Mercedes-AMG GT S launched in Malaysia
The Mercedes-AMG GT, only the second ever car to be developed fully in-house by the AMG division, is officially launched in Malaysia. It is not a direct replacement of the now-discontinued SLS AMG, although like Affalterbach’s first in-house effort, the GT is not derived from a mainstream Mercedes-Benz model.
“The new Mercedes-AMG GT S is a sports car in its purest form. Breathtaking proportions, powerfully sculpted surfaces and flowing lines turn the new AMG into a contemporary sports car which embodies the spirit of the glorious Mercedes sports cars. It is a consummate combination of beauty and intelligence,” said Mark Raine, Vice President, Passenger Car Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Globally, two variants of the GT exist, and they are both powered by the new 4.0-litre M178 bi-turbo V8 in two different states of tune – 462hp/600Nm and 510hp/650Nm. Only the latter version is being launched in Malaysia for the moment powering the more potent GT S version with the 462hp ‘base’ GT model to follow at a later date.
Derived from the 2.0-litre four-pot used in the “45” models, AMG’s new V8 has both its turbochargers mounted inside its V for a more compact engine design whilst optimizing air flow. It also employs dry-sump lubrication, which enables the engine to be mounted lower, thus lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity.
A 7-speed dual clutch transaxle helps put the engine’s power down to the road. Balancing against the engine’s weight up front, the rear-mounted transmission helps the AMG GT achieve a 47:53 front/rear weight distribution. Inside the transmission’s housing is an electronically-controlled rear-axle locking differential allowing increased cornering speeds at the limits.
Official Mercedes literature quotes an electronically-limited top speed of 310kph for the GT S with 3.8 seconds needed to complete the century sprint. It is said to meet Euro 6 emission standards with fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions quoted at 9.4 l/100km and 219 g/km respectively.
A palette of advanced materials make up the GT’s construction. Over 90 percent of its weight-optimized spaceframe is made of aluminium with various light alloys, steel, and magnesium included in the mix in other parts of the body and structure. At the four corners, suspension consist of all-round double wishbones with arms manufactured entirely from forged aluminium; electronic dampers are standard in GT S spec as sold in Malaysia.
On-the-road pricing of the Mercedes-AMG GT S with GST before insurance starts at RM1.15 million. For an additional RM50,000, buyers can upgrade themselves to the limited ‘Edition 1′ trim which adds a special black-finished aerodynamic package, carbon fibre roof, Exterior Night package, and staggered-size 10-spoke alloy wheels measuring 19 inches up front and 20 inches at the rear. Inside, ‘Edition 1′ models also get niceties such as black nappa leather trim with red contrast stitching, performance seats, interior Black Diamond package, and performance steering wheel.
Pictures: Official Mercedes-Benz release.
