Imagine a car that's too wild for the road, too raw for the racing series and too exclusive for all but a lucky few. This is the Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16, the most powerful customer racing car Mercedes has ever created. The first-generation AMG GT (C190) may have lost its license plate, but it has gained something far more exciting: unlimited freedom on the racetrack. With an engine that churns out 818 horsepower and aerodynamics that would put a jet to shame, this car is proof that Mercedes-AMG can still do something that takes your breath away – literally. So let's take a look at what makes this machine so special.
In the heart Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 beats 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, which produces stunning 818 horsepower (602 kW) and 1000 Nm of torque (738 lb-ft). No electronic extras, no compromises – just pure, untamed power. Compared to the regular GT2, which had “only” 707 hp (520 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft), this is a real revolution. The engineers had a free hand, as the car is not subject to road or racing regulations, which means they squeezed everything out of the engine.
Special feature? Push2Pass function, which is activated by a button on the steering wheel. This temporarily increases the pressure of the turbines, which adds 98 HP and 200 Nm of torque. It's like your car getting an adrenaline rush! The power is transmitted to the rear wheels via six-speed sequential racing transmission, mounted on the rear axle in a transaxle layout. Additional rigidity is provided by carbon torque tube, which connects the engine and transmission. If that's not an engineering fetish, then I don't know what is.
Lightness and aerodynamics: A craft for the track
Lighter than a feather, faster than the wind
The GT2 Edition W16 weighs only 1430 kg (3153 lb), which is the result of a drastic diet. 18-inch magnesium wheels and extensive use of carbon fiber have made the car lighter than most supercars. The aerodynamic package has also received an upgrade: DRS system (Drag Reduction System), activated by a button, closes the fender vents and folds the rear wing, reducing drag. The result? A top speed in excess of 320 km/h (199 mph), and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, although not officially stated, certainly takes less than three seconds.
Adjustable shock absorbers and stabilizers they allow the chassis to be adapted to different tracks, meaning you can set the car to be razor-sharp or a bit more comfortable – although, to be honest, comfort isn't exactly a priority for this race car.
Interior: A cage for the brave
Step into the Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 and forget about leather or ambient lighting. This is where the reigns carbon safety cell, five-point seat belt and, just in case, fire extinguisherIf something goes wrong, there is also emergency exitThis is not a car for driving to the store; this is a machine for those who live for adrenaline and the smell of burning asphalt.
Exclusivity comes at a price
Only 30 lucky people
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 isn't for everyone – and not just because of the price. They'll only produce 30 copies, but each one costs 679,000 euros excluding VAT (approx $791,000). For that money, you get a car that's closer to a Formula 1 race car than anything you'd encounter on the road. While the price tag is sky-high, it's an investment in pure racing passion and exclusivity that only a handful of cars in the world can offer.
Historical context: Reviving a legend
The first generation AMG GT (C190) debuted in 2014 and quickly became a favorite of purists with its raw dynamics and classic long-bonnet design. While the second generation (C192) became more luxurious and practical, the GT2 Edition W16 pays homage to that original spirit. With the Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16, Mercedes-AMG proves that it still knows how to create something that is not just a car, but an experience.
Conclusion: A dream for millionaires and racers
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 is a car that combines brutal power, superb engineering and a relentless racing spirit. With 818 horsepower, DRS and a weight that is closer to a city car than a supercar, this is a machine that will impress anyone who appreciates raw performance. It may cost as much as a small villa, but for the 30 lucky people who can afford it, it will be a vehicle that will make history on the racetrack. While most of us can only dream of such a car, the mere fact that it exists is a reason to smile. Mercedes-AMG has proven once again that it can create something truly extraordinary. Now, who has 679,000 euros available?
