Test: Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+, the perfect track toy (2024)

Less than 10 years later, AMG introduced the second version of its GT. The first generation was often seen as the spiritual successor to the SLS, but nothing could be further from the truth. The GT was sharper, more brutal and therefore perhaps… unusable. The new one is clearly aimed at different customers. A Porsche 911 buyer, so to speak.

outside

Visually, the second generation GT leaves no doubt: The design is rock solid. With a long hood, a big grille and big hips. With its height of 4.72 meters, it is only 18 centimeters shorter than its predecessor. Rims are large (20″) or large (21″) and the bottom looks adequate but stylish.

You could call it the SL Coupé, although that doesn’t make Mercedes happy. Both cars now ride under the AMG banner (and share much of the equipment underneath), but they were developed differently. Our experience driving around the circuit should provide a definite answer, so go ahead!

Internal affairs

However, before we put on our racing helmet, we first take a look at the interior. And yes, that appears to have been taken specifically from the Mercedes-AMG SL. There is no large or large screen in this SL, but a digital instrument cluster and vertical infotainment system. A strong center channel, four air intakes and stylish sports seats make it clear that this GT has sporty aspirations. Without being too worried.

By the way, you are shocked when you look in the rearview mirror for the first time. Because from now on you can (optionally) get two seats in the back for – and we quote Mercedes: “People up to 1m50.” Regardless of whether you choose the rear seat or not, the trunk of the new GT is huge! Thanks to the volume from 321 liters to 675 liters. A Porsche 911 owner can only dream of that with its 128 liter “frunk”.

Engine

That’s because the 911 has its engine in the back. That’s certainly not the case with this AMG GT. Under the elongated front hood of this GT 63 4MATIC+ is a powerful 4-liter V8 with two turbos. Good for an impressive power of 585 hp and 800 Nm of torque. That power is sent to all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission as standard.

Mercedes’ attentive experts have already noticed that the drivetrain also extends to the front of the AMG SL. The top speed of 315 km/h is the same even between both cars. It doesn’t stop there, because you can also get the GT as a “43” if you like. This gives you… four cylinders up front! To immediately slow your heart rate: like the SL, the GT will soon be available as an SE Performance with 816 hp and 1,420 Nm of torque from the V8 with electric assistance. Ooh.

Driving behavior

For the record, we drove the V8 without electric assistance, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+. On the track by the way! Because just because the new GT has to be a true “Grand Tourer” from now on, doesn’t mean it has to drive like a wet rag on the track. The Belgian Zolder circuit was used as a test ground to test the skills of the new GT (with the SL in its wake as a reference).

Let’s immediately confirm Mercedes’ statement: the GT was clearly developed separately from the SL. Although the latter comes into its own on the roads around Monaco, the GT is more suited to the winding roads in the Black Forest. The input is sharp, the V8 whips you towards the horizon and the all-wheel drive gives this second generation a confidence that the first generation can only dream of.

However, is this GT still a real car? Nope. Not least thanks to its weight of 1.8 tons. However, it is a car that gives owners the feeling that they are Max Verstappen on the track, after which they can return home in comfort, or one to the far south. The narrow usage profile of the first generation paves the way for a wider range of capabilities.

Price

That’s right, because with a base price of 196,504 euros, the GT 63 has become 40% more expensive than what you paid for the first generation about 8 years ago. However, thanks to the rear seat, trunk and four-wheel drive, this car has become more of a car than its predecessor.

What it loses in track performance – about 10% of first-generation owners went to the track – is more than gained in all other areas. This is an alternative to the Porsche 911 Turbo or the Aston Martin Vantage.

Decision

The Mercedes-AMG GT has grown from a dirty teenager to a stylish thirties. Don’t let his comfort grow with you silly “daddy bod”, though. Beneath the skin of the GT 63 is an explosive power source ready to make the lean meat of many a competition.