Yahoo Autos 2017 Mercedes-AMG GT R: Going from Grand Tourer to Track Monster
What It Is: A track-devouring version of the already ravenous AMG GT, with more power, a revamped chassis, and a wider body with unique front and rear treatments and a prominent rear wing.
Why It Matters: In the mold of the previous gullwing SLS, which went through similar iterations, the AMG GT R will transform the GT from sporty grand tourer into a large and somewhat-heavy supercar. The GT R is the first of what’s expected to be an almost annual series of special models over the GT’s seven-year life span.
Platform: Like the base model, the GT R will be built on the aluminum platform that is an evolution of the SLS architecture.
Powertrain: The GT R will receive an upgraded version of Mercedes-AMG’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 with around 550 horsepower. Future special editions likely will top 600 horsepower.
Competition: Acura NSX, Audi R8 V-10, Ferrari 488GTB, Lamborghini Huracán, McLaren 570S, Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
What Might Go Wrong: Nothing whatsoever. In fact, the only thing that could go wrong is AMG not doing these high-performance derivatives and letting its sporty cars go stale. But rest assured that something so tragic wouldn’t happen. AMG can sell every GT R it cares to produce.
Estimated Arrival and Price: The GT R will be unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in June; prices will approach $200K.
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