Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series: Unleashing Unrivaled Performance

The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series stands as a monumental achievement in automotive engineering, representing the pinnacle of AMG’s dedication to motorsport and high-performance vehicles. For enthusiasts and experts at xentryportal.store, this model is not just a car; it’s a showcase of cutting-edge technology and a testament to the relentless pursuit of driving perfection. This super sports car redefines benchmarks with its breathtaking 720 horsepower, advanced aerodynamics, and a design ethos deeply rooted in racing pedigree.

Since 2006, the Black Series designation from Mercedes-AMG has symbolized a breed apart – cars that are unapologetically sporty, visually striking, and embody the most direct transfer of motorsport technology to production vehicles. These are exclusive machines, engineered not for static display, but for dominating racetracks while still being street-legal. The AMG GT Black Series elevates this tradition, boasting the most potent AMG V8 series engine ever conceived.

To surpass the already exceptional standards of the super sports car category, AMG’s engine specialists in Affalterbach undertook a comprehensive redevelopment of the renowned 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine. Despite its established reputation for responsiveness, power delivery, and robust torque, the ambition for the Black Series demanded more – significantly enhanced power, sharper throttle response, and maximized torque. This quest for ultimate performance necessitated a radical engineering shift: the adoption of a flat-plane crankshaft.

Alt Text: Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series V8 engine showcasing its high-performance engineering.

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… another AMG milestone and impressive proof of the incredible development expertise in Affalterbach… the absolute peak of our successful GT family. The performance, appearance and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are second to none.”

The Heart of the Beast: A Distinctive V8 Engine Design

The configuration of a V8 engine offers considerable design flexibility, particularly in crankshaft arrangement, which fundamentally shapes engine characteristics. V8 engines typically employ either a ‘cross-plane’ crankshaft, with crankpins at 90-degree angles (utilized in previous AMG V8s), or a ‘flat-plane crankshaft’, where crankpins lie on a single plane with a 180-degree offset.

Cross-plane crankshafts, identifiable by their ‘cross’ shape when viewed from the front, are celebrated for their smoothness and substantial low-end torque, producing the classic V8 rumble. AMG engineers have optimized the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo by positioning the exhaust side within the engine’s hot internal V, between the cylinder banks, enhancing efficiency.

Unleashing Power Through Uniformly Oscillating Gas Columns

The flat-plane crankshaft is instrumental in further boosting engine performance. Resembling an inline four-cylinder design, albeit with wider crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each, the flat-plane V8 engine features ignition that alternates between cylinder banks, refining the gas cycle. Its unique firing order (1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6) creates uniformly oscillating gas columns in both the exhaust and intake tracts. These resonance patterns are expertly harnessed to amplify performance, alongside delivering a more responsive throttle.

The Most Powerful V8 Engine from Mercedes-AMG

Designated internally as M178 LS2, the engine of the GT Black Series, while rooted in the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo architecture with dry sump lubrication, incorporates extensive modifications. It unleashes a staggering 720 hp within the 6,700-6,900 rpm range, and a peak torque of 590 lb-ft from 2,000 to 6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds, tailored to the revised firing order, further refine the gas cycle.

Similar to the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe flagship, the twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers utilize anti-friction bearings for enhanced throttle response. However, the GT Black Series features turbochargers with larger compressor wheels, boosting total delivery pressure to 24.6 psi, a significant increase from the AMG GT R’s 19.6 psi. The engine’s redline peaks at 7,200 rpm, ensuring robust performance across the rev range. Enlarged intercoolers maintain optimal charge-air temperatures. A distinctive black engine badge visually sets this powerhouse apart.

Alt Text: Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series speeding on a track demonstrating its dynamic capabilities.

Blistering Acceleration: 0-124 mph in Under Nine Seconds

The bespoke AMG engine in the GT Black Series endows it with a unique character, evident not only in its potent power delivery but also in its distinctive, aggressive sound profile. This engine facilitates breathtaking performance metrics: sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, and reaching 124 mph (200 km/h) in under nine seconds. Although its top speed is electronically limited to 202 mph, such velocity is best experienced in controlled racetrack environments.

Enhanced 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 for optimized weight distribution – a hallmark of AMG GT 2-door models. This transmission has been specifically calibrated for the AMG GT Black Series to manage the increased 590 lb-ft of torque. Shift dynamics and response times have been sharpened, making it ideal for racetrack demands.

The enhancements contribute to heightened agility in accelerator and engine response, with drive programs, start-up behavior, and gear changes all exhibiting increased dynamism. The Race Start function is now even more impactful due to elevated starting revs, more precise wheel slip management, and racetrack-ready high-performance tires. Transmission cooling has been upgraded to endure tougher conditions, and gear ratios have been subtly adjusted.

A carbon fiber ‘torque tube’ links the engine and transmission, weighing a mere 30.6 lbs, approximately 40 percent lighter than its aluminum counterpart in the standard AMG GT. As a critical component of the transaxle drivetrain, it establishes an exceptionally torsionally rigid connection, promoting direct drivetrain responsiveness and contributing to balanced vehicle weight distribution. The internal driveshaft is also constructed from lightweight carbon fiber.

Sophisticated Aerodynamics: Mastering High-Speed Dynamics

Advanced and meticulously tuned aerodynamics are crucial for the agile handling and stability of the GT Black Series at high speeds and on demanding circuits. AMG’s aerodynamics experts and designers collaborated closely to refine the car’s aerodynamic properties, mirroring the development approach for the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO. The principle of ‘form follows function’ is paramount in the Black Series design.

The visual and technical parallels to the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars are unmistakable. The design begins with a significantly enlarged radiator air inlet, directly derived from the AMG GT3 race car. The radiator grille features dark chrome vertical slats, and with direct air feed to the wheel arch coolers via the central inlet, supplementary outer air inlets in the front bumper are eliminated. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, increasing front axle downforce and enhancing brake cooling. ‘Air curtains’ manage airflow towards the wheels. These elements, along with front wheel flics, reduce drag and increase downforce. The new design language achieves maximum cooling efficiency, reduced air resistance, and heightened front downforce.

The carbon-fiber front splitter offers two manual settings (Street and Race – the latter for racetrack use only) to adapt to varying track conditions. In the Race position, it extends forward, creating a reversed wing profile front diffuser. This element lowers further with increasing speed due to negative pressure, accelerating underbody airflow and creating a ‘Venturi effect’, which enhances road adhesion and front axle downforce. Drivers experience improved steering precision during high-speed cornering and exceptional directional stability. With the front diffuser in Race position, the rear spoiler design further amplifies rear axle downforce.

Alt Text: Aerodynamic rear design of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series with prominent spoiler and diffuser.

Hood with Exhaust Air Openings: Enhancing Aero-Performance

Another motorsport-derived feature is the carbon-fiber hood with dual 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, a technology directly from motorsport, increasing overall downforce while reducing air resistance and optimizing engine cooling airflow. Air is also directed around the A-pillars and side windows to enhance the efficiency of the new rear spoiler. Seamlessly integrated front fender vents with body-colored fins and carbon-fiber fender exhaust air openings further increase front axle downforce via effective wheel arch ventilation. The airflow is also refined by larger, wider side sill panels with black carbon-fiber elements, merging into vertical blades, and incorporating additional brake cooling ducts for the rear axle.

Two-Stage Rear Spoiler Concept

The rear profile is defined by a new bumper with a large diffuser, twin rounded tailpipe trims, side wheel arch ventilation, and an innovative two-stage rear spoiler. Both spoiler blades are carbon fiber, mechanically adjustable for track-specific configurations. The lower blade is intentionally compact to optimally interact with incoming airflow. Matte black carbon-fiber spoiler supports, aerodynamically optimized through extensive simulations, enhance efficiency and are bolted to the black carbon-fiber rear hatch.

A notable feature is the adjustable flap in the upper blade, electronically adjusted up to 20 degrees based on driving conditions and AMG DYNAMICS mode, enhancing both longitudinal and lateral dynamics. In a flat position, it minimizes air resistance for top speed. In an inclined position, it boosts braking and cornering stability via increased rear downforce.

Four activation strategies are linked to AMG DYNAMICS modes (Basic, Advanced, Pro, Master), some incorporating driving dynamics recognition. For instance, in Master mode, the flap is constantly inclined up to 155 mph, retracting above this speed to reduce drag, but instantly redeploying during braking or cornering for optimized handling. A dedicated console button also allows manual flap control.

Extensive Underbody Paneling

Aerodynamic refinement extends to the almost fully paneled underbody, addressing both aerodynamic and thermal management (heat dissipation). The flat underbody features longitudinal fins, meticulously optimized to channel air to the rear diffuser, accelerating airflow and significantly increasing downforce. This comprehensive system works in concert with the rear spoiler, achieving a downforce exceeding 882 lbs at 155 mph.

Lightweight Carbon-Fiber Construction

The intelligent material mix and lightweight construction are evident throughout, featuring a lightweight carbon-fiber roof with a lowered center, a carbon-fiber rear hatch with a small spoiler lip, and lightweight glass for the larger rear windshield. The laminated front windshield also uses lightweight glass. A coiled carbon-fiber transmission mount is another Black Series exclusive. 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 carbon-fiber shear panel under the engine, connected to the integral carrier, stiffens the front section and steering system, improving steering precision and front axle stability. The front axle integral carrier is uniquely constructed from lightweight aluminum for the Black Series.

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 modulation. Standard light-alloy forged wheels further contribute to weight reduction.

AMG Coil-Over Suspension with Adaptive Adjustable Damping

A double wishbone suspension design enhances wheel stability, enabling high cornering speeds and optimized road feel at limits. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers are forged aluminum to reduce unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the rear axle wishbones, derived from motorsport, eliminate play, maintaining consistent toe-in and camber under high loads, resulting in precise steering and enhanced cornering performance.

Similar to the AMG GT R, the Black Series uses an AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload and AMG RIDE CONTROL adaptive damping. Electronically controlled, it adjusts damping at each wheel to handling, speed, and road conditions via separate valves for rebound and compression, reacting swiftly to suspension movements. Firmer damping reduces body roll during cornering and braking. Continuous damping adjustment ensures optimal road contact and safety at high speeds.

Drivers can adjust damping characteristics via the AMG DRIVE UNIT or AMG DYNAMIC SELECT modes, offering “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” settings. “Sport Plus” intelligently adapts to track surface quality, optimizing damping on various circuits, from smooth Grand Prix tracks to bumpy courses like the Nürburgring Nordschleife.

Alt Text: Interior of Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series highlighting carbon fiber accents and driver-focused cockpit.

Additional Carbon-fiber to Reduce Suspension Weight

The front axle features a dual adjustable carbon-fiber sway bar, with a short, firm default setting. The rear steel sway bar is 3-way adjustable and lightweight due to its hollow tube design. The rear underbody carbon-fiber shear panel enhances driving precision by stiffening the rear structure. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts are retuned for increased agility and precise response.

Further suspension enhancements include wider front and rear tracks, and manually adjustable camber for optimizing racetrack performance with extreme camber settings.

Custom Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, developed for the Black Series, are available in two compounds: the standard soft-compound Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO1A and a harder compound for higher track temperatures, identified by the Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO2 designation and a motorsport sticker from Michelin®. Tire sizes are 285/35 ZR 19 front and 335/30 ZR 20 rear, on 10 J x 19 and 12 J x 20 wheels respectively.

AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Grip to the Power of Nine

For racetrack use with ESP OFF, AMG TRACTION CONTROL offers individual support, allowing drivers to manage the Black Series’ immense power without ESP brake intervention. Nine slip settings can be preselected for the rear axle, controlled via engine electronics maps, similar to the GT3 race car, and adjusted via a central console adjuster. Level 1 is for wet conditions with high safety margins, while Level 9 permits maximum rear axle slip. Each setting is displayed on the adjuster and instrument cluster.

The system anticipates situations using a friction coefficient evaluator, calculating maximum permissible drive slip based on the selected level. It modulates engine output and the electronic differential lock to maintain this slip level, using a double control variable model.

Exclusive Orange Contrasting Interior

The interior design underscores the AMG GT Black Series’ performance focus, featuring exclusive nappa leather and black DINAMICA microfiber with orange contrasting topstitching. The instrument panel and lightweight door panels are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfiber with loop pull handles. Further orange accents, matte black carbon-fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package enhance the cabin. AMG carbon-fiber bucket seats (AMG Performance seats in USA, Canada, and China) offer low weight and lateral support. Silver contrasting topstitching is an optional interior choice.

Displays with AMG-Specific Graphics

The AMG GT Black Series features digital instrument displays with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia display. The instrument cluster offers ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’, and ‘Supersport’ AMG-specific display styles. ‘Supersport’ mode includes a central rev counter and additional performance data like a ‘shift light’. The multimedia display provides animated visualizations of vehicle functions and assistance systems.

Display Buttons in the Center Console

Innovative colored display buttons in the center console control transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop function. These TFT display buttons use intuitive symbols and provide tactile feedback, operable even with racing gloves. Rocker switches for drive programs and audio volume complement the display buttons.

AMG Performance Steering Wheel

The AMG Performance steering wheel, trimmed in DINAMICA microfiber with a Black Series badge, features a flattened bottom, contoured rim, and integrated Touch Control buttons for instrument cluster and multimedia display control. Aluminum shift paddles and AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons with a round controller and two configurable display buttons provide comprehensive vehicle control directly from the steering wheel.

The AMG Interior Night Package, standard equipment, adds high-gloss black finishes to 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

The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is more than just a car; it’s a meticulously engineered masterpiece. For experts and enthusiasts alike, it represents the zenith of automotive performance and a thrilling embodiment of AMG’s motorsport heritage. Its blend of raw power, sophisticated aerodynamics, and track-focused technology positions it as an unparalleled super sports car, truly deserving of the Black Series designation.

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