The new Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster

Mercedes-AMG is combining motorsport technology and the freedom of open-air driving with the introduction of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster. Limited to just 750 units globally, the AMG GT R Roadster addresses an exclusive clientele who are looking for a comfortable ride, but are unwilling to forego the unparalleled performance of a Mercedes-AMG. Featuring a 577 hp V8 biturbo engine, adjustable coil-over suspension, active rear axle steering and intelligent lightweight construction, the AMG GT R Roadster is a dynamic update to the ever expanding AMG GT model family.

With this latest addition, the AMG GT offering for Canada grows to 10 members: three two-door coupes, two roadsters, three 4-door coupes, and two customer sports racing cars. “The new AMG GT R Roadster is far more than the combination of the thrilling vehicle dynamics of the GT R and the special flair of our GT Roadsters. It is the essence of two worlds blending to deliver our brand pledge; Driving Performance, in a very special way. With our GT R Roadster, we have without a doubt developed a brand-defining sports car. It embodies Mercedes-AMG in form, function and vehicle dynamics and enriches our GT family with a highly exclusive variant limited to 750 units,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management for Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The 4.0 litre V8 biturbo AMG engine in the AMG GT R Roadster delivers an output of 577 hp and maximum torque of 516 lb-ft over speeds ranging from 2100 to 5500 rpm. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 317 km/h.

Wants to stay ahead even at a standstill: the exterior design

A low-slung front section and an inclined AMG-specific radiator grille give the AMG GT R Roadster an aggressive “shark nose” look. This shape lowers the vehicle’s back pressure point, enhancing the flow of cooling air and improving the car’s aerodynamic performance.

Standard-fit LED High Performance headlamps with a unique light signature grace the front of the vehicle and immediately mark the AMG GT R Roadster as a member of the AMG GT family. A tri-functional, arched light guide functions as the daytime running light, navigation light, and turn signals. A multi-chamber reflector system that includes three single reflectors not only ensures optimal illumination of the road, it also gives the AMG GT R Roadster a sporty, dynamic look.

A jet-wing designed front apron and a large front splitter emphasize the car’s width. The large outer air inlets of the front apron sport two aerodynamically shaped horizontal fins which deliver an increased supply of cooling air to the engine. Air Curtains on the outside of the front apron calm the airflow, and improve the Cd value of the open top two seater. In addition, these Air Curtains guide airflow towards the wheel arches, ensuring optimal flow. The AMG GT R Roadster features unique wheel arch liners with special air-cooling slits that specifically direct air to the double wheel arch radiators.

Not at all aloof: active aerodynamics profile for more precise handling and better road adhesion

An active aerodynamics system is housed within the underbody in front of the engine. Weighing around two kilograms, this carbon-fibre element is speed-sensitive and automatically extends by 40 millimetres depending on the drive program. This process changes the airflow, resulting in what is known as the Venturi effect, which “sucks” the car onto the road and reduces front-axle lift by around 40 kilograms at 250 km/h. As a result, the AMG GT R Roadster can be steered more precisely when cornering at high speeds as it exhibits even better directional stability.

When the electrically operated aerodynamic element is extended, the radiator’s air outlets open, and redirect airflow towards a double-rear diffuser. This improves the handling stability of the rear axle while reducing the temperature level of potential hotspots on the rear of the vehicle.

Airy from the front too: the AIRPANEL active air management system

The standard AIRPANEL active air regulation system is another technical highlight. Vertical louvres at the bottom of the front apron are opened and closed electronically by means of an electric motor to regulate the amount of cooling. During normal driving, the louvres are closed for reduced drag and the air is directed towards the underbody, improving aerodynamic efficiency. The louvres only open when the air demand is high and certain components reach predefined temperatures, allowing for the maximum amount of cool air to flow directly to the heat exchangers.  

Take a look at me from the side: flat and sleek proportions

The front wings made of super-light carbon add to the width of the roadster at the front and make room for wider track and large wheel/tire combinations. These powerfully sculpted wings further emphasize the vehicle’s longitudinal profile. A special wing signet, featuring a fin and large air outlet that allows for heat to escape from the engine bay adds a distinguishing element to the AMG GT R Roadster’s design.

Standard-fit AMG Performance forged wheels in matte black contribute to the vehicle’s dynamic look. These lightweight, 10-spoke wheels are exclusive to AMG GT R models. Featuring a highly elaborate design that includes a drop-centre rim, a milled groove and two high-sheen rim rings of different width, the lightweight design of the wheels reduce the overall weight of the vehicle.  

Broadening out: special rear end design for more cornering speed

The Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster benefits from the wide design of the rear apron, which features large outer vent openings, vertical swage lines, and a double diffuser that all contribute to improved airflow. 

A small air outlet incorporated between the tail lamps dissipates the heat generated by the rear silencer. A large exhaust tip, centrally positioned in the rear apron, is flanked by two more black tail pipes on the left and right of the diffuser.

The large rear wing supports a third brake lamp, and is fixed to the lid of the trunk, increasing the downforce on the rear axle. The angle of the rear wing can be mechanically precision-adjusted depending on the application of the vehicle or the condition of the racetrack.

Cap covering the face: the fabric soft top

A three-layered fabric soft top, supported by lightweight magnesium/steel/aluminum structure, helps to keep the vehicle’s centre of gravity low. An inserted acoustic mat reduces road noise.  

Tailor-made suit for the fashion-conscious: the cockpit

The interior design of the AMG GT R Roadster echoes the design lines of the exterior. The dashboard is especially wide, and creates the impression of a powerful wing. High beltlines, door trims that feature a concave design, a dynamic rising centre console, and a low seat position seamlessly integrate the driver into the cockpit.  

With a scarf and cooled cushions: AMG Performance seats

The AMG GT R Roadster comes equipped with AMG Performance seats in Exclusive STYLE nappa leather as standard. These performance-oriented seats offer strong lateral support with their more deeply contoured side bolsters on the seat surface and backrest. The neck-level heating AIRSCARF is standard, making open-air driving a pleasure even at low temperatures. Seamlessly integrated into the head restraint, AIRSCARF can be adjusted to supply air in three stages.

With standard climate control seats, drivers will enjoy comfortable seat temperatures even on very hot summer days.

Just the touch of a finger away: display buttons in the centre console

The innovative, coloured display buttons housed in the V-shaped centre console integrate the display and control of the transmission logic, suspension, ESP, exhaust system, aerodynamics profile and start/stop function into one unit. Leveraging TFT technology, the display buttons use easily recognizable symbols to display functions, and are easy to operate with just a small tap of the finger. The display buttons are supplemented by two rocker switches for the drive programs and volume control of the audio system.

Control in an instant: the AMG Performance Steering wheel

The AMG GT R Roadster comes equipped with the new AMG Performance steering wheel as standard. Characterized by its athletic design, the intuitive AMG Performance steering wheel sports a flattened bottom section with a heavily contoured rim. The steering wheel rim is completely covered in DINAMICA microfibre. Two galvanized gearshift paddles flank the steering wheel and allow for an even sportier driving style with the possibility of manual gear shifting. The integrated Touch Control buttons on either side of the steering wheel face can be used to control the functions of the digital dash cluster and multimedia display.

The AMG Performance Steering wheel also includes a round controller with an integrated display, as well as two vertically positioned coloured display buttons with switches. The AMG drive programs and AMG TRACTION CONTROL can be controlled via the right-hand controller.

The two vertical display buttons and additional switches on the left-hand side enable further AMG functions to be controlled directly via the steering wheel. Drivers can fully concentrate on the road as their hands no longer need to leave the steering wheel in order to toggle functions. 

No need to fear the scales: intelligent lightweight construction for high agility

Mercedes-AMG uses an intelligent mix of material in order to achieve a low gross vehicle weight. Aluminum alloys are utilized for the chassis and body, and magnesium for the front deck. This combination reduces the inertia ahead of the front axle, improving the vehicle’s agility. The load-bearing structure of the boot lid is comprised of SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound) which is bonded with carbon fibre.

The lightweight, optimized spaceframe is made of die-cast, extruded aluminum sections that enable extreme linear and transverse forces from the drivetrain and suspension to be absorbed and transferred. Unwanted flexibility is reduced, with the vehicle responding precisely and directly.

Light and strong: Materials from motor racing

A host of further measures contribute to the overall weight reduction strategy. Light and strong carbon fibre can be found in the front wings and the torque tube between the engine and transmission.

Weighing in at just 13.9 kilograms, the carbon fibre torque tube is about 40 percent lighter than its aluminium counterpart in the AMG GT. As a structural component of the transaxle drivetrain, it creates a connection between the engine and the transmission with extreme flexural and torsional stiffness. It permits a very direct connection of the drivetrain that is favourable to driving dynamics and also plays a role in the vehicle's balanced weight distribution.

Further weight advantages come from the standard-fit forged wheels, the titanium rear silencer and fewer soundproofing materials.

Will not warp: Carbon tunnel brace

The carbon tunnel brace stiffens the body of the AMG GT R Roadster considerably, enabling it to withstand the high torsional loads that occur during powerful acceleration. The carbon tunnel braces the two vehicle sides against one another, which increases the torsional rigidity by 7.5 percent.  

Two diagonal braces embedded in the engine bay stiffen the front end of the vehicle. These braces are composed of carbon fibre and represent weight savings of about 50 percent in comparison to frequently used steel components.  

Revs up fast: the AMG 4.0 litre V8 biturbo engine

The 4.0 litre V8 biturbo AMG engine in the AMG GT R Roadster delivers an output of 577 hp and maximum torque of 516 lb-ft over speeds ranging from 2100 to 5500 rpm. In contrast to other AMG GT models, the AMG GT R Roadster benefits from exhaust turbochargers with modified compressor processing, smaller boost pressure control valve cells, and sharper engine management applications. Boost pressure has increased from 17.4 to 19.6 psi.

For optimal power output during high outside temperatures, Mercedes-AMG has leveraged indirect air-to-water intercooling. The intercoolers have a separate, two-stage low-temperature water circuit. The first cooler stage involves two parallel coolers in the left and right wheel arches. There is also a large cooler in the vehicle front. The combination of these cooling systems makes the vehicle cooling system particularly powerful.

Water flows through the downstream charge-air coolers and ensures that the intake air that is compressed and heated by the turbochargers is cooled down effectively before it enters the combustion chambers. Temperatures therefore remain low even under full load. Extremely short charge-air ducting makes for optimum responsiveness.

The combination of twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection with spray-guided combustion increases the thermodynamic efficiency and output of the engine. Particularly fast and precise piezo injectors spray the fuel at high pressure into the eight combustion chambers. Multiple injections occur on-demand, ensuring a homogeneous air/fuel mixture. The delivery of fuel is electronically controlled and fully variable for a fuel pressure between 1,450 and 2,900 psi.

The aluminum crankcase is produced using sand casting technology and features a closed-deck design. This ensures extreme strength at the lowest weight possible, and allows for high injection pressures of up to 2,030 psi. The NANOSLIDE® coating on the cylinder liners is far harder than conventional grey cast-iron liners and less susceptible to wear.

Four overhead camshafts control a total of 32 valves. Camshaft adjustment on the inlet and outlet side enables an excellent response and optimizes the gas cycle for each operating point.

The dry sump lubrication also guarantees consistent oil supply even at high lateral forces and allows the engine to be installed lower, thus moving the centre of gravity closer to the road.

Goosebump-inducing sound: the AMG Performance sports exhaust system

The AMG Performance exhaust system delivers genuine racing car driving sounds and also contributes to vehicle weight savings by six kilograms. With its special, hexagonal form, the large tailpipe tip centred in the rear apron underlines the car’s sporty motor-racing character. Two infinitely variable exhaust flaps contribute to the unique sound of the AMG GT R Roadster. These exhaust flaps open and close depending on the AMG DRIVE SELECT mode, and they can also be controlled via a separate button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In “Comfort” and “Sport” modes, the exhaust produces the low-frequency sound typical of a V8. In “Sport Plus” and “RACE” modes, the exhaust notes become more expressive.

Beautifully spontaneous: the agile dual-clutch transmission

AMG developers have made the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission configured in transaxle layout at the rear axle even more suitable for the racetrack. First gear in the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G has a longer ratio, while seventh gear and the final drive have shorter ratios to allow for a more spontaneous response and agile acceleration experience.

The Race Start function is even more impressive as a result of the increased starting revolutions, sensitive wheel slip control, and sport tires fit for the racetrack. Furthermore, the transmission cooling has been adapted to the tougher requirements of racing.

Tailor-made driving pleasure times six: the drive programs

Drivers can adjust the AMG GT R Roadster to suit their individual requirement via the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT gearshift paddle in the centre console or the AMG control buttons located on the steering wheel. They can choose from "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport plus", "RACE" and "Individual". The "RACE" mode adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of racetrack usage – very short shift speeds and highly emotive engine sounds are included. For manual shifting, drivers can activate the manual transmission mode by pressing the separate "M" button in the centre console.

As a feature of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, the AMG GT R Roadster also comes equipped with AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated driving dynamics regulation system expands the functions of ESP® (electronic stability program) to more efficiently distribute power at the rear axle. As a result, the car becomes even more agile at its highest stability. AMG DYNAMICS optimizes the transverse dynamics by a higher lateral acceleration, better traction and load change reactions.

Particularly remarkable: AMG DYNAMICS calculates how the vehicle will react. To do this, the system uses the available sensors that detect the speed, steering angle or the yaw rate. Based on the pilot-control principle, it is possible to anticipate the vehicle behaviour on the basis of the driver's actions and the data from the sensors. Drivers get a very authentic driving feel with high cornering dynamics, optimum traction, high stability, and predictable handling. This provides optimum support even for experienced drivers.

The different AMG DYNAMICS modes are named "Basic", "Advanced", "Pro" and "Master". The drive program selection indicated on the multimedia screen displays the new AMG DYNAMICS symbol with the relevant additional term instead of the previous ESP® symbol.

• "Basic" is assigned to the "Slippery" and "Comfort" drive programs. Here the AMG GT demonstrates exceptionally stable handling characteristics with high yaw damping.
• "Advanced" is activated in the "Sport" program. The AMG GT is then neutrally balanced. The lower yaw damping, lower steering angle requirement and enhanced agility support dynamic manoeuvres such as driving on winding country roads.
• “Pro” (abbreviation for “professional”) is part of the “Sport+” program. In “Pro” the driver receives even more assistance for dynamic driving manoeuvres while agility and precision are further enhanced when taking corners.
• "Master" is coupled with the RACE drive program. "Master" mode is aimed at drivers who want to experience dynamism and the driving enjoyment on closed-off circuits. "Master" offers an extremely neutral vehicle balance, low steer angle requirement and more agile steering. In this way, "Master" ensures maximum agility and fully exploits the dynamic potential.

Even the mounts adapt: the dynamic engine and transmission mounts

Dynamic engine and transmission mounts are standard in the AMG GT R Roadster. The engine and transmission mounts assume an important function in the case of transaxle design: soft mounts improve comfort by providing more effective noise and vibration decoupling. Handling and agility benefit from a generally stiffer mount set-up. Mercedes-AMG resolves these duelling objectives by leveraging dynamic mounts, which adjust stiffness continuously and almost instantaneously to the respective driving conditions and handling.

This function is performed by a special control unit, which identifies handling situations on the basis of CAN data. It is connected to the electronic limited-slip rear differential and ensures optimum balanced driving dynamics. AMG has gone a step further in the implementation of this technology: the engine and transmission mounts actuate independently of each other. This innovative solution provides a substantial improvement in driving precision and lateral dynamics.

Stays neatly on track: the chassis with uniball joint bearings

The chassis of the Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster has also been modified. Wishbones, steering knuckles, and hub carriers on the front and rear axle are manufactured entirely out of forged aluminum in order to reduce the unsprung masses. A double-wishbone concept positions the wheel firmly, with minimal elastic movements. The high camber and toe-in stability results in high-cornering speeds and also provides the driver with an optimum feel for the road when cornering at extreme limits.

The spherical uniball bearings on the lower wishbones of the rear axle are directly inspired by motorsport. They are significantly more wear-resistant than wishbone bushings and are designed to ensure the toe-in and camber do not change even under high loads. As a result, the AMG GT R Roadster can be driven with even more precision. In addition, the rear axle is fitted with a thicker tubular anti-roll bar. It has been adapted to the heightened driving dynamic requirements of the AMG GT R Roadster and saves weight due to its hollow design.

Star turn: AMG coil-over suspension with adaptive adjustable damping

As in the AMG GT R Coupe, specially developed AMG coil-over suspension are used in the open-top AMG GT R Roadster. The motorsport-like technology is combined with the AMG RIDE CONTROL which administers a continuously variable, adaptive damping system. The system is controlled electronically and adjusts the damping at each wheel automatically to suit the current driving situation, the current speed, and the road or racetrack surface.

The damping characteristics are modulated rapidly and precisely by two separate valves for both rebound and compression forces in the dampers. A harder damping rate will effectively reduce rolling movements. The continuously variable adjustment of the damping to suit the current speed ensures the best possible road contact and thus enhances safety even at high speeds.

The driver can also adjust the adaptive damping characteristics at the touch of a button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT or by using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three modes are available: "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport Plus". The purpose of each of the damping characteristics is clear: "Comfort" is the right choice for public roads; "Sport" is perfect for racetracks, and "Sport Plus" is ideal for more flat, modern Grand Prix circuits such as Hockenheim, as it enables the vehicle to convey a high degree of structural rigidity.

Conventional suspension measures include the wider front and rear track, as well as the standard-fit Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, of size 275/35 ZR 19 at the front and 325/30 ZR 20 at the rear. The racing tires approved for road use allow for faster lap times and up to 50 percent more mileage on the racetrack.

If you also steer from behind, you drive better: the active rear-wheel steering

With standard active rear-wheel steering, the new AMG GT R Roadster is even more sensitive to steering inputs. The system offers an ideal combination of agility and stability ‑ handling characteristics that are normally in direct conflict. Two steering actuators replace the conventional control arms on the rear axle. At the heart of the system are two electro-mechanical actuators (electric motors with jackscrew) that are not mechanically connected to the steering wheel. This "by-wire" system adjusts the rear wheels within a predefined operating map by means of electronic control. The maximum track angle change on the rear wheels is 1.5 degrees.

Up to a speed of 100 km/h, the rear wheels point in the opposite direction to the front wheels. The advantage is that the roadster is far more agile when steering into bends, resulting in even greater driving enjoyment and less steering effort. Further benefits include increased manoeuvrability and a smaller turning circle in everyday driving situations ‑ such as when turning or parking.

Once the vehicle exceeds speeds of 100 km/h, the system turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, resulting in a virtual lengthening of the wheelbase and improved handling stability. At the same time, the lateral force on the rear wheels builds up considerably faster upon a change in direction, thus speeding up the response to the steering. The active rear-wheel steering not only improves cornering, it also assists the driver in the event of sudden evasive manoeuvres and thus enhances active safety.  

Grip to the power of nine: AMG TRACTION CONTROL

In ESP OFF mode, AMG TRACTION CONTROL enables the driver to exert even more influence on the handling characteristics of the AMG GT R Roadster. It allows drivers to pre-select the slip on the driven rear axle in nine levels. It isolates the grip on the driven wheels and does not affect the stabilization provided by the ESP®. Corresponding characteristic maps are programmed into the vehicle electronics.

Depending on the setting, the system permits more or less slip on the rear wheels, which is very helpful in varying road conditions. Level 1 is programmed for driving in wet conditions with high safety reserves. Level 9 allows maximum slip on the rear axle. The driver’s selected setting is shown in the display on the right-hand steering-wheel button and in the central display on the instrument cluster.

This AMG development has a major advantage over conventional systems in that it anticipates situations with the help of a virtual µ(mu) simulator and other data processed by a control unit within fractions of a second. The maximum permissible drive slip on the rear wheels is calculated depending on the selected AMG TRACTION CONTROL level. When the wheels reach this level of slip during acceleration, the traction control modulates the engine output so that this level is not exceeded and the vehicle continues accelerating with this specified slip. The effect of the electronic limited-slip differential is also included in the adjustment scope. This control therefore takes place without lag, further enhancing both driving enjoyment and performance.

Pushes the limit area right up: the locking differential

As standard, the AMG GT R Roadster is equipped with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the rear axle, which is integrated into the compact transmission housing. Its sensitive and fast control raises the critical limit of vehicle dynamics to a new level. It not only further improves the traction of the drive wheels, but also increases the critical cornering speed. The system operates with a variable locking effect in acceleration and overrun mode, and is perfectly tuned to various handling conditions and road friction coefficients.

Responds directly: speed-sensitive sports steering

The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable steering ratio, which enhances vehicle handling and agility at low speeds while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. The power assistance is a particular highlight: it responds not only to road speed, but also to lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. As a result, the driver has a perfect feel for the vehicle thanks to the direct feedback from the road.

Data at a glance

About Mercedes-Benz Canada
Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG passenger vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Vans and smart. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,200 people in 14 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of seven Mercedes-Benz own retail operations and 52 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 49,758 vehicles in 2018. This positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada for the fifth consecutive year.

For more information, please contact:

Sinead Brown                     416-847-7588                    sinead.brown@mercedes-benz.ca

Lucas Dias                             416-847-7449                    lucas.e.dias@mercedes-benz.ca

Further information from Mercedes-Benz is available at media.mercedes-benz.ca.