The most powerful AMG V8 series engine of all time powers the new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series. It has an output of 730 hp (537 kW) at 6700-6900 rpm. Maximum torque of 800 Nm runs all the way from 2000 to 6000 revs.
It goes from zero to 100 km/h in a mere 3.2 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in under nine seconds. Top speed is 325 km/h.
All this power and torque is kept under control by active aerodynamics and a design which stems directly from the AMG GT3 racing car.
The V8 is a 4.0-litre biturbo unit with a new ‘flat’ crankshaft. The AMG engineers have essentially moved the exhaust side into the hot internal V of the two cylinder banks in the V8 engine.
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. It has been modified for use in the AMG GT Black Series.
At the back there’s a new rear apron with a large diffuser, two rounded twin tailpipe trims on the outside left and right as well as side wheel arch ventilation. Innovative rear aerofoil blades are made from carbon fibre and can be mechanically adjusted to suit various tracks and conditions.
The previous limits governing shift performance and response time have been extended, making them more suitable for racetracks.
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series has been confirmed for Australia and is likely to arrive early next year.
Ewan Kennedy, a long-time car enthusiast, was Technical Research Librarian with the NRMA from 1970 until 1985. He worked part-time as a freelance motoring journalist from 1977 until 1985, when he took a full-time position as Technical Editor with Modern Motor magazine. Late in 1987 he left to set up a full-time business as a freelance motoring journalist. Ewan is an associate member of the Society of Automotive Engineers - International. An economy driving expert, he set the Guinness World Record for the greatest distance travelled in a standard road vehicle on a single fuel fill. He lists his hobbies as stage acting, travelling, boating and reading.
