Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series Debuts With 720 HP And Top Speed Of 202 MPH

After a revealing teaser campaign, Mercedes has released details about the GT Black Series.

Described as a super sports car that “perfectly embodies the brand’s rich tradition in motorsport,” the model features a twin-turbo 4.0-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine that develops an impressive 720 hp (537 kW / 730 PS) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque.

Besides the flat-plane crank, the engine has been outfitted with new camshafts, different exhaust manifolds and a dry sump lubrication system.  The engine also has a new firing order, larger turbocharger compressor wheels and a heck of a sound.

The engine is connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which has been reinforced to cope with the additional torque. This setup enables the rear-wheel drive model to rocket from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.2 seconds and run from 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in less than 9 seconds. If drivers keep their foot planted, the car will eventually hit a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h).

Like the AMG GT R, the model has a coil-over suspension and an adaptive damping system.  The car also features adjustable anti-roll bars and an adjustable camber.

Elsewhere, engineers installed carbon fiber shear panels, a lightweight integral carrier and a carbon fiber tunnel cross to stiffen up the body.  The model also has a ceramic braking system with motorsport pads and discs that are “optimized for fade resistance and temperature stability.”

On the styling front, the Black Series draws inspiration from the GT3 and GT4 race cars.  As a result, the model adopts an aggressive front fascia with a larger grille, an adjustable splitter and carbon fiber canards.

Designers also installed a new carbon fiber hood which features a ram air intake and large vents.  A closer inspection also reveals a carbon fiber double bubble roof, carbon fiber side skirts and a carbon fiber tailgate.  The latter boasts a small spoiler and a two-piece carbon fiber rear wing which can be adjusted manually or automatically.

Other notable features include a carbon fiber rear bumper and a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system which is separated by a wide diffuser.  The model also has thinner front and rear glass as well as 10-spoke forged wheels with a matte black finish.  The latter measure 19-inches front and 20-inches rear, and are wrapped in bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires.

Thanks to all these modifications, the Black Series generates “well over” 882 lbs (400 kg) of downforce at 155 mph (250 km/h).  We can also expect some weight savings, but the company didn’t mention numbers.

Interior changes are less noticeable, but the model has been outfitted with carbon fiber sport seats wrapped in Nappa leather and microfiber upholstery.  Elsewhere, there’s orange contrast stitching and matte black carbon fiber trim.  Other highlights include a microfiber sport steering wheel and lightweight door panels featuring “loop pull handles.”

Customers looking for something more unique can order the optional AMG Track Package. It adds four-point harnesses, a fire extinguisher and a lightweight titanium roll cage.  Unfortunately, the package will only be available in select markets and the United States won’t make the cut (Americans also have to make do with AMG Performance seats).

The most interesting interior feature is a small knob known as AMG Traction Control.  It allows for plenty of fun as it offers nine levels of rear axle slip.  Level 1 is designed for driving in wet conditions with “high safety reserves,” while Level 9 allows for maximum slip and tire annihilation.

There’s no word on pricing quite yet, but we can expect it in due course.