Mercedes-AMG has long been synonymous with pushing boundaries, but the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series represents a quantum leap. Born from the crucible of motorsport and engineered in Affalterbach, this isn’t merely a car; it’s a statement. It’s the culmination of decades of racing pedigree distilled into its purest road-legal form. The GT Black Series isn’t just the most powerful AMG V8 series engine ever conceived, it’s a symphony of cutting-edge aerodynamics, intelligent material construction, and driving dynamics that redefine the very essence of a super sports car. This machine doesn’t just embody motorsport DNA; it injects it directly into your veins.
Black Series Legacy: Motorsport DNA for the Road
Since 2006, the Black Series designation at Mercedes-AMG has signified something truly exceptional. These aren’t your everyday performance vehicles; they are unadulterated expressions of sporty prowess, boasting aggressive designs and technology directly descended from the racetrack. Mercedes Benz Black Series models are exclusive, rare breeds, not destined for static display, but engineered for blistering speeds on circuits worldwide while retaining road legality. The AMG GT Black Series elevates this lineage to new heights. It’s the embodiment of uncompromising performance, featuring the most potent Mercedes-AMG V8 engine ever to grace a production car. This is a machine sculpted for the apex, designed to dominate lap times, and engineered to deliver an unparalleled driving experience.
The Heart of the Beast: Most Powerful AMG V8 Ever
To reach the pinnacle of the super sports car realm, AMG’s engine specialists in Affalterbach embarked on a radical redevelopment of their already acclaimed 4.0-liter V8 biturbo. Despite its reputation for exceptional responsiveness, power delivery, and torque, the pursuit of “more” demanded a fundamental shift. The mandate was clear: surpass the existing AMG GT flagship in power, sharpen throttle response to a razor’s edge, and maximize torque across the rev range. This ambition necessitated a revolutionary change – the adoption of a flat-plane crankshaft.
Flat-Plane Crankshaft Revolution: Unlocking High-Revving Power
The crankshaft configuration is a core element dictating a V8 engine’s character. Traditionally, AMG V8s have employed a ‘cross-plane’ crankshaft, with crankpins positioned at 90-degree intervals. This design delivers smoothness and robust low-end torque, coupled with the signature V8 rumble. However, for the Mercedes Benz Black Series, AMG opted for a ‘flat-plane crankshaft’. Here, all crankpins reside on a single plane, offset by 180 degrees.
From the front, a cross-plane crankshaft resembles its namesake cross. Its advantages lie in refined operation and substantial torque at lower engine speeds. The distinctive V8 burble is another hallmark. To optimize the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo’s potential, AMG engineers strategically positioned the exhaust side within the engine’s ‘hot inside V’ – the space between the cylinder banks.
M178 LS2 Engine: Engineered for Extreme Performance
Flat-plane crankshafts introduce a different dynamic. Looking at one, it resembles an inline four-cylinder arrangement, albeit with broader crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each. Ignition sequences alternate between cylinder banks, enhancing the gas cycle. The firing order, 1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6 with a 180-degree crankshaft angle offset, creates uniformly oscillating gas columns in both the exhaust and intake tracts. This resonance is harnessed to boost performance, and crucially, it sharpens throttle response dramatically.
While rooted in the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo architecture with dry-sump lubrication, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series engine earns a new internal designation: M178 LS2, reflecting extensive modifications. It unleashes a staggering 720 hp at 6,700-6,900 rpm, and a colossal 590 lb-ft of torque from 2,000 to 6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are tailored to the firing order, further optimizing gas flow.
Twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers, featuring anti-friction bearings like those in the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe flagship, enhance throttle response. However, the GT Black Series turbos sport larger compressor wheels, delivering a substantial 24.6 psi of boost compared to the AMG GT R’s 19.6 psi. The redline extends to 7,200 rpm, and larger intercoolers maintain optimal charge-air temperatures. A black-finished engine badge uniquely identifies this powerhouse.
Performance Unleashed: Acceleration and Driving Dynamics
The new Handcrafted AMG engine in the Mercedes Benz Black Series imbues it with a distinct character, evident not only in its raw power delivery but also in its visceral soundtrack. This engine translates to breathtaking performance figures.
Blistering Speed: 0-60 and Beyond
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 202 mph top speed is attainable, it’s truly meant to be explored on closed circuits.
Optimized Transmission and Drivetrain
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 for ideal weight distribution, mirroring all AMG GT 2-door models. This transmission is specifically recalibrated for the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, accommodating the engine’s 590 lb-ft torque output. Shift speeds and response times are further optimized for track performance.
The result is heightened agility in throttle and engine response, along with enhanced drive programs, start-up characteristics, and gear changes. The Race Start function is amplified by increased launch revs, more sensitive wheel-slip control, and track-ready high-performance tires. Transmission cooling is uprated for demanding conditions, and gear ratios are subtly revised.
A carbon fiber ‘torque tube’ connects the engine and transmission, weighing just 30.6 lbs – 40 percent lighter than the aluminum counterpart in the standard AMG GT. This structural component ensures torsional rigidity within the transaxle drivetrain, fostering a direct, dynamic-enhancing connection and contributing to balanced weight distribution. The driveshaft within is also crafted from lightweight carbon fiber.
Aerodynamic Mastery: Sculpted for Speed and Downforce
Sophisticated aerodynamics are paramount to the Mercedes Benz Black Series‘s agility and high-speed stability. AMG’s aerodynamicists and designers collaborated closely, mirroring the development process for the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO, but pushing the boundaries further. “Form follows function” is the guiding principle, with a visual and technical kinship to the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars, more pronounced than ever before.
Motorsport-Derived Aero Enhancements
The front fascia immediately reveals its racing DNA. A significantly enlarged radiator air inlet, directly derived from the AMG GT3 race car, dominates the front. Vertical slats in dark chrome adorn the radiator trim. With wheel arch coolers now fed directly via the central inlet, the need for outer air inlets in the bumper is eliminated. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, boosting front axle downforce and enhancing brake cooling. ‘Air curtains’ manage airflow around the wheels. These refinements, combined with wheel flics, reduce drag and increase downforce. The design prioritizes cooling efficiency, minimizes air resistance, and maximizes front-end downforce.
The carbon-fiber front splitter offers two manually adjustable settings: Street and Race (Race for track use only). In Race position, a front diffuser with a reversed wing profile emerges, generating a ‘Venturi effect’ that draws the car closer to the road, amplifying downforce and enhancing steering precision, especially in high-speed corners.
Carbon Fiber Hood and Fender Vents: Aero and Cooling Synergy
Another motorsport derivative is the carbon-fiber hood with two large exhaust air outlets finished in black carbon-fiber. These outlets vent hot air from the diagonally positioned cooling pack, increasing overall downforce, reducing drag, and optimizing engine cooling airflow. Air is channeled around the A-pillars and side windows to enhance the rear spoiler’s effectiveness. Integrated front fender vents with five body-colored fins and rear exhaust air openings in the carbon-fiber fenders further increase front axle downforce through wheel arch ventilation.
Larger side sill panels with black carbon-fiber elements, merging into vertical blades, optimize airflow around the vehicle. Integrated cooling air ducts in the side sills provide rear brake cooling.
Two-Stage Rear Spoiler: Adjustable Downforce for Every Corner
The rear design is defined by a new bumper with a large diffuser, twin tailpipe trims, side wheel arch ventilation, and an innovative two-stage rear spoiler. Both spoiler blades are carbon fiber and mechanically adjustable for varying track conditions. The lower blade is deliberately compact, optimized for incoming airflow. Matte black carbon-fiber spoiler supports enhance aerodynamic efficiency and are bolted to the carbon-fiber rear hatch.
A key feature is the adjustable flap in the upper blade, electronically controlled by 20 degrees based on driving situation and AMG DYNAMICS mode. In a flat position, it minimizes drag for top speed. Inclined, it boosts braking and cornering stability via increased rear downforce. Four activation strategies link to AMG DYNAMICS modes (Basic, Advanced, Pro, Master), some incorporating driving dynamics recognition. For instance, in Master mode, the flap is permanently inclined up to 155 mph, retracting above that speed to reduce drag, but instantly re-extending during braking or cornering for optimized handling. A console button allows manual flap control.
Underbody Paneling: Maximizing Ground Effect
Extensive underbody paneling, addressing both aerodynamics and thermal management, features longitudinal fins meticulously optimized to channel airflow to the rear diffuser. This comprehensive package accelerates airflow, significantly enhancing downforce. All aerodynamic elements work in concert with the rear spoiler, generating over 882 lbs of downforce at 155 mph.
Chassis and Suspension: Precision Handling on the Edge
The Mercedes Benz Black Series chassis and suspension are engineered for uncompromising track performance.
Lightweight Construction and Material Mix
A lightweight carbon-fiber roof with a lowered center, a carbon-fiber rear hatch, and lightweight glass contribute to an ‘intelligent material mix’ and weight reduction. Lightweight laminated front windshield glass and a coiled carbon-fiber transmission mount further reduce mass. 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 driving precision. The carbon-fiber shear panel under the engine stiffens the front section and steering system, improving steering precision and front axle stability. The front axle integral carrier is exclusively crafted from lightweight aluminum.
Standard ceramic high-performance compound brakes with black calipers and white lettering offer low weight and high performance. Special brake pads and rotors, along with enhanced brake cooling, ensure consistent, fade-free deceleration and precise brake application. Light-alloy forged wheels further minimize weight.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension: Adaptive Damping for Track and Road
A double-wishbone suspension design ensures high camber and toe-in stability, enabling high cornering speeds and optimized driver feedback at the limit. Forged aluminum wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers reduce unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the rear axle wishbones, derived from motorsport, eliminate play, maintaining consistent toe-in and camber under extreme loads, resulting in precise steering and enhanced cornering.
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series utilizes an AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload and adaptive adjustable damping, tailored for extreme track use. Motorsport technology is combined with AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping. Electronically controlled damping automatically adjusts to driving conditions, speed, and road surface on each wheel via two separate valves for rebound and compression forces – new valves based on motorsport tech for faster response to suspension movements. Firmer damping reduces roll during cornering and braking. Continuous damping adjustment optimizes road contact and safety, even at high speeds.
Drivers can adjust damping characteristics via the AMG DRIVE UNIT or AMG DYNAMIC SELECT modes, offering “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” modes. ‘Sport Plus’ intelligently adapts to track surface quality, differentiating between smooth circuits and bumpy tracks like the Nürburgring Nordschleife, and adjusting damping accordingly.
A dual adjustable front sway bar made of lightweight carbon-fiber and a 3-way adjustable steel rear sway bar further refine handling. A carbon-fiber shear panel in the rear underbody enhances rear-end rigidity. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts are recalibrated for heightened agility and precise feedback. Wider front and rear tracks and manually adjustable camber settings allow for extreme camber values for track optimization.
AMG Traction Control: Nine Levels of Grip
For track use with ESP OFF, AMG TRACTION CONTROL provides adjustable support for managing the Black Series’s immense power, without ESP brake intervention. Nine slip settings can be selected, offering tailored assistance for each driver and track, adjustable via a central console knob. Level 1 prioritizes wet-weather safety, while Level 9 allows maximum rear-wheel slip.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL anticipates situations using a friction coefficient evaluator and other data, calculating permissible rear-wheel slip based on the selected level. It modulates engine output and electronic differential lock engagement to maintain the desired slip level.
Interior and Features: Race-Inspired Cockpit
The interior of the Mercedes Benz Black Series reinforces its performance focus.
Exclusive Interior Design: Nappa Leather and DINAMICA Microfiber
Exclusive nappa leather meets sporty DINAMICA microfiber in black with orange contrasting topstitching. The instrument panel and lightweight door panels are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfiber, with loop pull handles replacing traditional handles. Further orange stitching, matte black carbon-fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package enhance the sporty ambiance. AMG carbon-fiber bucket seats (unavailable in the USA, Canada, and China; AMG Performance seats are standard in these markets) offer lightweight construction and lateral support. Silver contrasting stitching is optional.
Digital Displays and AMG Controls: Technology at Your Fingertips
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series features digital instrument displays with AMG-specific graphics, including a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia display. The instrument cluster offers ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’, and ‘Supersport’ display styles, with the ‘Supersport’ view featuring a central rev counter and shift light. The multimedia display visualizes vehicle functions, driving assistance, and communication systems.
Colored display buttons in the center console control transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust system, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop function. These TFT buttons use intuitive symbols and offer tactile feedback, operable even with racing gloves. Rocker switches control drive programs and audio volume.
The AMG Performance steering wheel, trimmed in DINAMICA microfiber with Black Series lettering, features integrated Touch Control buttons, aluminum shift paddles, and AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons for direct control of AMG functions, ensuring drivers remain focused on driving. The AMG Interior Night Package is standard, featuring high-gloss black finishes on shift paddles, steering wheel spokes, and seat inserts, and black brushed stainless steel door sill panels.
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 |
About Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse lineup in the luxury segment with 15 model lines ranging from the sporty A-Class Sedan to the flagship S- Class and the Mercedes-AMG GT R.
MBUSA is also responsible for Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbsprinterusa.com.
Accredited journalists can visit our media site at media.mbusa.com.
