Mercedes AMG GT Track Series: farewell version for AMG anniversary
Serial production of Mercedes-AMG GT coupes and roadsters ended in December last year, but the model does not yet have a direct successor. Therefore, for the 55th anniversary of the AMG division, which will be widely celebrated this year, the front-engined supercar had to be temporarily returned to service: a special track version of the Mercedes‑AMG GT Track Series was introduced.
This is the most powerful and extreme version of the GT model, because its developers were no longer limited to the requirements of cars for public roads – the new coupe cannot drive on them. Based on the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series Coupe, which became the crown of the road range and set the lap record at the Nürburgring. And to refine it, solutions were used that look out from racing cars of the GT3 and GT4 categories. In addition, the engineering bureau HWA AG, which is owned by Hans Werner Aufrecht, the founder of the AMG studio, participated in the creation of the Track Series version.
The V8 4.0 biturbo engine with a flat crankshaft has been updated again with different direct injection nozzles and a control program. The output has increased from 730 hp and 800 Nm for the Black Series version to 734 hp and 850 Nm. And instead of a seven-speed “robot” with two clutches, a Hewland HLS racing sequential gearbox with six gears is installed, which can be shifted using paddles and pneumatic drive. Differential – with an adjustable degree of mechanical blocking.
Instead of electronically controlled shock absorbers, Bilstein adjustable struts appeared. Stabilizers can also be adjusted, not to mention the driving electronics: ABS and traction control have 11 degrees of “forgiveness”, which can be selected separately using the handles in the cabin. Or completely disable both systems. Brakes: with conventional steel discs with a diameter of 390 mm in front and 355 mm in the rear.
The aerodynamic tail has been redesigned: the Track Series version has the original front splitter and rear diffuser, although the adjustable spoiler is retained. The hood, fenders, third door, rear bumper and side panels are made from carbon fiber. The interior is completely “trimmed”: there are also carbon panels, a Bosch display instead of instruments, a steering wheel instead of a steering wheel, a racing hub for the driver. Removed even the power windows, although the air conditioning has been preserved.
All these measures have reduced the curb weight from 1540 kg for the Black Series version to 1400 kg. And this despite the fact that the new track coupe has a racing fuel tank with a volume of 120 liters compared to 65 liters for road cars! The equipment is also typical racing: an additional ventilation system for the pilot's helmet, a drinking water supply system, a set of spare parts and accessories and.. a passenger seat.
As the Mercedes-AMG GT Track Series prepares for its 55th anniversary, there will be a run of 55 copies. The price of each is 369 thousand euros, excluding taxes. You can't buy such a car at dealerships – sales will take place directly from the factory in Affalterbach. Delivery of cars to customers will begin in the second quarter.