Mercedes-AMG has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering, and with the GT Black Series, they have unleashed their most formidable creation yet. This isn’t merely an upgraded sports car; it’s a заявление of intent, a fusion of motorsport DNA and road-legal prowess, designed to dominate both track and tarmac. The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series isn’t just top-tier—it’s the zenith of AMG’s V8 lineage, boasting unparalleled aerodynamics, an intelligent blend of materials, and driving dynamics that set a new benchmark. Affalterbach’s engineers have truly outdone themselves, crafting a vehicle that not only embodies Mercedes-AMG’s racing heritage but also redefines the very essence of a super sports car. Prepare to delve into the details of a machine that commands respect and redefines performance: the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series.
Black Series Legacy: Motorsport Bred, Road Ready
Since 2006, the Black Series designation at Mercedes-AMG has signified something extraordinary. It’s a lineage of uncompromising performance machines, each bearing an expressive design and incorporating the most direct technology transfer from the racetrack to series production vehicles. These aren’t cars destined for static display; Black Series models are engineered for high-speed action, designed to devour race tracks while still being fully homologated for road use. The AMG GT Black Series emerges as the new standard-bearer of this prestigious lineage, carrying the torch with the most powerful Mercedes-AMG V8 series engine ever conceived.
The Heart of the Beast: A Radically Re-engineered V8
To truly redefine the super sports car, the engine specialists at Affalterbach embarked on an extensive redevelopment of the already acclaimed 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine. Despite its existing reputation for exceptional drivability, power delivery, and robust torque, the ambition was to surpass all previous benchmarks within the AMG GT family. The mandate was clear: significantly amplify power output, sharpen throttle response to an even greater degree, and maximize torque. Achieving these ambitious goals necessitated a radical departure: the introduction of a new flat-plane crankshaft.
Tobias Moers, former Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, encapsulates the significance of this creation: “The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive highlight and continues a tradition established in 2006. The sixth iteration of its kind is another AMG milestone and impressive proof of the incredible development expertise in Affalterbach. I am proud of the team who have created this unique super sports car, which now represents the absolute peak of our successful GT family. The performance, appearance and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are second to none. This project was a fantastic end to my work at AMG, for which I am truly thankful.”
Flat-Plane vs. Cross-Plane: Engine Design Philosophies
The architecture of a V8 engine offers designers considerable flexibility, especially in crankshaft configuration. The crankshaft’s design profoundly impacts the engine’s character. Typically, V8 engines employ one of two crankshaft designs: the ‘cross-plane’ or the ‘flat-plane’. AMG has historically favored the cross-plane crankshaft in its V8 engines, where the crankpins of each cylinder pair are set at 90-degree angles. In contrast, the flat-plane crankshaft situates all crankpins on a single plane, offset by 180 degrees.
Visually, a cross-plane crankshaft, when viewed from the front, reveals a distinct cross shape, hence its name. The advantages of cross-plane crankshafts include exceptional smoothness and substantial torque generation at lower engine speeds, contributing to the signature deep rumble characteristic of a cross-plane V8. AMG engineers strategically positioned the exhaust side within the hot internal ‘V’ of the cylinder banks in the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine to optimize displacement and performance.
Unleashing Power: The Flat-Plane Advantage
The flat-plane crankshaft represents a strategic engineering choice to further amplify performance. In a flat-plane V8, the engine’s configuration resembles an inline four-cylinder engine, save for the wider crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each. The ignition sequence in a flat-plane V8 engine alternates between cylinder banks, enhancing the gas cycle. The firing order, characterized by 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 skillfully harnessed to boost performance. Furthermore, a flat-plane crankshaft delivers a notably more responsive throttle.
The Most Potent V8: M178 LS2
While the AMG GT Black Series engine builds upon the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo foundation with dry sump lubrication, its extensive modifications warrant a new internal designation: M178 LS2. This powerhouse churns out an astounding 720 hp at 6,700-6,900 rpm and a peak torque of 590 lb-ft across the 2,000-6,000 rpm range. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are meticulously tailored to complement the revised firing order, further optimizing the gas cycle.
Similar to the top-tier AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, the twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers are equipped with anti-friction bearings, enhancing throttle response. However, the GT Black Series turbochargers feature a larger compressor wheel, enabling them to deliver a total boost pressure of 24.6 psi, a significant increase compared to the 19.6 psi in the AMG GT R. While 7,000 rpm is comfortably within its operational range, the redline extends to an exhilarating 7,200 rpm. Larger intercoolers ensure optimal charge-air temperatures. The engine’s uniqueness is visually underscored by a distinctive black engine badge.
Performance Unleashed: Blistering Speed
The new Handcrafted AMG engine bestows the GT Black Series with a truly unique persona, evident not only in its power delivery but also in its distinctive, visceral soundtrack. This engine propels the Black Series to breathtaking performance metrics: 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, and 0 to 124 mph (200 km/h) in under nine seconds. While its top speed of 202 mph is achievable, it’s best reserved for the controlled environment of a racetrack.
Enhanced Transmission: AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed
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, consistent with all AMG GT 2-door models, this transmission is specifically refined for the GT Black Series, accommodating the increased torque output. Shift performance and response times are recalibrated for racetrack demands.
The result is a transformative driving experience. Accelerator and engine responses are sharper, and drive programs, start-up characteristics, and gear changes are all enhanced. The Race Start function is now even more potent, thanks to elevated starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip control, and track-focused high-performance tires. Transmission cooling is upgraded to meet rigorous demands, and gear ratios are subtly adjusted.
Connecting the engine and transmission is a carbon fiber ‘torque tube,’ approximately 40 percent lighter than its aluminum counterpart in the AMG GT, weighing just 30.6 lbs. As a structural element of the transaxle drivetrain, it ensures exceptional torsional stiffness between the engine and transmission, fostering direct drivetrain connection, beneficial for driving dynamics and balanced weight distribution. The internal driveshaft is also constructed from lightweight carbon fiber.
Aerodynamic Mastery: Sculpted for Speed and Stability
Sophisticated and optimized aerodynamics are pivotal to the GT Black Series’ agile dynamics and high-speed stability. Collaborating closely, aerodynamicists and designers enhanced the aerodynamic profile, emphasizing ‘form follows function’ more than ever.
The visual and technical kinship with AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars is unmistakable. The larger radiator air inlet, directly derived from the AMG GT3, features vertical slats in dark chrome. Centralized air intake for wheel arch coolers eliminates the need for outer air inlets in the front bumper. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, boosting front axle downforce and improving brake cooling. ‘Air curtains’ manage airflow towards the wheels, reducing drag and increasing downforce in conjunction with front wheel flics. The new design language prioritizes cooling efficiency, reduced air resistance, and elevated front downforce.
The adjustable carbon-fiber front splitter (Street and Race settings) adapts to track conditions. In ‘Race’ mode, an extended front diffuser in a reversed wing profile is created, accelerating underbody airflow via the ‘Venturi effect,’ increasing downforce and directional stability. Steering precision is enhanced, particularly during high-speed cornering. When the front diffuser is in ‘Race’ position, the rear spoiler further augments rear axle downforce.
Motorsport-Derived Hood and Aero Elements
The carbon-fiber hood, featuring dual large exhaust air outlets in black carbon fiber, is another direct motorsport derivative. These outlets channel hot air from the diagonally positioned cooling pack out of the engine compartment, increasing downforce and reducing air resistance while optimizing engine cooling. Air is guided around A-pillars and side windows to enhance the rear spoiler’s efficiency. Integrated front fender vents with body-colored fins and carbon-fiber fender exhaust air openings further increase front axle downforce via wheel arch ventilation. Larger side sill panels with carbon-fiber elements, merging into vertical blades, optimize airflow, incorporating cooling air ducts for rear brake cooling.
Two-Stage Rear Spoiler: Adjustable Aerodynamic Force
The rear profile is defined by a new bumper with a large diffuser, twin-tailpipe trims, side wheel arch ventilation, and an innovative rear spoiler. The adjustable, carbon fiber spoiler features two blades, adaptable to track conditions. The lower blade is compact to optimally interact with incoming airflow. Matte black carbon-fiber spoiler supports, designed via extensive simulations, enhance aerodynamic efficiency and are bolted to the carbon-fiber rear hatch.
An adjustable flap in the upper blade, electronically controlled by 20 degrees, adapts to driving conditions and AMG DYNAMICS modes, influencing longitudinal and transverse dynamics. In a flat position, it reduces air resistance for higher top speeds. Inclined, it enhances braking and cornering via increased rear downforce. Four activation strategies are linked to AMG DYNAMICS modes (Basic, Advanced, Pro, Master), with dynamic recognition in ‘Sport Plus’ adjusting damping based on track surface quality. The flap can also be manually controlled via a center console button.
Comprehensive Underbody Paneling: Maximizing Downforce
Extensive aerodynamic refinement includes a nearly fully paneled underbody, addressing both aerodynamic and thermal demands. Longitudinal fins on the flat underbody optimize airflow to the rear diffuser. This comprehensive design accelerates airflow, significantly increasing downforce, working in concert with the rear spoiler. The result is over 882 lbs of downforce at 155 mph.
Lightweight Construction: Carbon Fiber and Intelligent Material Mix
The lightweight carbon-fiber roof with a lowered center, carbon-fiber rear hatch with spoiler lip, and lightweight glass rear windshield contribute to intelligent material use and lightweight construction. Lightweight laminated front windshield glass and a coiled carbon-fiber transmission mount are exclusive Black Series components. Carbon-fiber shear panels in the front, underbody, and rear, alongside 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 connects to the integral carrier, stiffening the front section and steering system, improving steering precision and front axle stability. The front axle integral carrier is exclusively made for the Black Series using lightweight aluminum.
The standard ceramic high-performance compound brake system, with black calipers and white lettering, also reduces weight and delivers high performance, featuring specialized pads, rotors, and cooling for optimal, fade-free deceleration. Standard light-alloy forged wheels further reduce weight.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension: Adaptive and Adjustable
A double wishbone suspension design enhances wheel stability, enabling high cornering speeds and optimized road feel. Forged aluminum wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers reduce unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the rear axle wishbones, derived from motorsport, eliminate play, maintaining toe-in and camber under high loads, enabling precise steering and cornering.
The AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload, as in the AMG GT R, is adapted for extreme track use. AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system electronically adjusts damping at each wheel based on driving situation, speed, and road conditions via separate valves for rebound and compression, reacting quickly to suspension movements. Harder damping reduces rolling during cornering and braking. Continuous damping adjustment enhances road contact and safety at high speeds.
Drivers can adjust damping characteristics via the AMG DRIVE UNIT or AMG DYNAMIC SELECT modes, choosing between “Comfort”, “Sport”, and “Sport Plus”. ‘Sport Plus’ recognizes track surface quality, adapting damping accordingly. The front axle features a dual adjustable carbon-fiber sway bar, with a steel, 3-way adjustable rear sway bar. A carbon-fiber shear panel in the rear underbody enhances rigidity. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts are retuned for agility and response. Wide track and manually adjustable camber further optimize handling for track performance.
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO Tires: Bespoke Grip
Customized Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, developed with Michelin®, are exclusively available for the Black Series in two compounds. The standard soft-compound Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO1A is factory-equipped. A harder compound is available for higher track temperatures. Sizes are 10 J x 19 wheels with 285/35 ZR 19 tires (front) and 12 J x 20 wheels with 335/30 ZR 20 tires (rear).
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Nine Levels of Grip Mastery
For track use in ESP OFF mode, AMG TRACTION CONTROL offers nine levels of adjustable slip on the rear axle, allowing drivers to fine-tune support without ESP brake intervention. Controlled via a central console adjuster, it uses engine electronics maps, not ESP, as in the GT3 racing car. Level 1 provides maximum safety in wet conditions; Level 9 allows maximum rear axle slip. The system anticipates situations using a friction coefficient evaluator, modulating engine output and electronic differential lock to maintain the selected slip level.
Interior Excellence: Performance-Focused Luxury
The interior design emphasizes the AMG GT Black Series’ performance focus. Exclusive nappa leather and black DINAMICA microfiber with orange contrasting topstitching define the cabin. The instrument panel and lightweight door panels are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfiber with loop pull handles. Matte black carbon-fiber trim and the Interior Night Package further enhance the sporty ambiance. AMG carbon-fiber bucket seats (AMG Performance seats in USA, Canada, China) balance low weight and lateral support. Silver contrasting topstitching is optional.
Digital Cockpit: AMG-Specific Displays and Controls
The AMG GT Black Series features digital instrument displays from the AMG GT family, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia display. AMG-specific display styles include ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’, and ‘Supersport’, with ‘Supersport’ offering extensive performance data and a shift light. Multimedia display visualizations enhance vehicle function experiences.
Innovative colored display buttons in the center console control transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust system, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop function. TFT display buttons offer intuitive symbols and tactile feedback, operable even with racing gloves. Rocker switches control drive programs and audio volume.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel: Direct Control
The AMG Performance steering wheel, adopted from the AMG GT family, features a sporty design, flattened bottom, DINAMICA microfiber trim, and Black Series lettering. Aluminum shift paddles enable manual gear changes. Integrated Touch Control buttons manage the instrument cluster and multimedia display. AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons include a round controller and two configurable display buttons for direct access to AMG functions, allowing drivers to maintain focus during high-speed driving. The AMG Interior Night Package, with high-gloss black accents, further emphasizes the car’s sporty character.
Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series: Technical Specifications
| 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, manages distribution, marketing, and customer service for Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers a diverse luxury lineup, from the A-Class Sedan to the flagship S-Class and the Mercedes-AMG GT R, as well as Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. Further information is available at www.mbusa.com and www.mbsprinterusa.com. Media resources are available at media.mbusa.com.
