It’s green and it looks very angry, this new hardcore version of the Mercedes-AMG GT. Called the GT R, this lightened track focused version of the already very fast and capable Benz coupe is due for a full reveal on June 24th during the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK.
That exterior colour in a matte finish is probably meant to signify its prowess at tackling the Nurburgring Nordschliefe track in Germany, often called the Green Hell, where much of the car’s development must have taken place.
Details are scarce and identifiable visual markers are difficult to pinpoint but we notice the exposed carbon fibre roof, thoroughly revised aerodynamics, fixed rear wing, carbon bucket seats, forged lightweight wheels, and a new front grille that resembles the one seen on the Mercedes-AMG GT3 race car.
But unlike the AMG GT3 that used the SLS-derived M159 naturally-aspirated 6.2-litre V8 engine, this AMG GT R will be using a possibly more powerful version of the M178 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 that’s used in the Mercedes-AMG GT and GT S, mated to the same 7-speed dual-clutch AMG Speedshift transmission.
When it does hit the market, it will compete directly with other more track-focused variants of popular sports cars such as the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, the Aston Martin Vantage GT8, or the even pricier McLaren 675LT.
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