Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster and AMG GT C Roadster

Mercedes-AMG GT

Portfolio: Mercedes-AMG is expanding its GT family with the two Roadster models. The new AMG GT C model is positioned between the AMG GT S and the AMG GT R.

Bodywork: Two-seater Roadster with aluminum spaceframe and aluminum body. The bodyshell has been reinforced: side skirts with thicker walls and more chambers, additional struts between dashboard support and windscreen surround, additional strut tower brace between soft top and tank. A cross-member behind the seats supports the fixed roll-over protection system.

World first: A new material combination is being used for the first time on a standard-production vehicle: the boot lid is made of a combination of SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) and carbon fiber. Advantages: light weight, high strength and outstanding surface quality.

Soft top: Three-layer fabric soft top with substructure as magnesium/steel/ aluminum construction. Its light weight helps to keep the Centre of gravity low. Opens or closes in 11 seconds when traveling at speeds of up to 50 km/h, spaceâ€'saving Zâ€'folding, available in three colors: black, beige or red.

Design feature: Like the Mercedes-AMG GT R, both of these Roadster models feature the AMG Panamericana Grille.

[adinserter name="GOOGLE AD"]Aerodynamics: The AMG GT Roadster features the same AIRPANEL active air management system (vertical louvers behind the front apron open and close in about one second) as the AMG GT R. Advantage: improved aerodynamic balance and performance.

Interior: STYLE Exclusive nappa leather interior appointments in macchiato beige are available for the first time. AMG Performance seats available with AIRSCARF neck-level heating and seat climate control for the first time. AIRSCARF is also optionally available for the standard-fit AMG sports seats.

Connectivity: AMG Track Pace as part of COMAND Online turns the Apple iPhone into a personal race engineer. Customers can use the app to analyze and improve their driving style on the track as well as sharing with other AMG drivers via Facebook, YouTube or the AMG Private Lounge.

Sound system: The loudspeaker system featuring the newly developed External Coupled Subwoofer (ECS) allows exceptionally powerful bass playback. Instead of a housing, the ECS uses the entire vehicle interior as a woofer thanks to a special aperture in the rear right wheel arch. The subwoofer is connected to the bodyshell via this aperture, transmitting the space-filling sound.

Output: AMG GT Roadster 350 kW (476 hp). AMG GT C Roadster 410 kW (557 hp). This is 26 kW (35 hp) more than the AMG GT S and 20 kW (28 hp) less than the Mercedes-AMG GT R.

Distinguishing features of the Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster compared with the Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster:

• Active rear-wheel steering
• Electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential
• AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with Adaptive Damping System
• Wider tail end for wider track and more traction: the new side walls add a total of 57 millimeters to the width of the Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster at the rear.
• Larger compound brake discs at the front
• More exclusive interior appointments with nappa leather, AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber, embossed AMG emblem in the Centre console, AMG instrument cluster with 360 km/h scale and red highlights
• Additional RACE mode
• AMG Performance exhaust system as standard: two infinitely adjustable flaps modulate the exhaust note. Flaps open and close depending on the selected AMG DRIVE SELECT mode, although they can also be controlled individually using a separate button.

Another Mercedes-AMG is injecting another breath of fresh air into the AMG GT family, augmenting its sports car portfolio with two scintillating Roadster models breath of fresh air for the AMG GT family. The entry-level model is the AMG GT Roadster (fuel consumption combined: 9.6â€'9.4 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 224-219 g/km) with an output of 350 kW (476 hp). The AMG GT C Roadster (fuel consumption combined: 11.4 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 259 g/km) has an all-new output rating. With 410 kW (557 hp), it adds an all-new model variant to the range. In terms of output, it is positioned between the AMG GT S (fuel consumption combined: 9.6-9.4 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 224â€'219 g/km) and the AMG GT R (fuel consumption combined: 11.4 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 259 g/km). It also employs some of the sophisticated technical features of the Mercedes-AMG GT R, including the active rear-wheel steering and the electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential. In combination with the AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension, the AMG GT C Roadster guarantees dynamic performance at the very highest level. The top Roadster also takes its lead from the top AMG GT R sports car where muscular proportions are concerned: the wider rear wings create space for a wider track and wider wheels at the rear axle, allowing even higher cornering speeds and outstanding traction. The variable performance exhaust system, fitted as standard, ensures an authentic V8 sound from the AMG GT C Roadster.

Get your checkbook ready, you'll pay dearly for this beauty

The new Roadsters make hallmark AMG driving performance an even more intensive experience. "With our two Roadster models, we are strategically expanding the AMG GT family by two exciting variants. With the AMG GT C Roadster, we are also introducing a new model variant to which we have transferred main performance-related components from our top sports car, the AMG GT R. The result: a highly dynamic driving experience in a very exclusive ambience, coupled with that pure roadster feeling," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

With the two Roadster variants, the Mercedes-AMG GT family has now increased to six members. The two new sports cars with fabric soft tops likewise have the technical genes for which AMG is famous. These include the lightweight and torsionally rigid aluminum bodyshell plus powerful and efficient V8 biturbo engines, for example. The entry level into the Roadster world is the Mercedes-AMG GT with an output of 350 kW (476 hp). The Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster adds a completely new output rating. With 410 kW (557 hp), it is the more powerful of the two new open-top sports cars and, in terms of output, it is positioned between the Mercedes-AMG GT S and the Mercedes-AMG GT R.

The AMG GT C Roadster not only delivers more output and torque, it also impresses with numerous technical highlights from the Mercedes-AMG GT R for even more dynamic performance than the AMG GT Roadster. The AMG GT C Roadster is distinguishable from the AMG GT Roadster by virtue of its wide, muscular tail end and large wheels. Other technical measures include the wider rear track and active rear-wheel steering.

The GT C Roadster furthermore features a lithium-ion battery and comes complete with a highly exclusive specification, with standard equipment and appointments including a nappa leather interior, the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber and the additional RACE mode.

Technical data at a glance:

* Curb weight according to DIN, without driver; ** Curb weight according to EC, with driver (75 kg)

From the expressive AMG Panamericana grille to the long bonnet and the muscular tail end, the two-seater guarantees a pure sports car experience even when stationary. The striking AMG Panamericana grille underlines the motor racing heritage: 15 chrome-plated, vertical bars echo the look of the current Mercedes-AMG GT3 customer sports racing car. The new front apron emphasizes the car's width and gives it a road-hugging appearance. The large outer air inlets guarantee the supply of cooling air to the engine.

The LED High Performance headlamps offer more safety at night and an unmistakably sporty and distinctive look. Thanks to LED technology, they illuminate the road more effectively than conventional headlamps – with lower energy consumption.

The two AMG Roadster variants have adopted a special technical highlight from the AMG GT R: the AIRPANEL active air management system. Vertical louvers located in the lower area of the front apron can be opened and closed by an electric motor in around one second. This ensures that the cooling performance is according to need. Constantly achieving the ideal position calls for highly intelligent and fast control.

During normal driving with no increased cooling demand, the louvers are closed for reduced drag and the air is directed at the underbody. Only when certain components reach predefined temperatures and the air demand is particularly high do the louvers open to allow the maximum cooling air flow to the heat exchangers.

Viewed from the side, the pronounced shoulder is suggestive of a tensed muscle, and enhances the impression of sheer power and dynamism in combination with the new AMG light-alloy wheels.

Muscular with an emphasis on width: the tail end design

Tail end design

The tail end also features numerous, conspicuous innovations. The new aluminum side walls of the AMG GT C Roadster widen the open-top two-seater by 57 millimeters compared with the AMG GT Roadster. This is exactly the width of the AMG GT R. Compared with the AMG GT Roadster, the muscular form also creates space for the larger wheels and a wider track. Both measures increase the traction while allowing higher cornering speeds.

The likewise wider contours of the AMG GT C Roadster's rear apron also improve the airflow at the rear with their large outer air vents. Both Roadster variants feature an aerofoil integrated into the boot lid. This is electrically extended and retracted at defined speeds, depending on the selected transmission mode.

The AMG GT Roadster comes as standard with 9.0 J x 19 (front) and 11.0 J x 19 (rear) 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in vanadium silver with 255/35 R 19 front tires and 295/35 R 19 rear tires. The AMG GT C Roadster runs on 265/35 R 19 front tires and 305/30 R 20 rear tires mounted on 9.0 J x 19 (front) and 12.0 J x 20 (rear) 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish.

Fully automatic: the weight-optimized fabric soft top

The three-layer fabric soft top opens and closes fully automatically at the push of a button in around eleven seconds, and can do this when driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h. The three soft-top colors black, red and beige can be chosen to suit the eleven exterior and ten interior colors. The roof is supported by a lightweight magnesium/steel/aluminum structure, which helps to keep the Centre of gravity low. Additional roll-over protection is provided by an integrated aluminum cross-member, while the inserted acoustic mat reduces the noise level.

Greater rigidity and low weight: the bodywork

Various aluminum alloys are used for the spaceframe and body of the new Roadster models, while the front deck is made of magnesium. This extremely light element at the front reduces the inertia ahead of the front axle, thus improving agility.

The already rigid bodyshell structure has been specifically reinforced further to take account of the car's design as a roadster, including side skirts with thicker walls and more chambers, for instance. The dashboard support is braced against the windscreen surround by additional struts, and a strut tower brace between the soft top and the tank reinforces the rear axle. A cross-member behind the seats supports the fixed roll-over protection system.

Innovative material combination for the boot lid

The boot lid is particularly lightweight thanks to an innovative composite material. The load-bearing structure is of SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) bonded with carbon fibers. These high-tech plastics excel with their lightweight design, high strength and outstanding surface quality. The innovative materials were developed by the Mercedes-Benz TEC factory in Sindelfingen, and brought to production maturity together with the AMG specialists in Affalterbach. This material combination is used for the first time in the new AMG Roadsters.

The AMG lightweight construction experts have also used an intelligent material mix for the so-called wheel-catching struts made of a composite material. 50 percent lighter than the equivalent in steel, these composite components help to guide the front wheels onto the side members as part of the intended crash kinematics in an accident, and to hold them there.

The interior design echoes the design lines of the exterior. The dashboard places a firm emphasis on width, creating the impression of a powerful wing. The high beltlines, concave door panels, dynamically rising Centre console and low seat position perfectly integrate the driver into the cockpit. The new, light-colored interior in macchiato beige STYLE Exclusive nappa leather is available for the first time, lending the open-top sports car even more individuality and exclusivity.

Airscarf keeps your neck warm so you don't realize just how darn cold you are

The optionally available AMG Performance seats provide even more lateral support with more heavily contoured backrest and seat cushion side bolsters. For the first time the AMG Performance seats are also optionally available with the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, which makes open-air driving enjoyable even in low outside temperatures. AIRSCARF is likewise optionally available for the standard-fit AMG sports seats. The air vent is seamlessly integrated into the seat's head restraint area. To meet the individual preferences of customers, the temperature of the warm airflow can be set in three stages.

Customers wishing to enjoy comfortable temperatures even on very hot summer days can also opt for the seat climate control, which is also available exclusively for the AMG Performance seats for the first time. The intensity of the acclimatization can also be set in three stages.

The optional draught-stop between the roll-over bars provides effective protection from draughts for the neck and rear of the head. It directs undesirable air swirl above the passengers and therefore also reduces wind noise. The transparent polycarbonate design blends in elegantly with the car's silhouette.

Impressive sound in the interior: External Coupled Subwoofer

The Burmester surround sound system and the Burmester high-end surround sound system ensure a very special musical experience in the AMG GT Roadster and AMG GT C Roadster. Both systems benefit from the innovative External Coupled Subwoofer (ECS). This new bass sound reproduction system with an extremely low bass range turns the open two-seater into a mobile concert stage.

Instead of a subwoofer box of limited dimensions, ECS uses the entire interior as a woofer. This is made possible by a special aperture in the right rear wheel arch. The subwoofer is connected to the bodyshell via this aperture, transmitting the impressive sound.

With the AMG GT C Roadster, Mercedes-AMG is introducing a further output rating of the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, thereby underlining the exclusive character of the new model. At 410 kW (557 hp), the peak output is 35 kW (47 hp) above that of the AMG GT S and 20 kW (28 hp) below the Mercedesâ€'AMG GT R. The maximum torque of 680 Nm is available from 1900 to 5750 rpm. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is absolved in 3.7 seconds, and this fulminating acceleration continues until the top speed of 316 km/h is reached. The AMG GT Roadster has an output of 350 kW (476 hp) and a torque of 630 Nm. This variant accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, and has a top speed of 302 km/h.

The eight-cylinder engine thrills with its immediate response, a linear, finely controllable power delivery and powerful acceleration in all rpm ranges. The AMG 4.0-liter V8 comes with well-proven twin turbocharging, with the two chargers not located outside on the cylinder banks, but rather between them in the V of the cylinders. The advantages of the "hot inner V" are a compact engine design, spontaneous response from the turbochargers and lower exhaust emissions thanks to optimum air flow for the close-coupled catalytic converters.

Also adapted: the dual-clutch transmission

The developers have also adapted the seven-speed dual clutch transmission in a transaxle arrangement at the rear axle to the new power level of the Mercedesâ€'AMG GT C Roadster by modifying the hardware and software. The first gear of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission has a higher ratio, while seventh gear and the final drive have a lower ratio. This makes for even more agile acceleration and very fast responses to sudden accelerator movements.

The driver is able to set the AMG GT Roadster to his/her individual requirements using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT Controller. The three transmission modes "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport Plus) and the individually programmable set-up "I" (Individual) allow a broad range of driving experiences from comfortable to very sporty.

Key parameters are modified – such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, ESP and system.

"Comfort" is the well-balanced transmission mode with a comfort-oriented suspension and steering set-up, as well as a fuel-efficient powertrain configuration and early upshifts – including smooth gear changes and a discreet engine sound. ECO start/stop function and coasting function activated: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range from 60 to 160 km/h, the engine is disengaged from the drive system. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idling level, and motion resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.

The DYNAMIC SELECT "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes are designed for high vehicle dynamics. This results from an agile accelerator pedal characteristic with direct set-up and emotively appealing shift operations with shortened shift times and double-clutching function on downshifts. The increased idle speed in "Sport Plus" mode additionally enables the vehicle to move off particularly quickly while ensuring faster acceleration from rest.

"RACE" mode is additionally available for the Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster. This mode optimally adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of the race track – including very fast shift speeds and a highly emotive engine sound.

By pressing the separate "M" button in the Centre console, the driver can activate the manual transmission mode in any drive mode to change gear using the steering-wheel shift paddles. The suspension set-ups can also be selected if desired.

Pure sound: the AMG Performance exhaust system

Cockpit

The AMG GT C Roadster is equipped with the AMG Performance exhaust system as standard to produce an even more emotive sound experience. Two variably adjustable flaps modulate the exhaust note of the Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster authentically and directly. The flaps open and close depending on the selected AMG DRIVE SELECT mode, although they can also be controlled individually using a separate button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In the "Comfort" and "Sport" settings, the low-frequency sound typical of a V8 is designed for comfort. In "Sport Plus" and "RACE" modes, meanwhile, the sound composition is far more emotive. The variable AMG Performance exhaust system is also available as an option for the Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster.

RACE START now even easier

The RACE START function in the AMG GT C Roadster has new, greatly simplified control logic: in Sport, Sport Plus or RACE mode, all the driver has to do is press the brake pedal forcefully with their left foot and simultaneously fully depress the accelerator pedal with their right foot.

The on-board electronics will then set the optimum engine speed. Depending on requirements or the road surface conditions, the engine speed can be increased or lowered in a certain range by activating the shift paddles. If the driver now takes their foot off the brake pedal, the AMG GT C Roadster will accelerate from rest with optimal traction. The AMG GT C Roadster then completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds.

The AMG GT Roadster takes 4.0 seconds to do this and does not feature the simplified RACE START control logic.