Mercedes-AMG has long been synonymous with pushing the boundaries of automotive performance, and the GT Black Series represents the pinnacle of their engineering prowess. This isn’t just another sports car; it’s a statement, a testament to the brand’s deep-rooted motorsport heritage and commitment to delivering unparalleled driving experiences. The Benz Black lineage within AMG signifies the most extreme, track-focused machines, and the GT Black Series proudly carries this torch, boasting the most powerful AMG V8 engine ever produced, coupled with cutting-edge aerodynamics and a design directly inspired by the AMG GT3 race car.
The Black Series Legacy: Uncompromising Performance
Since its inception in 2006, the Black Series designation at Mercedes-AMG has signified something truly special. These are not cars designed for leisurely Sunday drives; they are built for the racetrack, engineered for blistering speed and agility, yet still legal for road use. The AMG GT Black Series continues this legacy, embodying the most direct technology transfer from motorsport to series production. Think of it as a race car in disguise, a benz black beast ready to unleash its fury on any circuit. This exclusivity and focus on extreme performance solidify Black Series models as highly sought-after automotive rarities.
The Heart of the Beast: A Groundbreaking V8 Engine
At the core of the AMG GT Black Series lies a revolutionary engine. Affalterbach’s engine specialists, known for their relentless pursuit of power, have once again reimagined the already formidable 4.0-liter V8 biturbo. Despite its reputation for exceptional responsiveness and torque delivery, the team aimed for even greater heights. The objective was clear: surpass the power output of any previous AMG GT model, achieve sharper throttle response, and maximize torque. This ambitious undertaking necessitated a fundamental shift in engine design – the introduction of a flat-plane crankshaft.
Tobias Moers, former Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, aptly described the GT Black Series as “our latest automotive highlight and continues a tradition established in 2006.” He emphasized the dedication and expertise poured into this project, stating, “The performance, appearance and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are second to none.” This model truly represents the zenith of the GT family and a significant milestone for AMG.
Flat-Plane vs. Cross-Plane: Engineering a Unique V8 Roar
The crankshaft configuration is a critical element in V8 engine design, profoundly influencing the engine’s character. Traditional V8s, including previous AMG engines, utilize a ‘cross-plane’ crankshaft. In this design, the crankpins are positioned at 90-degree angles, resulting in excellent smoothness and robust low-end torque, along with the signature V8 rumble we all recognize.
However, the AMG GT Black Series adopts a ‘flat-plane crankshaft’. Here, all crankpins reside on a single plane, offset by 180 degrees. Imagine an inline four-cylinder engine, but with wider crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each. The firing order in a flat-plane V8 alternates between cylinder banks, enhancing the gas cycle and creating uniformly oscillating gas columns. This resonance is strategically harnessed to boost performance and sharpen throttle response. While potentially less smooth than a cross-plane at low RPMs, the flat-plane design unlocks higher revving potential and a uniquely aggressive engine note, a distinct high-pitched scream that sets the benz black GT Black Series apart.
M178 LS2: The Most Potent AMG V8 Ever
While rooted in the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo architecture with dry-sump lubrication, the GT Black Series engine is designated the new internal code M178 LS2, reflecting substantial modifications. This powerhouse delivers a staggering 720 hp at 6,700-6,900 rpm and a massive 590 lb-ft of torque from 2,000-6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are meticulously tailored to the unique firing order, further optimizing the gas cycle.
Borrowing technology from the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe flagship, the twin-scroll turbochargers are equipped with anti-friction bearings for enhanced throttle response. However, the GT Black Series turbos feature larger compressor wheels, pushing boost pressure to an incredible 24.6 psi, compared to 19.6 psi in the AMG GT R. The redline is elevated to 7,200 rpm, and enlarged intercoolers ensure optimal charge-air temperatures are maintained. A distinctive black engine badge visually signifies the uniqueness of this remarkable powerplant, a hallmark of benz black exclusivity.
Blistering Performance Figures: Unleashing Raw Power
The M178 LS2 engine imbues the GT Black Series with an unparalleled character, evident not only in its power delivery but also in its ferocious sound. The performance figures are nothing short of breathtaking: 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, and 0 to 124 mph (200 km/h) in under nine seconds. While the top speed is electronically limited to 202 mph, this is truly a velocity best explored on closed racetracks, where the benz black GT Black Series can fully demonstrate its capabilities.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed Transmission: Optimized for Track Domination
Channeling the immense power to the rear wheels is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Positioned on the rear axle in a transaxle configuration for optimal weight distribution, this transmission is a cornerstone of the AMG GT 2-door models. However, for the GT Black Series, it has been specifically enhanced to handle the increased torque and extreme demands of track use.
Shift speeds and response times have been pushed to their limits, perfectly complementing the engine’s track-focused nature. The Race Start function is even more aggressive, with higher starting revs and refined wheel slip control. Transmission cooling is upgraded to withstand extreme conditions, and gear ratios have been subtly revised for optimal acceleration and responsiveness.
The ‘torque tube’, constructed from carbon fiber, connects the engine and transmission. Weighing a mere 30.6 lbs, it’s approximately 40 percent lighter than the aluminum counterpart in the standard AMG GT. This carbon fiber component enhances torsional stiffness and contributes to the car’s balanced weight distribution, crucial for razor-sharp handling.
Aerodynamic Mastery: Sculpted for Speed and Downforce
Sophisticated aerodynamics play a pivotal role in the GT Black Series’ exceptional driving dynamics and high-speed stability. AMG’s aerodynamic experts and designers collaborated closely, drawing inspiration from the AMG GT3 and GT4 racing cars. The principle of ‘form follows function’ is paramount in the benz black design philosophy, and it’s strikingly evident in every contour of the GT Black Series.
The larger radiator air inlet, directly derived from the AMG GT3 race car, is a prominent feature. Vertical slats in dark chrome adorn the radiator trim, and the central inlet now feeds air directly to the wheel arch coolers, eliminating the need for additional outer air inlets in the front bumper. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, increasing front axle downforce and improving brake cooling. Air curtains guide airflow towards the wheels, reducing drag and further enhancing downforce.
The adjustable carbon-fiber front splitter offers two settings: Street and Race (for track use only). In Race mode, it extends forward, creating a front diffuser that generates a ‘Venturi effect’, drawing the car closer to the road and significantly increasing front axle downforce. This translates to enhanced steering precision and directional stability, especially during high-speed cornering.
Motorsport-Derived Aerodynamic Enhancements
The carbon-fiber hood features two large exhaust air outlets, channeling hot air from the engine compartment and increasing overall downforce – another technology directly borrowed from motorsport. These outlets also reduce air resistance and optimize engine cooling. Front fender vents and larger side sill panels with carbon-fiber elements further contribute to downforce and aerodynamic efficiency.
The rear view is dominated by a new rear bumper with a large diffuser and an innovative two-stage rear spoiler. Both spoiler blades are crafted from carbon fiber and are mechanically adjustable to suit different track conditions. An electronically adjustable flap in the upper blade, controlled by the AMG DYNAMICS modes, further optimizes aerodynamics for various driving scenarios, enhancing braking performance, cornering stability, and top speed.
Extensive underbody paneling, nearly fully enclosed and equipped with longitudinal fins, ensures optimal airflow to the rear diffuser, maximizing downforce. These comprehensive aerodynamic measures result in a downforce level exceeding 882 lbs at 155 mph, a testament to the benz black GT Black Series’ track-focused engineering.
Lightweight Construction: Carbon Fiber Everywhere
The GT Black Series embraces lightweight construction with an ‘intelligent material mix’. A carbon-fiber roof with a lowered center, a carbon-fiber rear hatch, and lightweight glass for the rear windshield contribute to weight reduction. The laminated front windshield is also made from lightweight glass, and a coiled carbon-fiber transmission mount is another exclusive Black Series component.
Carbon-fiber shear panels in the front, underbody, and rear, along with a lightweight integral carrier and carbon-fiber cross tunnel, stiffen the aluminum body shell, enhancing structural rigidity and driving precision. The standard ceramic high-performance compound brake system and light-alloy forged wheels further minimize weight.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension: Tuned for极致 Performance
The AMG coil-over suspension with adaptive adjustable damping, similar to the AMG GT R, is specifically tuned for extreme racetrack use. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers are crafted from forged aluminum to reduce unsprung mass, and spherical bearings on the rear axle wishbones, derived from motorsport, ensure precise wheel control even under extreme loads.
The AMG RIDE CONTROL system continuously adapts damping at each wheel to driving conditions and speed. New valves in the dampers react even faster to suspension movements, enhancing handling and stability. Drivers can select between “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” modes, with “Sport Plus” automatically adapting to track surface quality for optimal performance on various circuits.
Carbon-fiber sway bars (front) and a steel sway bar (rear) further refine handling, while a carbon-fiber shear panel in the rear underbody enhances structural rigidity. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts are retuned for increased agility and precise feedback. Manually adjustable camber at the front and rear axles allows for motorsport-level track setups.
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO Tires: Grip Beyond Limits
Developed in collaboration with Michelin®, the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tire is custom-designed for the benz black GT Black Series and available in two compounds. The standard soft-compound tire provides exceptional grip, while a harder compound is available for high-temperature track use. These high-performance tires, along with wider track widths, maximize cornering prowess.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Nine Levels of Precision
For ultimate track control in ESP OFF mode, the AMG TRACTION CONTROL offers nine levels of slip adjustment, allowing drivers to fine-tune the system to their skill level and track conditions. This system, derived from the GT3 race car, operates without ESP intervention, modulating engine output and the electronic differential lock to maintain optimal traction. A dedicated adjuster in the center console provides tactile control over the traction settings.
Exclusive Interior: Race-Inspired Luxury
The interior of the GT Black Series reflects its pole position within the AMG lineup. Exclusive nappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber in black with orange contrasting topstitching create a sporty yet luxurious ambiance. Lightweight door panels with loop pull handles, matte black carbon-fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package further enhance the race-inspired aesthetic. AMG carbon-fiber bucket seats (or AMG Performance seats in some markets) provide exceptional lateral support.
Digital instrument displays with AMG-specific graphics offer customizable views, including a ‘Supersport’ mode with a central rev counter and shift light. Display buttons in the center console provide intuitive control over various vehicle functions, and the AMG Performance steering wheel, trimmed in DINAMICA microfiber, features integrated Touch Control buttons and AMG DRIVE UNIT controls for fingertip access to performance settings.
Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series: Technical Data
| 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0-liter V8 biturbo |
| Displacement | 3982 cc |
| Output | 720 hp at 6,700-6,900 rpm |
| Peak torque | 590 lb-ft at 2,000-6,000 rpm |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.1 s |
| Top speed | 202 mph |
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is more than just a car; it’s an experience, a statement of automotive artistry and engineering mastery. It’s the ultimate benz black, representing the pinnacle of performance and a thrilling embodiment of AMG’s motorsport DNA. For those seeking the most extreme expression of driving passion, the GT Black Series stands alone.
