For an over a year, there has been a ‘Green beast’ circulating around the Green Hell. But this camouflage donning AMG GT R was no ordinary AMG GT R. It was the test bed for something so much more.
Then a few months ago, AMG Bossman, Tobias Moers, said that they have been working on a hotter version of the already bombastic AMG GT R, and suggested it would be called the ‘Club Sport’. Essentially, a lighter, faster, meaner version of the AMG GT R.
And just this week, Mercedes confirmed they will be bringing something very special to next week’s Los Angeles Auto Show. Aside from the AMG GT 63 S, the G63, the EQC electric crossover, and a handful of Mercedes’ core models, they will be unveiling their new flagship supercar, the AMG GT R Pro.
Originally known as the GT R 'Clubsport', the limited edition model is expected to boast some trick aerodynamics, a retuned suspension, more power and less weight. It will retain the same biturbo 4.0-litre V8, but it’s expected that power will jump from 430kw to around 450kw. Mercedes-AMG has naturally been coy on the revisions to the AMG GT R, but for now they are just saying that the car has been developed using lessons learned from the their GT3 and GT4 racing programs.
The folk from Affalterbach have since released this teaser image, showing that 'something quick' is indeed coming. The GT R Pro is expected to go head-to-head with the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. It's also important to remember that the GT R Pro is not the equivalent of the 'Black Series' - that model has been confirmed, and will likely follow in the next 2 years.
AMG will also unveil their facelifted AMG GT models at the show, expected to showcase key changes to their styling and possibly some extra power. The interior is also presumed to be updated to match that in the new AMG GT four-door coupe.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro cost in South Africa?
The Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro was expected to cost around R3,200,000 to R3,500,000 in South Africa when it was available, making it significantly more expensive than the standard GT R which retailed for around R2,800,000.
Q: How much power does the AMG GT R Pro have compared to the regular GT R?
The AMG GT R Pro produces around 450kW from its biturbo 4.0-litre V8 engine, which is a jump from the standard GT R's 430kW output, giving you an extra 20kW of pure German fury.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro better than the Porsche 911 GT3 RS?
The AMG GT R Pro was specifically designed to take on the 911 GT3 RS, offering similar track-focused performance with more dramatic styling and that incredible AMG V8 soundtrack, though the Porsche typically edges it on lap times.
Q: What makes the GT R Pro different from the regular AMG GT R?
The GT R Pro features enhanced aerodynamics, retuned suspension from AMG's GT3 and GT4 racing programmes, reduced weight, more power, and track-focused components that make it even more hardcore than the already mental GT R.
Q: Will there be a Mercedes-AMG GT R Black Series?
Yes, Mercedes confirmed that a GT R Black Series was in development and would follow the GT R Pro, expected to be the ultimate, most extreme version of the AMG GT family with even more power and track capability.
Should You Buy It?
The Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro at around R3,200,000 was an absolute weapon for those wanting the ultimate track-focused AMG experience, but unless you're planning serious track days, the regular GT R offers 95% of the thrills for considerably less cash. If you've got the budget and want the most exclusive AMG GT this side of the Black Series, then absolutely yes, this limited-edition beast was worth every rand for the bragging rights alone.
