Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16: The Pinnacle of AMG Customer Racing

Mercedes-AMG has pushed its GT program to new extremes with the GT2 Edition W16, a track-only special built to showcase the brand’s engineering mastery and its Formula 1 ties. Produced in a strictly limited run of 30 examples worldwide, this machine is the most powerful AMG GT customer racing car ever created, blending raw V8 performance with lightweight construction and motorsport-proven aerodynamics.

Engine and Performance: Pure Power with Push2Pass

At the core of the GT2 Edition W16 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, assembled by hand to AMG’s “One Man, One Engine” philosophy. Unlike AMG’s road-legal cars, this powertrain is free from homologation constraints, allowing engineers to go all-in on performance.

• Standard output: 720 horsepower

• Push2Pass function: Activated from the steering wheel, delivers an extra 98 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque

• Peak figures: 818 horsepower and 738 lb-ft

This makes the GT2 Edition W16 the most powerful GT-class race car Mercedes-AMG has built. While the AMG One hypercar produces more overall horsepower, the GT2 Edition W16’s significantly lower mass gives it an even sharper performance profile.

Summary Table

Lightweight Advantage and Ratios

Weighing just 1,430 kilograms (3,153 pounds), the GT2 Edition W16 demonstrates AMG’s focus on power-to-weight optimization.

• Power-to-weight ratio: 3.85 lb/hp (1.7 kg/hp)

This puts it ahead of heavier but more powerful AMG flagships like the AMG One (3,737 lb) and AMG GT 63 S E-Performance (5,507 lb). On paper, this lightweight philosophy gives the Edition W16 explosive acceleration and cornering potential.

Aerodynamics and Top Speed

The aerodynamics package is heavily inspired by Formula 1 technology. A Drag Reduction System (DRS) flattens the rear wing and closes active louvres, minimizing drag and boosting straight-line pace.

• Top speed: Claimed at over 199 mph (320 km/h)

Additional aero elements include a reworked front diffuser, carbon spoiler lip, optimized mirrors, and functional louvers above the front wheels. Combined, these enhancements strike a balance between maximum downforce and reduced drag.

Chassis and Driving Dynamics

The GT2 Edition W16’s drivetrain and suspension were designed with professional motorsport in mind:

• Transmission: Six-speed sequential transaxle at the rear

• Connection: Carbon fiber torque tube linking engine to gearbox

• Suspension: Four-way adjustable dampers and four-stage anti-roll bars

• Brakes: 15.4-inch front discs, 14-inch rear discs, adjustable brake bias

These systems provide the adaptability required for different track conditions and driver preferences, ensuring precision handling.

Design and Livery

The Edition W16’s appearance is unmistakably tied to Mercedes-AMG’s Formula 1 team:

• Exterior finish: Hand-painted star pattern

• Highlights: Emerald-green PETRONAS detailing, referencing the F1 car’s livery

• Track presence: Carbon lip spoiler, sculpted diffuser, and racing-focused proportions

This visual identity cements the Edition W16 as not just a racing machine, but a symbol of AMG’s motorsport pedigree.

Cockpit and Details

Inside, the focus remains on function without sacrificing exclusivity:

• Materials: Matte carbon fiber dominates the cabin, accented with emerald green highlights

• Steering wheel: Cube Controls racing unit, derived from Formula 1 cockpits

• Personalization: Each car features a “1 of 30” badge and door sills signed by Kimi Antonelli, AMG’s rising motorsport star

The result is a cockpit designed for serious driving while offering touches that reflect its rarity.

Safety and Track Equipment

Safety is paramount in customer racing, and AMG equips the GT2 Edition W16 accordingly:

• Carbon safety cell

• Five-point harness system

• Roll cage and fire suppression

• Extrication hatch for emergencies

Owners also receive track gear: an AMG PETRONAS-styled racing suit by OMP and a Bell helmet, mirroring the equipment used in Formula 1.

Ownership and Delivery

Mercedes-AMG is making the Edition W16 ownership experience as exclusive as the car itself:

• Production: Limited to 30 cars

• Price: €679,000 before taxes (about $790,000-$800,000)

• Delivery: At a private European track event, including on-track driving sessions and a meet-and-greet with the AMG Formula 1 team

• Support: U.S. customers are fully supported with technical services, driver mentoring, and an online portal for parts and assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the AMG GT2 Edition W16 road-legal?

A. No, it is built exclusively for track use and is not homologated for public roads.

Q: Why is it called W16 if it has a V8 engine?

A. The “W16” name refers to Mercedes-AMG’s Formula 1 racing car designation, not the engine configuration.

Q: How many cars will be made?

A. Only 30 cars will be produced worldwide.

Q: What makes it different from the standard AMG GT2?

A. It features more power, lower weight, F1-derived aerodynamics with DRS, and exclusive ownership perks.

Q: How will buyers take delivery?

A. Each buyer will receive their car at a dedicated European track event, paired with an exclusive racing experience.

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