The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S has cemented its status as the king of the luxury class, conquering the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife and setting a blistering new record. AMG development engineer Demian Schaffert piloted the four-door coupe to an unprecedented lap time, further solidifying Affalterbach’s reputation for performance and engineering excellence. This remarkable feat not only surpasses the vehicle’s own previous record from 2018 but also places the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S at the top of the official Nürburgring leaderboard for luxury vehicles.
Achieving a lap time of 7:23.009 minutes for the 12.8-mile circuit and 7:27.800 minutes for the full 12.944-mile track, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S demonstrated its superior capabilities in demanding conditions. These times, officially measured and certified by a notary, are a testament to the relentless pursuit of performance at Mercedes-AMG. The Nürburgring GmbH officially lists this record on their homepage, confirming the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S as the benchmark in its category.
The record-breaking 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S was in standard production form, highlighting the inherent performance engineered into this model. Key features contributing to this achievement include the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, active rear-axle steering, and an electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential. The AMG DYNAMICS agility program further optimizes the driving dynamics, allowing for peak performance on challenging circuits like the Nordschleife. Equipped with optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tires, the car achieved maximum grip, essential for navigating the infamous “Green Hell” and its 73 corners. The optional AMG Aerodynamics Package, fitted to the record car, played a crucial role in enhancing stability at high speeds and minimizing drag.
Demian Schaffert, the AMG development engineer behind the wheel, commented on the impressive duality of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S: “Even after years of development with the GT 63, I’m consistently amazed by its versatility. The recent refinements have broadened its spectrum even further. It’s a comfortable, safe daily driver packed with intelligent features, yet simultaneously delivers this incredibly high level of driving dynamics and precision – as proven once again on the Nordschleife.”
The record attempt faced less-than-ideal conditions, with damp patches on sections of the track and cool temperatures (44.6 degrees Fahrenheit ambient, 50 degrees Fahrenheit asphalt). Despite these challenges, Schaffert expertly exploited the capabilities of the top-tier AMG GT four-door model. The RACE driving program and AMG RIDE CONTROL+ suspension stiffened the dampers and sharpened steering response. The “Master” setting within AMG DYNAMICS maximized the all-wheel-drive system and electronic limited-slip differential for optimal agility. For driver safety during the record attempt, the vehicle was equipped with a bucket seat and four-point harnesses.
The lap time was meticulously measured by “wige SOLUTIONS,” and an independent notary verified both the vehicle’s condition and the recorded time. For those wanting to witness the record-breaking run, a video is available at http://amg4.me/GT_63_ring_lap.
Understanding Nürburgring Lap Time Variations
The Nürburgring-Nordschleife, renowned as the world’s most demanding racetrack, is integral to Mercedes-AMG vehicle development. A record lap here is a rigorous test of a sports car’s capabilities. Two lap measurement standards exist: 12.8 miles and 12.944 miles.
The 12.8-mile measurement has been the standard since 1997, notably used by the German magazine sport auto. This shorter version excludes the small straight at the T13 grandstand. Timing begins at the end of the T13 grandstand (northbound) and ends at the start (southbound), resulting in an incomplete lap measurement after a flying start.
In 2019, the official Nürburgring lap, organized by Nürburgring 1927 GmbH & Co. KG, was introduced. This lap is 761.155 ft longer (12.944 miles) because the start and finish lines are identical at the T13 section, measuring a complete Nordschleife lap with a flying start.
Both record types require stringent verification, including calibrated photoelectric sensors, notary supervision of timekeeping, and vehicle/tire inspections by the notary. Vehicle class classifications adhere to the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) standards.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S: Performance Data
| 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) |
