What's all this about?

You're looking at the most extreme version of the Mercedes-AMG GT yet. It's called the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series and, along with having an enormous rear wing, it's dripping in carbon fibre and is powered by the most powerful V8 the company has ever fitted to a production car.

Hang on, what is Black Series?

The Black Series designation is one that AMG places on its most high-performance models. It's not a title that it doles out lightly either. To be a Black Series model, it must be a two-seater, a hardtop and represent the most extreme variant of its kind. The last time such a model received the status was back in 2006.

Tell me about that engine.

Powering the new GT Black Series is a version of Mercedes-AMG's 4.0-litre biturbo V8. The unit may seem like a familiar configuration, but so much has been modified that it gains a new 'M 178 LS2' engine code. The dry sump engine produces a phenomenal 730hp at 6,700-6,900rpm and churns out 800Nm of torque from 2,000-6,000rpm. Inside, there are new camshafts and a flat-plane crank that results in a characteristic firing order of 1-8-2-7-4-5-3-6. In case you were wondering.

So how fast is it?

According to Mercedes-AMG, the GT Black Series has a top speed of 202mph. Just as impressive is the car's ability to sprint from 0-62mph in 3.2 seconds and onto 124mph in under nine seconds. Power is sent rearwards via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and to improve performance and save weight the car uses a carbon fibre torque tube and driveshaft to connect the engine and rear transaxle.

Sounds pretty special, what else does it have?

As we mentioned, the GT Black Series will be easy to differentiate from the other GT models thanks to that massive rear wing. It's not merely for show, as it incorporates an upper blade that is electronically adjustable through 20 degrees of attack depending on the drive mode selected. At its optimum angle, and at 155mph, it can generate 400kg of downforce. Elsewhere, wider sills (also in carbon fibre) and an aggressive front splitter contribute to the car's rather menacing look.

What about the interior?

Keeping the carbon fibre theme running, the bucket race seats are made from the light black stuff and upholstered in a blend of Dinamica microfibre and Nappa leather. To shave eight, the door cards are new and feature fabric loops for pull handles. Optionally, buyers can also specify an AMG Track Package that adds four-point harnesses, a fire extinguisher and titanium roll cage.

Anything else?

Tobias Moers, the outgoing Chairman of the Board at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, said: "The new GT Black Series is our latest automotive highlight and continues a tradition established in 2006. The sixth version of its kind is another AMG milestone and impressive proof of the incredible development expertise in Affalterbach. I am proud of the team who have created a unique super sports car, which now represents the absolute peak of our successful GT family. The performance, looks and driving dynamics of the GT Black Series are second to none. This project was a fantastic end to my work at AMG, for which I am truly thankful."

Dave Humphreys - 14 Jul 2020