Not content with a 7:10.92 Nurburgring lap time, Mercedes-AMG is hard at work on an even more track-focused AMG GT R.
The car is expected to top the range until the Black Series arrives in 2020, and according to AMG Bossman, Tobias Moers, will carry the Clubsport moniker.
The car has been in development for some time now, racking up the miles at the Nurburgring, but it’s important to note that this mule shouldn’t be confused with the Black Series test mule that has also been spotted as of late. That car also sports some trick aero but it’s easily distinguished by its immense girth.
The Clubsport though, is expected to tip the scales significantly lighter than the standard GT R, and sport a new rollcage, a more aerodynamic efficient front end and a larger rear wing.
Power is said to come from the same 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine that powers the GT R, as it’s expected to remain at 430kw. The Black Series however, will get close to 470kw.
The hardcore GT R Clubsport, is expected to take the fight straight to the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, and is expected to be produced in limited numbers, but AMG predicts this will not affect the demand for the regular GT R.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG GT R Clubsport cost in South Africa?
The GT R Clubsport is expected to start around R3,200,000 in South Africa, making it significantly more expensive than the standard GT R due to its limited production run and track-focused upgrades.
Q: How much power does the GT R Clubsport make?
The GT R Clubsport produces 430kW from its 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, the same output as the standard GT R, with AMG focusing on weight reduction and aerodynamics rather than more power.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG GT R Clubsport worth buying over a Porsche 911 GT3 RS?
The GT R Clubsport offers a more exclusive ownership experience with limited production numbers and that thunderous AMG V8 soundtrack, but the 911 GT3 RS remains the sharper track tool with better resale value in the South African market.
Q: What makes the GT R Clubsport different from the regular GT R?
The Clubsport features significant weight reduction, a new rollcage, more aggressive aerodynamics with an efficient front end and larger rear wing, plus track-focused suspension tuning to compete directly with hardcore track cars.
Q: When will the Mercedes-AMG GT R Clubsport be available in South Africa?
The GT R Clubsport is expected to arrive in South African dealerships by late 2019, with limited allocation meaning you'll need to get your name down quickly at your local AMG dealer.
Should You Buy It?
The Mercedes-AMG GT R Clubsport is a brilliant track weapon, but at an expected R3,200,000, it's a tough sell against the Porsche 911 GT3 RS at R2,800,000. If you want the most hardcore AMG experience and don't mind the premium for exclusivity, absolutely go for it. However, most track day enthusiasts will find better value in waiting for a used GT R at around R2,400,000 or stretching to the Porsche for superior track capability. The Clubsport is for AMG fanatics who want something genuinely rare in their garage, not rational buyers seeking the fastest lap times per rand.
