For those in pursuit of the pinnacle of automotive engineering and raw track performance, the Amg Black Series designation has always represented the zenith. Now, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series emerges, not just as a new model, but as a declaration of dominance. Affalterbach’s engineers have meticulously crafted a machine that redefines the boundaries of vehicle design, embodying Mercedes-AMG’s deep-rooted motorsport heritage and unparalleled expertise in creating vehicles that command respect in every facet. This super sports car stands as an awe-inspiring testament to power, boasting a staggering 720 horsepower from a handcrafted AMG V8 engine featuring a flat-plane crankshaft, augmented by cutting-edge active aerodynamics, and a design ethos directly descended from the formidable AMG GT3 racing car.
Since 2006, the Black Series at Mercedes-AMG has become synonymous with an extraordinary breed of automobile: unyieldingly sporty, visually arresting, and imbued with technology directly transferred from the crucible of motorsport to series production. These models are not mere production cars; they are exclusive automotive rarities, engineered not for static display, but for blistering performance on the racetrack, all while retaining road legality. The AMG GT Black Series stands as a new zenith in this revered lineage, proudly housing the most potent Mercedes-AMG V8 series engine ever conceived.
To truly redefine what a super sports car can be, the engine specialists in Affalterbach embarked on an extensive redevelopment of the already acclaimed 4.0-liter V8 biturbo unit. This wasn’t a minor tweak; it was a fundamental reimagining, driven by clear objectives: to surpass the power output of the AMG GT family’s previous flagship, to achieve an even more immediate throttle response, and to deliver maximum torque across the rev range. This ambitious endeavor necessitated a radical departure – the adoption of a new flat-plane crankshaft.
“AMG GT Black Series engine badge, showcasing the unique and powerful V8 engine.”
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH during the development, stated, “The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive highlight and continues a tradition established in 2006. The sixth iteration 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 this unique super sports car, which now represents the absolute peak of our successful GT family. The performance, appearance 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.”
The Distinctive Heart: A Flat-Plane Crankshaft V8
The very architecture of a V8 engine offers designers a crucial element to manipulate: the crankshaft’s crank arrangement. This arrangement is pivotal in defining the engine’s character. Traditionally, V8 engines employ one of two crankshaft configurations: the ‘cross-plane’ and the ‘flat-plane’. AMG’s previous V8 engines utilized the cross-plane design, where the crankpins of cylinder pairs are set at 90-degree angles. In contrast, the flat-plane crankshaft aligns all crankpins on a single plane with a 180-degree offset.
Visually, a cross-plane crankshaft reveals a ‘cross’ when viewed from the front, hence its name. Its advantages lie in exceptional smoothness and robust torque delivery at lower engine speeds. The distinctive rumble of a cross-plane V8 is another defining trait. To optimize the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine’s displacement and performance potential, AMG engineers strategically positioned the exhaust side within the hot internal V of the cylinder banks.
Unlocking Power: Uniformly Oscillating Gas Columns
Further enhancing performance is the implementation of a flat-plane crankshaft. A flat-plane V8 engine, internally, resembles an inline four-cylinder configuration, albeit with wider crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each. Ignition in a flat-plane V8 engine alternates between cylinder banks, refining the gas cycle. The characteristic firing order, with a 180-degree crankshaft angle offset (1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6), generates uniformly oscillating gas columns within the exhaust tract and intake side. These resonant gas columns are skillfully harnessed to amplify performance. A significant advantage of this design is a more responsive throttle.
Mercedes-AMG’s Most Powerful V8 Engine to Date
While the new AMG Black Series engine builds upon the foundation of the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo with dry sump lubrication, its extensive modifications warrant a new internal designation: M178 LS2. This powerhouse delivers 720 hp between 6,700 and 6,900 rpm, and a formidable 590 lb-ft of maximum torque spanning from 2,000 to 6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds, tailored to the unique firing order, further optimize the gas cycle.
Mirroring the top-tier AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, both twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers are equipped with anti-friction bearings, sharpening throttle response. However, the GT Black Series turbochargers feature larger compressor wheels, enabling a total boost pressure of 24.6 psi, a notable increase from the AMG GT R’s 19.6 psi. The engine’s redline is set at 7,200 rpm, reflecting its high-performance design. Enlarged intercoolers ensure optimal charge-air temperatures. The engine’s uniqueness is visually underscored by a distinctive black engine badge.
“The handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine with flat-plane crankshaft, the heart of the AMG GT Black Series.”
Performance Metrics: Blistering Speed
The new handcrafted AMG engine imbues the AMG GT Black Series with an unparalleled character, evident not only in its power delivery but also in its distinctive auditory signature. This engine translates to breathtaking performance figures: a 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 3.1 seconds, and a 0 to 124 mph (200 km/h) dash in under nine seconds. The car’s top speed is electronically limited to 202 mph, a figure best explored within the confines of a closed racetrack.
Transmission: Modified for Track Prowess
Channeling power to the rear wheels is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Positioned on the rear axle in a transaxle configuration for optimal weight distribution, as with all AMG GT 2-door models, this transmission has been specifically enhanced for the AMG GT Black Series. It’s calibrated to manage the increased 590 lb-ft of torque. Shift performance and response time limits have been pushed further, optimizing it for rigorous racetrack demands.
These enhancements contribute to a heightened sense of agility and responsiveness. Accelerator and engine responses are sharper, and drive programs, start-up characteristics, and gear changes are all more aggressively tuned. The Race Start function is now even more potent, thanks to elevated starting revs, refined wheel slip control, and track-ready high-performance tires. Transmission cooling has been upgraded to meet tougher demands, and transmission ratios have been subtly adjusted.
Connecting the engine and transmission is a carbon-fiber ‘torque tube’. Weighing a mere 30.6 lbs, it’s approximately 40 percent lighter than the already weight-optimized aluminum counterpart in the standard AMG GT. As a structural element of the transaxle drivetrain, it creates an exceptionally torsionally stiff link between the engine and transmission, fostering direct drivetrain connection conducive to dynamic driving and contributing to balanced weight distribution. The drive shaft within is also constructed from lightweight carbon fiber.
Aerodynamics: Sculpted for Speed and Stability
Sophisticated and meticulously optimized aerodynamics are crucial for the AMG GT Black Series‘s agile driving dynamics and high-speed stability on demanding circuits. Aerodynamicists and designers collaborated closely to refine the car’s aerodynamic profile, echoing the development process of the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO. “Form follows function” is the guiding principle, even more so with the Black Series.
The visual and technical lineage to the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars is undeniable. This starts with the significantly enlarged radiator air inlet, directly derived from the AMG GT3 race car. The radiator trim features vertical slats in dark chrome, and with wheel arch coolers now fed air directly via the central inlet, the need for additional outer air inlets in the front bumper is eliminated. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, increasing front axle downforce and enhancing brake cooling. ‘Air curtains’ manage and direct airflow towards the wheels. These enhancements, along with flics ahead of the wheels, reduce drag and increase downforce. The new design language harmonizes maximum cooling efficiency with reduced air resistance and increased front-end downforce.
“Adjustable carbon-fiber front splitter of the AMG GT Black Series, showcasing its race-derived aerodynamics.”
The carbon-fiber front splitter offers two manually adjustable settings: Street and Race (Race for track use only), adaptable to various track conditions. In the Race position, extending forward, a front diffuser in the shape of a reversed wing profile emerges beneath the front section. Depending on speed, negative pressure further lowers this element, accelerating underbody airflow and creating a ‘Venturi effect’, drawing the car closer to the road and increasing front axle downforce. This translates to enhanced steering precision at high-speed cornering and exceptional directional stability. The vehicle exhibits agile response with clear steering feedback, remaining easily controllable, particularly during high lateral acceleration. With the front diffuser in Race position, the new rear spoiler design further increases rear axle downforce.
Hood Design: Aero-Performance Enhancement
Another motorsport-derived feature is the new carbon-fiber hood, incorporating two large exhaust air outlets with black finished carbon-fiber surfaces. These outlets channel warm air from the diagonally positioned cooling pack out of the engine compartment, a technology directly from motorsport, increasing overall downforce, reducing air resistance, and optimizing engine cooling airflow. Airflow is also guided around the A-pillars and side windows to the rear, enhancing the efficiency of the new rear spoiler. Seamlessly integrated front fender vents with five body-colored fins and exhaust air openings behind the wheels in the front carbon-fiber fenders further increase front axle downforce via effective wheel arch ventilation. Wider side sill panels with black carbon-fiber elements, merging into vertical blades, optimize airflow around the vehicle. Additional cooling air ducts are integrated into the side sill panels for rear axle brake cooling.
Rear Spoiler: Two-Stage Aerodynamic Control
The rear profile is defined by a new rear bumper with a large diffuser, rounded twin-tailpipe trims, side wheel arch ventilation, and an innovative rear spoiler design. Both spoiler blades are carbon fiber, mechanically adjustable for track condition adaptability. The lower blade is intentionally small and narrow to optimally interact with airflow from the front. Matte black carbon-fiber spoiler supports, meticulously designed with simulations, enhance aerodynamic efficiency and are bolted to the black carbon-fiber rear hatch.
A notable detail is the adjustable flap in the upper blade. This active aerodynamic element, electronically adjusted up to 20 degrees, optimizes longitudinal and transverse dynamics based on driving situation and selected AMG DYNAMICS mode. In a flat position, it minimizes air resistance for quicker top speed attainment. In the inclined position, it boosts braking and cornering stability via increased rear axle downforce.
Four activation strategies are available, linked to AMG DYNAMICS modes (Basic, Advanced, Pro, Master), some incorporating driving dynamics recognition. For instance, in Master mode, the flap remains inclined up to 155 mph, retracting beyond this speed to reduce drag and reach top speed faster. However, sudden braking or cornering immediately returns the flap to its extended position for optimized braking and cornering through enhanced downforce and air resistance. Drivers can also manually control flap position via a center console button.
Underbody Paneling: Comprehensive Aerodynamic Optimization
Extensive aerodynamic work includes the near-fully paneled underbody, addressing both aerodynamic and thermal (heat dissipation) requirements. The flat underbody features longitudinal fins, meticulously optimized air channels ensuring ideal airflow to the rear diffuser. This complete package accelerates airflow, significantly increasing downforce, with all measures coordinated with the new rear spoiler design. The combined effect yields a downforce level exceeding 882 lbs at 155 mph.
Lightweight Construction: Carbon Fiber Throughout
The intelligent material mix and lightweight construction are evident in the lightweight carbon-fiber roof with a lowered center, and the carbon-fiber rear hatch with a small spoiler lip and lightweight glass rear windshield. Lightweight laminated front windshield glass further contributes to weight reduction. A coiled carbon-fiber transmission mount is another exclusive Black Series component. Carbon-fiber shear panels in the front section, underbody, and rear, along with a lightweight integral carrier and carbon-fiber cross tunnel, stiffen the aluminum body shell structure, enhancing stability and driving precision. The carbon-fiber shear panel under the engine, connected to the integral carrier, stiffens the front section and steering system, improving steering precision and front axle stability. The front axle integral carrier is exclusively constructed from lightweight aluminum for the Black Series.
Standard ceramic high-performance compound brakes with black calipers and white lettering offer low weight and high performance. Special brake pads and rotors, along with enhanced brake cooling, ensure optimal, fade-resistant deceleration and precise brake application. Standard light-alloy forged wheels further contribute to weight reduction.
Suspension: AMG Coil-Over System for Adaptive Dynamics
A double wishbone suspension design enhances wheel camber and toe-in stability, enabling high cornering speeds and optimized road feel at the limits of grip. Front and rear wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers are forged aluminum to reduce unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the rear axle’s upper and lower wishbones, derived from motorsport, eliminate play, maintaining consistent toe-in and camber under high loads, ensuring precise steering, clear feedback, and enhanced cornering performance.
“AMG coil-over suspension with adaptive adjustable damping system in the AMG GT Black Series, tuned for track performance.”
The AMG GT Black Series employs an AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload and AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable adaptive damping, tailored for extreme racetrack use. This motorsport technology features electronically controlled damping, automatically adjusting each wheel’s damping to handling, speed, and road conditions. Damping characteristics are modulated rapidly and precisely via separate valves for rebound and compression forces, reacting agilely to fast suspension movements. Firmer damping, during cornering and braking, minimizes rolling motions. Continuous damping adjustment optimizes road contact and enhances safety, especially at high speeds.
Drivers can adjust adaptive damping via the AMG DRIVE UNIT or AMG DYNAMIC SELECT modes, with “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” settings. ‘Sport Plus’ intelligently recognizes track surface quality, adapting electronic damping accordingly, optimized across various track types, from smooth Grand Prix circuits to bumpy tracks like the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Chassis Reinforcements: Carbon Fiber for Enhanced Precision
The front axle features a dual adjustable sway bar made of lightweight carbon fiber, with a short, firm default setting. The rear axle sway bar, made of steel with 3-way adjustment and hollow tube design, saves weight. It can be adjusted harder or softer from the default “central” position. A carbon-fiber shear panel in the rear underbody further enhances driving precision by stiffening the rear-end structure. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts are retuned for increased agility, high-precision response, and clear feedback.
Additional suspension enhancements include wider front and rear tracks and manually adjustable front and rear axle camber, allowing for extreme camber settings for motorsport performance on closed tracks.
Tires and Traction: Grip Optimized for Track Domination
Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, specially customized for the Black Series, have been developed. This high-performance tire is exclusively available for Mercedes-AMG in two compounds: the standard soft-compound Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO1A and a harder compound (Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO2) available as a retrofitting option for hotter track temperatures, identifiable by the AMG Performance Center motorsport sticker. Tire sizes are 285/35 ZR 19 front and 335/30 ZR 20 rear, on 10 J x 19 and 12 J x 20 wheels respectively.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Nine Levels of Grip Mastery
For closed-track use with ESP OFF, AMG TRACTION CONTROL allows drivers to individually manage the Black Series’s immense power without ESP brake intervention. Nine slip settings offer fine-tuned support for various drivers and tracks, controlled via engine electronics maps, mirroring GT3 racing car technology, and adjustable via a central console adjuster. Level 1 provides maximum safety in wet conditions, while Level 9 allows maximum rear axle slip. Settings are displayed on the adjuster and instrument cluster.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL anticipates situations using a friction coefficient evaluator and other data, calculating maximum permissible drive slip based on the selected level. It modulates engine output and electronic differential lock to maintain this slip level, employing a double control variable model.
Interior: Race-Inspired Luxury
The interior design emphasizes the AMG GT Black Series‘s performance focus, featuring exclusive nappa leather and sporty DINAMICA microfiber in black with orange contrasting topstitching. The instrument panel and lightweight door panels are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfiber, with loop pull handles replacing conventional handles. Further orange contrasting topstitching, matte black carbon-fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package enhance the interior. AMG carbon-fiber bucket seats (not available in the USA, Canada, and China) offer low weight and lateral support. AMG Performance seats are standard in the USA, Canada, and China. Silver contrasting topstitching is optional.
“The interior of the AMG GT Black Series, featuring exclusive nappa leather, DINAMICA microfiber, and carbon-fiber elements.”
Digital Cockpit: AMG-Specific Displays
The AMG GT Black Series features fully digital instrument displays with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia display. The instrument cluster offers ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’, and ‘Supersport’ AMG-specific display styles, with ‘Supersport’ featuring a central rev counter and additional information like a ‘shift light’. The multimedia display visualizes vehicle functions, including driving assistance, vehicle, and communication systems.
Center Console: Display Buttons for Key Controls
Innovative colored display buttons in the V-shaped center console control transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust system, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop function. TFT display buttons use intuitive symbols and offer tactile feedback, operable even with racing gloves. Rocker switches for drive programs and audio volume supplement the display buttons.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel: Control at Your Fingertips
The AMG Performance steering wheel, adopted from the AMG GT family, features a sporty design, flattened bottom, heavily contoured rim, and intuitive operation. The rim is fully trimmed in DINAMICA microfiber, with a Black Series badge and AMG logo. Aluminum shift paddles enable manual gear changes. Integrated Touch Control buttons manage the instrument cluster and multimedia display.
Standard AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons include a round controller with integrated display and two colored display buttons with switches, activating AMG drive programs via the right controller. Freely configurable display buttons and switches on the left allow direct control of AMG functions, customizable with display icons for preferred functions.
The standard AMG Interior Night Package includes high-gloss black shift paddles, steering wheel spokes, seat inserts, and black brushed stainless steel door sill panels, further emphasizing sportiness.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0-liter V8 biturbo |
| Displacement | 3982 cc |
| Output | 720 hp at 6,700-6,900 rpm |
| Peak torque | 590 lb-ft at 2,000-6,000 rpm |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.1 s |
| Top speed | 202 mph |
About Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, manages distribution, marketing, and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers a diverse luxury lineup, from the A-Class Sedan to the flagship S-Class and the Mercedes-AMG GT R, and is also responsible for Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. For more information, visit www.mbusa.com and www.mbsprinterusa.com. Journalists can access media information at media.mbusa.com.
