The new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series emerges as the most formidable AMG V8 creation to date. Affalterbach’s engineers have pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering, crafting a vehicle that embodies motorsport heritage and unparalleled performance. This super sports car showcases the brand’s deep-rooted racing pedigree and expertise in developing complete vehicles that excel in every facet. The result is an awe-inspiring machine producing 720 horsepower from a handcrafted AMG V8 engine, featuring a flat-plane crankshaft, complemented by active aerodynamics and a design directly inspired by the AMG GT3 race car. This is not just a car; it’s the ultimate expression of Mercedes In Black, representing power and exclusivity.
Since 2006, the Black Series designation at Mercedes-AMG has signified something truly exceptional: uncompromising sportiness, an assertive design, and the most direct infusion of motorsport technology into production vehicles. Black Series models are rare automotive gems, engineered not for static display, but for blistering speeds on the racetrack, all while remaining street-legal. The AMG GT Black Series elevates this tradition to new heights, boasting the most potent Mercedes-AMG V8 series engine ever conceived.
To redefine the super sports car paradigm, the engine specialists in Affalterbach embarked on another extensive redevelopment of the renowned 4.0-liter V8 biturbo unit. Despite its established reputation for exceptional drivability, power delivery, and torque, the objectives were clear: surpass the power of the previous AMG GT flagship, achieve even sharper throttle response, and maximize torque. This ambitious pursuit necessitated a fundamental shift, culminating in the adoption of a new, flat-plane crankshaft.
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, stated, “The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive pinnacle, continuing a lineage established in 2006. This sixth iteration marks another AMG milestone and serves as compelling evidence of the extraordinary development expertise within Affalterbach. I commend the team for creating this singular super sports car, which now represents the absolute zenith of our successful GT family. The performance, aesthetics, and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are unmatched. This project was a remarkable culmination of my tenure at AMG, for which I am profoundly grateful.”
The Distinctive Heart: A Groundbreaking V8 Engine
The architecture of a V8 engine offers designers significant latitude in manipulating a crucial element: the crankshaft’s crank arrangement. This configuration profoundly impacts the engine’s characteristics. V8 engines typically employ one of two crankshaft designs: the ‘cross plane,’ where the crankpins of cylinder pairs are positioned at 90-degree angles – a configuration AMG has utilized in all prior V8 engines – or the ‘flat-plane crankshaft,’ where all crankpins reside on the same plane with a 180-degree offset (‘flat-plane’).
Observing a cross-plane crankshaft from the front reveals the cross-shape that lends it its name. These crankshafts offer advantages including exceptional smoothness and robust torque at lower engine speeds. The distinctive rumble is another defining characteristic of the cross-plane V8 engine. To optimize displacement and performance potential in the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, AMG engineers strategically positioned the exhaust side within the hot internal V of the V8 engine’s two cylinder banks.
Image showing the powerful AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine in detail, highlighting its innovative design.
Unleashing Power: Uniformly Oscillating Gas Columns
Further performance gains are achieved through the implementation of a flat-plane crankshaft. The flat-plane V8 engine, in essence, resembles an inline four-cylinder engine, with the exception of wider crankpins accommodating two connecting rods each in the V8 configuration. Ignition in the flat-plane V8 alternates between cylinder banks, enhancing the gas cycle. The characteristic firing order, with a 180-degree crankshaft angle offset, is 1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6. This sequence generates uniformly oscillating gas columns in both the exhaust and intake tracts, leveraging resonance to amplify performance. A key benefit is a more responsive throttle.
The Pinnacle of Power: Mercedes-AMG’s Most Potent V8
While the new GT Black Series engine is rooted in the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo with dry sump lubrication, extensive modifications have earned it a new internal designation: M178 LS2. It delivers a staggering 720 hp at 6,700-6,900 rpm and a peak torque of 590 lb-ft across the 2,000-6,000 rpm range. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are meticulously tailored to the revised firing order, further optimizing the gas cycle.
Mirroring the top-tier AMG GT Coupe four-door, both twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers are mounted on anti-friction bearings, enhancing throttle response. However, in the GT Black Series, the turbochargers feature a larger compressor wheel, enabling a total boost pressure of 24.6 psi, compared to 19.6 psi in the AMG GT R. The engine’s redline is elevated to 7,200 rpm, with 7,000 rpm being sustainable as a continuous speed. Enlarged intercoolers ensure optimal charge-air temperatures. The engine’s unique character is further emphasized by a distinctive engine badge rendered in black.
Close-up of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series engine badge, showcasing its exclusive black design and powerful V8 designation.
Blistering Acceleration: Launching into Hyperspace
The new Handcrafted AMG engine in the GT Black Series endows it with a truly unique persona, evident not only in its power delivery but also in its distinctive and aggressive sound. This engine propels the Black Series to extraordinary performance figures: 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, and 0 to 124 mph (200 km/h) in under nine seconds. It achieves a top speed of 202 mph, a velocity best reserved for controlled racetrack environments.
Optimized Transmission: AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed
Power is channeled to the rear wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Positioned on the rear axle in a transaxle configuration for optimal weight distribution, consistent with all AMG GT two-door models, it has been specifically recalibrated for the AMG GT Black Series to manage the increased torque output. Shift performance and response time thresholds have been broadened, making them more conducive to racetrack demands.
These enhancements contribute to novel and distinctive driving characteristics, with heightened agility in accelerator and engine response, drive programs, start-up behavior, and gear changes. The Race Start function is now even more exhilarating, benefiting from elevated starting revs, more refined wheel slip control, and high-performance racetrack-ready tires. Furthermore, the transmission cooling system has been upgraded to meet more rigorous demands, and transmission ratios have been subtly adjusted.
A carbon fiber ‘torque tube’ forges the connection between the engine and transmission. Weighing a mere 30.6 lbs, it is approximately 40 percent lighter than its weight-optimized aluminum counterpart in the standard AMG GT. As a structural component of the transaxle drivetrain, it establishes an exceptionally torsionally stiff link between the engine and transmission. This promotes a direct drivetrain connection beneficial to driving dynamics and contributes to the vehicle’s balanced weight distribution. The internal driveshaft is also constructed from lightweight carbon fiber.
Aerodynamic Mastery: Sculpted for Unrivaled Dynamics
The sophisticated and meticulously optimized aerodynamics play a pivotal role in achieving agile driving dynamics and stability at high speeds on race circuits. Mirroring the development of the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO, aerodynamic experts and designers collaborated closely to refine the aerodynamic attributes of the GT Black Series. ‘Form follows function’ is paramount in the design of the new Black Series.
The resemblance to the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars is visually and technically more pronounced than ever. This begins with the new, 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 two additional outer air inlets in the front bumper is eliminated. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, boosting downforce at the front axle and enhancing brake cooling. ‘Air curtains’ manage airflow toward the wheels. In conjunction with the flics ahead of the wheels, these upgrades reduce drag coefficient and amplify downforce. The new design language harmonizes maximum cooling efficiency with reduced air resistance and increased front downforce.
The carbon-fiber front splitter offers two manual settings (Street and Race – Race for racetrack use only), adaptable to various track profiles. In the extended ‘Race’ position, a front diffuser shaped like an inverted wing profile emerges beneath the front section. Depending on speed, this element is further lowered by increasing negative pressure, accelerating underbody airflow, creating a ‘Venturi effect,’ drawing the car closer to the road and boosting front axle downforce. Drivers will perceive enhanced steering precision during high-speed cornering and exceptional directional stability. Particularly in fast corners and under high lateral acceleration, the vehicle responds with agility and clear steering feedback, while remaining easily controllable. When the front diffuser is in the Race position, rear downforce can be further augmented by the new rear spoiler design.
Image showcasing the advanced aerodynamics of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, highlighting the front splitter, flics, and air curtains.
Hood Innovation: Enhancing Aero-Performance
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 bay. This technology, directly from motorsport, increases overall downforce while reducing air resistance and optimizing engine cooling airflow. Air is also strategically directed around the A-pillars and side windows towards the rear, boosting the efficiency of the new rear spoiler design. Seamlessly integrated front fender vents, with five body-colored fins and exhaust air openings behind the front carbon-fiber fenders, contribute to front axle downforce via effective wheel arch ventilation. Airflow around the vehicle is further optimized by new, significantly larger and wider side sill panels with black carbon-fiber elements, merging into vertical blades front and rear. Additional cooling air ducts are integrated into the side sill panels for rear axle brake cooling.
Two-Stage Rear Spoiler: Adaptive Downforce
The rear profile is defined by a new rear bumper with a large diffuser, dual rounded twin-tailpipe trims on the outer edges, side wheel arch ventilation, and the innovative rear spoiler design. Both spoiler blades are crafted from carbon fiber, mechanically adjustable to adapt to diverse track conditions. The lower, secondary blade is intentionally compact and narrow to optimally interact with airflow originating from the front of the car. Lightweight yet robust carbon-fiber spoiler supports, painted matte black and meticulously designed through extensive simulations, further enhance aerodynamic efficiency. They are bolted to the carbon-fiber rear hatch, also finished in black.
A key detail is the adjustable flap in the upper blade. This active aerodynamic element is electronically adjusted by 20 degrees, adapting to driving conditions and the selected AMG DYNAMICS mode, enhancing both longitudinal and transverse dynamics. In a flat position, it minimizes air resistance for quicker attainment of top speed. In an inclined position, the flap improves braking performance and cornering stability through increased rear axle downforce.
Four activation strategies are available, depending on the selected AMG DYNAMICS mode (Basic, Advanced, Pro, or Master). Some strategies incorporate driving dynamics recognition. For example, in Master mode, the flap remains inclined and extended up to 155 mph. Exceeding 155 mph causes it to retract, reducing air resistance for top speed. However, sudden braking or cornering instantly returns the flap to its extended position to optimize braking and cornering via increased downforce and air resistance. Drivers can also manually control flap position via a dedicated center console button.
Underbody Paneling: Comprehensive Aerodynamic Optimization
Detailed aerodynamic refinement extends to the now nearly fully paneled underbody, addressing both aerodynamic and thermal (heat dissipation) requirements. The flat underbody incorporates specially designed longitudinal fins, meticulously optimized air channels ensuring ideal airflow to the rear diffuser. This comprehensive package accelerates airflow, significantly increasing downforce. All measures are coordinated and interact with the new rear spoiler design, resulting in downforce exceeding 882 lbs at 155 mph.
Lightweight Construction: Carbon Fiber Throughout
The lightweight carbon-fiber roof with a lowered center, along with the carbon-fiber rear hatch featuring a small spoiler lip and a larger lightweight glass rear windshield, are integral to the ‘intelligent material mix’ and ‘lightweight construction’ philosophy. The laminated front windshield is also crafted from lightweight glass. The coiled carbon-fiber transmission mount is another exclusive Black Series component. Additional carbon-fiber shear panels in the front section, underbody, and rear stiffen the aluminum body shell structure, alongside the lightweight integral carrier and carbon-fiber cross tunnel, enhancing body shell stability. These elements form a connected network, bolstering the Black Series’ high driving precision in all maneuvers. The carbon-fiber shear panel under the engine connects to the integral carrier, stiffening the front section and steering system, resulting in noticeably more precise steering and front axle stabilization. The integral carrier at the front axle is exclusively engineered for the Black Series using lightweight aluminum construction.
The standard ceramic high-performance compound brake system, featuring black painted calipers with white lettering, is also characterized by low weight and high performance. Special brake pads and rotors, coupled with enhanced brake cooling, ensure optimal, fade-free deceleration and precise brake application. Standard light-alloy forged wheels further contribute to weight reduction.
Image highlighting the extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber components in the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, contributing to its performance and agility.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension: Adaptive and Adjustable
A double wishbone suspension design enhances wheel camber and toe-in stability, enabling high cornering speeds and optimized road feel during extreme cornering. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers on both axles are forged from aluminum to minimize unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the rear axle’s upper and lower wishbones, derived directly from motorsport, eliminate play, maintaining consistent toe-in and camber even under high loads. This enables precise steering, clear feedback, and enhanced cornering performance in the GT Black Series.
Similar to the AMG GT R, the Black Series employs an AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload, adapted for extreme racetrack use with high damping forces. Motorsport technology is integrated with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system. This electronically controlled system automatically adjusts damping at each wheel based on handling, speed, and road conditions. Damping characteristics are rapidly and precisely modulated by separate valves for rebound and compression forces within the dampers. These new valves, also motorsport-derived, react even more agilely to rapid suspension movements. Firmer damping, during cornering and braking, effectively reduces body roll. Continuous damping adjustment ensures optimal road contact and enhances safety, even at high speeds.
Drivers can adjust adaptive damping characteristics via a button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT or through AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three modes are offered: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus.” Modified logic ensures improved trade-offs. “Comfort” and “Sport” are suitable for public roads. “Sport” provides firmer damping, sportier body connection, and reduced comfort, suitable for racetracks with slippery conditions. “Sport Plus” is ideal for racetracks, automatically recognizing track surface quality (e.g., smooth Grand Prix circuit vs. bumpy Nürburgring North Loop) and adapting electronic damping accordingly. This logic was developed and perfected across diverse track types.
Further Suspension Refinements: Carbon Fiber and Precision
The front axle features a dual adjustable sway bar constructed from lightweight carbon fiber. The sway bar’s default setting is a short and firm connection. Its rear axle counterpart, made of steel with 3-way adjustment and a hollow tube design, saves weight. From the default “central” position, it can be adjusted to a harder (short connection) or softer (long connection) setting. A carbon-fiber shear panel in the rear underbody further enhances driving precision by stiffening the rear-end structure and increasing body shell stability. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts are retuned for increased agility, high-precision response, and clear feedback.
Additional suspension measures include wider front and rear tracks and manually adjustable camber on both axles, allowing for exceptionally high camber values solely for motorsport performance enhancement on closed tracks.
Bespoke Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO
Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, specially customized for the Black Series, were developed in collaboration with Michelin®. These high-performance tires, typical of motorsport, are exclusively available for Mercedes-AMG in two compounds: the standard soft-compound Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO1A, and a ‘hard compound’ retrofitting option for racetrack use in higher temperatures. The latter, designated Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO2, is identifiable by the motorsport sticker from Michelin. Tire sizes are 285/35 ZR 19 (front) on 10 J x 19 wheels and 335/30 ZR 20 (rear) on 12 J x 20 wheels.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Nine Levels of Grip
For closed-track use with ESP OFF, AMG TRACTION CONTROL provides individual support for managing the Black Series’ immense power, without ESP brake intervention. Nine slip settings can be fine-tuned, offering ideal assistance for each driver and track. Extensively tailored for the Black Series, AMG TRACTION CONTROL allows preselection of slip levels on the live rear axle, controlled via engine electronics maps without ESP system intervention, mirroring GT3 racing cars.
Operated via a separate central console adjuster, also accessible while wearing racing gloves, the system permits varying degrees of rear wheel slip based on the setting, beneficial in diverse conditions. Level 1 is for wet conditions with high safety reserves, while Level 9 allows maximum rear axle slip. Each setting is displayed on the adjuster and in the instrument cluster.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL anticipates situations using a friction coefficient evaluator and other data processed by a control unit in milliseconds. Maximum permissible drive slip is calculated based on the selected level. When wheels reach this slip level during acceleration, traction control modulates engine output to maintain this level, ensuring continuous acceleration with specified slip. Algorithms control both engine drive torque and the electronic differential lock’s locking level.
Exclusive Interior: Black and Orange Contrast
The interior design emphasizes the AMG GT Black Series’ pole position. Exclusive nappa leather is paired with sporty black DINAMICA microfiber and orange contrasting topstitching. The instrument panel and redesigned lightweight door panels, featuring loop pull handles, are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfiber. Further orange stitching, matte black carbon-fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package enhance the interior. AMG carbon-fiber bucket seats (unavailable in USA, Canada, China) combine low weight and lateral support. AMG Performance seats are standard in USA, Canada, and China. Silver contrasting topstitching is an optional interior alternative.
Image showcasing the driver-focused interior of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, featuring black DINAMICA microfiber, orange stitching, and carbon fiber accents.
AMG-Specific Displays: Digital Cockpit
The AMG GT Black Series features fully digital instrument displays from the AMG GT family, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia display. The instrument cluster offers three AMG-specific display styles: ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’, and ‘Supersport’. ‘Supersport’ view features a central rev counter and additional information like a shift light. Multimedia display visualizations enhance vehicle function experience with animated presentations of driving assistance, vehicle, and communication systems.
Center Console Display Buttons: Intuitive Control
Innovative colored display buttons in the V-shaped center console integrate display and control of transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust system, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop function. TFT display buttons use intuitive symbols and are easily operated with a finger tap, even with racing gloves due to a mechanical pressure point. Display buttons are complemented by rocker switches for drive programs and audio volume.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel: Instant Control
The AMG Performance steering wheel, adopted from the AMG GT family, features a sporty design, flattened bottom, 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 vertical colored display buttons with switches. Drive programs are activated via the right controller, with settings shown on the integrated LCD display. Freely configurable display buttons and switches on the left steering wheel side offer direct control of AMG functions, enabling drivers to concentrate on driving without removing their hands from the wheel. Each function can be depicted by a display icon, customizable by the driver.
The AMG Interior Night Package, standard equipment, features high-gloss black shift paddles, steering wheel spokes, and AMG Performance seat inserts, with black brushed stainless steel door sill panels, further emphasizing sportiness.
Technical Data 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 |
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