Mercedes-AMG is working on a hardcore, track-focused version of its GT sports car.
The car has already been spied in prototype form and is thought to have benefited from lessons learned in developing the dedicated racing version of the GT, the GT3, which is due to start competition next year.
Mercedes-AMG boss Tobias Moers has already stated that the track-focused GT isn’t the Black Series version, as that will come later. He also says the car won’t be called a GT3, as ‘another’ company already lays claim to the name when it comes to road cars.
So what might it be called? According to a report from Motor Trend, the name Mercedes-AMG has selected is “GT R”. If so, we’re sure Nissan, the maker of the GT-R sports car, won’t be too happy. However, the two firms’ respective parent companies are in an alliance so we’re sure any squabbles between the two will be settled amicably, assuming the report is accurate.
The so-called Mercedes-AMG GT R is expected to arrive in showrooms late in 2016, as a 2017 model. Compared to the already potent GT S, the GT R should benefit from more power, improved aero, less weight and suspension that’s been stiffened substantially. Boosting output should be easy as the GT’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 has much greater potential than the current GT S variant’s 503 horsepower. A figure of 550 hp is likely.
2017 Mercedes-AMG E63 spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
Also in the Motor Trend report, Mercedes-AMG’s new E63 is said to benefit from a new nine-speed version of the tuner's Speedshift automatic transmission. The Speedshift transmission currently has seven speeds. They don’t feature a torque converter like an ordinary automatic but rather a compact wet startup clutch for initial engagement, which provides better acceleration times.
The new E63 is also said to benefit from a new all-wheel-drive system that should offer a greater range of torque distribution than the current system that splits torque 33/67 between the front and rear axles. The car will also feature Mercedes-AMG’s twin-turbo 4.0, which will have a “competitive” power output. Factor on the final figure being somewhere close to 600 hp.
The new E63 is also expected on the market next year, as a 2017 model.
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