SUPER CAR - Mercedes-AMG GT 73 4-Door Coupe Matic+
AMG is working hard on a 600kw+ hybridized super sedan
We’ve known for some time that Mercedes-AMG has been hard at work on an even more potent version of the GT 63 S. The GT 63 S which currently tops the AMG GT 4-door Coupe range, draws power from a 470kw twin-turbocharged V8, with 900nm challenged to all-four wheels.
As a result, the R2 922 531 luxury sedan is capable of 0-100kph in just 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 315kph. But AMG isn’t done just yet, because even though the GT 63 S is a rocket ship on wheels, it trails Porsche’s Panamera Turbo S-E Hybrid in the power stakes, and AMG is not about finishing second best.
Mercedes-Benz recently trademarked the moniker “GT 73 4Matic+”, fuelling speculation that a more powerful variant is on its way. And according to industry rumours emanating from the UK, that model will reach market early in 2020. It should also be noted that Mercedes filed trademarks back in 2018 for “G 73”, “GLS 73” and an “S 73.”
With downsizing affecting all automakers, it is extremely unlikely that Mercedes will use a 7.3-litre V12 like they did in the super-rare SL 73. Instead, the GT 73 will most likely use a hybridized version of AMG’s current twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, that will see power leap from 470kw to around 600kw (roughly 800 horsepower). This will see it eclipse the flagship Panamera’s 500kw output by some margin.
It’s no surprise that the AMG GT 73 draws its inspiration from the 2017 Mercedes-AMG GT Concept, because that car, featured AMG’s twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 mated to a powerful electric motor, resulting in a total system output of 600kw, and a 0-100kph time of less than 3.0 seconds. The car was also capable of an all-electric range of 50kms on a single charge.
Expect the flagship sedan to debut towards the end of 2019, before going on sale in Europe early in 2020.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG GT 73 4-Door Coupe cost in South Africa?
The Mercedes-AMG GT 73 4-Door Coupe is expected to cost around R3,500,000 to R4,000,000 in South Africa, positioning it well above the current GT 63 S which retails for R2,922,531.
Q: How much power does the Mercedes-AMG GT 73 have?
The Mercedes-AMG GT 73 is rumoured to produce around 600kW (roughly 800 horsepower) from its hybridised twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine, making it significantly more powerful than the GT 63 S's 470kW output.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG GT 73 worth buying over the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid?
The GT 73 should be worth considering over the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid if you want raw power superiority, as its expected 600kW output significantly eclipses the Porsche's 500kW system power.
Q: When will the Mercedes-AMG GT 73 be available in South Africa?
The Mercedes-AMG GT 73 is expected to debut in late 2019 with sales beginning in early 2020, though South African availability will likely follow several months after the European launch.
Q: What is the 0-100kph time of the Mercedes-AMG GT 73?
The Mercedes-AMG GT 73 is expected to achieve 0-100kph in under 3.0 seconds, making it quicker than the already rapid GT 63 S which manages the sprint in 3.2 seconds.
Should You Buy It?
The Mercedes-AMG GT 73 4-Door Coupe looks like it will be an absolute weapon when it arrives, but at an expected R3,500,000 to R4,000,000, you're paying serious money for bragging rights over Porsche. If you absolutely must have the most powerful four-door super saloon money can buy and the GT 63 S's already mental 470kW isn't enough for your ego, then yes, wait for the GT 73. However, for most mortals who still want face-melting performance without the premium price tag, the current GT 63 S at R2,922,531 delivers 95% of the thrills for significantly less cash. The GT 73 is a brilliant showcase of AMG's engineering prowess, but unless you're planning track days every weekend or need to win every traffic light grand prix, the GT 63 S remains the sweet spot in this bonkers range.
