The first Mercedes was a racing car and its most recent successor carries this heritage forward: with the new Mercedes-AMG GT, the Mercedes-AMG sports car brand is moving into a new, top-class sports car segment for the company. The GT is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. Its front mid-engine concept with transaxle and the intelligent aluminium lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience. Its likewise newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine underscores the hallmark AMG driving performance. The first sports car engine with internally mounted turbochargers (“hot inside V”) and dry sump lubrication is configured in two output ratings: as a GT with 340 kW (462 hp) and as a GT S with 375 kW (510 hp). The new GT combines driving dynamics and first-class racetrack performance with superb everyday practicality and efficiency that sets new standards in the segment.
It has everything you would expect from an authentic Mercedes-AMG sports car – from the characteristic styling and thoroughbred motorsport technology to the optimum weight distribution. The drive system tailored consistently to driving dynamics perfectly complements this set-up. The centrepiece of the Mercedes-AMG GT, the new 4.0-litre V8 biturbo, responds instantly with extreme power right from low revs and delivers outstanding performance.
Top figures such as 3.8 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and a top speed of 310 km/h, combined with the outstanding driving dynamics will undoubtedly translate into extremely fast laps on the racetrack.
At the same time, the two-seater is a straightforward, comfortable and reliable companion for everyday motoring thanks to its practical tailgate, easily accessible luggage compartment, high level of comfort on long journeys and the extensive range of Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems.
The combination of aluminium spaceframe, V8 biturbo engine with dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle, locking differential, sports suspension with aluminium double-wishbone suspension and the low kerb weight of 1540 kilograms delivers racetrack performance. The concept with front mid-engine and transmission in transaxle configuration makes for a beneficial weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent between the front and rear axle. In conjunction with the vehicle’s low centre of gravity this translates into extremely agile handling and permits high cornering speeds. With a favourable power-to-weight ratio of 3.08 kilograms per hp, the Mercedes-AMG GT S self-confidently lines up alongside the very best in its segment. The GT also demonstrates that economy and high-performance need not be mutually exclusive with its fuel consumption of 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined).
Exterior design: sporty emotion and sensual purity
The new Mercedes-AMG GT embodies sportiness and emotion as an expression of sensual purity. The long bonnet with its pronounced powerdomes, the greenhouse which has been moved far back, the large wheels and broad tail end make up the distinctive looks. The trimmed cabin results in muscular shoulders – the hallmark Mercedes “Coke bottle” shape – which lends the car its extremely powerful stance. All modern Mercedes feature this “Coke bottle” theme, the GT being the most extreme example. Positively arched surfaces give the Mercedes-AMG GT its sensuous character and the appearance of a sculpture. Viewed from the side, the dome-shaped, arched roof line and the frameless doors are eye-catching features. The surfaces and lines of the side wall flow into the rear-end with a dramatic tapered effect. The side air outlets, each with two fins, represent a typical, styling feature of Mercedes-Benz sports cars.
The creative interaction of diverse design elements lends the coupé a superior, self-confident front: the three-dimensional diamond radiator grille, with central Mercedes star, a broad louvre and AMG lettering, stands in the centre of the front end. LED High Performance headlamps with stylised “eyebrows” as daytime running lamps, side lights and indicators, as well as three separate high-beam reflectors lend the GT its characteristic look. The A-wing with front splitter in the lower third of the front apron, a characteristic feature of AMG vehicles, makes the sports car appear low-slung and wide.
Broad shoulders for an emotional overall appearance
With its base areas, broad shoulders and expressive tail light graphics, the rear area creates an emotional overall appearance. The licence plate bracket is located in the lower part of the bumper, allowing the Mercedes star to be placed prominently on the smooth-surfaced boot lid. Added to which there is an extendable rear aerofoil, which is perfectly integrated into the body while the car is at a standstill. The black diffuser insert with tailpipes integrated into the bumper and the trim strip in matt iridium silver inspired by the A-wing in the front create a visual sense of lightness across the entire tail end.
Interior: sensuality, emotion and perfection
The interior design also embodies maximum emotion and sensual purity. Radically low, sporty proportions create a unique sense of spaciousness. Clearly drawn components and their authentic materials underscore the dynamic character and create instant excitement: anyone opening the door discovers an exciting interplay between the deep, sloping dashboard and a dominant, arched high centre console, a design which evokes emotions and impresses with its perfection.
Outstanding precision and a superior quality feel thanks to the finest materials with superb workmanship are also apparent on the sports seats, the performance steering wheel and the instrument cluster. The most important control for sports car fans is located in the AMG DRIVE UNIT on the left-hand side: the button for starting the engine, which is labelled “Engine Start Stop” and illuminated in red.
The newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine
The new high-performance engine springs to life at the push of a button: even the sound as the engine starts up brings you out in goose pimples. The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine was developed specifically for the GT. The innovative eight-cylinder engine as the newest member of the BlueDIRECT engine family boasts outstanding power delivery, performance figures on a par with motor racing, lightweight construction as well as high efficiency and environmental compatibility. It features the brand’s hallmark emotive V8 engine sound, along with immediate response and high pulling power. The GT sets new benchmarks in terms of efficiency, too. With its 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, it already meets the Euro 6 emissions standard, including the maximum particulate emissions level that takes effect in 2016.
First sports car engine with ‘hot inside V’ and dry sump lubrication
The new AMG V8 engine has two turbochargers which are not mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks but rather inside the V configuration – experts call it a ‘hot inside V’. The benefits are a compact engine design, optimum response from the turbochargers and low exhaust gas emissions thanks to optimum air flow for the close-coupled catalytic converters. The dry sump lubrication also ensures the oil supply even with high lateral forces and allows the engine to be installed lower, thus moving the centre of gravity closer to the road and forming the basis for high lateral acceleration. The new Mercedes‑AMG V8 biturbo engine is the world’s first sports car engine with ‘hot inside V’ and dry sump lubrication.
Performance exhaust system with fully variable exhaust flaps
The Mercedes-AMG GT S is equipped as standard with an AMG performance exhaust system with fully variable exhaust flaps. This allows the driver to vary the engine sound: depending on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT mode the driver may experience the V8 with a focus on comfort and relaxed, long-distance journeys or with a more powerful, emotive, motorsport-inspired touch. The AMG DRIVE UNIT includes a separate button to control the exhaust flaps directly. The selectable exhaust system is also available as an option for the Mercedes-AMG GT.
A tradition of hand-built excellence: “one man, one engine”
The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine is produced in Affalterbach according to the “one man, one engine” principle. In the AMG engine shop, highly qualified fitters assemble the engines by hand according to the strictest quality standards – as confirmed by the AMG engine plate bearing the engine technician’s signature. “One man, one engine” ties in with Mercedes-AMG’s unique motorsport genes, which exude innovative strength by virtue of the technology transfer from racing series – from Formula 1 to the DTM to the involvement in customer racing with the SLS AMG GT3.
Seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration
When it comes to the power transmission of the new GT the Mercedes-AMG engineers rely on a combination of front mid-engine and seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle – this layout has already successfully established itself in the SLS AMG. The weight distribution with its ratio of 47 percent (front) to 53 percent (rear) benefits from this configuration. The efficiency, shift speed and precision of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission have been further optimised for usage in the new sports car. Thanks to the larger gear ratio spread, the pronounced torque plateau of the V8 turbo engine can be used optimally. The drivetrain’s overall design is ideal for an uncompromising sports car. At the same time, the exacting requirements in terms of everyday practicality, noise level, ride comfort and fuel consumption have been met.
Electronic rear-axle locking differential as standard in the GT S
The GT comes as standard with a mechanical rear-axle locking differential which ensures outstanding traction and superb driving safety in all driving conditions. The GT S is fitted as standard with an electronically controlled rear-axle locking differential, which is likewise integrated into the compact transmission housing. The electronic function provides even more sensitive, faster control than the mechanical solution, thus pushing the limits of handling dynamics even further. It not only further improves the traction of the driven wheels, but also increases the cornering speeds at the limits. The system operates with a variable locking effect in acceleration and overrun mode, and is perfectly tuned to the various driving conditions and road surface friction coefficients.
Double-wishbone suspension from motorsport
Driving dynamics and comfort on long journeys; racetrack performance and everyday practicality: the new Mercedes-AMG GT delivers on all counts. A great deal of attention was paid to the seamless integration of all mechanical and electronic systems during design, development and testing. From the suspension, through 3-stage ESP®, locking differential, steering, aerodynamics and tyres to the brakes – only successful precision engineering and the concerted networking of individual specialist disciplines serves to produce the required results and thus the exhilarating sports car driving experience, characterised by superb precision and clear feedback.
The AMG GT offers the perfect conditions: it uses the technological DNA of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, one of the most successful sports cars in recent years. Thanks to the optimum weight distribution of 47 percent (front) to
53 percent (rear), the vehicle’s low centre of gravity and the selected suspension layout, the driver benefits from precise steering response, formidable agility, low inertia when changing direction, and outstanding traction. Double-wishbone suspension is used at the front and rear – a technology adopted straight from motorsport.
Wishbones, steering knuckles and hub carriers on the front and rear axle are manufactured entirely out of forged aluminium in order to reduce the unsprung masses. The double-wishbone concept locates the wheel firmly, with minimal elastic movements. The high camber and track rigidity not only results in high cornering speeds, but also provides the driver with an optimum road feel when cornering at the limit. An extremely direct connection of the shock absorber on the rear hub carrier reduces vibrations and undesirable wheel load fluctuations. Highly neutral behaviour and defined, predictable responses at the tyre grip limit were important development objectives for the dynamic handling experts at Mercedes-AMG.
Mercedes-AMG GT S with electronically controlled damping
The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping comes as standard on the Mercedes-AMG GT S, or as an option for the GT. The driver can adjust the damping characteristics at the push of a button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT or by using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three stages are available: “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport plus”.
The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable steering ratio: this enhances vehicle handling and agility at low speeds while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. The power assistance is a particular highlight: it responds not only depending on the given road speed, but also according to the current lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. As a result, the driver has a perfect feel for the vehicle thanks to the direct feedback from the road. The standard-fit 3-stage ESP® with the “ESP ON”, “ESP SPORT Handling Mode” and “ESP OFF” functions works in perfect unison with the locking differential and is tuned optimally to the outstanding driving dynamics and safety requirements.
AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package available as an option for the GT S
The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package further augments dynamism and agility. It is available exclusively for the GT S and includes dynamic engine and transmission mounts, for example. The engine and transmission mounts assume an important function in the case of a transaxle design: soft mounts improve comfort since they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. Handling and agility benefit, however, from an overall stiffer mount set-up. Mercedes-AMG resolves these conflicting objectives using dynamic mounts, which adjust their stiffness continuously and instantly to the respective driving conditions and handling.
A specific engine application in the DYNAMIC SELECT “RACE” drive mode and in the manual “M” transmission mode makes the GT S even more dynamic. The package also includes tauter spring and damper tuning, more negative camber at the front axle as well as an adapted speed-sensitive sports steering system. The performance steering wheel in black DINAMICA microfibre and yellow highlights in the instrument cluster round off the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package.
Optional ceramic high-performance composite brake system
Excellent deceleration characteristics and high fade resistance come courtesy of the high-performance composite brake system – on the GT with internally ventilated, perforated 360-millimetre brake discs all-round; on the GT S with discs measuring 390 millimetres in diameter at the front, to cope with the higher performance, as well as red brake callipers. A ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available for both models as an option. Its advantages: lower weight, longer service life and even better fade resistance thanks to the ceramic brake discs with a diameter of 402 millimetres at the front and 360 millimetres at the rear.
Forged wheels and sports tyres as an option
As standard, the GT is shod in 10-spoke light-alloy wheels, 9 x 19 front and 11 x 19 rear, with 255/35 R 19 and 295/35 R 19 tyres. On the GT S the dimensions are 9 x 19 (front) with 265/35 R 19 tyres and 11 x 20 (rear) with 295/30 R 20 tyres. Numerous design and colour variants are optionally available for both models. In combination with the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package, specially developed sports tyres (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2) are available for the GT S as an option – ideal for aspiring racing drivers on closed-off circuits.
Aluminium spaceframe with intelligent material mix
Mercedes-AMG has gone for an intelligent material mix on the body of the GT. Chassis including greenhouse and body are made of light alloy, the boot lid of steel and the front deck of magnesium. This extremely light element at the front reduces the inertia ahead of the front axle, thus improving the vehicle’s agility. Over 90 percent of the weight-optimised spaceframe is made of aluminium components.
The bodyshell weighs 231 kilograms – a benchmark figure in the sports car segment. There were three key objectives during the design and development of the bodyshell structure: optimum strength, low centre of gravity and low weight. The high bending and torsional strength of the entire design enables extreme linear and transverse forces from the powertrain and suspension to be absorbed and transferred. Unwanted flexibility is thus reduced, with the vehicle responding rigidly and directly. As a result, the driver experiences a sports car with maximum dynamism that responds with excellent precision. The aluminium spaceframe also provides the basis for outstanding passive safety.
The Mercedes-AMG GT is produced at Mercedes-Benz in Sindelfingen. The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine is manufactured at Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach.
Aerodynamics for high balance and effective cooling
Aerodynamically, the GT was developed with one clear objective: transferring the high power to the road to enhance driving dynamics and handling safety at medium and high speeds. Thanks to the aerodynamic configuration, critical driving situations can be avoided – such as with a sudden evasive manoeuvre at high speed. The front-end design reduces lift to the desired level and helps route air to and from the cooling modules. The flow of cooling air also improves brake performance with the help of special brake cooling ducts.
The design of the clad underfloor guarantees optimum exhaust airflow from the oil cooler in the underfloor area and effective airflow for the rear diffuser. As an active component of the aerodynamics, the Mercedes-AMG GT comes with an extendable rear aerofoil that is integrated into the design silhouette. In combination with rear diffuser, the vehicle’s roadholding is enhanced.
Active and passive safety of the very highest calibre
The brand with the star boasts hallmark active and passive safety of the very highest calibre. The Mercedes-AMG GT adopts numerous Intelligent Drive assistance systems that are familiar from the new S-Class. Standard equipment includes COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, ADAPTIVE BRAKE, ATTENTION ASSIST and the tyre pressure monitoring system.
Optional extras available include:
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- PRE-SAFE® system
- PARKTRONIC
- Reversing camera
- Lane Tracking package including Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist
- Blind Spot Assist
- Traffic Sign Assist (included in COMAND Online)
The standard-fit restraint systems not only include three-point seat belts with belt tensioners and belt force limiters, but also front airbags, combined thorax/pelvis sidebags, windowbags and kneebags, for the driver and front passenger respectively.
Interior with outstanding perceived quality and superb everyday practicality
The sportily designed cockpit in carbon-fibre look provides information with two classic circular instruments in a 2-tube look and a 320 km/h speedometer scale. The performance steering wheel with its three-spoke design sits perfectly in the hand: it comes with aluminium shift paddles, 12-o’clock marking and a steering wheel rim in black nappa leather with flattened bottom section. The sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather/black fabric with integral head restraints and AMG lettering provide optimised lateral support when driving dynamically.
The DYNAMIC SELECT Controller, the buttons for starting the engine, the 3-stage ESP® and, when specified, the electronic damper control are located on the left in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The volume control as well as the buttons for the manual transmission drive mode, the ECO start/stop function and, again when specified, the selectable exhaust system are fitted on the right-hand side. The driver operates the seat heating, PARKTRONIC, the hazard warning lights and, depending on the model variant and equipment, the extendable rear aerofoil using the buttons in the top control panel in the roof frame.
The GT S comes with even more sophisticated equipment and appointments, including:
- Instrument cluster with 360-km/h speedometer scale and red colour highlights
- Performance steering wheel, black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre
- AMG emblem embossed in the centre armrest (not in conjunction with upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/black DINAMICA microfibre)
- Upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/black DINAMICA microfibre
Trim in matte silver fibreglass or in black diamond
As an alternative to the standard-fit Interior Silver Chrome package, the customer can choose from various other packages. Carbon-fibre trim elements are available in a choice of matt and high-gloss finish. Highlights include the trim in matt silver fibreglass and the Interior Black Diamond package, all offered for the first time.
The superb everyday practicality of the Mercedes-AMG GT is also expressed in the airy feeling of spaciousness. In addition, the good all-round visibility and the high headroom demonstrate that sporty dynamism and comfort on long journeys are not mutually exclusive – not necessarily a given in this segment. The luggage compartment capacity of 350 litres will hold two golf bags either lengthways or crossways. The large boot lid makes loading easy; an integral retractable luggage cover comes as standard. The “Edition 1” is a particularly sporty Mercedes-AMG GT S: the extraordinary composition of sporty exterior and interior details is sure to attract everyone’s attention (see “Interior and appointments”).
For more information on the new Mercedes-AMG, please visit Three Point Motors or Mercedes-Benz Nanaimo today.
Three Point Motors | 2546 Government Street, Victoria BC | 1.250.385.6737 | www.threepointmotors.com
Mercedes-Benz Nanaimo | 2472 Kenworth Road, Nanaimo BC | 1.250.585.8960 | www.mercedesnanaimo.com