GT Racing meets Formula 1: the new Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16

• Most powerful Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing car
• Technology and design with references to the Mercedes-AMG F1 W16 E PERFORMANCE
• Formula 1® driver Kimi Antonelli is the prominent patron of the strictly limited edition
• Exclusive handover event with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team

Mercedes-AMG Motorsport portfolio expands

The Mercedes-AMG Motorsport portfolio is expanding to include a new, highly attractive model: the Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16. The comprehensive further development of the Mercedes-AMG GT2, unveiled at the end of 2022, combines the fundamental characteristics of the base model with technical and stylistic references to the current Mercedes-AMG F1 W16 E PERFORMANCE. Its outstanding power-to-weight ratio and numerous new aerodynamic components, such as the active louvres above the front wheels, a Push2Pass function and the integrated Drag Reduction System (DRS), make the GT2 Edition W16 the most powerful Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing car of all time.

The limited edition model combines exceptional performance potential of up to 830 hp (610 kW) with an exclusive design. The close visual connection to the current Formula 1 car is underlined by the signature of a well-known name on the door sill: Kimi Antonelli. The current driver of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team is the patron of the GT2 Edition W16, which is limited to 30 units. Designed for track day use, this collector’s item will be delivered in an exclusive setting on a European racetrack, including a meet & greet with some of the best-known members of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.

Most powerful Mercedes-AMG GT sports car and Push2Pass function

The Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 is not homologated. This means that it does not have to meet any racing series requirements or restrictions, allowing it to set new benchmarks for performance. Equipped with the striking 4.0-litre V8 biturbo from the base GT2 (707 hp/520 kW), the eight-cylinder engine has been optimised with new turbochargers and modified engine electronics. The result is a spectacular maximum output of 830 hp (610 kW). This makes the GT2 Edition W16 the most powerful GT vehicle ever built by Mercedes-AMG.

The Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 reaches its peak performance when the Push2Pass function is activated, which is another extra feature compared to the base model. When the driver presses the corresponding button on the multifunction steering wheel, the system temporarily increases the boost pressure. This provides an additional 100 hp (73 kW) and 200 Newton metres of torque. The maximum torque thus rises to 1000 Nm and the maximum output of 830 hp is achieved. In terms of power-to-weight ratio, the special edition model boasts an impressive figure of around 1.7 kg/hp. Thanks to its consistent lightweight construction, the GT2 Edition W16 has a weight of just 1,430 kilograms. The newly designed magnesium rims, which feature colour accents that create a visual link to the Formula 1® car, also contribute to the weight optimisation.

Proven Mercedes-AMG Motorsport transmission technology

The Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16’s power is transmitted via a sequential six-speed racing transmission with modified gear ratios. As with all Mercedes-AMG GT racing cars, the transmission is mounted on the rear axle in a transaxle configuration and connected to the engine via a carbon fibre torque tube for torsional rigidity and high torque transmission. The suspension features fully adjustable four-way motorsport shock absorbers. In addition, the stabilisers on the front and rear axles can be adjusted in four stages to suit the respective requirements.

New aerodynamic package with DRS

To achieve optimum vehicle balance, Mercedes-AMG has further refined the aerodynamic concept of the GT2 model and fine-tuned it in numerous test drives on a range of Formula 1® circuits. The result is several new components: active louvres above the front wheels, an enlarged front diffuser, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors and a carbon spoiler lip integrated into the boot lid. Like the Formula 1® car, the GT2 Edition W16 also features a Drag Reduction System (DRS). This technology reduces drag, enabling the top speed to increase to over 320 km/h. By touching a button on the intuitive multifunction steering wheel, the DRS closes the louvres and folds the rear wing into a flat position. The Push2Pass function can also be activated simultaneously or separately at the touch of a button.

Distinctive star pattern defines the design

The design of the Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 reflects its close ties to Formula 1®. The colour scheme and design elements carry the unmistakable hallmarks of the Mercedes-AMG F1 W16 E PERFORMANCE. A particularly striking feature is the hand-painted star pattern that wraps around the rear flanks of the edition model. The livery is completed by delicate emerald-green contrasting elements – the colour of the Mercedes F1 team’s title partner PETRONAS.

Kimi Antonelli is prominent patron

The exclusivity of the Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 continues in the interior. This starts with the door sill panels, which are hand-signed by Kimi Antonelli, one of the two current Mercedes-AMG F1 drivers. The young Italian, who also has valuable experience in GT Racing, is the renowned patron of the edition model. Its interior is dominated by matt carbon fibre surfaces. The seat, doors and centre console also feature accents in the PETRONAS colour. Compared to the GT2 base model, the CUBE CONTROLS steering wheel has been redesigned and its functionality improved. As a reference to the limited production run of the exclusive GT2 model, a ‘1 of 30’ badge is embedded in the centre console of each vehicle.

Proven safety at the highest level

Like the GT2 base model and all other Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing cars, the GT2 Edition W16 offers exemplary safety. Features include a carbon fibre safety cell connected to the chassis, a five-point harness, safety nets, a fire extinguishing system, a safety tank, and an emergency hatch. Other safety features include an effective racing ABS and a multi-adjustable traction control. Together with the precisely tuned suspension and very direct steering response, these elements help drivers to quickly build confidence in the vehicle when driving on the track.

Exclusive handover

The ceremonial handover of the Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 is planned as part of an exclusive event at a European racetrack. In addition to an in-depth vehicle briefing and track time, the programme further includes a meet & greet with the drivers and senior members of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Each of the 30 units of the strictly limited Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 comes with an edition-specific car cover and equipment from OMP and BELL Helmets, the Mercedes-AMG Motorsport Official Suppliers. The racing suit and racing helmet are each designed in the style of the official F1 team.

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to follow us on Microsoft Start.