Mercedes-AMG has long been synonymous with performance, luxury, and cutting-edge automotive engineering. Within their illustrious lineup, the Black Series designation represents the absolute pinnacle of driving dynamics and track-focused prowess. The new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is not merely an evolution; it’s a revolution, redefining what a super sports car can be. Affalterbach’s engineers have truly outdone themselves, creating a machine that embodies motorsport heritage while pushing the boundaries of road-legal performance. This vehicle isn’t just about raw power; it’s a holistic masterpiece, meticulously crafted from the most advanced materials, sculpted with elaborate aerodynamics, and powered by the most potent AMG V8 engine ever produced. The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is here to claim its throne as the apex predator of the performance car world.
Since 2006, the Black Series badge at Mercedes-AMG has signaled something extraordinary: a breed of car that is unapologetically sporty, visually arresting, and a direct conduit of motorsport technology to the road. These are not cars destined for static display; they are built for the relentless demands of the racetrack, yet civilized enough for public roads. The AMG GT Black Series elevates this philosophy to new heights, standing as a testament to AMG’s unwavering commitment to pushing performance boundaries. At its heart lies the most powerful Mercedes-AMG V8 series engine ever conceived, a powerplant that redefines the very essence of super sports car performance.
To achieve this monumental leap in performance, the engine specialists in Affalterbach embarked on an extensive redevelopment of the already acclaimed 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine. Despite its existing reputation for exceptional responsiveness, power delivery, and formidable torque, the ambition for the Black Series demanded nothing less than a radical transformation. The mandate was clear: surpass the current AMG GT flagship in power, sharpen throttle response to an unprecedented degree, and maximize torque output. This pursuit of automotive perfection necessitated a fundamental shift in engine architecture – the adoption of a new flat-plane crankshaft.
Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH at the time of its development, aptly described the significance of this vehicle: “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.” His words underscore the dedication and engineering mastery poured into creating this exceptional machine.
The Heart of the Beast: A Distinctive V8 Engine Design
The configuration of a V8 engine offers considerable design freedom, particularly in the crankshaft arrangement. This critical component fundamentally dictates the engine’s character. V8 engines typically employ one of two crankshaft designs: the ‘cross-plane’ crankshaft, where the crankpins of each cylinder pair are set at 90-degree intervals, a configuration AMG has historically favored; or the ‘flat-plane crankshaft’, where all crankpins reside on a single plane with a 180-degree offset.
The distinctive black engine badge of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, signifying its unique and powerful V8 engine.
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 substantial torque at lower engine speeds. The signature burbling exhaust note is another defining characteristic of the cross-plane V8. To optimize the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo’s displacement and performance potential, AMG engineers strategically positioned the exhaust side within the hot internal V of the engine, nestled between the cylinder banks.
Unleashing Power with Uniformly Oscillating Gas Columns
Further performance gains are realized through the implementation of a flat-plane crankshaft. In a flat-plane V8 configuration, the crankshaft resembles that of an inline four-cylinder engine, albeit with wider crankpins to accommodate two connecting rods per pin in the V8 layout. In a flat-plane V8, ignition sequences alternate between cylinder banks, enhancing the gas cycle. The distinctive 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 tracts. This resonance phenomenon can be effectively harnessed to boost engine performance. Furthermore, a flat-plane crankshaft offers the significant advantage of a more responsive throttle.
The Most Powerful V8 Engine Ever from Mercedes-AMG
While the new engine in the GT Black Series shares its foundation with the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo featuring dry-sump lubrication, extensive modifications have earned it a new internal designation: M178 LS2. This powerhouse churns out an astounding 720 hp in the 6,700-6,900 rpm range and unleashes a massive 590 lb-ft of peak torque between 2,000 and 6,000 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds, tailored to the unique firing order, further optimize the gas cycle.
The meticulously engineered V8 engine of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, showcasing its powerful presence and advanced technology.
Mirroring the top-tier AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, both twin-scroll exhaust turbochargers are mounted on anti-friction bearings, enhancing throttle response. However, the GT Black Series turbochargers boast larger compressor wheels, enabling them to deliver a total boost pressure of 24.6 psi, a significant increase compared to the AMG GT R’s 19.6 psi. The engine’s redline is set at an exhilarating 7,200 rpm. Larger intercoolers ensure optimal charge-air temperatures are maintained, even under extreme driving conditions. A distinctive black engine badge visually sets this unique powerplant apart.
Blistering Acceleration: 0-60 mph in Just 3.1 Seconds
The bespoke Handcrafted AMG engine in the GT Black Series imbues it with a distinct character, evident not only in its power delivery but also in its unique and aggressive sound. This formidable engine translates to breathtaking performance figures: the Black Series catapults from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, and reaches 124 mph (200 km/h) in under nine seconds. While its staggering top speed of 202 mph is achievable, it is best experienced within the controlled environment of a racetrack.
Enhanced Transmission: Modified 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, a hallmark of AMG GT 2-door models, this layout optimizes weight distribution. Specifically tuned for the AMG GT Black Series, the transmission is engineered to manage the engine’s increased 590 lb-ft of torque. Shift performance and response time thresholds have been elevated, catering to the rigorous demands of racetrack driving.
These enhancements contribute to a heightened sense of responsiveness and agility. Accelerator and engine responses are sharper, while drive programs, start-up characteristics, and gear changes are all optimized for performance. The Race Start function is now even more electrifying, featuring increased starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip control, and high-performance racetrack-ready tires. Transmission cooling has been fortified to withstand extreme conditions, and gear ratios have been subtly refined.
A carbon fiber ‘torque tube’ connects the engine and transmission, weighing a mere 30.6 lbs, approximately 40 percent lighter than the already optimized aluminum component in the standard AMG GT. Serving as a structural element of the transaxle drivetrain, it establishes an exceptionally torsionally rigid link between the engine and transmission. This direct drivetrain connection enhances driving dynamics and contributes to the vehicle’s balanced weight distribution. The driveshaft housed within is also constructed from lightweight carbon fiber.
Aerodynamic Mastery: Sophisticated Design for Unrivaled Dynamics
The meticulously engineered and optimized aerodynamics are pivotal to the GT Black Series’ agile driving dynamics and unwavering stability at high speeds. Mirroring the development approach for the AMG GT R and AMG GT R PRO, aerodynamic specialists and designers collaborated closely to refine the GT Black Series’ aerodynamic profile. “Form follows function” is the guiding principle, more pronounced than ever in this Black Series iteration.
The aggressive front fascia of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, highlighting the larger radiator air inlet inspired by the AMG GT3 racing car.
The visual and technical kinship with the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars is unmistakable and stronger than ever. This is immediately apparent in the new, significantly enlarged radiator air inlet, directly descended from the AMG GT3 race car. The radiator trim features vertical slats in dark chrome. Wheel arch coolers are now directly fed air via the central inlet, eliminating the need for two additional outer air inlets in the front bumper. Semicircular flics optimize airflow, boosting downforce at the front axle 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 amplify downforce. The new design philosophy harmonizes maximum cooling efficiency with reduced air resistance and amplified front downforce.
The carbon fiber front splitter offers two manually adjustable settings (Street and Race – Race setting intended exclusively for track use), adaptable to various track configurations. In the extended ‘Race’ position, a front diffuser, shaped like an inverted wing profile, is created beneath the front section. Depending on speed, this element is further lowered by increasing negative pressure, significantly accelerating underbody airflow. This generates a ‘Venturi effect,’ drawing the car closer to the road and increasing front axle downforce. The driver benefits from enhanced steering precision during high-speed cornering and exceptional directional stability. Particularly in fast corners and under high lateral acceleration, the vehicle exhibits agile responses with clear steering feedback, maintaining effortless control. With the front diffuser in the ‘Race’ position, the new rear spoiler design further augments rear axle downforce.
Performance Hood: Dual Exhaust Air Openings for Aero-Efficiency
Another motorsport-derived feature is the new carbon fiber hood, incorporating two large exhaust air outlets finished in black carbon fiber. These outlets channel warm air from the diagonally positioned cooling pack out of the engine compartment. This technology, directly adopted from motorsport, contributes to overall downforce while reducing air resistance and optimizing airflow for engine cooling. Air is strategically guided around the A-pillars and side windows towards the rear, enhancing 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, contribute to front axle downforce through efficient wheel arch ventilation. The 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 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: Adjustable Aerodynamic Control
The rear profile is defined by a new rear bumper with a large diffuser, twin rounded tailpipe trims positioned to the outer left and right, 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, optimally positioned to interact with airflow arriving from the front of the car. Lightweight yet robust carbon fiber spoiler supports, painted matte black and meticulously designed using extensive simulations, further enhance aerodynamic efficiency. They are bolted to the carbon fiber rear hatch, also finished in black.
A noteworthy detail is the adjustable flap within the upper blade. This active aerodynamic element is electronically adjusted by up to 20 degrees, responding to driving conditions and the selected AMG DYNAMICS mode, optimizing both longitudinal and lateral dynamics. In a flat position, it minimizes air resistance for quicker attainment of top speed. In the inclined position, the flap enhances braking performance and cornering stability by increasing rear axle downforce.
Four distinct activation strategies are employed, contingent 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 permanently inclined and extended up to 155 mph. Beyond 155 mph, it retracts to reduce air resistance and facilitate reaching top speed more swiftly. However, during sudden braking or corner entry, the flap instantly returns to its extended position, optimizing braking and cornering through heightened downforce and air resistance. The driver can also manually control flap retraction or extension via a dedicated button on the center console.
Comprehensive Underbody Paneling: Optimized Airflow Management
The meticulous aerodynamic refinement extends to the near-fully paneled underbody, addressing both aerodynamic and thermal considerations (heat dissipation). The flat underbody incorporates specifically designed longitudinal fins. These air channels have been meticulously optimized to ensure ideal airflow to the rear diffuser. This comprehensive package accelerates airflow, significantly increasing downforce. All measures are harmonized and work in concert with the new rear spoiler design. The collective result of these aerodynamic enhancements is a downforce exceeding 882 lbs at 155 mph.
Lightweight Construction: Carbon Fiber Dominance
The lightweight carbon fiber roof with a lowered center section, along with the carbon fiber rear hatch featuring a small spoiler lip and a larger lightweight glass rear windshield, are integral components of the ‘intelligent material mix’ and ‘lightweight construction’ philosophy. Lightweight glass is also employed for the laminated front windshield. 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, further enhancing body shell rigidity. These elements form a cohesive network, amplifying the Black Series’ high driving precision across all driving maneuvers. The carbon fiber shear panel beneath the engine connects to the integral carrier, stiffening the front section and steering system, resulting in noticeably more precise steering and enhanced front axle stability. The integral carrier at the front axle is exclusively crafted for the Black Series using a lightweight aluminum construction.
The standard ceramic high-performance compound brake system, featuring black painted calipers and white lettering, is also characterized by low weight and exceptional performance. Special brake pads and rotors, coupled with enhanced brake cooling, ensure optimal, fade-free deceleration and precise brake modulation. Standard light-alloy forged wheels further contribute to weight reduction.
AMG Coil-Over Suspension: Adaptive Adjustable Damping
A double wishbone suspension design enhances wheel control, maintaining high camber and toe-in stability. This enables elevated cornering speeds and provides the driver with optimized road feedback during extreme cornering. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers on both axles are constructed entirely from forged aluminum to minimize unsprung mass. Spherical bearings on the upper and lower rear axle wishbones are directly derived from motorsport. Their zero-play design ensures consistent toe-in and camber, even under high loads. Consequently, the GT Black Series delivers precise steering, clear feedback, and superior cornering performance.
The interior of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, showcasing the exclusive Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfiber with striking orange contrast stitching.
Similar to the AMG GT R, the Black Series utilizes an AMG coil-over suspension with adjustable spring preload, incorporating technology tailored for extreme racetrack use with high damping forces. Motorsport technology is integrated with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system. Electronically controlled, the system automatically adjusts damping at each wheel based on the current driving situation, speed, and road conditions. Damping characteristics are modulated rapidly and precisely by two separate valves for rebound and compression forces within the dampers. These new valves, also motorsport-derived, react even more敏捷ly to rapid suspension movements. Increased damping rates, such as during cornering and braking, effectively minimize body roll. Continuous damping adjustment based on speed ensures optimal road contact, enhancing safety, even at high velocities.
The driver can also fine-tune adaptive damping characteristics via a button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT or through AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three modes are available: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus.” The refined logic offers an even better balance. ‘Comfort’ and ‘Sport’ are suitable for public roads. ‘Sport’ offers firmer damping, a sportier body connection, and reduced comfort, also adaptable for racetracks with slippery conditions due to wet surfaces. ‘Sport Plus’ is ideal for racetracks, featuring a unique track surface recognition capability. It automatically adapts electronic damping levels in ‘Sport Plus’ based on whether the car is on a smooth Grand Prix circuit like Hockenheim or a bumpy track like the Nürburgring Nordschleife. This logic was perfected through extensive testing of the Black Series across diverse track types.
Weight-Optimized Suspension: Carbon Fiber Components
The front axle features a dual adjustable sway bar made of lightweight carbon fiber, with a short, firm connection as its default setting. The rear axle sway bar, constructed from steel with a hollow tube design for weight saving, offers 3-way adjustability. 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 enhances driving precision. This lightweight, rigid element stiffens the rear structure, further stabilizing the body shell. Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts have also been retuned for increased agility, precise response, and clear feedback.
Further suspension refinements include widened front and rear tracks and manually adjustable camber on both axles. This allows for setting exceptionally high camber values, typically reserved for maximizing motorsport performance on closed-course racetracks.
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO Tires: Bespoke Grip
A Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tire, specifically tailored for the Black Series, was co-developed with Michelin®. In motorsport tradition, this high-performance tire is exclusively available for Mercedes-AMG in two compounds. The standard factory-equipped tire is the soft-compound Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO1A, featuring sidewall enhancements that accentuate the AMG GT Black Series’ silhouette. A ‘hard compound’ option is available for retrofitting, intended for racetrack use in higher temperatures. Designated Michelin® Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO2, it is identifiable by the tire compound available from the AMG Performance Center, bearing the hallmark motorsport sticker from Michelin. Tire sizes are 285/35 ZR 19 on 10 J x 19 wheels (front) and 335/30 ZR 20 on 12 J x 20 wheels (rear).
AMG TRACTION CONTROL: Nine Levels of Grip Mastery
For closed-track use in ESP OFF mode, AMG TRACTION CONTROL empowers drivers with individual control over the Black Series’ immense power, completely bypassing ESP brake intervention. The level of support is finely adjustable, offering ideal assistance for each driver and track. Extensively tailored for the Black Series, AMG TRACTION CONTROL allows preselection of nine slip settings on the live rear axle. Control is exclusively managed through dedicated maps in the engine electronics, without ESP system intervention, mirroring the GT3 racing car.
Operation is via a separate adjuster on the center console, designed for accessibility even while wearing racing gloves. Depending on the setting, the system permits varying degrees of rear wheel slip, crucial for diverse road conditions. Level 1 prioritizes wet driving with high safety margins. Level 9 allows maximum rear axle slip. Each setting is displayed on the adjuster and in the instrument cluster’s central display.
AMG TRACTION CONTROL offers a significant advantage over conventional systems, anticipating situations using a friction coefficient evaluator and other data processed by a control unit in milliseconds. The maximum permissible drive slip on the rear wheels is calculated based on the selected AMG TRACTION CONTROL level. When wheels reach this slip level during acceleration, traction control modulates engine output to maintain the specified slip level, ensuring continuous acceleration. The system’s algorithms, based on a double control variable model, manage both engine drive torque and the locking level of the electronic differential lock.
Exclusive Interior: Orange Contrast and Carbon Fiber
The interior design reinforces the AMG GT Black Series’ pole position status. Exclusive nappa leather is paired with sporty black DINAMICA microfiber, accented by orange contrast topstitching. The instrument panel and redesigned lightweight door panels, now featuring loop pull handles, are trimmed in black DINAMICA microfiber. Further orange contrast topstitching, matte black carbon fiber trim, and the Interior Night Package amplify the interior’s sporty character. AMG carbon fiber bucket seats (not available in the USA, Canada, and China) combine low weight with optimal lateral support. In the USA, Canada, and China, AMG Performance seats are standard. Silver contrast topstitching is also available as an interior option.
AMG-Specific Displays: Digital Cockpit Experience
The AMG GT Black Series features the fully digital instrument displays from the AMG GT family, comprising a 12.3-inch instrument cluster ahead of the driver and a 10.25-inch multimedia display on the center console. The instrument cluster offers various designs with three AMG-specific display styles: ‘Classic’, ‘Sporty’, or ‘Supersport’. The ‘Supersport’ view, with a central rev counter, provides extensive additional information, including a shift light prompt in manual transmission mode. Multimedia display visualizations enhance the user experience of vehicle functions, such as animated displays 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 for transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust system, rear spoiler flap, and start/stop function. TFT display buttons use intuitive symbols, easily operated with a light finger tap. Their mechanical pressure point allows operation even with racing gloves. Display buttons are complemented by rocker switches for drive programs and audio system volume control.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel: Instant Control at Hand
The AMG Performance steering wheel, adopted from the AMG GT family, features a sporty design, flattened bottom section, heavily contoured rim, and intuitive operation. The steering wheel rim is fully trimmed in DINAMICA microfiber, with the steering wheel badge exclusively featuring Black Series lettering and the AMG logo. Aluminum steering wheel shift paddles enable manual gear changes for sportier driving. Integrated Touch Control buttons manage the instrument cluster and multimedia display via horizontal and vertical finger swipes.
Standard AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons include a round controller with an integrated display and two vertically positioned colored display buttons with switches. The right controller activates AMG drive programs, with the selected setting displayed on the integrated color LCD.
Two freely configurable display buttons and additional switches on the left enable direct steering wheel control of further AMG functions. This allows drivers to maintain focus on high-speed driving without removing their hands from the wheel. Each function can be represented by a display icon, customizable by the driver, allowing for precise definition and fingertip access to two preferred AMG functions.
The standard AMG Interior Night Package includes high-gloss black shift paddles, steering wheel spokes, and seat inserts in AMG Performance seats, while door sill panels are finished in black brushed stainless steel, further accentuating the car’s sporty character.
Technical Data: Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series
| 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 |
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is more than just a car; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration of AMG’s relentless pursuit of performance, a showcase of engineering brilliance, and an embodiment of the ultimate driving experience. For those who demand the absolute best, the Black Series stands alone at the apex.
