This is the new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series – a car that packs the most powerful series-production V8 engine that AMG has yet made. Directly inspired by the AMG GT3 race cars, it is fitted with a 720-hp V-8 engine and a plethora of changes that set it apart sharply from any other AMG GT, including the wild GT R.
The result is a claimed 0-62mph time of 3.2sec, 0-124mph in 9.0sec and a top speed of 202mph (325kmph).
The M178 engine, a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8, has been modified so extensively that it receives its own identifier, now called the M178 LS2. A major change is the move away from a cross-plane crankshaft. The LS2 now uses a lighter, flat-plane crankshaft that spins more freely to allow for even more aggressive throttle response.
The LS2 features a different firing order to maximize the energy delivered to the turbos by the exhaust pulses. The turbos now house a larger compressor wheel and can deliver up to 24.6 psi of boost, up from the maximum 19.6 psi the GT R can supply. Like the GT R, the Black Series gets the trick 9-mode traction control system that is controlled by a knob centrally located on the dash.
The power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The result of all this awesomeness is a Mercedes-AMG claimed zero-to-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds.
The body has been stiffened with carbon-fiber panels up front. At the front, a larger air intake combines with airflow-optimising ‘flics’, a two-stage manually adjustable carbonfibre splitter and a carbonfibre bonnet with downforce-boosting exhaust air openings and cooling slats.
Wider sill panels contain brake cooling ducts, while a rear diffuser and huge two-piece spoiler feature. The latter features flaps which can adjust by up to 20 degrees to reduce air resistance or improve stability depending on the driving situation.
The front axle uses a carbon-fiber anti-roll bar with two adjustment settings. An iron anti-roll bar is used in the rear and has three adjustment settings. The camber is manually adjustable both on the front and rear axle. The carbon-ceramic rotors and Black Series specific brake pads that are taken directly from motorsports applications further enhance this car’s track capabilities.
