Unveiled at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed, the new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro showcased its remarkable capabilities in our firsthand encounter.
Behind the steering wheel, a sense of mastery envelops the driver. “The precision is truly remarkable,” grins Bernd Schneider, steering the vehicle sharply to the right. With our insides rumbling in protest, we manage a feeble acknowledgment while preparing for potential turmoil. When a five-time DTM champion revels in the moment, the stakes heighten on the handling circuit. To cut to the chase, the spectacle concluded without significant repercussions, with the vehicle’s interior remaining unscathed. Yet, those seeking to push the boundaries of a performance beast like the new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro 4Matic must put aside the comforts of their digestive system.
Once more, we surge into a challenging series of twists and turns at an exhilarating pace. Initiating the turn, the car responds seamlessly, allowing swift recovery and resuming acceleration. The AMG GT Pro’s handling prowess minimizes the need for substantial steering inputs. As we approach a tight hairpin, there’s no need for premature deceleration. “These brakes with their expansive discs are truly exceptional,” remarks “Mr. DTM” as he forcefully applies them, forging an involuntary bond between my sternum and the seatbelt. A close inspection reveals the carbon-ceramic composition of the brake discs and racing-oriented brake pads featuring titanium backings, reducing unsprung mass. At the front, the colossal 42-centimeter discs (the largest standard offering from AMG) boast six-piston fixed calipers, while the rear accommodates single-piston fixed calipers. The whimsical detail of their black-only availability adds another touch of amusement.
“We enhanced the front brake discs by reconfiguring the internal structure for enhanced heat dissipation,” elaborates project manager Dennis Steidl. Furthermore, the Affalterbach engineers have refined the internal cooling channels of the brakes, underscoring the focus on cooling efficiency for the AMG GT Pro. The front bumper features two spacious air intakes, complemented by dedicated brake cooling ducts to regulate temperature. Opting for maximal airflow, the front license plate can swiftly be detached to augment air intake. “We’ve geared the car for track performance,” adds co-project manager Tobias Roll. Consequently, the differentials on both axles and the all-wheel-drive transfer case benefit from active cooling via an electric water pump. Underneath the vehicle, channels curve towards the sides, inducing a tornado-like effect that generates added downforce.
In tight bends, the rear-axle steering proves invaluable, while the all-wheel drive amplifies acceleration. A delighted Bernd Schneider exclaims, “Sensational!” However, with a weight nearing 1.9 tons, even the engineers and the 2R Cup tires (front 295/30 ZR 21 and rear 305/30 ZR 21) – semi-slicks – encounter their limitations, resulting in understeer for the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro during high-speed corner entries. This scenario can occur easily. Armed with 450 kW / 612 PS (20 kW / 27 PS exceeding the AMG GT 63) and a substantial torque of 850 Newton meters (a boost of 50 Nm), the V8 powerhouse delivers a formidable performance, albeit with hints of its weight. The acceleration is breathtaking, quite literally: the AMG GT 63 Pro surges from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, achieves 200 km/h in 10.9 seconds, and its relentless propulsion continues to 317 km/h.
Nonetheless, speed isn’t the sole criterion! The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro aims to be a “track tool” fused with enhanced everyday usability. This rationale manifests in optional rear bucket seats and an adjustable suspension with active roll stabilization for on-the-fly comfort adjustments. Nevertheless, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro 4Matic shan’t compromise on firmness. Nor will it come at a bargain. Our rough estimate places the price around 200,000 euros.
