- Mercedes-AMG has introduced the new GT2 Edition W16, which costs $790,435.
- The customer racing car features a unique design and improved aerodynamics.
- Power comes from an upgraded twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 producing up to 818 hp.
Mercedes-AMG has introduced their most powerful customer racing car, known as the GT2 Edition W16. It draws inspiration from their Formula One racer and is limited to 30 units.
Billed as a “further development” of the GT2, the W16 is bound to draw attention thanks to its colorful livery as well as hand-painted star pattern that wraps around the rear end. The model also features 18-inch center locking magnesium wheels with green accents, just like the F1 race car.
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The upgrades aren’t just cosmetic as the W16 has an assortment of aerodynamic styling tweaks. Key among them is a larger front splitter, unique mirrors, a carbon fiber rear lip, and active louvres above the front wheels. The car also has a Drag Reduction System, which closes the louvres and folds the rear wing flat to allow for a top speed in excess of 199 mph (320 km/h).
Moving inside, drivers will find a new steering wheel, emerald-green accents, and matte carbon fiber trim. They’re accompanied by a “1 of 30” badge on the center console as well as Kimi Antonelli’s signature on the door sill plates. Since this is a race car, the model also has a carbon fiber safety cell, safety nets, a fire extinguishing system, an emergency hatch, and a five-point harness.
Because the GT2 Edition W16 isn’t homologated, engineers didn’t have to deal with restrictions. This enabled them to install an upgraded twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 producing up to 818 hp (610 kW / 830 PS) and 737 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque. That’s 121 hp (90 kW / 122 PS) more than the regular model and this was achieved by using new turbochargers and revised electronics.
Speaking of which, the car has a unique Push2Pass function that temporarily increases boost pressure. This, in turn, increases the output by 98 hp (73 kW / 100 PS) and 271 lb-ft (200 Nm) of torque.
The engine is connected to a six-speed sequential racing transmission with modified gear ratios. They’re joined by a carbon fiber torque tube and a track-focused suspension, which has adjustable shocks and stabilizers.
To make the car even more special, the GT2 Edition W16 will be delivered at a European racetrack and buyers will be treated to an “in-depth vehicle briefing” as well as track time. They’ll also get to meet drivers and senior members of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.
The latter is a cool experience by itself and it should be as pricing starts at €679,000 ($790,435 / £588,852). That’s pretty steep, but Mercedes also throws in a car cover as well as a racing suit and helmet inspired by the ones used in Formula One.
