New Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series

The most powerful AMG V8 engine ever, the most expressive design, the most advanced aerodynamics and the best combination of materials, as well as the most "aggressive" driving dynamics: the new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is the pinnacle of Affalterbach's design art. automotive design. The supercar perfectly embodies the rich tradition of AMG motorsports, as well as the brand's long experience in creating full-fledged cars - impressive in every way. The result: 537 kW (730 hp) of flat-crank V8 engine power combined with active aerodynamics and a design directly derived from the AMG GT3 racing car.

Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series

Since 2006, the Black series has become synonymous with special Mercedes-AMG models: uncompromisingly sporty and with a distinctive design. Models that most consistently bring technology from the world of motorsport to the open road. The Black Series are exclusive automotive products designed not to collect dust in collectors' garages, but to drive fast on the track, although they are legal for road use. Now this tradition is continued by the AMG GT Black Series, the most powerful Mercedes-AMG car with a production V8 engine.

Various V8 engine designs

The design of the V8 engine gives designers a lot of freedom in one key aspect - the location of the crankshaft. This affects the performance of the engine. Typically, V8 crankshafts come in two varieties: "cross-shaped", in which the connecting rod journals of four pairs of cylinders are located at an angle of 90 degrees to each other (at AMG it was used in all previous V8 engines), and "flat". , where all the crankpins are in the same plane with a 180 degree offset.

The flat crankshaft causes the two rows of cylinders to ignite alternately, so that the exchange of loads occurs efficiently and evenly (ignition order 1-8-2-7 4-5-3-6), and the unit is characterized by uniform aggressive reactivity. The advantages of a flat crankshaft also include the extreme "smoothness" of the engine and high torque at low engine speeds. Another distinctive feature of such a unit is a characteristic sound. To optimize the displacement and thus the performance potential of the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, AMG engineers moved the exhaust side between the split banks of the V8 cylinders.

Most powerful production Mercedes-AMG V8 engine

Although the engine of the new AMG GT Black Series can be considered based on a dry sump 4-litre V8 biturbo engine, it has received a different internal designation, M178 LS2, due to numerous modifications. It achieves 537 kW (730 hp) at 6700-6900 rpm and a maximum torque of 800 Nm from 2000-6000 rpm and spins up to 7200 rpm. New camshafts and exhaust manifolds are adapted to the new ignition sequence and further improve the gas cycle.

Both twin-scroll turbochargers are mounted on roller bearings, as in the top-of-the-line AMG GT 4-Door Coupé, further optimizing throttle response. However, in the Black series, the turbochargers have a larger compressor rotor, allowing them to supply a total of 1100 kg of air per hour. For comparison, the AMG GT R value is 900 kg/h. The unique character of the new engine is reflected in its unique black emblem.

The new engine provides the AMG GT Black Series with absolutely impressive performance: the two-door coupe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and to 200 km/h in less than 9 seconds. The maximum speed is 325 km/h.

Modified AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G transmission

Power is sent to the rear wheels via an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which, as with all AMG GT variants, is located on the rear axle (transmission) for optimum weight distribution. The gearbox for the AMG GT Black Series has been modified to accommodate increased torque. The previous limits on switching performance and response time have been increased. As a result, they are better suited to track conditions.

Two-stage rear wing concept

The rear apron of the AMG GT Black Series features a new bumper with large diffuser, two rounded twin tailpipes on the sides, wheel arch ventilation and an innovative rear wing concept. Both of its petals are made of carbon fiber and can be mechanically adjusted to suit different track conditions. The second, lower petal is small and narrow, as this shape is ideal for airflow from the front of the car. Lightweight and durable fender liners, also made of carbon fiber, come in black with a matte finish. Their design is based on the results of numerous simulations and also improves aerodynamic efficiency. The brackets are bolted to the black back cover (also made of carbon fiber).

Another interesting detail is the movable flap in the top panel, electronically adjustable by 20 degrees, depending on road conditions and the selected AMG DYNAMICS mode. Purpose: to improve the longitudinal and transverse dynamics. In a horizontal position, the damper reduces air resistance, allowing you to reach maximum speed faster. In a tilted position, increased downforce on the rear axle improves braking performance and cornering stability.

In total, the tailgate uses four different activation strategies, depending on the selected AMG DYNAMICS program (Basic, Advanced, Pro or Master). Some of them also take into account other driving parameters. For example, in Master mode up to 250 km / h, the tailgate constantly leans back and extends. When the speed exceeds 250 km/h, the flaps are retracted to reduce air resistance and increase the maximum speed. However, if the driver brakes or makes a sharp turn, the damper immediately returns to its forward position to optimize braking/cornering by increasing downforce and air resistance. The driver can also fold or extend the tailgate using a separate button on the center console.

AMG adjustable suspension with adaptive damping control

The double wishbone suspension concept guides the wheel with high camber and toe stability. This ensures high cornering speeds and gives the driver an optimal feeling of the road surface when driving at the limit of traction. Control arms, steering knuckles and hubs front and rear are all forged aluminum to reduce unsprung masses. The spherical bearings on the upper and lower control arms of the rear axle come straight from motorsport. Their design means there is no backlash – as a result, toe and camber remain unchanged even under heavy loads.

As with the AMG GT R, the Black Series variant is equipped with an AMG suspension with adjustable spring preload and AMG RIDE CONTROL adaptive dampers. The latter quickly and accurately modulate the damping characteristics according to speed, driving style and conditions, using two separate valves for rebound and deflection forces. The shock absorbers use new valves that respond even more effectively to fast suspension movements and are also based on solutions used in motorsports.

The driver can independently change the characteristics of the adaptive damping by pressing a separate button or by selecting one of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes. There are three programs: Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus. The first two settings are suitable for public roads, while Sport Plus is ideal for track conditions. It has a special function: it automatically detects the quality of the road surface, that is, whether the car is driving on smooth asphalt or on a bumpy track, such as the Nurburgring Nordschleife. It then automatically adjusts the level of electronic damping control.

The carbon fiber also reduces the weight of the suspension components.

The front axle design uses a double adjustable stabilizer bar made of lightweight carbon fiber. Its steel rear counterpart features a tubular design to reduce weight and is triple adjustable. The carbon plate at the rear of the chassis also contributes to high steering precision. This lightweight element adds rigidity to the rear seat belt, making the bodywork even more stable. Dynamic engine and electronically controlled transmission mounts have also been tuned to further improve agility, precise response and expressive feedback.

The Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires were developed specifically for the AMG GT Black series in collaboration with Michelin.

Optional AMG Track package – even closer to motorsport

In select markets, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is optionally available with the AMG Track package (only in combination with AMG carbon bucket seats - not in the US, Canada and China). It consists of a roll cage, 4-point seat belts for the driver and passenger, and a 2 kg fire extinguisher. The lightweight, bolt-on cage is tubular and made of titanium. In addition, it increases the already excellent rigidity of the car, which means it has a positive effect on driving dynamics. It also increases the level of passive safety.

Specifications Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series:

• Engine - 4.0 V8 biturbo
• Displacement - 3982 cc
• Maximum power - 537 kW (730 hp) at 6700-6900 rpm.
• Torque - 800 Nm at 2000-6000 rpm
• Drive - rear wheels
• Transmission - AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G
• Combined fuel consumption - 12.8 l / 100 km
• Combined CO2 emissions - 292 g/km
• Efficiency class - G
• Acceleration 0-100 km / h - 3.2 s
• Maximum speed - 325 km / h

Photo: Mercedes-AMG