The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series stands as a testament to automotive engineering prowess, a vehicle where power, aerodynamics, and motorsport DNA converge. Born from Affalterbach’s relentless pursuit of performance, this super sports car redefines the boundaries of driving dynamics and embodies the Black Series legacy in its most potent form. It’s not just a car; it’s an experience, meticulously crafted for those who demand the ultimate thrill on both the track and the road.
Since 2006, the Black Series designation at Mercedes-AMG has signified something truly exceptional: uncompromising sportiness, aggressive aesthetics, and technology directly descended from the racetrack. These models are rare gems in the automotive world, engineered not for static display but for dynamic performance at high speeds, even while remaining street-legal. The AMG GT Black Series elevates this tradition to new heights, boasting the most powerful AMG V8 series engine ever conceived.
To surpass the already formidable super sports car benchmark, the engine specialists at Affalterbach embarked on 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 was to achieve significantly more power than any previous AMG GT model, coupled with even sharper throttle response and maximized torque. This pursuit of ultimate performance necessitated a radical engineering shift: the introduction of a flat-plane crankshaft.
Tobias Moers, former Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, aptly described the AMG GT Black Series as “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.”
The Heart of the Beast: A Distinctive V8 Engine Design
The configuration of a V8 engine offers engineers considerable latitude, particularly in crankshaft design, which profoundly influences engine characteristics. V8 engines typically employ one of two crankshaft designs: the cross-plane crankshaft, with crankpins positioned at 90-degree intervals—a configuration AMG has historically favored—or the flat-plane crankshaft, where all crankpins lie on a single plane with a 180-degree offset.
Examining a cross-plane crankshaft head-on reveals the cruciform shape that lends it its name. These crankshafts are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness and substantial low-end torque, contributing to the signature rumble characteristic of cross-plane V8 engines. To optimize the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine’s displacement and power potential, AMG engineers strategically positioned the exhaust side within the engine’s hot internal V, nestled between the cylinder banks.
Unleashing Power: Uniformly Oscillating Gas Columns
The flat-plane crankshaft emerges as a potent tool for performance enhancement. In a flat-plane V8, the engine’s configuration mirrors that of an inline four-cylinder, albeit with wider crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each. Ignition in a flat-plane V8 alternates between cylinder banks, refining the gas cycle. The distinctive firing order, characterized by a 180-degree crankshaft angle offset (1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6), generates uniformly oscillating gas columns within both the exhaust and intake tracts. This resonance is skillfully harnessed to amplify engine power. Furthermore, the flat-plane crankshaft significantly sharpens throttle response, contributing to a more agile and engaging driving experience in the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series.
The Most Potent V8 from Mercedes-AMG
While rooted in the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo architecture with dry sump lubrication, the engine powering the GT Black Series is designated with a new internal code: M178 LS2. This distinction underscores the extensive modifications it has undergone. The engine unleashes a staggering 720 hp within the 6,700-6,900 rpm range, accompanied by a peak torque of 590 lb-ft, sustained from 2,000 to 6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are meticulously calibrated to complement the revised firing order, further optimizing the gas cycle.
Mirroring the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe’s top-tier variant, both twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers are mounted on anti-friction bearings, enhancing throttle response. However, in the GT Black Series, these turbochargers are equipped with larger compressor wheels, enabling them to deliver a total boost pressure of 24.6 psi, a notable increase from the AMG GT R’s 19.6 psi. The engine’s redline peaks at 7,200 rpm, a testament to its high-performance design. Larger intercoolers are integrated to maintain optimal charge-air temperatures. The engine’s exclusivity is visually underscored by a unique engine badge rendered in black.
Performance Unleashed: 0-124 mph in Under Nine Seconds
The newly developed Handcrafted AMG engine imbues the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series with a distinctive character, evident not only in its power delivery but also in its unique auditory signature. This powertrain translates to breathtaking performance metrics: 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 of 202 mph is achievable, it’s best experienced within the controlled environment of a racetrack.
Enhanced Transmission: Modified AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed
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 optimal weight distribution—a hallmark of AMG GT 2-door models—this transmission has been meticulously refined for the AMG GT Black Series to manage the engine’s formidable 590 lb-ft of torque. The thresholds governing shift performance and response time have been broadened, aligning them more closely with racetrack demands.
These enhancements coalesce to create a driving experience characterized by heightened agility. Accelerator and engine responses are sharper, and drive programs, start-up behavior, and gear changes are all more responsive. The Race Start function is now even more exhilarating, benefiting from increased starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip management, and track-ready high-performance tires. Transmission cooling has been fortified to endure more demanding conditions, and transmission ratios have been subtly adjusted.
A carbon fiber ‘torque tube’ forges the connection between the engine and transmission. Weighing a mere 30.6 lbs, it represents a 40 percent weight reduction compared to its aluminum counterpart in the standard AMG GT. As a structural component within the transaxle drivetrain, it establishes an exceptionally torsionally rigid link, promoting direct drivetrain connection conducive to dynamic driving and contributing to balanced weight distribution. The internal driveshaft is also constructed from lightweight carbon fiber.
Aerodynamic Mastery: Sophisticated Design for High-Speed Dynamics
The meticulously engineered aerodynamics of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series are pivotal in achieving both agile handling and unwavering stability at high speeds. Mirroring the development approach for the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO, aerodynamicists and designers collaborated closely to refine the GT Black Series’ aerodynamic profile. The principle of ‘form follows function’ is paramount in this iteration of the Black Series.
The resemblance to the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars is unmistakable, both visually and technically. This kinship begins with the enlarged radiator air inlet, directly derived from the AMG GT3 race car. The radiator grille features vertical slats in dark chrome. With wheel arch coolers now fed directly via the central inlet, the need for supplementary outer air inlets in the front bumper is eliminated. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, augmenting downforce at the front axle and enhancing brake cooling. ‘Air curtains’ manage and direct airflow toward the wheels. These enhancements, combined with flics ahead of the wheels, reduce drag and increase downforce. The new design philosophy harmonizes maximum cooling efficiency with minimized air resistance and amplified front-end downforce.
The carbon fiber front splitter offers two manually adjustable settings (Street and Race – Race for track use only), adaptable to diverse track conditions. In the Race position, extending forward, a front diffuser in the shape of an inverted wing profile emerges beneath the front section. Depending on speed, this element is further lowered by increasing negative pressure, accelerating underbody airflow and creating a ‘Venturi effect.’ This draws the car closer to the road, boosting front axle downforce. Drivers will notice enhanced steering precision at high-speed cornering and exceptional directional stability. Especially during rapid cornering and under high lateral acceleration, the vehicle exhibits agile responsiveness with clear steering feedback, maintaining effortless control. With the front diffuser in Race position, the rear spoiler design further amplifies rear axle downforce.
Hood Innovation: Exhaust Air Openings for Enhanced Aero-Performance
Another direct motorsport innovation is the carbon fiber hood, featuring 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 bay. This motorsport-derived technology boosts overall downforce, reduces air resistance, and optimizes engine cooling airflow. Air is also strategically guided around the A-pillars and side windows toward the rear, enhancing the effectiveness of the new rear spoiler. Seamlessly integrated front fender vents, with five body-colored fins and exhaust air openings behind the front carbon fiber fenders, contribute to front axle downforce through efficient wheel arch ventilation. The vehicle’s aerodynamic profile is further refined by larger, 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 to cool the rear axle brakes.
Two-Stage Rear Spoiler Concept
The rear aesthetic is defined by a new bumper with a substantial diffuser, dual rounded twin-tailpipe trims on the outer edges, side wheel arch ventilation, and an innovative rear spoiler design. Both spoiler blades are carbon fiber, mechanically adjustable for track-specific customization. The lower blade is deliberately compact, optimized for incoming airflow. Matte black carbon fiber spoiler supports, designed with extensive simulations, enhance aerodynamic efficiency and are bolted to the carbon fiber rear hatch, also finished in black.
A key feature is the adjustable flap in the upper blade, an active aerodynamic element electronically adjusted by 20 degrees. This adapts to driving conditions and selected AMG DYNAMICS modes, improving both longitudinal and lateral dynamics. In a flat position, it minimizes air resistance for quicker top speed attainment. In the inclined position, it enhances braking and cornering stability through increased rear axle downforce.
Four activation strategies are linked to AMG DYNAMICS modes (Basic, Advanced, Pro, Master), some incorporating driving dynamics recognition. For example, in Master mode, the flap remains inclined up to 155 mph, retracting above this speed to reduce drag and reach top speed faster. However, sudden braking or cornering instantly returns the flap to its extended position for optimized braking and cornering performance. Drivers can also manually control the flap via a console button.
Comprehensive Underbody Paneling
Aerodynamic refinement extends to the near-fully paneled underbody, addressing both aerodynamic and thermal (heat dissipation) demands. The flat underbody incorporates longitudinal fins, meticulously optimized to channel airflow to the rear diffuser. This package accelerates airflow, significantly increasing downforce. All elements are harmonized with the rear spoiler design, resulting in downforce exceeding 882 lbs at 155 mph.
Lightweight Carbon Fiber Construction
The intelligent material mix and lightweight construction of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series are evident in the carbon fiber roof with a lowered center, the carbon fiber rear hatch with a small spoiler lip, and the lightweight glass rear windshield. Lightweight laminated front windshield glass further reduces weight. A coiled carbon fiber transmission mount is another exclusive Black Series component. 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 stability. These elements form a network, improving driving precision. The carbon fiber shear panel under the engine connects to the integral carrier, stiffening the front section and steering system for more precise steering and front axle stability. The front axle integral carrier is exclusively crafted for the Black Series from lightweight aluminum.
The standard ceramic high-performance compound brake system, with black calipers and white lettering, also contributes to weight reduction and high performance. Specialized brake pads and rotors, along with enhanced brake cooling, ensure consistent, fade-free deceleration and precise brake application. Standard light-alloy forged wheels further reduce unsprung mass.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension with 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. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers are forged aluminum, minimizing unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the rear axle’s upper and lower wishbones, derived from motorsport, eliminate play, maintaining consistent toe-in and camber under high loads, resulting in precise steering and enhanced cornering.
Like the AMG GT R, the Black Series employs an AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload, tailored for extreme track use and high damping forces. Motorsport technology merges with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system, electronically adjusting damping at each wheel based on driving situation, speed, and road conditions. Two separate valves for rebound and compression forces enable rapid, precise damping modulation, reacting swiftly to suspension movements. Firmer damping during cornering and braking minimizes rolling. Continuous damping adjustment ensures optimal road contact and safety, even 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.” Modified logic enhances the trade-off between modes. “Comfort” and “Sport” are suited for public roads, with “Sport” offering firmer damping for sportier handling or slippery track conditions. “Sport Plus” is ideal for racetracks, automatically adapting to track surface quality, whether a smooth Grand Prix circuit or a bumpy track like the Nürburgring North Loop. This logic was refined through extensive testing across diverse track types.
Lightweight Suspension Components: Carbon Fiber Sway Bar
The front axle features a dual adjustable sway bar made of lightweight carbon fiber, set to a short, firm connection by default. The rear axle sway bar, made of steel with a hollow tube design, offers 3-way adjustment and weight savings, adjustable to harder or softer settings from a central default position. A carbon fiber shear panel in the rear underbody enhances driving precision, stiffening the rear structure and body shell. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts are retuned for increased agility, precise response, and clear feedback.
Additional suspension features include wide front and rear tracks and manually adjustable camber, enabling extreme camber settings for motorsport performance on closed tracks.
Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, customized for the Black Series, are available in two compounds: the standard soft-compound Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO1A and a harder compound (Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO2) for higher track temperatures, identifiable by a motorsport sticker and available through the AMG Performance Center. Tire sizes are 285/35 ZR 19 front and 335/30 ZR 20 rear.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Grip to the Power of Nine
For closed-track use with ESP OFF, AMG TRACTION CONTROL allows for individual support in managing the Black Series’ immense power without ESP brake intervention. Nine slip settings offer fine-tuned assistance for each driver and track. Control is map-based in the engine electronics, independent of the ESP system, similar to the GT3 race car.
A central console adjuster controls the system, operable even with racing gloves. Settings range from Level 1 (wet conditions, high safety) to Level 9 (maximum rear axle slip). Each setting is displayed on the adjuster and instrument cluster.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL anticipates situations using a friction coefficient evaluator and other data, calculating maximum permissible rear wheel slip based on the selected level. When this slip level is reached, the system modulates engine output to maintain acceleration with the specified slip. Algorithms control both engine drive torque and the electronic differential lock’s locking level.
Exclusive Interior: Orange Contrasting Color
The interior design of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series emphasizes its performance focus. Exclusive nappa leather is paired with 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. Orange topstitching, matte black carbon fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package further enhance the interior. AMG carbon fiber bucket seats (unavailable in USA, Canada, China) offer lightweight lateral support, while AMG Performance seats are standard in those markets. Silver contrasting topstitching is optional.
AMG-Specific Digital Displays
The AMG GT Black Series features digital instrument displays from the AMG GT family, including 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 information like a shift light. The multimedia display visualizes vehicle functions, driving assistance, and communication systems.
Center Console Display Buttons
Innovative color display buttons in the center console control transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop functions. TFT display buttons use intuitive symbols and mechanical pressure points for easy operation, even with racing gloves. Rocker switches control drive programs and audio volume.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel
The AMG Performance steering wheel, adopted from the AMG GT family, features a sporty design with a flattened bottom, DINAMICA microfiber trim, and Black Series lettering. Aluminum shift paddles enable manual gear changes. Integrated Touch Control buttons manage instrument cluster and multimedia display functions.
AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons include a round controller for drive programs and two configurable display buttons for additional AMG functions, allowing drivers to maintain focus on high-speed driving without removing their hands from the wheel. The AMG Interior Night Package, with high-gloss black accents and black brushed stainless steel door sills, is standard, further emphasizing the car’s sportiness.
Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series: Technical Data
| 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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