The most powerful AMG V8 series engine of all time, the most expressive design, the most elaborate aerodynamics, the most intelligent material mix, the most distinctive driving dynamics and I doubt we’ll see it in New Zealand.
For the new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series (combined fuel consumption 12.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 292 g/km), the Affalterbach designers have pulled out all the stops when it comes to the art of vehicle design. The new super sports car perfectly embodies the brand’s rich tradition in motorsport, as well its many years of expertise in developing complete vehicles which impress in every respect. The result is an output of 537 kW (730 hp) from a V8 engine with a ‘flat’ crankshaft, combined with active aerodynamics and a design which stems directly from the current AMG GT3 racing car.
At Mercedes-AMG, the Black Series has been synonymous with a very special type of car since 2006: uncompromisingly sporty, with an expressive design and the most consistent technology transfer from motorsport to series production. Black Series models are exclusive automotive rarities. They have not been developed to gather dust in collectors’ garages, but for high-speed use on race tracks, despite being approved for roads. The AMG GT Black Series represents a new highlight in this tradition: It is the most powerful Mercedes-AMG with a V8 series engine.
In order to emphasise the redefinition of the super sports car,the engine specialists in Affalterbach have once again extensively further developed the tried-and-tested 4.0-litre biturbo unit – despite it already being renowned for excellent driveability, power delivery and torque progression. The specifications were clear: Significantly more power than the previous flagship model of the AMG GT family, an even more agile throttle response, maximum torque – all of which meant that a radical change was needed in the form of a new, ‘flat’ crankshaft.
“The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive highlight and continues a tradition established in 2006. The sixth version 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 a unique super sports car, which now represents the absolute peak of our successful GT family. The performance, looks 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,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The most powerful V8 series engine from Mercedes-AMG
The new GT Black Series engine may be based on the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with dry sump lubrication, but it has been given the new internal code M178 LS2 due to the numerous modifications. It achieves 537 kW (730 hp) at 6700-6900 rpm and delivers a maximum torque of 800 Nm at 2000-6000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are adapted to the new firing order and further improve the gas cycle.
Both twin scroll exhaust turbochargers are mounted in anti-friction bearings, as in the top-of-the-range four-door AMG GT Coupé, which optimises their throttle response even further. However, in the Black Series, the turbochargers have been given a larger compressor wheel, meaning that both can deliver a total of 1100 kg air per hour. By way of comparison: The figure is 900 kg/h for the AMG GT R. 7000 rpm is not critical as a continuous speed, the speed is limited at 7200 rpm. And the larger intercoolers guarantee that they always keep the charge-air temperature within the best possible range. The unique standing of the new engine is also reflected in the engine badge, which is kept in black.
What does the engine do for the AMG GT Black Series? It gives it a completely independent character, which is not only reflected in the type of power delivery, but also in its very particular sound pattern. And it enables highly impressive driving performance: The two-door vehicle shoots from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, and to 200 km/h in under nine seconds. The top speed is 325 km/h, although this is only sensible on cordoned-off racetracks.
Modified AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G transmission
Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via the seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G dual clutch transmission, which is located on the rear axle in a transaxle arrangement for optimal weight distribution, as is the case for all AMG GT models. It has been modified for use in the AMG GT Black Series and adapted to the increased torque of 800 Nm. The previous limits governing shift performance and response time have been extended, making them more suitable for racetracks.
Sophisticated aerodynamics for incredibly high driving dynamics
The sophisticated aerodynamics not only make a significant contribution to high driving dynamics and stability on fast circuits. As with the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO, aerodynamics experts and designers have worked in close collaboration, as ‘form follows function’ applies more than ever in the case of the Black Series.
Two-stage rear aerofoil concept
The rear view is characterised by the new rear apron with a large diffuser, two rounded twin tailpipe trims on the outside left and right, side wheel arch ventilation, and the innovative rear aerofoil concept. Both aerofoil blades are made from carbon fibre, can be mechanically adjusted and therefore adapted to various track conditions. The second, lower positioned blade was made particularly small and narrow because this is ideal for the air arriving from the front of the car. The light yet robust carbon-fibre aerofoil supports, painted matt black and specially designed based on extensive simulations also increase aerodynamic efficiency. They are bolted to the carbon-fibre tailgate, which is also black.
Lightweight and robust carbon fibre, as far as the eye can see
The lightweight carbon-fibre roof, with a sunken centre, as well as the carbon-fibre tailgate with small spoiler lip and larger rear windscreen made from lightweight thin glass, are all key components of the ‘intelligent material mix’ and ‘lightweight construction’. Moving to the front of the car, the glass used to make the laminated glass windscreen is likewise thin and therefore light in weight. The coiled carbon-fibre transmission mount is another exclusive Black Series component. Additional carbon-fibre shear panels in the front section, underbody and rear stiffen the entire aluminium bodyshell structure, together with the lightweight integral carrier and the carbon tunnel cross, making the bodyshell even more stable. The elements form a connected network and increase the high driving precision of the Black Series in all driving manoeuvres. The carbon-fibre shear panel under the engine is connected to the integral carrier and stiffens the entire front section and steering system, making the steering noticeably more precise and stabilising the front axle. The integral carrier at the front axle is exclusively made for the Black Series using a lightweight aluminium construction.
Drive and driving performances
- 4.0 litre V8 biturbo motor with dry sump lubrication, identification code M178 LS2
- 537 kW/730 hp max. output at 6700-6900 rpm
- 800 Nm max. torque at 2000-6000 rpm
- Vmax 325 km/h
- 0-100 km/h 3.2 s
- 0-200 km/h in under 9.0 s
- Engine has a new ‘flat’ and lighter crankshaft with crankpins on one plane – characteristics of an uncompromising sports engine
- New firing order with 180-degree crankshaft angle offset: 1-8-2-7-4-5-3-6
- Advantage: more evenly distributed combustion in all cylinders, more agile throttle response
- New camshafts and exhaust manifolds
- Reinforced AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G dual clutch transmission for higher torque
- New twin-pipe exhaust system made of thin-walled stainless steel
