The Mercedes-AMG GT3 replaced the SLS AMG GT3 in 2015, and the folks at Affalterbach managed to sell more than 130 units. While those were for Customer Racing Teams, there was also the GT3 Edition 50 for collectors.
The updated race car borrows some of the elements from the updated GT lineup, specifically the new headlamps. The rest of the things you won’t find in the road-going version. These include new flics, a new front spoiler, and a new rear apron. Compared to the previous model, the grille of the new one almost touches the ground. The front section has been optimized to protect the radiator and there is also an integrated beam to shield the front of the car (engine, front axle, steering).
Other improvements include quicker adjustability for the front splitter and a quick setting for the rear wing. Further time-saving potential comes from a new air filter that is easier to access and the general reduction of screw connections. The rear track rod of the new GT3 can be fine-adjusted as well.
There is also the optional Drop Start function, which makes the engine start automatically as soon as the car is dropped from the integrated air jacks, saving those precious seconds for the driver at the pit stop.
The AMG alloy wheels measure 18-inch front and rear, shod with 325/680 and 325/705 tyres, respectively. The discs measure 390 mm at the front and 355 mm at the rear. The adjustable ABS has been fine-tuned as well.
Like its predecessor, the new GT3’s interior comprises a roll cage of high-strength steel, a carbon seat with an integrated headrest and a safety hatch in the roof – as per the latest FIA standards.
Claimed to be a world first for race cars, there is a system for automatic recording and analysis of the running time of vehicle components. Teams no longer have to record these data manually, but have them available digitally and in real-time. This allows for precise assessment of whether and when parts actually have to be replaced.
The double wishbone front and rear dampers are adjustable for compression and rebound. The anti-roll bars are adjustable as well.
Powering the new Mercedes-AMG GT3 is a 6.2-litre (6,208 cc) naturally aspirated V8 engine paired with a 6-speed sequential race-spec gearbox. The engine’s output figures are 404.5 kW (550 metric hp) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft). The car weighs 1,285 kg (2,833 lbs) (FIA homologation).
One of the development goals was a further reduction in the running costs to provide even more planning and budget security for the teams. Among others, this is achieved by expanding the running time of the engine. As a result, rebuilds of the AMG 6.2-litre atmospheric V8 engine are required even less frequently.
With its quadruple victory in the Nürburgring 24-hour race in 2016, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 has secured its place in the history books of this race, the hardest of all endurance races. Accordingly, it is evident for us to present the successor during this race to the public and, of course, to the fans. The aim of the new Mercedes-AMG GT3 is to seamlessly continue the success story of our Customer Racing Programme. Once again, it is setting new benchmarks in the hard-fought GT3 segment and we are looking forward to the car proving this at the race track very soon as well – Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-AMG
Delivery to the teams will start at the end of 2019. Priced at €399,000 excluding taxes.
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