This is the Mercedes-AMG GT3, a race car that will debut at the Geneva Motor Show before it takes on other FIA GT3-approved race thoroughbreds.
A 6.3-litre V8 borrowed from the SLS AMG GT3 powers the AMG GT3, which will start being shipped to race teams from the end of 2015. A six-speed sequential gearbox ensures gear changes are snappy.
Mercedes has based the AMG GT3 on the AMG GT down to its lightweight aluminium spaceframe. There are, however, significant differences between the road and track car, including a sizable rear spoiler, increased width, side exhaust, larger air intakes and various other aerodynamic revisions.
It also has a carbon fibre seat pan and high-tensile steel rollcage to keep the driver safe, while the engine cover, doors, front wing, front and rear aprons, sidewalls, side skirts, diffuser, boot lid and rear aerofoil are all made from carbon fibre to save weight.
The standard AMG GT has a hand-built 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that develops 462hp, giving it a 0 to 62mph time of 3.8 seconds. The SLS AMG GT V8 develops 540hp and is likely to have a similar output in the AMG GT3.
Exactly what performance difference the revisions make to the AMG GT3 is unclear, but it sure does make the car look a whole lot more menacing – and probably a great deal more expensive.
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