The Mercedes-AMG SLS and the initial generation of AMG GT which succeeded it are both legendary components of automotive heritage, having been the first two standalone models crafted autonomously by AMG. Recently, AMG unveiled the second iteration of the GT, which signified a move away from convention with a non-V8 model. In this classification, we will assess the SLS, the first-gen GT, as well as the two-door variant of the GT’s subsequent generation. Though the second-gen GT is also accessible as a four-door coupe, the focus of this list centers on the two-door flagship sports vehicles, arranged from the least speedy to the swiftest.
The performance statistics in this article are sourced directly from the respective car manufacturers’ official websites.
18 Mercedes-AMG GT 43
0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds
The most recent inclusion in the roster for the second generation of AMG GT, the GT 43 stunned the automotive sphere upon its unveiling, marking a departure from the longstanding V8 tradition of the GT. The GT43 discards the twin-turbo V8 in favor of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant, supported by an e-turbo and a mild hybrid setup that generates 416 hp, transmitted to the rear wheels through a nine-speed automatic gearbox. While the outcome may not be as thrilling or swift as the V8-powered models, it manages to shed 250 lbs in weight.
17 Mercedes-AMG GT
0-60 mph: 4.0 seconds (Roadster: 4.0 seconds)
Initially introduced in 2015, the basic model in the AMG GT series is also the least rapid, missing some of the features found in its quicker counterparts. The 456-hp GT was equipped with a mechanical limited-slip differential instead of an electronically controlled one and did not feature the AMG Ride Control adaptive suspension or the Race Mode setting. The Roadster variant, which shares the same 0-60 time, was launched two years after the hard-top model, making its debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.
16 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-CELL Prototype
Acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 4.0 seconds
The slowest variant in the SLS lineup, the E-CELL showcases an all-electric prototype initially unveiled at the 2011 North American International Auto Show sporting a vibrant highlighter-yellow matte finish. The E-CELL boasts four electric motors collectively generating 526 hp, a relatively modest figure for a high-performance electric vehicle. Its 400 Volt lithium battery, developed in partnership with German chemical company Evonik, features a temperature regulation system ensuring efficient charging.
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15 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive
Acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds
Following the introduction of the electrified E-CELL version of the SLS, a more commanding all-electric version surfaced two years later with only nine units produced: the Electric Drive was officially presented at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, commencing production the subsequent year. The vehicle’s quartet of electric motors delivers a total power output of 740 hp, while its exceptional transmission allows each motor to independently propel all four wheels.
14 Mercedes-AMG GT S
Acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds
Ascending from the base GT model, the GT S was unveiled in 2015, alongside a special Edition 1 variant. This unique version featured additional aerodynamic components in shiny black, along with red brake calipers and red accents interspersed across the cabin. The GT S boasted higher horsepower (503 hp) and numerous mechanical enhancements. These included Race Mode and Race start configurations, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, the AMG Ride Control adjustable suspension, and an AMG Performance exhaust system.
13 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe
0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds (Roadster: 3.8 seconds)
Prior to the AMG GT, the SLS was crafted as a contemporary reimagining of the legendary 300 SL Gullwing. The initial iteration of the SLS premiered at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show before hitting the market the subsequent year. It housed a 6.2-liter V8 engine churning out 563 horsepower, matched with a 7-speed Speedshift transmission. A Roadster variant, which traded the SLS’ gullwing doors for a convertible top, was released about twelve months later; however, its reception was less enthusiastic, and today, the Roadster has devalued more than its fixed-roof counterpart despite the initial pricing difference.
12 Mercedes-AMG GT C
0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds (Roadster: 3.7 seconds)
Introduced two years subsequent to the GT’s launch, the GT C serves as a high-powered variant that elevates the horsepower output to 550. Equipped with the AMG Dynamic Plus and Lane Tracking packages as standard, the GT C also offers active rear wheel steering and features a broader body compared to the GT S. Similar to the GT S, the GT C received its exclusive special edition marking its market presence, known as the Edition 50 and restricted to 500 units. The Edition 50 stood out with exclusive paint hues, unique interior design elements, and bespoke “1 of 500” insignia on the steering wheel.
11 Mercedes-AMG GT R
0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
The 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed showcased a more potent high-performance version of the GT: the GT R. Boasting 577 horsepower and a maximum speed of 198 mph (one mph higher than the GT C and eight more than the GT and GT S), the GT R later set a new record as the fastest rear-wheel-drive production car on the Nürburgring. Enhancements in the GT R include a 9-mode traction control system and a manually adaptable rear wing. Some luxury features found in other variants, like power side mirrors and a premium sound system, are offered as extras rather than standard features.
10 Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro
0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
Dissatisfied with the GT R performance, AMG raised the bar in 2018 by creating a track-focused model known as the GT R Pro, limited to just 750 units. The GT R Pro boasts carbon fiber bucket seats, a carbon fiber roof, carbon ceramic brakes as standard, along with redesigned aero components and forged wheels. An optional track package offers a fire extinguisher, four-point harnesses, and a steel roll-cage.
9 Mercedes-AMG GT55
0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
Recently unveiled, the GT 55 may not match its more potent GT63 counterpart, but it provides a solid entry point into the GT series for those seeking a V8-powered vehicle. Featuring a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 engine delivering 469 hp, power is sent to all four wheels via a nine-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission; for a more interactive driving experience, paddle shifters are available. The 4Matic+ variable AWD system can function as a fully RWD setup under specific circumstances, and all GT55 models come equipped with the AMG Active Ride Control suspension with roll stabilization as standard.
8 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT
0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds
Introduced to the market a couple of years subsequent to its basic version, the SLS GT emerges as a high-powered variant boosting the horsepower to 583. The GT incorporates numerous performance-focused attributes, including AMG Ride Control Performance suspension, an enhanced transmission with swift response times in manual mode, and the AMG Drive Unit providing the driver with the option to choose from various suspension modes. The interior has also undergone enhancements, featuring black Alcantara upholstery, sport seats with contrasting stitching, and crimson accents across the cabin.
7 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series
0-60 mph: 3.2 seconds
Moving up the ladder for the SLS leads to the Black Series, unveiled initially in 2012 at the LA Auto Show; the power output is further elevated to 622 hp, and the engine has undergone several enhancements, including altered camshafts, revised intake air ducts, and a higher redline. With extensive utilization of carbon fiber in the bodywork, along with a titanium exhaust system replacing the steel one, the Black Series also sheds 70 kg in weight when compared to the standard model.
6 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series
0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds
With the onset of the pandemic, Mercedes-AMG had to employ innovative methods to introduce its latest iteration of the GT to the public: the Black Series came to light through the brand’s YouTube platform in July 2020. The Black Series represents a high-performance rendition of the GT, generating 720 hp and featuring a slightly modified version of the M178 engine with a flat-plane crankshaft. It is outfitted with an enhanced suspension system, a carbon fiber anti-roll bar, and active aerodynamics. Various sections of the bodywork, such as the roof and hood, are made of carbon fiber. Shortly after its debut, the Black Series broke the record for the swiftest production car at the Nürburgring,Removing the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ from its position of dominance.
5 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3
Acceleration to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds
The competition-ready variant of the SLS was designed to meet the FIA’s GT3 standards and was revealed at the 2010 New York Auto Show. Numerous components of the car were modified for track use and adherence to regulations: including enhancements to the suspension, steering, and braking systems, along with the installation of a racing seat equipped with a six-point harness and HANS (Head and Neck Support) device within the safety cell of the vehicle. The GT3 model featured a racing gearbox with paddle shifters mounted on the steering column.
4 Mercedes-AMG GT63
0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds
Unveiled as one of the initial two models of the second generation GT series, alongside the GT55, the GT63 embodies a contemporary and sleek interpretation of its predecessor’s design. Powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 577 horsepower, the GT63 approaches the 200 mph threshold courtesy of its lightweight structure and enhanced aerodynamics. Among the new aerodynamic features is an active underbody carbon-fiber element, reminiscent of the technology seen on the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Its power is transmitted to all four wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifters available for increased driver involvement, coupled with the adaptable 4Matic+ AWD system ensuring power may be primarily rear-wheel-driven.
3 Mercedes-AMG GT63 PRO
0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds
Unveiled about a year after the standard model, the GT63 PRO may have an identical 0-60 time to its counterpart but manages to surpass it marginally in terms of maximum velocity (specifically by just one mile per hour, reaching 197 compared to the original’s 196). Equipped with numerous enhancements focused on performance, the GT63 PRO now boasts a power output increase of 26 hp (603 hp compared to the regular GT63’s 577 hp), two additional radiators positioned in the front wheel arches to optimize cooling, long-lasting carbon ceramic and titanium infused brakes, and supplementary aerodynamic elements.
2 Mercedes-AMG GT Track Series
Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph: 2.7 seconds
Launched in 2022, the GT Track Series, a dedicated track-focused variant of the Black Series with strong motorsport lineage, stands out as a unique model commemorating AMG’s 55th anniversary; only 55 units were produced. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine has been finely tuned to extract an extra 14 hp, elevating the power output from the Black Series’ 720 hp to an impressive 734 hp. Sporting various racing-oriented amenities such as a roll cage, enhanced aerodynamics, and a fire suppression system, this model assures peak performance and safety during track outings.
1 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance
Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph: 2.7 seconds
Debuting in April and anticipated to arrive at dealerships later this year, the brand-new GT63 S E Performance shares the top position with the GT Track Series as the only vehicles on the list to break the three-second acceleration time mark. This remarkable accomplishment is made possible by its plug-in hybrid powertrain, blending a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with a rear-mounted electric motor to deliver a combined output of 805 hp. Leveraging technology inspired by Mercedes’ Formula 1 hybrid systems, the battery incorporates a direct cooling mechanism for consistent peak performance. The inclusion of standard rear-wheel steering enhances stability during high-speed cornering maneuvers.
