Decoding the expanded GT range
Sports Mercedes now available in hot, hotter and sizzling flavours
THE MERCEDES-AMG GT line-up is quickly growing into a big happy family of sports cars, but you’ll have to learn their codes or remain confused about where they fit into the performance hierarchy.
From least to most powerful, the letter-less GT kicks off the range, followed by the GT S and then the GT C, which until now has only been available in Roadster form. Top dog is the 430kW/700Nm GT R and that doesn’t change for 2017, but the rest of the range has been given a makeover of sorts, with lower models receiving more power and a few styling updates.
The entry-level GT gains 10kW and 30Nm, its 4-litre twin-turbo V8 now pushing 350kW and 630Nm, while the GT S is now good for 384kW and 670Nm, up 9kW and 20Nm.
Possibly hitting a sweet-spot in the range is the GT C, which will now be offered in Coupé format for the first time, albeit initially available exclusively as a special Edition 50 model to celebrate AMG’s half-century anniversary. GT C builds a neat little bridge between GT S and GT R, with outputs of 410kW and 680Nm, and also sports the GT R’s wider rear track and active rear axle steering system, the latter albeit now optional on the GT S.
According to Mercedes-AMG, even the standard 350kW GT will get you from 0-100km/h in four seconds flat, with the GT S cutting that down to 3.8, the GT C to 3.7 and the GT R to 3.6. Respective top speeds are 304, 310, 315 and 319km/h.
All GT models receive a visual perk-up with an AMG “Panamericana” grille inspired by the latest GT3 race car. All versions inherit the GT R’s active air management system, which opens and shuts the vertical louvres in the front apron as required.
In addition to a new range of alloy wheel designs, the GT and GT S models gain a snazzy new array of exterior and interior styling packages, with various high-gloss chrome, black and carbon fibre finishes to set them apart.