New Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO gets 612hp
Shhportiest version yet of V8-powered coupe 'is aimed at car enthusiasts'
You’ll likely recall that the old Mercedes-AMG GT went through many, many (many) iterations of trim, power and track focus as its maker attempted to squeeze every last bit of performance potential from its rear-drive sports car. While the second generation has a long way to go to rival a model that went from 462hp to 730hp (in Black Series format) it’s off to a flying start already with the new PRO derivative, which is ‘aimed at car enthusiasts who are looking for exceptional driving dynamics’.
That’s a somewhat odd boast when you consider that the run-of-the-mill GT already has 585hp and, based on its £164,905 asking price, is already aimed at people who quite like cars. But Michael Schiebe, Mercedes-AMG’s chairman, was on hand to clarify the new appeal: “If you're looking to not only enjoy your AMG GT on the road but also tackle some fast laps on the race track, the GT 63 PRO is the ideal choice.” So for anyone who thought the 3.2-second-to-62mph GT too undernourished for circuit work, here’s the answer.
Somewhat unsurprisingly, an additional 27hp doesn’t make the all-wheel-drive coupe quicker to 62mph - although apparently it is half a second faster to 124mph thanks to a 37lb ft increase in torque and tweaked aero - but the manufacturer has made other alterations meant to better serve it on track. Improved active cooling of the powertrain and brakes has been one focus, as was reducing front lift on the front axle to help refine the steering. The PRO also has additional air deflectors on the underbody to accelerate the airflow - and that new fixed rear wing which is said to increase downforce by around 15kg.
Moreover, Mercedes-AMG has opted for a standard ceramic composite brake system with six-piston calipers gripping 420mm discs on the front (the largest available to it), complemented by very fetching forged wheels. Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres are standard, but Cup 2Rs are available if you’re really serious about lap times. There is also a standard AMG Exterior Carbon Fibre pack for anyone serious about showing off. Of course, you’re going to have to be quite serious (or enthusiastic) about the PRO in a general sense because its six-figure price tag is likely to start with a two when it eventually makes it to the UK later this year.
You wanted [performance car] in 2000? Cool. You bought [performance car] and everyone recognised you as a person of discerning taste.
You want [performance car] in 2024? That'll be the S/Competition/Black/Pro/Performance then, Sir? Nobody with any self-respect would order just the basic [performance car], would they?
Sure, there might always have been special editions, but now there's a proliferation of 'just slightly better' series models aimed at upselling to gullible buyers who don't want to appear as if they've cheaped out.
After all, trundling to the golf club really demands those carbon brakes, trick dampers, and additional 20 kg of downforce at 124 mph, doesn't it?
All just my opinion, obviously. My kids think black wheels look awesome and silver wheels old fashioned…
You wanted [performance car] in 2000? Cool. You bought [performance car] and everyone recognised you as a person of discerning taste.
You want [performance car] in 2024? That'll be the S/Competition/Black/Pro/Performance then, Sir? Nobody with any self-respect would order just the basic [performance car], would they?
Sure, there might always have been special editions, but now there's a proliferation of 'just slightly better' series models aimed at upselling to gullible buyers who don't want to appear as if they've cheaped out.
After all, trundling to the golf club really demands those carbon brakes, trick dampers, and additional 20 kg of downforce at 124 mph, doesn't it?
I also remember when Mercedes had a recognisable style and philosophy, instead of aping Porsche.
I even remember when the inside of a Mercedes felt luxurious, warm, solid, expensive. Now (like many others, I’m afraid) they look like a mix between a war room from a bond movie and a German nightclub.
It may be just me, but I don’t see a single Mercedes in this generation that I would like to own, or even rent.
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