#37 All-New Mercedes-Benz AMG GT – The V8 thriller

In 2011 Mercedes-Benz’s in house tuning division, AMG, presented its very first car; the SLS. One look at the luxury sports car from Mercedes' performance-oriented AMG division, and the resemblance to the brand's iconic mid-1950s-era 300SL coupe is unmistakable. From the long bonnet, short rear and the coupe's distinctive vertically opening doors, which gave the 300SL its "Gullwing" nickname, the SLS AMG's managed to pay homage to that classic model while still managing to be fresh and contemporary.

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT

The growling 6.2-litre V8, perfect weight distribution, large disc brakes and impressive torque figures offered the driver a thrilling ride. The mighty SLS AMG was recently retired. Taking its place is an all-new model called the AMG GT. The all-new Mercedes-Benz AMG GT combines driving dynamics and performance with superb everyday practicality. The two seater sports car is available in two variants; the standard GT and the more powerful GT S.

300 SL

Design

The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT features the same long bonnet, short rear and coupe look visible on the SLS. At the front of the AMG GT is the large three-dimensional diamond radiator grille with central Mercedes star. LED headlamps features daytime running lights, side lights and indicators, as well as three separate high-beam reflectors lend the GT its discrete look.

Aggressive and low front 

Large air intakes optimise the flow of air to the radiators. The front splitter makes the sports car appear low-slung and wide. Viewed from the side, the dome-shaped, arched roof line and the frameless doors are eye-catching features. The side air outlets feature two fins with ‘V8 Biturbo’ lettering.

Wider rear with the concealed boot spoiler

The broad shoulders and narrow LED tail light define the rear design. The license plate bracket is located in the lower part of the bumper, allowing the Mercedes star to be placed prominently on the smooth-surfaced boot lid. An extendable rear spoiler is concealed in the boot lid when the sports car is standing still. The black diffuser insert with tailpipes integrated into the bumper. 

SLS AMG 

Performance

Providing thrilling performance to both the AMG GT and GT S is a hand built 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine.  The GT power unit outputs 344 kW (462 hp) and 600 Nm of torque. The V8 sips 9.3 litres of fuel per 100 km. 0 to 100 km/h takes 4 seconds while top speed is 304 km/h.

4.0-litre V8 unit 

The more performance oriented AMG GT S output is raised to 380 kW (510 hp) and 650 Nm of torque. The AMG GT S achieves a top speed of 310 km/h. 0 to 100 km/h takes 3.8 seconds. Though powerful, the AMG GT S consumes a pocket friendly 9.4 litres/100km.  Both variants of the AMG GT feature a 7-speed sports transmission fitted on the rear axle. The layout of the car provides for a weight distribution of 47 per cent front and 53 per cent rear.

Rear storage space 

This gives the AMG GT the tail happy characteristics of the SLS.  Double-wishbone suspension, made of lightweight aluminum, is used at the front and rear. The driver has a perfect feel for the vehicle thanks to the speed-sensitive sports steering, which enhances handling and agility at low speeds while maintaining driving safety at high speeds

Cockpit 

Interior

Opening the doors reveals the top notch interior. The performance steering wheel with its three-spoke design sits perfectly in the hand and features aluminium shift paddles. Behind the steering wheel are two traditional instrument dials and a TFT screen. The sports seats, with integrated head rests and AMG logo, provide optimised sideways support when driving enthusiastically.

Sports seats with integrated seats 

Buttons located at each side of the centre console allow the drive to operate various vehicle functions. A free-standing central display is located centrally above the four ventilation outlets. The good all-round visibility and the high headroom offers occupants great comfort and safety especially on long journeys. The rear space, measuring at 350 litres, is accessed by the large boot lid.  

Great for long drives 

Verdict

Though the Mercedes AMG GT is not a direct successor to the SLS, it offers somewhat the same characteristics in terms of performance and design. The two seater sports car is also more efficient and practical compared to the SLS. Prices for this latest Affalterbach’s toy will be announced soon.