Affalterbach,Germany, September 2014 - As exciting as crossing the finish line in a car race – that was how Mercedes-AMG presented its new GT V8 sports car this evening, the second vehicle to be entirely developed under its own direction. None other than current Formula 1 points leader Nico Rosberg piloted the breath-taking newcomer from the sports car brand of Mercedes-Benz onto the stage. The emotions ran high for around 400 international guests from the worlds of politics, business and the media, including AMG's founders Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher, as the Mercedes-AMG GT made its début in its birthplace. Previously, Bernd Schneider, five-time DTM champion and with 43 victories the most successful DTM driver of all time, presented a parade of the most famous vehicles from AMG's history. Mercedes-AMG created an authentic motor sports atmosphere at its head office in Affalterbach for the first appearance of the new GT under the eyes of the world. A temporary pit lane with stands for spectators and a victory fireworks show set the perfect scene for the début of an ambitious new challenger.
With the new Mercedes-AMG GT, the Mercedes-AMG sports car brand enters a new segment for the company that is teeming with top-class competitors. Its front mid-engine concept with transaxle and the intelligent aluminium lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience. The basis for AMG's hallmark driving performance is provided by the AMG 4.0-litre V8 Biturbo engine, which is also a new development and is built in two output specifications: as a GT with 340 kW (462 hp) and as a GT S with 375 kW (510 hp).
"The Mercedes-AMG GT shows sports car enthusiasts around the world what AMG is capable of", said Prof Thomas Weber, member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, and stressed Mercedes-AMG's importance within Daimler's engineering network.
"With its technological substance, the Mercedes-AMG GT fulfils our high standards with regard to driving dynamics, agility and sportiness. It has been 'handcrafted by racers', and shows that we make our customers' dreams come true", said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The GT combines driving dynamics and first-class racetrack performance with superb everyday practicality and a level of efficiency that sets new standards in the segment.
. The first Mercedes was a racing car, 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, 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 Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems.
"With the new Mercedes-AMG GT, we are venturing out into a challenging sports car segment with its top-class competitive field. This is an incentive and motivation for us at the same time to prove to sports car enthusiasts around the world the kind of performance that AMG is capable of", says Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.
* In conjunction with AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package; ** Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, without driver and luggage); *** Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg); **** Electronically limited.
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 3.3 kilograms per hp, the Mercedes-AMG GT self-confidently lines up alongside the very best in its segment. The sports car also sets a new benchmark figure for fuel economy: fuel consumption of 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) constitutes a considerable increase in efficiency.
The new Mercedes-AMG GT embodies the sensual purity of sportiness and emotion. The two-seater is characterised by hallmark rear-wheel-drive proportions. The V8 biturbo front mid-engine ensures optimum weight distribution, which forms the basis for superb driving dynamics. 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 large tailgate conceals a practical luggage compartment.
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. A muscular element sculpted out of the side wall creates a sense of lightness and dynamism, even when the vehicle is at a standstill. The surfaces and lines of the side wall flow into the rear-end with a dramatic tapered effect. The GT deliberately avoids lines in the shoulder region. The only line is one lower down, picked up again in the rear bumper, which stretches the body and makes it appear lighter. The side air outlets, each with two fins, represent a typical, styling feature of Mercedes-Benz sports cars. The GT has no visible aerials which could disrupt the overall appearance.
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.
Large air intakes optimise the flow of air to the cooling modules. 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. While the front splitter is painted in the body colour on the GT, it comes with a high-gloss black finish on the GT S. Overall, customers can accentuate the exterior design according to their personal preferences: options available include the Exterior Silver Chrome package, the Night package and the Exterior Carbon-Fibre package.
With its base areas, broad shoulders and narrow 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 is an extendable rear aerofoil, which is concealed from view 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.
Flat, wide tail lights with new sequential turn signals reflect state-of-the-art technology. 18 individual LEDs on each side indicate where the driver intends to turn by sequentially illuminating them from the inside to the outside.
The tail lights underline both the sporty styling of the rear, as well as the attention to detail and sophistication – form and function combine in a unique way to create a perfect unit.
The interior design too 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.
The central "aviation design" theme, which is the hallmark of Mercedes-Benz sports cars, has been restyled. The extreme emphasis on the width of the dashboard, which creates an impression of a powerful wing, dominates the cockpit of the GT. Four central spotlight-style vents and the individual vents at the right and left ends of the dashboard reinforce this impression. In conjunction with the high beltlines, the concave-shaped door panelling and the dynamic centre console, the GT comes across as a genuine driving machine and consummately integrates the driver into the cockpit thanks to the low seat position.
The dominant centre console appears to be a feature lifted straight from motor racing by virtue of its styling that is reminiscent of a NACA air intake, as well as the surfaces and authentic materials that have been used – there is a choice of silver chrome, matt carbon fibre, high-gloss carbon fibre, black diamond and matt silver fibreglass. Positioned centrally, the free-standing central display is an eye-catching feature. Attention to detail is also echoed in the AMG DRIVE UNIT controls: they are arranged like eight cylinders in a V layout, emphasising the powerful and high-tech impression made by the centre console.
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 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 boasts the brand's hallmark emotive V8 engine sound, along with an immediate response and high pulling power.
The new V8 also stands out with its precise power output, which is easily a match for a naturally aspirated engine. One development objective that the AMG engine specialists put their heart and soul into and which underline their considerable expertise. The driver truly appreciates the AMG engine, with its internal designation M178, particularly in M, or Race mode in the selectable drive modes, thanks to its linear power delivery, which makes it much easier to handle the vehicle at the limits. As part of this process, the sophisticated ECU even factors in the current driving condition and adjusts the accelerator response depending on the lateral forces generated.
With a displacement of 3982 cc, the V8 uses a range of technologies which are already being used in the 2.0-litre turbo engine in the A 45 AMG, CLA 45 AMG and GLA 45 AMG – presently the most powerful, series-production four-cylinder engine in the world. Both engines have the same bore/stroke ratio, providing the basis for high revving ability. The piezo direct petrol injection used at Mercedes-Benz is responsible for the mixture formation. The spray-guided combustion process was further developed in the third generation to meet all future legal requirements. The highly efficient and economical AMG 4.0 -litre V8 biturbo engine meets the Euro 6 emissions standard, including the maximum particulate emissions level that takes effect in 2016.
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, an 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.
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 new Mercedes-AMG sports car has its own tonal characteristics which denote the car's membership of the AMG family but that also distinguish it clearly from other high-performance cars. The selectable exhaust system is also available as an option for the Mercedes-AMG GT.
The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine is being made 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 – visible on the AMG engine plate with 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 the racing series – from Formula 1, the DTM to the involvement in customer racing with the SLS AMG GT3.
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 were 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.
To transfer the driver's shift commands even more directly, communication between the engine and transmission has been fundamentally revised. This means that the previous limits of shift performance and the response time have been substantially increased. The driver can individually tailor the GT to their wishes with the aid of AMG DYNAMIC SELECT. Various modes are available: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport Plus) and – entirely new – "I" (Individual). The manual "RACE" drive program reserved exclusively for the GT S optimally adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of racetrack usage – including fastest shift speeds and highly emotive engine. By pressing the "M" button, the driver can activate the manual transmission mode in any drive mode.
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 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. Not only does it further improve 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.
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 the design, development and testing. Whether it is the suspension, 3-stage ESP®, locking differential, steering, aerodynamics, tyres or brakes – only the successful precision engineering and concerted networking of individual specialist disciplines manage 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 clearly 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.
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: it enhances vehicle handling and agility at low speeds while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. The power assistance is a particular highlight: it not only responds depending on road speed, but also on 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.
The Mercedes-AMG GT comes as standard with drivetrain damping. A specially tuned damper reduces undesirable rolling motion of the entire drivetrain including the transaxle transmission, thus substantially improving comfort and agility.
The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package augments dynamism and agility even more. It is available exclusively for the GT S and includes dynamic engine and transmission mounts. 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. The special control electronics in the AMG CHASSIS CONTROLLER, ACC, provide this function. The ACC detects driving situations on the basis of CAN data, is connected to the electronic rear-axle locking differential and thus ensures optimum, balanced driving dynamics. AMG has gone a step further when implementing this technology: the engine and transmission mounts are even actuated independently of each other. The advantage: this innovative solution provides an additional substantial improvement in driving precision and lateral dynamics.
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 suspension tuning thanks to raised spring and damping characteristics, more negative camber at the front axle as well as an adapted sports speed-sensitive steering. Thus the driver benefits from better performance with optimised handling. The performance steering wheel as well as yellow highlights in the instrument cluster round off the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package.
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.
As standard, the GT is shod in 10-spoke light-alloy wheels, 9 x 19 inch (front) and 11 x 19 inch (rear), with 255/35 R 19 and 295/35 R 19 tyres. On the GT S the dimensions are 9 x 19 inch (front) with 265/35 R 19 tyres and 11 x 20 inch (rear) with 295/30 R 20 tyres. A host of different design and colour variants are available as options for both models, such as the ultralight forged wheels in cross-spoke design, painted black matt, with high-sheen rim flange and fully integrated wheel bolt covers.
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.
Mercedes-AMG has gone for an intelligent material mix on the body of the GT. Chassis including greenhouse and body are made out of light alloy, the boot lid out of steel and the front deck out 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 out 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 drivetrain 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.
Vehicle proportions, weight distribution and drive configuration, handling stability, drag, cooling and wind noise: the aerodynamics of the GT fulfil complex requirements. The high-performance vehicle has been developed aerodynamically with one clear objective in mind: high forces must be transferred onto the road without limiting driving dynamics and performance. Thanks to the aerodynamic configuration, critical driving situations can be avoided – such as with a sudden evasive manoeuvre at high speed.
The design of the front apron with A-wing and front splitter not only reduces lift to the desired level, but also helps route air directly to and from the cooling modules. The flow of cooling air from the aerodynamically shaped brake cooling ducts also specifically improves brake performance.
The design of the extensively 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. Depending on the drive mode, the aerofoil extends and retracts at various speeds. In combination with the rear diffuser with no leading edges, the lift at the rear axle is reduced to a minimum in the aerodynamically relevant speed range.
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.
On opening the door, the driver is greeted by the AMG start-up screen: an animated GT appears on the TFT display in the instrument cluster. 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 the engine start, the 3-stage ESP® and, depending on the equipment, 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, likewise depending on the equipment, the selectable exhaust system are fitted on the right-hand side. The innovative touchpad in the handrest above the COMAND Controller is integrated in front of the E-SELECT selector lever to operate the dual clutch transmission. A free-standing central display is located centrally above the four ventilation outlets. The display boasts a screen diagonal of 17.78 centimetres (7 inches), increasing to 21.33 centimetres (8.4 inches) if COMAND Online is specified. The driver operates the seat heating, PARKTRONIC, the hazard warning lights and, depending on the equipment, the extendable rear aerofoil using the buttons in the top control panel in the roof frame.
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: here the ventilation outlets, the frame of the centre console and the trim strips in the door armrests come in a sophisticated high-gloss black finish, with its surprising 3D look. The "black diamond" method uses the chemical CVD (chemical vapour deposition) gas phase process to deposit a precious metal on a high-sheen chrome surface at temperatures of 1000°C. The metal reacts with the surface to form a layer that is highly scratch-resistant and has a high adhesive strength.
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. A large stowage compartment in the centre armrest, a centrally positioned twin cup holder and a large, easily accessible glove compartment are further evidence of the outstanding everyday suitability of the GT. 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 cross strut made out of aluminium behind the seats prevents luggage from sliding forward as the vehicle brakes.
