Mercedes-AMG GT C192

With the arrival of the all-new, second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT, the Mercedes-AMG family is now officially an all-AWD lineup, which is a shame for trigger-happy purists who enjoyed its glorious tire-burning past. Transition aside, let's get to know more about the all-new, all-wheel-drive, second-generation model.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GT

Starting at 188,704 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new, all-wheel-drive, second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT is the latest chapter of the AMG-original sports car that promises to be as good as the previous model but with the added AWD capability to throw punches everywhere.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GT interior

Beginning with the design, the new model stays true to its predecessor's roots by retaining the familiar silhouette that is easy to distinguish while the front view dons the signature AMG grille from its predecessor's AMG GT3 racing machine, and the rear taillights are inspired by the EQ range.

The new interior packs a similar layout to its open-top equivalent, the Mercedes-AMG SL, meaning it's got that Tesla-esque touchscreen that handles the infotainment and climate control as well as track data while in the middle of track days.

For the first time in an AMG GT, it can be configured to have two additional seats, although it's too tight to get through, meaning the only purpose for these two extra seats in the back is either a child seat or your pet. Of course, it can be folded down to accommodate some stuff at the back such as your suitcases or golf bags but who cares about it. This new model is starting to feel like a grand tourer rather than a modern sports car.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GT

At launch, the second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT is offered only in GT63 configuration armed with a 9-speed MCT and 4MATIC+ with fully variable torque distribution allowing it to behave in either a four-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive, depending on road conditions. With a power output of 585PS and 800Nm of torque, the GT63 is capable of hitting 0-100kph in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 315kph, about 2kph slower than the previous model's R. Touche.

Taking advantage of AMG's motorsport know-how, the all-new AMG GT features an eclectic mix of aluminum, steel, magnesium, and fiber composites for maximum rigidity, top performance, and weight savings. Thanks to its GT3-inspired grille and active aerodynamics, it's got better downforce and drag compared to its predecessor, making it easy to breathe in before its blow-by-blow close combat.

With its improved dynamics and the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization, this sports car is fully prepared for almost everything, come tarmac, gravel, or snow. Ain't no Bentley but this is how this new model rolls, metaphorically speaking.

As expected, the all-new Mercedes-AMG GT is stuck with the most advanced driving assistance systems and while such things work in normal driving conditions, they can be worth intimidating for speedo boys behind the wheel.

Although the switch to AWD is controversial, and the optional two extra seats at the back cramps its character, this is the AMG GT the whole multiverse should be pouring in its glass of water right now. With its improved looks and performance, this is the true show of force the AMG way and this one's too impossible to be ignored. Any takers?

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

My FH5 Log: Darker Than Black

The AMG Black Series lineage is known for pushing beyond the limits with its race-bred performance and dynamics only the privileged can enjoy.

So, what makes the AMG Black Series, pun intended, darker than black? I got three AMG Black Series vehicles in Forza Horizon 5 to make statements.

Let's begin with the SL65 AMG Black Series. Using the R230 SL65 AMG as its basis, the Black Series is an upgraded version of the said model which comes with an improved version of a 6.0L V12 twin-turbo engine mated with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS five-speed automatic transmission. With the engine developing 661HP of power, it is the most powerful V12-powered AMG vehicle ever. 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds and top speed limited to 199mph. Aside from its raw power, the Black Series is 250kg lighter than the regular SL65 because of the use of light carbon fiber composite (CFRP) parts and replacing the foldable hardtop roof with a fixed roof.

Next is the C63 AMG Black Series, a beefed-up version of the C63 AMG Coupe. It is armed with an improved AMG 6.2L V8 engine producing 517PS of power and 620Nm of torque. Apart from the performance, it also comes with 255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 wheels, black diffuser insert from SLS AMG GT3, chromed twin tailpipes, AMG sports suspension with AMG rear axle differential lock, 3-stage ESP, and others. Mercedes-Benz limits production of the C63 AMG Black up to 650 units but with high demand, it was extended to 800 units, and all of them bought one of these.

Lastly is the most powerful AMG Black Series vehicle ever made; the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series. It features aerodynamics inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT3 racing machine, making it a road-legal track toy in its own right. Apart from the race-inspired aerodynamics, the 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine has been tuned to produce 730PS of power output, making it the most powerful ICE-powered AMG model ever built. 

Mated to a 7G-DCT, it has a top speed of 325kph. It lapped the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 6:48.047, which is faster than the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ, although beaten by a modified Porsche 911 991.2 GT2 RS, which was later beaten by the FH5 hero car, the Mercedes-AMG ONE.

With all three gathered around Copper Canyon, it's time to find out which of the AMG Black Series lineage is the best, and as always...

...fastest time wins. This comparison will demonstrate how much progress AMG has made with the Black Series lineage from the V12-powered SL65 AMG Black Series to the road-legal track car that is the AMG GT Black Series. Let's roll the tape.

And now the results...

SL65 Black Series - 1m07.134s

C63 Black Series - 1m06.917s

AMG GT Black Series - 59.743s

As expected, the AMG GT Black Series not only is the most powerful Black Series vehicle ever made but also the quickest because of its Nurburgring credentials. Exceptional for a road-legal GT3 car. It really is.

Because of the AMG GT Black Series' exceptional performance against the other two Black Series vehicles, it's time to reward this car with something gorgeous. So gorgeous, it makes me want to say "forget my husband, I'll go make money".

Finally, the AMG GT Black Series shows its true colors. Oh, Shuka-sama. You never fail to impress me. Shuka who? Shuka effing Hanazono! That's her! Sorry about that but hey, her look and feel suits its personality. It's got the impression of a seductive villainess from a steamy webtoon. Wait, what?

Steamy aside, our Shuka-sama prepares to unleash some unreasonable force against street racing veterans in reserve around what seems to be a re-enactment of Tokyo's Daikoku parking area. 

Interested in this EventLab creation by someone named Mojo5290? Here's the share code: 117 535 418

Anyway, let's get this sideshow on the road.

This reminds me that I would make a webtoon out of this experience; Lady Shuka used unreasonable force with her AMG GT Black Series. That would make a great title for my potential webtoon masterpiece.

Having respect with the AMG GT Black Series, it's sad to see that the entire AMG lineup is AWD only, making this the last rear-wheel-drive AMG vehicle ever made. Of course, BMW's M division got rear-wheel-drive vehicles like the M2, the M3, and the M4, but they've ended up like they're the only ones in the yard. So sad.

Still, no regrets. I'm glad I got to experience the last rear-wheel-drive AMG vehicle ever made. Even Lady Shuka's impressed with it.

Auf Wiedersehein, rear-wheel-drive AMG cars like the AMG GT Black Series. You made us proud.

My FH5 Log: The AMG GT's final bullet

Since its 2015 debut, the Mercedes-AMG GT is one of the most dramatic sports cars the high-performance division has ever made and with all that motorsport know-how, it seems that Mercedes really made a well-balanced sportscar that ticks all the right boxes.

Having enjoyed the normal AMG GT and the muscled GT R, at last, the final bullet of the first-generation AMG GT has been fired and I'm calling the shots.

Yes, this is the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series that I won in FH5's Upgrade Heroes Wet Season playlist and now that I've got it, it's time to have a word with what's known to be the AMG GT's final form.

The AMG GT Black Series features aerodynamics inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT3 racing machine, making it a road-legal track toy in its own right. Apart from the race-inspired aerodynamics, the 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine has been tuned to produce 730PS of power output, making it the most powerful ICE-powered AMG model ever built. Mated to a 7G-DCT, it has a top speed of 325kph. It lapped the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 6:48.047, which is faster than the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ, although beaten by a modified Porsche 911 991.2 GT2 RS, which was later beaten by the FH5 hero car, the Mercedes-AMG ONE.

Although being avenged by its big brother, the ONE, the AMG GT Black Series is a serious track weapon that can be enjoyed either on the road or on the track, and when you let its turbocharged V8 engine loose, it really means big business for what's rudely called a road-legal GT3 racer. Still, it was pretty impressive trying out the car that has been longly demanded by Forza fanatics from the start.

To test the AMG GT Black Series' potential, I've pitted it against a squad of track weapons on the oval track, just to experience the GT3-inspired aerodynamics and the turbocharged V8 superpower it possesses. Roll the tape.

Not quite flawless but a win's a win for AMG's ultimate ICE-powered sports car ever made.

The AMG GT Black Series truly is the final bullet of the first-generation AMG GT that is proven to be a serious track weapon that can be enjoyed either on the road or on the track. Although it marked the end of the first chapter, the next chapter will soon be written, but rest assured, it won't be forgotten for many generations to come as the greatest ICE-powered AMG machine ever made.

Could this really be the best Black Series machine? Find out soon as I'll rally the past Black Series machines as they'll settle the scores once and for all which AMG Black Series car is the best. Watch this space.

My GT7 Log: The evolution of the AMG GT

The Mercedes-AMG GT became part of the Gran Turismo heritage ever since it became the hero car of 2017's Gran Turismo Sport, and here in Gran Turismo 7, it's been joined by two powerful versions; the R and the Black Series. Like a good Rider with powerful forms, the AMG GT has evolved from a no-nonsense sports car to the ultimate road-and-track warrior it was born to be.

So, how much the Mercedes-AMG has evolved from the normal one to the ultimate version known as the Black Series? Let's examine its metamorphosis.

Beginning with the original Mercedes-AMG GT, it doesn't count as a worthy successor to the SLS AMG because of the power output that separates these two but needless to say, the AMG GT's newly developed 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine produces almost the same amount of torques as the defunct SLS AMG. The S version produces 502HP of power and 478.8ft-lb of torque while mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT. It does 0-60mph in less than four seconds and has a top speed of 193mph. Performance aside, the AMG GT features an aluminum spaceframe with an intelligent material mix on the body which sets the new standards for modern sportscars and results in lightweight but rigid sportscars that accommodate rather well with its drivetrain. 

Apart from that, the AMG GT comes with other key points that make it capable on the road and on the track such as an electronic rear-axle locking differential, race-derived double wishbone suspension, and electronically-controlled damping with AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package and ceramic high-performance composite brake system.

The AMG GT R is a high-performance variant of the AMG GT sports car that uses a specifically tuned version of the AMG 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine that produces 585HP of power and 700Nm of torque while mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT. It does 0-100kph in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 318kph. 

It features a new active aerodynamics profile hidden underneath the body and when in RACE mode, the aerodynamics produces a Venturi effect, sucking the car onto the road and reducing the front-axle lift by around 40 kilograms at 250 km/h. It even has an active air management system, the AMG coil-over suspension, active rear-wheel steering, AMG TRACTION CONTROL, rear-axle limited-slip differential, and speed-sensitive sports steering.

The AMG GT Black Series is the ultimate version of the AMG GT sports car, and although flattering to call it the road-legal version of its GT3 racing car equivalent, it features the most powerful internal combustion engine AMG has ever spawned; a 730PS 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine mated to a 7G-DCT, capable of hitting 325kph of top speed. It lapped the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 6:48.047, which is faster than the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ.

With all three AMG GT variants got their word, it's time to find out how much the AMG GT has grown from when it was first launched to its final form, and with that, it's off to the Nurburgring Grand Prix track to conduct this experiment.

This is the ideal send-off to the C190 Mercedes-AMG GT because, with the said sportscar no longer in production, this will be a tribute to what is known to be one of the most influential sports cars to come out from the mid-2010s. Let's find out the true meaning of metamorphosis with the AMG GT. Roll the tape.

...and now the results...

AMG GT - 2m20.053s

AMG GT R - 2m18.128s

AMG GT Black Series - 2m12.334s

From its debut to the Black Series, the Mercedes-AMG GT has evolved from a no-nonsense sports car to the ultimate road-and-track warrior it was born to be. Although gone, it's not really the end of the Mercedes-AMG GT storyline because pretty soon, the next chapter will soon be written, and let's hope it will be as good as this while keeping up with the challenges of the new normal.

For the AMG GT, this is not the end. This is only the beginning...

My FH5 Log: The evolution of the AMG GT

Having obtained the AMG GT S from Forza Horizon 5's Series 8 Dry Season Playlist, it's time to uncover how much Mercedes-AMG's 911-fighting sports car has changed from the normal AMG GT in S variant to the track-focused AMG GT R.

This is the chance to find out how much the AMG GT has matured through the years and looks like I'm onto something with these two AMG GT variants. Before that, let's have a quick re-introduction.

Although the AMG GT doesn't count as a worthy successor to the SLS AMG because of the power output that separates these two, the AMG GT's 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine produces 502HP of power and 478.8ft-lb of torque in the S version while mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT. Apart from that, it features an aluminum spaceframe, an electronic rear-axle locking differential, race-derived double wishbone suspension, and electronically-controlled damping with AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package and ceramic high-performance composite brake system.

The AMG GT R, meanwhile, is a more potent version of the AMG GT which uses every bit and bobs from the AMG GT3 racecar. The 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine has been uprooted to 585HP of power and apart from that, it uses an upgraded suspension, new aerodynamics, and intelligent lightweight construction to deliver a race-honed feel on the road and on the track.

Using a makeshift track in an area that is near the fancy resort, it's time to find out how much maturity the AMG GT has gained from the S to the R. From sporty to racy if you prefer. Send in the tape.

And now the results...

AMG GT - 1m:00.928s

AMG GT R - 0m:57.991s

It took nearly three seconds for the AMG GT to mature from the GT S to the GT R. Impressive indeed.

Although the AMG GT may change very soon, I'm very glad that Mercedes-AMG built a car that can satisfy even the most hardened veterans on the road and track. From subtleness to obviousness, looks like the AMG GT really is the sports car worth driving, whatever it takes.

Yes, the AMG GT R is a clear winner, and while in the middle of brainstorming about what to do with the AMG GT R in my next entry, something about comparing it to the AMG GT63 4-Door, this little runner-up has a little something from me.

All dressed up as Tej's AMG GT from The Fate of the Furious. Isn't she lovely? Speaking of which...

Let's give Tej's AMG GT a chance to live up to its reputation with a little street race. Clip in the hole!

This is what they called in the world of fighting games GREAT. Still, that was a close call!

Enjoy your new ride!

My GT7 Log: The star of GT SPORT

The next Gran Turismo star we'll be showcasing in Gran Turismo 7 is the Mercedes-AMG GT, the star of GT SPORT.

Premiered at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, the AMG GT doesn't count as a worthy successor to the SLS AMG because of the power output that separates these two but needless to say, the AMG GT's newly developed 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine produces almost the same amount of torques as the defunct SLS AMG. The S version produces 502HP of power and 478.8ft-lb of torque while mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT. It does 0-60mph in less than four seconds and has a top speed of 193mph. Performance aside, the AMG GT features an aluminum spaceframe with an intelligent material mix on the body which sets the new standards for modern sportscars and resulted in lightweight but rigid sportscars that accommodate rather well with its drivetrain. Apart from that, the AMG GT comes with other key points that make it capable on the road and on the track such as an electronic rear-axle locking differential, race-derived double wishbone suspension, and electronically-controlled damping with AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package and ceramic high-performance composite brake system.

If memory serves me correctly, the AMG GT feels like a well-balanced sports car built for discerning drivers. It can be poised and elegant but it can be downright tricky when you stick its tail out. Looks like elegance is not excused in the making of such a fine sports car that can show off its wild side on the track. Guess it takes a considerable amount of skill to get this car right if you know what I mean.

Anyway, with being a sentimental waste of my time, it's time to give the AMG GT a quick lap around Interlagos, the famed venue of the Brazilian Grand Prix and one of the GT SPORT tracks returned to GT7. Let's roll the tape.

After a quick lap, the AMG GT did it in 1:53.219.

Balancing its elegant looks and wild behavior is what the AMG GT sums it up and to be honest, it's by no means one of the best sports cars to emerge from Germany. Not as powerful as the SLS but it still behaves like one.

What other Gran Turismo stars should I drive next? Stay tuned for more.

Project CARS 3: The heroes of the game

The Mercedes-AMG GT R, the Acura NSX, and the Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray are the stars of Project CARS 3 and these machines deserve the respect it needs because these cars truly defined what makes Project CARS 3 great.

Without further ado, let's get to know more about the heroes of Project CARS 3.

First off is the Acura NSX, known as the Honda NSX in the rest of the globe. Ever since Honda revived the NSX after its 2005 discontinuation, the world rejoiced and by many surprises, the modern-day NSX shares nothing in common with the old NSX, although it retains the midship engine layout from its predecessor. Although Japanese in spirit, it was built in the USA, and powering it is a revolutionary Sport Hybrid SH-AWD where the 3.5L V6 DOHC Twin Turbo engine is connected to three electric motors that take care of the Power Drive Unit and a li-ion battery that takes charge on the Intelligent Power Unit, resulting to a total power output of 581PS of power. In its updated version, the NSX features refined chassis components, tires, and software tuning to make it more engaging than before.

Next is the Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray. For the first time in Corvette history, the eighth-generation model is now a mid-engined sports car, which most purists call sacrilege. Matching the best of Europe in terms of performance, the mid-engined C8 Corvette is powered by an all-new 6.2L LT2 V8 engine, producing up to 495HP of power and 470lb-ft of torque, while mated to a Corvette-first double-clutch gearbox. With the Z51 Performance Package, the C8 Corvette is armed with Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 which reads the road every millisecond and adapts in about 10 to 15 milliseconds.

Lastly, the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Served as the high-performance version of the AMG GT sports car, it's powered by a specifically-tuned version of the AMG 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine that produces 585HP of power and 700Nm of torque while mated to a 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT. It does 0-100kph in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 318kph. In the recent update, the AMG GT R was made even better with the special PRO variant with improved suspension, lightweight construction, aerodynamics, and appearance.

Now that we get to know about the three hero cars, it's time to find out which of the three PC3 hero cars is the best and with that, it's time to conduct my little experiment at a Tuscan vineyard, which was displayed on the game's official key visual.

Let the experiment begin.

After a quick lap around the vineyard, here are the results;

Corvette - 1:19.593

NSX - 1:18.168

AMG GT R - 1:18.893

The mid-engined, four-wheel drive, hybrid-powered NSX emerged is the winner of this experiment and as a result, this is the best of the three PC3 hero cars. Score another one for the Japanese carmakers.

There is a clear reason why the NSX, the C8 Corvette, and the AMG GT R are the hero cars of Project CARS 3 because these three cars represent the world of motorsports we live in. The NSX represents Asia, the Corvette represents America, and the AMG GT R represents Europe, therefore Project CARS 3 features the world's best cars and racetracks for everyone to take on.

This is the brave new world of motorsport we live in and only the fastest will come out on top.

Good luck and welcome to the world of Project CARS 3.