The absolute pinnacle of the AMG GT family: The new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series

At Mercedes-AMG, the Black Series has been synonymous with a very special type of car since 2006: uncompromisingly sporty, with an expressive design and the most consistent technology transfer from motorsport to series production. Black Series models are exclusive automotive rarities. They have not been developed to gather dust in collectors’ garages, but for high-speed use on racetracks, despite being approved for roads. The AMG GT Black Series represents a new highlight in this tradition: It is the most powerful Mercedes-AMG with a V8 series engine.

In order to emphasise the redefinition of the super sports car, the engine specialists in Affalterbach have once again extensively further developed the tried-and-tested 4.0-litre biturbo unit – despite it already being renowned for excellent driveability, power delivery and torque progression. The specifications were clear: Significantly more power than the previous flagship model of the AMG GT family, an even more agile throttle response, maximum torque – all of which meant that a radical change was needed in the form of a new, ‘flat’ crankshaft.

“The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive highlight and continues a tradition established in 2006. The sixth version of its kind is another AMG milestone and impressive proof of the incredible development expertise in Affalterbach. I am proud of the team who have created a unique super sports car, which now represents the absolute peak of our successful GT family. The performance, looks and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are second to none. This project was a fantastic end to my work at AMG, for which I am truly thankful,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The most powerful V8 series engine from Mercedes-AMG

The new GT Black Series engine may be based on the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with dry sump lubrication, but it has been given the new internal code M178 LS2 due to the numerous modifications. It achieves 537 kW (730 hp) at 6700-6900 rpm and delivers a maximum torque of 800 Nm at 2000-6000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are adapted to the new firing order and further improve the gas cycle.

Both twin scroll exhaust turbochargers are mounted in anti-friction bearings, as in the top-of-the-range four-door AMG GT Coupé, which optimises their throttle response even further. However, in the Black Series, the turbochargers have been given a larger compressor wheel, meaning that both can deliver a total of 1100 kg air per hour. By way of comparison: The figure is 900 kg/h for the AMG GT R. 7000 rpm is not critical as a continuous speed, the speed is limited at 7200 rpm. And the larger intercoolers guarantee that they always keep the charge-air temperature within the best possible range. The unique standing of the new engine is also reflected in the engine badge, which is kept in black.

0-200 km/h in under nine seconds

What does the engine do for the AMG GT Black Series? It gives it a completely independent character, which is not only reflected in the type of power delivery, but also in its very particular sound pattern. And it enables highly impressive driving performance: The two-door vehicle shoots from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, and to 200 km/h in under nine seconds. The top speed is 325 km/h

Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via the seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G dual clutch transmission, which is located on the rear axle in a transaxle arrangement for optimal weight distribution, as is the case for all AMG GT models. It has been modified for use in the AMG GT Black Series and adapted to the increased torque of 800 Nm. The previous limits governing shift performance and response time have been extended, making them more suitable for racetracks.

This all adds up to very different handling characteristics, as not only are the accelerator and engine response more agile – the drive programs, start-up characteristics and gear changes are, too. The Race Start function is also now even more impressive, thanks to the increased starting revs, the more sensitive wheel slip control and the sports tyres fit for the racetrack.

Sophisticated aerodynamics for incredibly high driving dynamics

Grip to the power of nine: AMG TRACTION CONTROL

For use on cordoned-off racetracks in ESP OFF mode, the AMG TRACTION CONTROL enables the driver to get individual support for controlling the immense power of the Black Series – and without any ESP brake intervention whatsoever. The level of support can be fine-tuned, providing the ideal level of assistance for each driver and each track situation. The AMG TRACTION CONTROL has been extensively tailored to meet the requirements of the new Black Series and allows preselection of one of nine slip settings on the live rear axle. Control is exclusively via corresponding maps in the engine electronics and without any intervention in the ESP system, as is also the case with the GT3 racing car.

Displays with AMG-specific graphics

For use on cordoned-off racetracks in ESP OFF mode, the AMG TRACTION CONTROL enables the driver to get individual support for controlling the immense power of the Black Series – and without any ESP brake intervention whatsoever. The level of support can be fine-tuned, providing the ideal level of assistance for each driver and each track situation. The AMG TRACTION CONTROL has been extensively tailored to meet the requirements of the new Black Series and allows preselection of one of nine slip settings on the live rear axle. Control is exclusively via corresponding maps in the engine electronics and without any intervention in the ESP system, as is also the case with the GT3 racing car.