The new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series isn’t just a car; it’s a statement. Affalterbach’s engineers have truly outdone themselves, crafting a super sports car that redefines the boundaries of performance and design. This “Black Benz Amg” embodies the very essence of motorsport heritage, seamlessly blending track-ready technology with the refined sophistication expected from Mercedes-Benz. With a staggering 720 horsepower generated from a handcrafted AMG V8 engine featuring a flat-plane crankshaft, coupled with advanced active aerodynamics and a design directly inspired by the AMG GT3 racing car, this vehicle is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Image alt text: Aggressive front grille and aerodynamic elements of the Black Benz AMG GT Black Series, showcasing its motorsport-derived design.
Since 2006, the Black Series designation at Mercedes-AMG has signified something truly exceptional: vehicles that are uncompromisingly sporty, boldly designed, and represent the most direct transfer of technology from the racetrack to the road. These models are not mere showpieces; they are built for exhilarating high-speed track performance while still being fully street-legal. The AMG GT Black Series elevates this tradition to new heights, housing the most potent Mercedes-AMG V8 series engine ever created.
To achieve this new benchmark in the super sports car realm, the engine specialists at Affalterbach undertook a comprehensive redevelopment of the already acclaimed 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine. Despite its existing reputation for exceptional responsiveness, power delivery, and torque, the team aimed for even greater performance. The objectives were clear: surpass the power of the previous AMG GT flagship, achieve even sharper throttle response, and maximize torque. This ambitious pursuit necessitated a radical engineering shift – the adoption of a flat-plane crankshaft.
“The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive masterpiece, continuing a legacy that began in 2006,” states Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “This sixth iteration is another significant AMG milestone, a testament to the extraordinary development expertise within Affalterbach. I am incredibly proud of the team who have engineered this unparalleled super sports car, which now sits at the very pinnacle of our successful GT family. The performance, aesthetics, and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are simply unmatched. This project marks a phenomenal conclusion to my tenure at AMG, for which I am deeply grateful.”
The Distinctive Heart of the Black Benz AMG: A V8 Engine Reimagined
The configuration of a V8 engine provides designers with significant flexibility, particularly in the crankshaft arrangement. This critical component fundamentally shapes the engine’s characteristics. Typically, V8 engines utilize one of two crankshaft designs: the ‘cross plane’ crankshaft, where the crankpins of cylinder pairs are positioned at 90-degree intervals – a configuration AMG has traditionally employed – or the ‘flat-plane crankshaft,’ where all crankpins reside on a single plane with a 180-degree offset.
Visually, a cross-plane crankshaft, when viewed from the front, forms a cross shape, hence its name. These crankshafts offer advantages such as exceptional smoothness and robust torque at lower engine speeds. The signature deep rumble is another defining characteristic of the cross-plane V8 engine. To optimize displacement and performance within the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, AMG engineers strategically positioned the exhaust side within the hot inner V of the two cylinder banks.
Unlocking Power with Uniformly Oscillating Gas Columns
Further performance gains are achieved through the implementation of a flat-plane crankshaft. In this configuration, the V8 engine resembles an inline four-cylinder engine, albeit with wider crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each. Ignition in a flat-plane V8 engine alternates between cylinder banks, enhancing the gas cycle. The specific firing order, with a 180-degree crankshaft angle offset (1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6), creates uniformly oscillating gas columns in both the exhaust and intake tracts. This resonance is effectively harnessed to boost performance. A key benefit of this design is a notably more responsive throttle.
Mercedes-AMG’s Most Powerful V8 Engine to Date
While the new engine powering the GT Black Series is rooted in the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo with dry sump lubrication, extensive modifications have earned it a new internal designation: M178 LS2. This powerhouse delivers an astounding 720 hp within the 6,700-6,900 rpm range and a peak torque of 590 lb-ft between 2,000-6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds, tailored to the unique firing order, further optimize the gas cycle.
Similar to the flagship AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, both twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers are fitted with anti-friction bearings for enhanced throttle response. However, the GT Black Series features turbochargers with larger compressor wheels, enabling a total boost pressure of 24.6 psi, a significant increase compared to the AMG GT R’s 19.6 psi. While 7,000 rpm is readily achievable as a sustained speed, the redline is set at 7,200 rpm. Larger intercoolers ensure optimal charge-air temperatures across the performance spectrum. The engine’s uniqueness is further emphasized by a distinctive black engine badge.
Image alt text: Detailed view of the handcrafted AMG V8 engine in the Black Benz AMG, highlighting the black engine badge signifying its unique performance.
Blistering Acceleration: 0-124 mph in Under Nine Seconds
The new Handcrafted AMG engine bestows the GT Black Series with a truly unique character, evident not only in its raw power but also in its distinctive and aggressive sound. This potent engine translates to breathtaking performance figures: the Black Series catapults from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds and reaches 124 mph (200 km/h) in under nine seconds. While its top speed is electronically limited to 202 mph, such velocities are best explored within the controlled environment of a racetrack.
Optimized AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed Transmission
Power is channeled to the rear wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Positioned on the rear axle in a transaxle configuration, as with all AMG GT 2-door models, this arrangement optimizes weight distribution. Specifically tuned for the AMG GT Black Series, the transmission is engineered to manage the increased torque output of 590 lb-ft. Shift performance and response time thresholds have been pushed further, enhancing its suitability for track use.
These enhancements contribute to a new level of responsiveness, with more agile accelerator and engine response, drive programs, start-up behavior, and gear changes. The Race Start function is now even more impactful, thanks to increased starting revs, more refined wheel slip control, and high-performance track-ready tires. Furthermore, transmission cooling has been uprated to meet more demanding conditions, and gear ratios have been subtly adjusted.
A carbon fiber ‘torque tube’ connects the engine and transmission. Weighing a mere 30.6 lbs, it is approximately 40 percent lighter than its aluminum counterpart in the standard AMG GT. As a structural component of the transaxle drivetrain, it establishes an exceptionally torsionally rigid connection, promoting direct drivetrain responsiveness and contributing to the vehicle’s balanced weight distribution. The drive shaft housed within is also constructed from lightweight carbon fiber.
Sophisticated Aerodynamics: Mastering Driving Dynamics at High Speed
Advanced and meticulously optimized aerodynamics play a crucial role in the agile driving dynamics and high-speed stability of this “black benz amg”. Continuing the collaborative approach seen with the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO, aerodynamic experts and designers worked in close synergy to refine the GT Black Series’ aerodynamic profile. “Form follows function” is the guiding principle, even more so in the case of the new Black Series.
The visual and technical parallels to the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars are stronger than ever. This begins with the new, significantly enlarged radiator air inlet, directly derived from the AMG GT3 race car. The radiator trim features vertical slats in dark chrome. With wheel arch coolers now fed directly via the central inlet, the need for two additional outer air inlets in the front bumper is eliminated. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, increasing downforce at the front axle and enhancing brake cooling. ‘Air curtains’ manage and direct airflow towards the wheels. Together with the flics ahead of the wheels, these enhancements reduce drag and increase downforce. The new design language effectively balances maximum cooling efficiency with reduced air resistance and increased front-end downforce.
The carbon fiber front splitter offers two manually adjustable settings (Street and Race – with Race mode intended exclusively for racetrack use), adaptable to varying track demands. In the extended ‘Race’ position, a front diffuser, shaped like an inverted wing profile, is created beneath the front section. Depending on speed, this element lowers further due to increasing negative pressure, significantly accelerating underbody airflow and creating a ‘Venturi effect’. This draws the car closer to the road and increases downforce on the front axle, enhancing steering precision during high-speed cornering and directional stability. When the front diffuser is in ‘Race’ mode, the new rear spoiler design further amplifies rear axle downforce.
Hood with Exhaust Air Openings: Enhancing Aero-Performance
Another motorsport-derived feature is the new carbon fiber hood, incorporating two large exhaust air outlets finished in black carbon fiber. These outlets channel warm air from the diagonally positioned cooling pack out of the engine compartment. This technology, directly from motorsport, increases overall downforce, reduces air resistance, and optimizes engine cooling airflow. Air is also specifically channeled around the A-pillars and side windows towards the rear, enhancing the effectiveness of the new rear spoiler design. Seamlessly integrated front fender vents, with five body-colored fins, and exhaust air openings behind the front wheels in the carbon fiber fenders contribute to increased front axle downforce via effective wheel arch ventilation. The optimized airflow around the vehicle is further refined by new, larger, and wider side sill panels with black carbon fiber elements, merging into vertical blades at the front and rear. Additional cooling air ducts are integrated into the side sill panels for rear axle brake cooling.
Two-Stage Rear Spoiler Concept: Maximizing Downforce
The rear profile is defined by a new rear bumper with a large diffuser, dual rounded twin-tailpipe trims, side wheel arch ventilation, and an innovative rear spoiler design. Both spoiler blades are constructed from carbon fiber, mechanically adjustable to adapt to varying track conditions. The lower blade is intentionally compact to optimally interact with airflow from the front of the car. Lightweight yet robust carbon fiber spoiler supports, painted matte black and meticulously designed through extensive simulations, further enhance aerodynamic efficiency. They are bolted to the carbon fiber rear hatch, also finished in black.
A key feature is the adjustable flap integrated into the upper blade. This active aerodynamic element is electronically adjusted by 20 degrees, adapting to driving conditions and the selected AMG DYNAMICS mode to improve longitudinal and lateral dynamics. In a flat position, it reduces air resistance for quicker attainment of top speed. In the inclined position, it enhances braking and cornering stability through increased rear axle downforce.
Four activation strategies are employed, contingent on the selected AMG DYNAMICS mode (Basic, Advanced, Pro, or Master). Some strategies incorporate driving dynamics recognition. For example, in ‘Master’ mode, the flap is permanently inclined and extended up to 155 mph. Above 155 mph, it retracts to reduce air resistance and facilitate reaching top speed. However, during sudden braking or cornering, the flap instantly returns to its extended position to optimize braking and cornering through increased downforce and air resistance. Drivers can also manually control flap retraction or extension via a dedicated button on the center console.
Extensive Underbody Paneling: Optimizing Airflow and Downforce
Detailed aerodynamic optimization extends to the nearly fully paneled underbody, addressing both aerodynamic and thermal (heat dissipation) requirements. The flat underbody incorporates specially designed longitudinal fins. These meticulously optimized air channels ensure optimal airflow to the rear diffuser. The entire system accelerates airflow, significantly increasing downforce. All measures are coordinated and work in concert with the new rear spoiler design, resulting in a downforce level exceeding 882 lbs at 155 mph.
Lightweight Carbon Fiber: A Material of Choice
The lightweight carbon fiber roof with a lowered center section, along with the carbon fiber rear hatch featuring a small spoiler lip and a larger lightweight glass rear windshield, are key elements of the intelligent material mix and lightweight construction philosophy. The laminated front windshield also utilizes lightweight glass. A coiled carbon fiber transmission mount is another exclusive Black Series component. Additional carbon fiber shear panels in the front section, underbody, and rear stiffen the aluminum body shell structure, alongside the lightweight integral carrier and carbon fiber cross tunnel, enhancing body shell stability. These elements create a connected network, contributing to the Black Series’ exceptional driving precision in all maneuvers. The carbon fiber shear panel beneath the engine, connected to the integral carrier, stiffens the front section and steering system, resulting in noticeably more precise steering and enhanced front axle stability. The integral carrier at the front axle is exclusively crafted for the Black Series using lightweight aluminum construction.
The standard ceramic high-performance compound brake system, featuring black painted calipers and white lettering, is characterized by low weight and high performance. Special brake pads and rotors, coupled with enhanced brake cooling, ensure optimal and consistent deceleration and precise brake application. Standard light-alloy forged wheels further contribute to weight reduction.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension: Adaptive Adjustable Damping
A double wishbone suspension design enhances wheel camber and toe-in stability, enabling high cornering speeds and optimized road feel at the limits of grip. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers on both axles are forged from aluminum to minimize unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the rear axle’s upper and lower wishbones, directly derived from motorsport, eliminate play, ensuring consistent toe-in and camber even under high loads. This translates to precise steering, clear feedback, and enhanced cornering performance in this “black benz amg”.
Similar to the AMG GT R, the Black Series employs an AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload, incorporating technology tailored for extreme racetrack use with high damping forces. Motorsport technology is combined with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system. Electronically controlled, the system automatically adjusts damping at each wheel based on driving situation, speed, and road conditions. Damping characteristics are rapidly and precisely modulated by two separate valves for rebound and compression forces within the dampers. These new valves, also motorsport-derived, react even more quickly to rapid suspension movements. Increased damping rates, for example during cornering and braking, effectively reduce body roll. Continuous damping adjustment based on speed ensures optimal road contact, enhancing safety even at high speeds.
Drivers can adjust adaptive damping characteristics via the AMG DRIVE UNIT or AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three modes are available: ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’, and ‘Sport Plus’. ‘Comfort’ and ‘Sport’ are suitable for public roads. ‘Sport’ offers firmer damping and a sportier feel, suitable for racetracks with potentially slippery conditions. ‘Sport Plus’ is optimized for racetracks and intelligently recognizes track surface quality, automatically adapting electronic damping levels. This logic was refined through extensive testing across diverse track types.
Carbon Fiber Sway Bars: Further Weight Reduction
The front axle features a dual adjustable sway bar made of lightweight carbon fiber, with a short, firm default setting. The rear axle counterpart, made of steel with 3-way adjustment and a hollow tube design, saves weight. From the default ‘central’ position, it can be adjusted to a harder (short connection) or softer (long connection) setting. A carbon fiber shear panel in the rear underbody enhances driving precision by stiffening the rear-end structure and body shell. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts have been retuned for increased agility, high-precision response, and clear feedback.
Further suspension enhancements include wider front and rear tracks and manually adjustable camber on both axles. This allows for extreme camber settings, typically reserved for motorsport applications on closed tracks.
Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, specially customized for the Black Series, were developed in collaboration with Michelin®. These high-performance tires are exclusively available for Mercedes-AMG in two compounds: the standard soft-compound Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO1A and a ‘hard compound’ option for racetrack use in higher temperatures, designated Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO2. Tire sizes are 285/35 ZR 19 (front) on 10 J x 19 wheels and 335/30 ZR 20 (rear) on 12 J x 20 wheels.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Nine Levels of Grip
For closed-track use in ESP OFF mode, AMG TRACTION CONTROL provides individual support for managing the Black Series’ immense power without ESP brake intervention. Nine levels of fine-tuning allow for ideal assistance for each driver and track condition. Extensively tailored to the Black Series, AMG TRACTION CONTROL allows preselection of slip settings on the live rear axle, controlled via engine electronics maps without ESP system intervention, similar to the GT3 race car.
Operated via a separate adjuster on the center console, accessible even with racing gloves, the system permits varying degrees of rear wheel slip. Level 1 is for wet conditions with high safety reserves, while Level 9 allows maximum rear axle slip. Each setting is displayed on the adjuster and in the instrument cluster.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL anticipates situations using a friction coefficient evaluator and other data, processed in milliseconds. Maximum permissible drive slip is calculated based on the selected level. When this slip level is reached during acceleration, traction control modulates engine output to maintain it, ensuring continuous acceleration with controlled slip. Algorithms control both engine drive torque and the locking level of the electronic differential lock.
Exclusive Interior: Orange Contrasting Color and Motorsport Focus
The interior design of this “black benz amg” reinforces its pole position. Exclusive nappa leather is paired with sporty black DINAMICA microfiber featuring orange contrasting topstitching. The instrument panel and redesigned lightweight door panels, now with loop pull handles, are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfiber. Further orange contrasting topstitching, matte black carbon fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package enhance the interior ambiance. AMG carbon fiber bucket seats (not available in the USA, Canada, and China) offer low weight and optimal lateral support. In those markets, AMG Performance seats are standard. Silver contrasting topstitching is an optional interior choice.
AMG-Specific Digital Displays and Controls
The AMG GT Black Series features fully digital instrument displays from the AMG GT family, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia display. The instrument cluster offers three AMG-specific display styles: ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’, and ‘Supersport’. The ‘Supersport’ view features a central rev counter and extensive additional information, including a ‘shift light’. The multimedia display provides animated visualizations of driving assistance, vehicle, and communication systems.
Center Console Display Buttons: Intuitive Control
Innovative colored display buttons in the V-shaped center console integrate display and control of transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust system, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop function. Intuitive symbols and mechanical pressure points ensure ease of use, even with racing gloves. Rocker switches for drive programs and audio volume complement the display buttons.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel: Instant Control
The AMG Performance steering wheel, adopted from the AMG GT family, features a sporty design, flattened bottom, contoured rim, and intuitive operation. Fully trimmed in DINAMICA microfiber with a Black Series badge and AMG logo, it includes aluminum shift paddles. Integrated Touch Control buttons manage the instrument cluster and multimedia display.
Standard AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons include a round controller with integrated display and two vertical colored display buttons with switches for AMG drive programs and configurable functions, allowing drivers to maintain focus during high-speed driving.
The standard AMG Interior Night Package features high-gloss black finishes on shift paddles, steering wheel spokes, and seat inserts, with black brushed stainless steel door sill panels, further emphasizing the car’s sporty character.
Technical Data at a Glance
| 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 |
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