The AMG GT has been a bit of a mixed bag for Mercedes. It straddled the lines of supercar and GT and never really shone as either. However, the new generation has seen a focus on the grand tourer side, relegating performance to second place (although it’s still quick). This is where the new Mercedes-AMG GT63 PRO comes in. It’s not an all-out track car like the Black Series, but there’s more power, optimised aero and better cooling for rigorous track sessions.
More Power Means More Cooling
The PRO receives a more powerful 4.0-litre biturbo V8, with power raised to 612hp and torque increased by 50Nm to 850Nm in total, a sizeable increase. Despite this, the 0-62mph time is unchanged at 3.2 seconds, although this is likely due to the aero upgrades featured on the track-oriented model. The Mercedes-AMG GT63 PRO tops out at an impressive 197mph.
Increased power and the harshness of track use require greater cooling, and Mercedes hasn’t disappointed. The cooling systems have been reinforced to cope with higher temperatures and more aggressive driving, while there are now two radiators in each front wheel arch. The top-mounted radiators on the differentials at the front and rear and the transfer case are now cooled more effectively, while the brakes should also be cooler thanks to better airflow underneath.
Less Drag, More Downforce
Predictably, AMG has optimised the aero for track use. Most notably, a fixed rear wing features and it increases downforce on the rear axle by 15kg. Other visible changes include the more prominent front apron and additional carbon fibre air deflectors surrounding the enlarged side air intakes. Less obvious is the AIRPANEL active air control system in the front apron, while the aero underneath, including air deflectors and active parts, is hidden from view. Mercedes claims this system is similar to that of the one used in the AMG ONE, although it seems nearly as tenuous as the motorsport links other manufacturers make. The changes may not seem drastic, but they work – as the aerodynamic lift on the front axle is reduced by over 30kg.
More Track Touches
The Mercedes-AMG GT63 PRO uses the standard AMG high-performance ceramic brakes. There are six-piston fixed calipers at the front, and single-piston floating calipers at the rear, with 420mm brake disks at the front. While they aren’t upgraded (slightly disappointingly), they’re as good as it gets currently from AMG. The system provides a high level of durability, which Mercedes says will bring a long service life.
Lightweight 21-inch AMG PERFORMANCE forged wheels are painted exclusively in Himalaya grey and are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tyres for better grip on the track, although in British weather they could be slightly sketchy on the road.
Slightly spurious links to motorsport come from the extensive use of carbon fibre inside and out, although this doesn’t set performance cars apart anymore. More importantly, there are features seen on other AMG GTs that should lend themselves to track use. AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilisation will keep it from leaning in fast bends, while the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive will still allow skids when desired.
All said and done, the new Mercedes-AMG GT63 PRO isn’t a completely overhauled track car but should improve track day driving, although I suspect most owners won’t use it as their track toy. There will most certainly be a price hike, so don’t expect much change from £200k.
