Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Black Series
The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is the ultimate expression of AMG's engineering capability, a 720 hp track weapon that set a production car lap record at the Nurburgring Nordschleife with a time of 6:43.616. It is the most powerful V8-powered AMG ever produced and the culmination of the AMG GT range.
The engine is a heavily reworked version of AMG's M178 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, redesignated M178 LS2. The most significant change is the adoption of a flat-plane crankshaft, replacing the standard cross-plane crank. This allows the engine to rev more freely and produce a more exotic exhaust note. Combined with new turbochargers, a redesigned intake manifold, revised exhaust system, and recalibrated engine management, the result is 720 hp at 6,700 rpm and 590 lb-ft of torque at 2,000-6,000 rpm.
The Black Series sits on a fully adjustable suspension system with coilover dampers, manually adjustable ride height, carbon fiber anti-roll bars, and adjustable camber plates. The front track is widened by 59mm and the rear by 41mm compared to the AMG GT R. Two-piece carbon ceramic brake rotors provide extraordinary stopping power.
Aerodynamically, the Black Series is a work of engineering art. The manually adjustable carbon fiber rear wing generates significant downforce, while the front splitter, louvered wheel arch vents, and flat underbody with diffuser work together to produce up to 400 kg of downforce at maximum speed. The body is extensively modified from the standard AMG GT, with wider fenders, a carbon fiber hood with functional NACA ducts, and a carbon fiber trunk lid.
The interior retains the AMG GT's essential layout but adds Alcantara trim, lightweight bucket seats, and carbon fiber everywhere. A roll cage can be specified, and the AMG Track Pace data logger comes as standard equipment. Despite the track focus, the Black Series remains a fully road-legal car with air conditioning, a infotainment system, and acceptable refinement for road use.
The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is calibrated for maximum attack in the Black Series, with shorter shift times and more aggressive mapping. The active rear-axle steering, standard on the Black Series, improves both low-speed agility and high-speed stability.
AMG achieved the Nurburgring production car record on November 4, 2020, with development driver Maro Engel at the wheel. The 6:43.616 lap time bettered the previous record held by the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ. This lap record was subsequently broken by the Porsche 911 GT2 RS MR and the Mercedes-AMG ONE, but the GT Black Series's time remains extraordinary for a front-engine car.
The AMG GT Black Series was produced in limited numbers, with allocation-based sales ensuring exclusivity. At $325,000 MSRP, it was positioned against cars like the Porsche 911 GT2 RS, Ferrari 812 Competizione, and McLaren 765LT. Its combination of outright performance, aerodynamic sophistication, and the emotional appeal of the flat-plane crank V8 have made it immediately collectible, with used values exceeding original MSRP.
As a recent production car, focus on service history, accident history, and mileage. The flat-plane crank V8 is a new configuration for AMG and long-term reliability data is still emerging. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard but replacement costs are extremely high. The adjustable aerodynamic elements (wing, splitter) should be inspected for damage. Verify that the car has not been tracked extensively without proper maintenance intervals. Many Black Series cars have been purchased as investments and have very low miles.
Produced in 2021 (MY 2021) in limited numbers at AMG's Affalterbach facility. The M178 LS2 engine features a flat-plane crankshaft, a first for an AMG production car. Set the Nurburgring Nordschleife production car lap record in November 2020 with a time of 6:43.616. Each engine hand-assembled under AMG's 'One Man, One Engine' philosophy.