Mercedes-AMG has long been synonymous with unparalleled performance and luxury, but when the Black Series badge appears, it signifies something truly extraordinary. Since 2006, the Black Series has represented the pinnacle of AMG engineering, a lineage of vehicles that unapologetically blur the lines between road car and race car. The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, the sixth iteration in this revered line, doesn’t just continue this tradition—it catapults it into a new dimension. This isn’t merely an upgrade; it’s a complete re-engineering, pushing the boundaries of performance and embodying the most extreme interpretation of the AMG GT. For enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, the GT Black Series represents the ultimate expression of AMG’s capabilities, surpassing even the legendary Mercedes C Class Black Series in its relentless pursuit of speed and driving perfection.
The Black Series lineage is built on a foundation of motorsport DNA, delivering track-ready performance in street-legal packages. These aren’t cars designed for leisurely Sunday drives; they are precision instruments engineered for apex-clipping exhilaration. The AMG GT Black Series elevates this ethos to an unprecedented level, boasting the most potent AMG V8 engine ever produced, coupled with radical aerodynamics and a chassis honed for the most demanding circuits. While the Mercedes C Class Black Series models of the past set benchmarks for their time, the AMG GT Black Series emerges as the new standard-bearer, redefining what’s possible in a high-performance sports car.
The Heart of the Beast: A Groundbreaking V8 Engine
At the core of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series lies a revolutionary engine – the M178 LS2. While rooted in the familiar 4.0-liter V8 biturbo architecture, this powerplant has undergone a radical transformation. AMG’s engineers in Affalterbach, renowned for their mastery of high-performance engines, meticulously re-engineered this unit to unleash unprecedented power and responsiveness. The objective was clear: surpass the already formidable AMG GT R and achieve a level of performance that would redefine the super sports car segment. This quest for ultimate power led to a fundamental change in engine design – the adoption of a flat-plane crankshaft.
Traditional V8 engines, including those previously employed by AMG, typically utilize a cross-plane crankshaft. This design, with crankpins positioned at 90-degree angles, delivers smooth operation and robust low-end torque, accompanied by the signature V8 rumble. However, for the GT Black Series, AMG opted for a flat-plane crankshaft, a configuration more commonly found in high-revving race engines. In a flat-plane design, all crankpins reside on a single plane with a 180-degree offset. This fundamental shift dramatically alters the engine’s character, resulting in a sharper throttle response and a unique, high-pitched engine note, a departure from the traditional V8 burble and closer to the sound profile often associated with high-performance European sports cars, and even hinting at the agility once found in models like the Mercedes C Class Black Series, albeit in a far more extreme form.
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… The performance, appearance and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are second to none.” This sentiment underscores the significance of the flat-plane crankshaft in achieving the GT Black Series’ unparalleled performance.
Flat-Plane Advantage: Unleashing Performance Potential
The flat-plane crankshaft unlocks a cascade of performance benefits. Unlike the cross-plane configuration, the flat-plane V8 resembles an inline four-cylinder in its crankshaft arrangement, albeit with beefier crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each. The firing order in a flat-plane V8, alternating between cylinder banks (1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6), creates uniformly oscillating gas columns in both the exhaust and intake tracts. This resonance effect is ingeniously harnessed to amplify engine power.
The consistent gas pulses generated by the flat-plane crankshaft facilitate more efficient cylinder scavenging and filling, leading to enhanced combustion and power output. Moreover, the reduced rotating mass of the flat-plane crankshaft contributes to a significantly more agile throttle response. This translates to quicker engine revving, allowing for instantaneous power delivery and a heightened sense of urgency when accelerating – characteristics that every driver searching for the thrill of a Mercedes C Class Black Series would deeply appreciate, now amplified in the GT Black Series.
The M178 LS2 engine, despite sharing its 4.0-liter displacement and dry-sump lubrication with other AMG V8s, is a distinct entity. Producing a staggering 720 horsepower between 6,700 and 6,900 rpm and 590 lb-ft of torque from 2,000 to 6,000 rpm, it represents the pinnacle of AMG V8 power. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds, tailored to the unique firing order, further optimize gas flow. Upgraded twin-scroll turbochargers with larger compressor wheels, mounted on anti-friction bearings, deliver a formidable 24.6 psi of boost pressure, a substantial increase compared to the AMG GT R’s 19.6 psi. The redline is elevated to 7,200 rpm, and larger intercoolers ensure optimal charge-air temperatures are maintained, even under extreme duress. A black engine badge uniquely identifies this powerhouse, a subtle yet potent symbol of its exceptional nature.
Performance Unleashed: Acceleration and Dynamics
The raw power of the M178 LS2 translates into breathtaking performance figures. The AMG GT Black Series explodes from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds and reaches 124 mph in under nine seconds. Its top speed is a blistering 202 mph, a velocity best reserved for the controlled environment of a racetrack. This level of acceleration and top-end speed firmly places the GT Black Series in the realm of hypercars, surpassing even the most optimistic performance metrics one might associate with a Mercedes C Class Black Series.
Power is channeled to the rear wheels via a modified AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, situated in a transaxle configuration for optimal weight distribution. This transmission has been fortified to handle the engine’s immense torque output, with enhanced shift speeds and response times tailored for track performance. The Race Start function is further optimized with increased starting revs and more refined wheel slip control. Transmission cooling is also upgraded to endure the rigors of high-performance driving, and the gear ratios are subtly revised for enhanced acceleration.
A carbon fiber torque tube, 40% lighter than its aluminum counterpart, connects the engine and transmission, forming a torsionally rigid link that contributes to the drivetrain’s responsiveness and balanced weight distribution. The carbon fiber driveshaft further reduces rotational inertia, enhancing agility.
Aerodynamic Mastery: Sculpted for Speed and Downforce
Aerodynamics play a pivotal role in the AMG GT Black Series’ exceptional handling and stability at extreme speeds. AMG’s aerodynamicists and designers collaborated closely, drawing inspiration from the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars. The principle of “form follows function” is paramount in the GT Black Series’ design.
The front fascia is dominated by a significantly enlarged radiator air inlet, directly derived from the AMG GT3 race car. Vertical slats in dark chrome adorn the radiator trim, and wheel arch coolers are now fed directly via the central inlet, eliminating the need for additional outer air inlets. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, increasing front axle downforce and enhancing brake cooling. Air curtains guide airflow towards the wheels, working in concert with wheel flics to reduce drag and increase downforce. The adjustable carbon fiber front splitter, with Street and Race settings, further refines aerodynamic balance. In Race mode, it extends forward, creating a front diffuser that generates a Venturi effect, drawing the car closer to the road and increasing front axle downforce. This aerodynamic sophistication translates to enhanced steering precision and directional stability, particularly during high-speed cornering.
The carbon fiber hood features prominent exhaust air outlets, channeling hot air from the diagonally positioned cooling pack out of the engine compartment. This motorsport-derived technology boosts overall downforce, reduces drag, and optimizes engine cooling. Integrated front fender vents and wider side sill panels with carbon fiber elements further refine airflow and enhance downforce.
The rear of the GT Black Series showcases a new bumper with a large diffuser and a two-stage rear spoiler concept. Both spoiler blades are crafted from carbon fiber and are mechanically adjustable. The upper blade incorporates an electronically adjustable flap that dynamically adjusts by 20 degrees based on driving conditions and AMG DYNAMICS mode. This active aerodynamic element optimizes longitudinal and transverse dynamics, reducing drag at high speeds and increasing downforce for braking and cornering. Extensive underbody paneling with longitudinal fins further channels airflow to the rear diffuser, maximizing downforce. Collectively, these aerodynamic enhancements generate over 882 lbs of downforce at 155 mph.
Lightweight Construction and Track-Focused Chassis
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series embraces lightweight construction throughout its design. A carbon fiber roof, hatch, and front windshield contribute to weight reduction. Carbon fiber shear panels and a lightweight integral carrier stiffen the aluminum body shell, enhancing torsional rigidity and driving precision.
The GT Black Series features an AMG coil-over suspension with adaptive adjustable damping, optimized for extreme track use. Motorsport-derived spherical bearings in the rear suspension ensure precise wheel control under high loads. The AMG RIDE CONTROL system continuously adjusts damping at each wheel based on driving conditions and speed, offering Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus modes. Sport Plus mode intelligently adapts damping based on track surface quality. Carbon fiber sway bars further reduce weight and enhance handling. Manually adjustable camber settings allow for track-specific alignments.
Standard ceramic high-performance compound brakes provide exceptional stopping power with reduced weight. Light-alloy forged wheels further contribute to weight savings. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, specifically developed for the GT Black Series, offer exceptional grip. AMG TRACTION CONTROL, adjustable through nine levels, allows drivers to fine-tune rear wheel slip in ESP OFF mode, maximizing power delivery on track.
Interior and Technology: Race-Inspired Cockpit
The interior of the AMG GT Black Series reflects its track-focused nature. Exclusive nappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber in black with orange contrasting stitching create a sporty yet luxurious ambiance. Lightweight door panels with loop pull handles further emphasize the weight-saving ethos. AMG carbon fiber bucket seats (or AMG Performance seats in some markets) provide exceptional lateral support.
The GT Black Series features fully digital instrument displays with AMG-specific graphics, offering Classic, Sporty, and Supersport display styles. Innovative display buttons in the center console provide intuitive control of vehicle functions. The AMG Performance steering wheel, trimmed in DINAMICA microfiber, features integrated Touch Control buttons and AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons for quick access to performance settings.
Conclusion: The Apex of AMG Performance
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series stands as a testament to AMG’s relentless pursuit of performance excellence. It’s more than just a car; it’s a statement – a declaration of AMG’s engineering prowess and a celebration of driving purity. While the legacy of models like the Mercedes C Class Black Series resonates with enthusiasts, the AMG GT Black Series represents the new zenith of the Black Series lineage. It’s a track-dominating machine that redefines the boundaries of super sports car performance, offering an unparalleled driving experience for those who demand the absolute best. For drivers seeking the ultimate AMG thrill, the GT Black Series is not just a destination; it’s the journey to the very peak of automotive performance.
Technical Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0-liter V8 biturbo |
| Displacement | 3982 cc |
| Output | 720 hp @ 6,700-6,900 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 590 lb-ft @ 2,000-6,000 rpm |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration | 3.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 202 mph |
Disclaimer: Performance figures and specifications are based on manufacturer’s estimates and may vary.
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