With 818 hp and active aerodynamics, the Mercedes-AMG GT2 W16 redefines the limits. Discover the technical specifications and the price of this exclusive machine.
Quick Questions
- What is it? GT2 Edition W16, track-only version of the AMG GT (C190), non-homologated for street use.
- Power and torque? 818 hp and 1,000 Nm, with temporary Push2Pass.
- Transmission and drivetrain? 6-speed sequential, transaxle, rear-wheel drive.
- Weight and top speed? 3,150 lbs (1,430 kg); over 200 mph (320 km/h) with active DRS.
- Price and production? €679,000 (before taxes); 30 units.
Unbound by street regulations or category rules, the Mercedes‑AMG GT2 Edition W16 is the peak of the brand’s “customer racers.” It combines a raw twin-turbo V8 with active aerodynamics and a chassis package focused on quick laps, not concessions.
What makes the GT2 Edition W16 the most powerful customer AMG?
The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 has been tuned to deliver 818 hp and 1,000 Nm without electric assistance. The peak output is temporarily unlocked via Push2Pass, which boosts turbo pressure for bursts of speed and overtaking scenarios.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a 6-speed sequential transmission mounted at the rear (transaxle). A carbon fiber torque tube connects the engine and transmission, increasing rigidity and shift precision — a typical setup for pure GT models from the brand. To see how AMG is shifting between electrification and mechanical brutality, it’s worth contrasting this with the AMG GT XX Hyper EV that broke 25 world records.
How do Push2Pass and DRS work to maximize speed?
Push2Pass is activated by a steering wheel button and provides extra power for a limited time. DRS closes the vents of the wheel arches and adjusts the angle of the rear wing to reduce drag, pushing top speed beyond 200 mph (320 km/h).
The most interesting part: DRS and Push2Pass can operate separately or together, depending on the lap strategy. This is AMG engineering applied to stint and traffic management—something that echoes the brand’s extreme hybrid philosophy found in the Mercedes‑AMG GT 63 S E Performance.
What chassis and brake package can handle this track load?
The car weighs 3,150 lbs (1,430 kg) thanks to 18-inch magnesium wheels and structural components made of composite materials. Adjustable shocks and stabilizer bars allow for tuning rake, roll control, and response over high-speed curves.
Inside, there’s a carbon fiber safety cell, five-point belts, an onboard extinguisher, and an emergency hatch. It’s a track-focused tool designed for consistency during stints, similar to rare V8 models from the brand such as the GT3 Edition 130Y and the “last breath” of the pure AMG V8.
What are the key performance and weight figures?
With 818 hp and active DRS, it exceeds 200 mph (320 km/h). Rear-wheel drive and the transaxle concentrate mass where it matters, making it easier to rotate at the apex and traction off the corners. The rigid connection via a carbon fiber torque tube maintains integrity against thermal fatigue during long stints.
The 3,150 lbs (1,430 kg) weight is achievable thanks to an aggressive weight-saving program, including magnesium wheels and structural components made of composites. It’s a racing recipe that goes beyond trends, recalling the mechanical focus of special projects like the Mercedes‑AMG GT APXGP limited edition.
What is the price and how does it compare to direct rivals?
Price: €679,000 before taxes (approximately $791,000). Production: 30 units globally, aimed at collectors and drivers seeking track days and private events without regulation constraints. This premium positioning echoes the brand’s high-pedigree V8 lineup—including luxury tech models like the SL680 with advanced solutions beyond the SL63 AMG.
Compared to “customer racers” and track specials, the GT2 Edition W16 relies on brute power without hybrid lag, active aerodynamics, and chassis tuning designed for stint consistency. The message is clear: top-tier performance with no street concessions. For those seeking something similar but homologated, AMG is developing the AMG GT Track Sport as a link to the new generation GT3s.
Quick comparisons — where it gains ground
- Pure power without hybrid assistance
- DRS in wheel arches and rear wing
- 6-speed transaxle
- Carbon fiber torque tube
- 18-inch magnesium wheels
- Fine chassis adjustments
- Push2Pass strategy
We want to hear from you: Would you get the GT2 Edition W16 for track days, or do you prefer an extreme homologated model? Leave your comment and tell us why.
Author: Fabio Isidoro
Founder and editor-in-chief of Canal Carro, he dedicates himself to exploring the automotive universe with depth and passion. A car and technology enthusiast, he produces technical content and in-depth analyses of national and international vehicles, combining quality information with a critical eye for the public.