The new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series emerges as the most formidable incarnation of AMG’s V8 lineage, boasting unparalleled aerodynamics, an innovative material blend, and a design language that screams performance. Affalterbach’s engineers have truly pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering, creating a super sports car that not only honors Mercedes-AMG’s rich motorsport heritage but also sets a new benchmark for vehicle dynamics. This breathtaking machine delivers a staggering 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 racing icon.
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 exclusive, rare gems in the automotive world, engineered not for static display, but for blistering speeds on the racetrack while still being fully road-legal. The AMG GT Black Series elevates this tradition, showcasing the most potent Mercedes-AMG V8 series engine ever conceived.
To redefine the realm of super sports cars, the engine specialists in Affalterbach embarked on an extensive redevelopment of the already acclaimed 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine. Despite its reputation for exceptional responsiveness, power delivery, and torque, the team aimed for even greater heights. The objectives were clear: significantly more power than any preceding AMG GT flagship, even sharper throttle response, and maximum torque – necessitating a radical engineering shift in the form of a new flat-plane crankshaft.
Tobias Moers, former Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, stated, “The new GT Black Series represents our latest automotive pinnacle, continuing a lineage that began in 2006. This sixth iteration is another AMG landmark and a testament to the extraordinary engineering prowess within Affalterbach. I commend the team for crafting this unparalleled super sports car, which now stands as the ultimate expression of our successful GT family. The performance, aesthetics, and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are simply unmatched. This project was a remarkable culmination of my time at AMG, for which I am profoundly grateful.”
The Heart of the Beast: A Distinctive V8 Engine Design
The architecture of a V8 engine provides significant creative freedom for engineers, particularly in the crankshaft design, which profoundly influences the engine’s characteristics. V8 engines typically employ one of two crankshaft configurations: the ‘cross-plane’ crankshaft, where the crank pins of the four cylinder pairs are positioned at 90-degree intervals – a design AMG has historically favored – or the ‘flat-plane crankshaft,’ where all crank pins reside on a single plane with a 180-degree offset.
Alt text: Front view of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series showcasing its aggressive aerodynamic design.
Observing a cross-plane crankshaft from the front reveals the cross shape that lends it its name. These crankshafts excel in delivering exceptional smoothness and robust torque at lower engine speeds. The signature burbling exhaust note is another defining trait of the cross-plane V8 engine. To optimize displacement and performance within the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, AMG engineers strategically positioned the exhaust side within the hot inner V of the two cylinder banks in the V8 configuration.
Unleashing Power Through Uniformly Oscillating Gas Columns
Further performance gains can be achieved by employing a flat-plane crankshaft. In a flat-plane V8 engine, the configuration resembles an inline four-cylinder engine, save for the wider crank pins accommodating two connecting rods each in the V8 setup. Ignition in a flat-plane V8 alternates between cylinder banks, enhancing the gas cycle. The distinct firing order, characterized by a 180-degree crankshaft angle offset (1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6), generates uniformly oscillating gas columns in both the exhaust and intake systems. This resonance can be effectively harnessed to amplify performance. A significant advantage of this design is the engine’s heightened throttle responsiveness.
The Most Powerful V8 Engine Ever from Mercedes-AMG
Although the new engine in the GT Black Series 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. This powerhouse churns out 720 hp within the 6,700-6,900 rpm range and delivers a peak torque of 590 lb-ft between 2,000-6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are meticulously calibrated to the revised firing order, further optimizing the gas cycle.
Alt text: Detailed view of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series engine bay, highlighting the powerful V8 biturbo engine and carbon fiber components.
Both twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers are equipped with anti-friction bearings, a feature shared with the top-tier four-door AMG GT Coupe, further enhancing throttle response. However, the GT Black Series turbochargers feature larger compressor wheels, 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 not considered a critical continuous speed. Larger intercoolers ensure optimal charge-air temperatures are maintained. The uniqueness of this engine is underscored by a distinctive black engine badge.
Blistering Acceleration: 0-124 mph in Under Nine Seconds
The new handcrafted AMG engine bestows the GT Black Series with a truly unique character, not only in its raw power delivery but also in its distinctive auditory signature. This engine propels the Black Series to extraordinary performance figures: 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, and to 124 mph (200 km/h) in under nine seconds. While its top speed is electronically limited to 202 mph, such velocities are best experienced on closed racetracks.
Enhanced Transmission and Drivetrain
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, a characteristic of all AMG GT two-door models. This transmission has been specifically tuned for the AMG GT Black Series to handle the increased torque output of 590 lb-ft and to excel under rigorous racetrack conditions.
Alt text: Close-up view of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed transmission, showcasing its advanced engineering for high-performance driving in the AMG GT Black Series.
Shift performance and response time limits have been broadened, catering to the demands of track driving. The accelerator and engine response are more agile, and the drive programs, start-up behavior, and gear changes are all enhanced. The Race Start function is now even more impressive, benefiting from elevated starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip control, and high-performance racetrack-ready tires. Transmission cooling has been upgraded to meet tougher demands, and transmission ratios have been slightly adjusted.
A carbon fiber ‘torque tube’ links the engine and transmission, weighing just 30.6 lbs, approximately 40 percent lighter than the aluminum counterpart in the standard AMG GT. As a structural component of the transaxle drivetrain, it creates an exceptionally torsionally rigid connection, promoting direct drivetrain responsiveness favorable to driving dynamics and contributing to balanced weight distribution. The driveshaft within is also constructed from lightweight carbon fiber.
Sophisticated Aerodynamics: Mastering the Airflow
The meticulously engineered and optimized aerodynamics are pivotal to the AMG GT Black Series’ agile driving dynamics and high-speed stability on demanding circuits. Collaborating closely, aerodynamic experts and designers have enhanced the aerodynamic profile of the GT Black Series, building upon the foundations of the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO. ‘Form follows function’ is the guiding principle for the new Black Series.
The resemblance to the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars is stronger than ever, both visually and technically. This is immediately evident in 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 the wheel arch coolers now fed directly via the central inlet, the two additional outer air inlets in the front bumper are eliminated. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, increasing front axle downforce and enhancing brake cooling. ‘Air curtains’ manage airflow towards the wheels, and together with the flics ahead of the wheels, they reduce drag and increase downforce. This design language effectively combines maximum cooling efficiency with reduced air resistance and increased front downforce.
Alt text: Close-up of the aerodynamic elements on the AMG GT Black Series, highlighting the adjustable carbon fiber front splitter and flics designed for optimal downforce.
The carbon fiber front splitter offers two manual settings (Street and Race – Race for track use only), adaptable to various track conditions. In the extended Race position, a front diffuser with a reversed wing profile is formed beneath the front section. Depending on speed, this element lowers further due to increasing negative pressure, accelerating underbody airflow, creating a ‘Venturi effect’ that draws the car closer to the road and increases front axle downforce. This translates to enhanced steering precision during high-speed cornering and exceptional directional stability. The vehicle exhibits agile response and clear steering feedback, remaining easily controllable. With the front diffuser in Race position, rear downforce is further amplified by the new rear spoiler design.
Hood with Aero-Performance Enhancing Exhaust Air Openings
Another motorsport-derived feature is the new carbon fiber hood with two large exhaust air outlets in black finished carbon fiber. These outlets channel warm air from the diagonally positioned cooling pack out of the engine compartment, a technology directly from motorsport, enhancing overall downforce. Simultaneously, air resistance is reduced, and engine cooling airflow is optimized. Air is also specifically guided around the A-pillars and side windows to the rear, increasing the effectiveness of the new rear spoiler design. Seamlessly integrated front fender vents with five body-colored fins and exhaust air openings behind the front wheels in carbon fiber fenders further increase front axle downforce through effective wheel arch ventilation. Airflow around the vehicle is also optimized by new, larger, and wider side sill panels with black carbon fiber elements merging into vertical blades at the front and rear. Additional cooling air ducts are integrated into the side sill panels for rear axle brake cooling.
Two-Stage Rear Spoiler Concept
The rear profile is defined by the new rear bumper with a large diffuser, twin rounded tailpipe trims, side wheel arch ventilation, and the innovative rear spoiler design. Both spoiler blades are carbon fiber, mechanically adjustable for varying track conditions. The lower blade is intentionally compact, optimized for airflow arriving from the front. Matte black carbon fiber spoiler supports, designed with extensive simulations, enhance aerodynamic efficiency and are bolted to the carbon fiber rear hatch.
A key feature is the adjustable flap in the upper blade, electronically adjustable by 20 degrees based on driving situation and AMG DYNAMICS mode, improving longitudinal and transverse dynamics. In a flat position, it reduces air resistance for quicker top speed attainment. In the inclined position, it enhances braking and cornering stability by increasing 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, such as Master mode where the flap is permanently inclined up to 155 mph, retracting above this speed to reduce drag, but instantly returning to the inclined position during braking or cornering for optimized performance. The flap can also be manually controlled via a center console button.
Extensive Underbody Paneling
Detailed aerodynamic optimization includes the nearly fully paneled underbody, addressing both aerodynamic and thermal requirements. The flat underbody features longitudinal fins, meticulously optimized air channels to ensure ideal airflow to the rear diffuser. This comprehensive package accelerates airflow, significantly increasing downforce, with all measures coordinated with the new rear spoiler design. The result is over 882 lbs of downforce at 155 mph.
Lightweight Construction: Carbon Fiber Everywhere
The lightweight carbon fiber roof with a lowered center, along with the carbon fiber rear hatch with a small spoiler lip and larger lightweight glass rear windshield, are integral to the ‘intelligent material mix’ and ‘lightweight construction’ philosophy. Lightweight glass is also used for the laminated front windshield. The coiled carbon fiber transmission mount is another exclusive Black Series component. 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, increasing the Black Series’ driving precision. The carbon fiber shear panel under the engine stiffens the front section and steering system, improving steering precision and front axle stability. The integral carrier at the front axle is exclusively made for the Black Series using lightweight aluminum.
The standard ceramic high-performance compound brake system, with black calipers and white lettering, is characterized by low weight and high performance. Special brake pads and rotors with modified brake cooling ensure optimal and fade-free deceleration and precise brake application. Standard lightweight alloy forged wheels further contribute to weight reduction.
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 at the limits. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers are forged aluminum to reduce unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the rear axle wishbones, derived from motorsport, eliminate play, maintaining consistent toe-in and camber under high loads, resulting in precise steering, clear feedback, and improved cornering performance.
Alt text: A detailed look at the AMG GT Black Series suspension components, showcasing the advanced engineering and lightweight materials used for superior handling and track performance.
Like the AMG GT R, the Black Series uses an AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload, adapted for extreme racetrack use with high damping forces. Motorsport technology is combined with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system. Electronically controlled, it adapts damping on each wheel to handling, speed, and road conditions. Damping characteristics are rapidly modulated by separate valves for rebound and compression forces, reacting agilely to fast suspension movements. Firmer damping during cornering and braking reduces rolling movements. Continuous damping adjustment ensures optimal road contact and enhanced safety, even at high speeds.
Drivers can adjust damping characteristics via the AMG DRIVE UNIT or AMG DYNAMIC SELECT modes, with “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus” modes. ‘Sport Plus’ mode intelligently adapts to track surface quality, optimizing damping for both smooth and bumpy tracks.
Additional Carbon Fiber for Suspension Weight Reduction
The front axle features a dual adjustable carbon fiber sway bar with a short and firm default setting. The rear axle sway bar, made of steel with 3-way adjustment and a hollow tube design, saves weight. It can be adjusted harder or softer from the default “central” position. The carbon fiber shear panel in the rear underbody enhances driving precision by stiffening the rear-end structure. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts are retuned for increased agility and precise response.
Other suspension measures include wider front and rear tracks and manually adjustable camber for motorsport-level performance on closed tracks.
Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, customized for the Black Series, are exclusively available in two compounds: the standard soft-compound Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO1A and a harder compound for higher track temperatures, identifiable by the motorsport sticker and AMG Performance Center availability. Tire sizes are 285/35 ZR 19 front and 335/30 ZR 20 rear.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Nine Levels of Grip
For closed-track use with ESP OFF, AMG TRACTION CONTROL allows individual control over the Black Series’ power without ESP brake intervention. Nine slip settings can be preselected on the live rear axle, providing tailored assistance for each driver and track. Control is exclusively through engine electronics maps, without ESP system intervention, similar to the GT3 racing car.
Operated via a central console adjuster, AMG TRACTION CONTROL anticipates situations using friction coefficient evaluation and other data, calculating maximum permissible drive slip based on the selected level. It modulates engine output and electronic differential lock level to maintain the specified slip, with Level 1 for wet conditions and Level 9 allowing maximum rear axle slip.
Exclusive Interior and Advanced Displays
The interior design emphasizes the AMG GT Black Series’ performance focus, featuring exclusive nappa leather combined with sporty DINAMICA microfiber in black with orange contrasting topstitching. The instrument panel and lightweight door panels are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfiber, with further orange topstitching, matte black carbon fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package adding highlights. AMG carbon fiber bucket seats (not available in USA, Canada, China) offer low weight and lateral support, while AMG Performance seats are standard in those markets. Silver contrasting topstitching is an optional interior choice.
Alt text: Interior view of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series cabin, showcasing the exclusive nappa leather, DINAMICA microfiber, orange contrast stitching, and carbon fiber accents.
The AMG GT Black Series features fully digital instrument displays with AMG-specific graphics, including ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’, and ‘Supersport’ display styles. The ‘Supersport’ view features a central rev counter with additional information like shift lights. The multimedia display shows animated presentations of vehicle functions.
Display Buttons and AMG Performance Steering Wheel
Innovative colored display buttons in the center console control transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust system, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop function, operated by touch with a mechanical pressure point. Rocker switches control drive programs and audio volume.
The AMG Performance steering wheel, adopted from the AMG GT family, features a sporty design, flattened bottom, DINAMICA microfiber trim, and Black Series lettering. Aluminum shift paddles enable manual gear changes, and integrated Touch Control buttons manage instrument cluster and multimedia display. AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons include a round controller for drive programs and two configurable display buttons for AMG functions, allowing drivers to maintain focus on high-speed driving. The AMG Interior Night Package is standard, with high-gloss black finishes and black brushed stainless steel door sill panels.
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 |
About Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States, offering a diverse luxury lineup from the A-Class Sedan to the flagship S-Class and the Mercedes-AMG GT R. MBUSA also handles Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. For more information, visit www.mbusa.com and www.mbsprinterusa.com. Journalists can access media resources at media.mbusa.com.
