercooling. With optimized air and water flow, the intercoolers utilize a separate, two-stage low-temperature water circuit. The first cooler stage incorporates two parallel coolers in the left and right wheel arches. Combined with the large radiator at the front as a second radiator stage, the system surpasses the effectiveness of the AMG GT S system. Downstream water-cooled intercoolers ensure that 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 radiator at the front ensures controlled cooling of the water circulating in the low-temperature circuit. Extremely short charge-air ducting contributes to optimal responsiveness.
The combination of twin turbochargers and direct injection with spray-guided combustion enhances thermodynamic efficiency and power output. High-speed, precise piezo injectors spray fuel at high pressure into the eight combustion chambers. Multiple injections occur on demand, ensuring a homogeneous 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, produced using sand casting technology, features a closed-deck design for extreme strength while minimizing weight, allowing for high injection pressures of up to 2,030 psi.
NANOSLIDE® cylinder liner coating, also used in MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One engines, is significantly harder than conventional cast-iron liners and exhibits greater wear resistance. Its reduced friction, combined with aluminum forged pistons, contributes to increased 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 every operating point.
Dry sump lubrication ensures consistent oil supply even under high lateral forces and allows for a lower engine installation, moving the center of gravity closer to the road and providing a foundation for high lateral acceleration.
The engine for the Mercedes-AMG GT R is also hand-assembled in AMG’s Affalterbach production plant, adhering to the “One Man – One Engine” philosophy. Each engine is assembled by a highly qualified engine builder who adheres to stringent quality standards. This engineer is responsible for every step, from installing the crankshaft to wiring the engine and filling it with oil, 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, who modified both hardware and software to further optimize it for racetrack use. First gear in the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission has a longer ratio, while seventh gear and the final drive have shorter ratios. This configuration results in more agile overall acceleration and highly responsive reaction to rapid accelerator pedal inputs.
Previous limits governing shift performance and response time have been significantly extended. The RACE START function is now even more impressive due to increased starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip control, and standard-fit racetrack-ready sports tires. Furthermore, transmission cooling has been adapted to the more demanding requirements of racing.
Drivers can personalize the Mercedes-AMG GT R using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT controller, offering various modes: “C” (Comfort), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport Plus), and “I” (Individual). The “RACE” mode optimally adjusts the dual-clutch transmission’s shift strategy for racetrack driving, prioritizing shortest shift times and a highly emotional engine sound. Pressing the separate “M” button in the center console allows the driver to engage manual transmission mode in any drive mode.
Dynamic Engine and Transmission Mounts: Comfort and Agility
Dynamic engine and transmission mounts are standard equipment in the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Engine and transmission mounts play a crucial role in transaxle designs: softer mounts improve comfort by effectively decoupling noise and vibration, while stiffer mounts generally enhance handling and agility.
Mercedes-AMG resolved this conflict by using dynamic mounts that continuously and almost instantaneously adjust their stiffness based on driving conditions and handling. A dedicated control unit identifies handling situations using CAN data, connecting to the electronic limited-slip rear differential to ensure optimally balanced driving dynamics. AMG has further refined this technology by actuating the engine and transmission mounts independently of each other. This innovative solution provides a substantial improvement in driving precision and lateral dynamics.
AMG Performance Sports Exhaust System: Pure Sound
The specially developed exhaust system not only delivers authentic racing car sound but also reduces weight by approximately 13 lbs. compared to the AMG GT S, thanks to the use of titanium for the rear muffler and thin-walled stainless steel for the front section.
The large tailpipe tip, centrally positioned in the rear fascia with its distinctive hexagonal shape, emphasizes the car’s motorsport character. Two additional tailpipes are located on the left and right within the diffuser, sheathed in carbon fiber like in motorsport to protect the diffuser from high exhaust temperatures. The exhaust system features two infinitely variable exhaust flaps as standard, directly influencing the Mercedes-AMG GT R’s sound.
Exhaust flaps open and close based on the selected AMG DRIVE SELECT mode, and can also be individually controlled via a separate button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In “Comfort” and “Sport” settings, the low-frequency V-8 sound is designed for comfort. In “Sport Plus” and “RACE” modes, the sound becomes significantly more emotional and aggressive.
Market Introduction
The Mercedes-AMG GT R made its world premiere on June 24, 2016, at Mercedes-Benz World, located at the historic Brooklands racing circuit in England. The car is expected to arrive at US dealerships by mid-2017.
*European specification adapted for the USA; US figures may vary.
