Mercedes-AMG has once again asserted its dominance in the luxury performance car arena. The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S has reclaimed the Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record in the “luxury class” category, proving its exceptional engineering and track prowess. AMG development engineer Demian Schaffert piloted the four-door coupe to a blistering new record, surpassing his own previous best from 2018 by a significant 2.3 seconds. This achievement firmly places the Affalterbach-born machine at the top of the official Nürburgring leaderboard for luxury vehicles.
The official, notary-certified lap times are truly impressive: 7:23.009 minutes for the 12.8-mile circuit (excluding straight-line measurement at track section T13) and 7:27.800 minutes for the full 12.944-mile Nordschleife lap (including straight-line measurement at T13). It’s this latter time, for the complete track, that is officially recognized and listed by Nürburgring GmbH, solidifying the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S‘s position as the benchmark in its class.
Record-Breaking Performance: The 2021 AMG GT 63 S on the Nordschleife
The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S achieved this record in completely standard production form, highlighting the inherent performance capabilities available to customers. The car is packed with advanced technology and performance-enhancing features that were crucial to conquering the challenging “Green Hell.” Key among these is the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, ensuring optimal traction and power delivery in all conditions. Active rear-axle steering further enhances agility and cornering precision, while the electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential maximizes grip and stability when exiting corners. The AMG DYNAMICS agility program allows for fine-tuning of the car’s driving dynamics to suit various driving styles and track conditions.
For this record attempt, the car was equipped with optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires, known for their exceptional grip and performance on both dry and damp surfaces. These tires provided the crucial final increment of traction needed to navigate the Nordschleife’s 73 corners with maximum attack. Furthermore, the record-breaking vehicle was fitted with the optional AMG Aerodynamics Package. This package increases downforce and stability at high speeds, contributing to improved handling and a reduced drag coefficient, both vital for shaving seconds off lap times on a demanding circuit like the Nürburgring.
Demian Schaffert: A Driver’s Perspective on the AMG GT 63 S
“Even though I’ve been accompanying our GT 63 through its development for several years now, it’s always impressive to see the wide spread we have been able to achieve with this exclusive vehicle,” stated Demian Schaffert. His insight emphasizes the duality of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S: “On the one hand, the four-door coupe is comfortable and equipped with many intelligent safety features for everyday driving, and on the other hand, it offers this extremely high level of driving dynamics and precision, which we have now been able to demonstrate once again on the demanding Nordschleife.” Schaffert’s words underscore the car’s versatility – a luxurious and practical daily driver that transforms into a formidable track weapon at a moment’s notice.
Conquering Challenging Conditions at the ‘Ring
The record attempt was not conducted in ideal conditions. Sections of the Nordschleife were damp, and ambient temperatures were a cool 44.6 degrees Fahrenheit, with the asphalt registering 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite these less-than-perfect conditions, Schaffert expertly maximized the potential of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S. Utilizing the RACE driving program, the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension stiffened the dampers, sharpening handling and responsiveness. Switching to the “Master” position within the AMG DYNAMICS system further optimized the all-wheel-drive and electronic limited-slip differential for ultimate dynamic response and control. For driver safety during the high-speed record attempt, the car was equipped with a racing bucket seat and four-point seatbelts.
Understanding Nürburgring Lap Time Variations
It’s important to understand why two different lap times are often quoted for Nürburgring records. The Nordschleife, renowned as the world’s most challenging racetrack, is a crucial testing ground for Mercedes-AMG vehicle development. Record laps here are the ultimate validation of a sports car’s capabilities. The two lap variations, 12.8 miles and 12.944 miles, stem from different measurement protocols.
The 12.8-mile circuit has been the traditional standard since 1997, notably used by the German magazine sport auto for their “Supertests.” This measurement omits the short straight at the T13 grandstand, meaning the lap starts after the turn-off from the Nordschleife to the Grand Prix circuit and finishes before the exit back onto the Nordschleife. This results in a “flying start” but not a complete lap measurement.
In 2019, the official Nürburgring lap, organized by the Nürburgring operating company, was introduced. This lap measures 12.944 miles, including the T13 straight, for a complete Nordschleife circuit. The start and finish lines are identical at the T13 section, providing a full lap time with a flying start.
Both record types require rigorous verification. Timekeeping is conducted with calibrated photoelectric sensor technology, and official attempts are always supervised and certified by a notary. The notary also inspects the vehicle and tires to ensure compliance with regulations. Vehicle class classifications are based on the official categories of the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA).
2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S: Data at a Glance
| Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L V8 Biturbo |
| Displacement | 3,982 cm3 |
| Power | 630 hp at 5,500-6,500 rpm |
| Max. torque | 664 lb-ft at 2,500-4,500 rpm |
| Drive system | Fully variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+ |
| Transmission | AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-Speed |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.1 s |
| Top speed | 195 mph (electronically limited) |
The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S‘s Nürburgring record is a testament to its exceptional engineering, cutting-edge technology, and raw power. It reaffirms its position as the king of the luxury performance four-door coupe segment. To witness the record-breaking run, you can view the video here: http://amg4.me/GT_63_ring_lap
