Mercedes-Benz has a storied history of producing iconic vehicles, from the classic 1956 300SL Gullwing to the more recent SLS AMG. While the SLS AMG was considered the pinnacle of collaboration between AMG and Mercedes, it was merely a prelude to the groundbreaking Mercedes-AMG GT S. This 2016 model marked a significant turning point, becoming the first car to proudly bear AMG as its standalone brand, signifying AMG’s evolution beyond just a tuner. The 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S is not just beautiful and unique; it’s a memorable machine that redefines performance and luxury.
The 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S represents more than just a new model; it signifies AMG’s transformation into an independent brand. It’s the second vehicle, following the SLS, to feature a chassis designed entirely by AMG. This pivotal moment elevated AMG from an esteemed in-house tuner to a genuine manufacturer of world-class luxury and ultra-high-performance vehicles.
While the GT S may be dimensionally smaller than the SLS and lacks the iconic gull-wing doors, it positions itself as a more versatile high-performance car, directly challenging the Porsche 911. However, unlike its German rival, the 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S boasts a monstrous V8 engine under its hood, promising a different kind of exhilarating experience.
Building upon the all-aluminum chassis of the SLS AMG, AMG engineers shortened the wheelbase of the GT S by 2 inches, resulting in a 103.5-inch wheelbase. This adjustment contributes to the GT S’s agility and responsiveness.
Under the hood resides a potent 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, a departure from the naturally aspirated engines previously associated with AMG. This engine delivers a formidable 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, ensuring breathtaking acceleration and power across the rev range. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) from the SLS AMG is also incorporated, enhanced with a wider gear ratio spread to optimize both performance and efficiency.
The strategic use of a lighter engine and the shortened wheelbase ensures a weight distribution comparable to the SLS AMG, with 47% at the front and 53% at the rear. Notably, the 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S retains hydraulic power steering, eschewing electric assist, which provides drivers with superior steering feel and feedback, crucial for a performance car of this caliber.
The overall character of the GT S exudes European sophistication and a robust demeanor, urging drivers to push its limits, ideally on a racetrack. During testing at Summit Point Motorsports Park’s Shenandoah Circuit, the GT S’s chassis proved exceptionally responsive and communicative. Its predictable handling at the limit inspires confidence and allows drivers to maintain control even during spirited driving.
Despite some limitations in visibility, the 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S is surprisingly easy to drive fast. The suspension strikes a balance between stiffness and compliance, effectively managing body roll while absorbing road imperfections. The brakes are powerful and resistant to fade, ensuring consistent stopping performance. The car’s precise steering translates driver input directly into directional changes, making it feel incredibly agile.
Power delivery from the twin-turbo V8 is remarkably smooth and linear, devoid of abrupt surges or dips. While manual shifting with the DCT is available, it was noted to be somewhat sluggish. Leaving the transmission in automatic Race mode yielded quicker and more efficient gear changes during track driving.
On public roads, the 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S displays impeccable grand touring manners. It effortlessly devours miles in comfort, especially when set to Comfort mode. In this setting, the GT S provides a relaxed and refined driving experience, making it a comfortable daily driver as well as a weekend track weapon.
The cabin offers adequate space and the seats are firm yet supportive, suitable for both spirited drives and longer journeys. Surprisingly, the GT S also provides a practical amount of storage space for luggage or gear, enhancing its grand touring credentials. The interior design, inspired by aviation, echoes the SLS AMG’s aesthetic, maintaining a high level of material quality despite the GT S’s more accessible price point.
However, the interior isn’t without minor ergonomic quirks. The shifter’s rearward placement can be slightly awkward to reach, and finding a comfortable armrest position while using the touchpad COMAND controller can be challenging. Nevertheless, the inclusion of a dedicated Park button is a welcome feature, distinguishing it from some BMW M models.
The conventional coupe doors not only contribute to cost savings compared to gull-wing doors but also improve ingress and egress. They also facilitate the inclusion of a modern panoramic roof. Despite these contemporary features, the driving experience retains a classic SL Coupe feel, blending heritage with modern performance.
While the styling of the 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S may draw some comparisons to the Porsche 928 or 911, particularly in the rear, its overall design is undeniably elegant and befitting of a premium Mercedes-AMG product.
The long hood, minimal cabin silhouette, and Euro-style hatchback rear contribute to its distinctive profile. Despite subtle familiarities in the rear design, elements like the striking grille, hood and fender vents, and active rear wing ensure the GT S stands out with its own unique visual identity.
In terms of straight-line acceleration, the 3,600-pound GT S achieves a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds. The launch control system is user-friendly and reliable, allowing for consistent and rapid starts. The twin turbos spool up instantly, providing immediate power, and the tires grip effectively, launching the car forward with impressive speed and smoothness.
The gear shifts from the AMG DCT are characteristically firm and rapid, propelling the GT S through the quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds at 126 mph. Braking performance is equally impressive, requiring just 108 feet to stop from 60 mph. However, the brake pedal feel was noted to be somewhat long-travel and less sporty than expected, more akin to an SUV than a performance car. Despite this, the GT S is equipped with autonomous emergency braking, adding an extra layer of safety.
Fuel economy for the 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S is rated at 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined. While not exceptional, these figures are respectable for a car with this level of performance. During testing with spirited driving, fuel consumption averaged around 15.3 mpg on premium gasoline.
The starting price for the GT S was $130,825, significantly less than the SLS AMG, positioning it as a relative bargain in the supercar segment. A more affordable base GT model was also introduced, offering slightly less horsepower and fewer performance-focused features.
The 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S represents a pivotal second act for AMG, solidifying its position as a standalone performance brand. It marks a deepening of AMG’s performance narrative and sets the stage for an exciting future. As AMG continues to evolve, enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the next chapter, perhaps in the form of a C63 successor, further cementing AMG’s legacy in the high-performance automotive world.
2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S Specifications
- Engine: 4.0 liter
- Horsepower: 503
- Torque: 479 lb-ft.
- 0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
- 1/4 mile: 11.5 seconds @ 126 mph
- EPA: 16 mpg city/ 22 mpg highway
