Turbo? We don’t need no stinkin’ turbo.
Following a bit of teasing last week, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the Mercedes-AMG GT3 racecar ahead of the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. Instead of using the 4.0-liter biturbo V8 from the AMG GT as predicted, the AMG GT3 does things the ‘old-fashioned way,’ equipping the 6.3-liter, naturally aspirated V8 from the SLS AMG GT3.
Performance specs for the track-only racecar haven’t been released yet, but the GT3 of 2011 produced 548 horsepower and weighed just 2,980 pounds. Like the old car, the new version was developed in accordance with FIA GT3 specifications, and is sure to be a stout competitor.
“We are entering a hard-fought and hotly contested competitive environment with the new Mercedes-AMG GT3,” said Tobias Moers, boss of Mercedes-AMG. “The high technological standard and fair race rules are spurring us on to push to take pole position with our new customer racing car. You can only give credible proof of your ambition to lead if you’re beating the very best in the game.”
In true AMG fashion, bold claims are backed up by bold capabilities.
Like the AMG GT from which the vehicle is based, the GT3 employs near perfect weight distribution, a low center of gravity, and a wide track width. It also equips double-wishbone suspension, which is made entirely of aluminum, as well as a 6-speed sequential gearbox.
The racing car has received the carbon fiber treatment throughout, as the engine cover, doors, front wing, front and rear aprons, sidewalls, side skirts, diffuser, boot lid, seat pan and the enormous rear wing are all made from the high-strength weave. The interior is carbon fiber-laden as well, and the driver will be protected by a roll cage made from high-strength steel.
Mercedes will open reservations for the AMG GT3 soon, with pricing being released closer to the on-sale date.
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