Mercedes-AMG is adding two open-air variants to its high-performance GT lineup. The Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster and GT C Roadster will be powered by 4.0-liter V-8 engines with twin turbochargers, direct injection and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The GT C Roadster, with 550 hp and 502 pounds-feet of torque, is the more powerful of the two. Its horsepower rating is only 27 behind that of the Mercedes-AMG GT R that was unveiled in June. The GT Roadster will pack 469 hp and 465 pounds-feet of torque.
“With our two Roadster models, we are strategically expanding the AMG GT family by two exciting variants,” Tobias Moers , chairman of Mercedes-AMG, said in a statement. “With the AMG GT C Roadster, we are also introducing a new model variant to which we have transferred main performance-related components from our top sports car, the AMG GT R. The result: a highly dynamic driving experience in a very exclusive ambience, coupled with that pure roadster feeling.”
The roadsters feature a long sweeping hood, a wide stance and an aluminum body shell. The GT C Roadster, like the GT R, features wider rear fenders and active rear-axle steering. The GT C Roadster also has a “Race” transmission mode, which adjusts the shift strategy of the dual-clutch transmission to fit the needs of a racetrack. If a driver presses the separate “M” button in the center console, the manual transmission mode is activated. The GT Roadster has Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual transmission modes.
The fabric roofs on both models open and close in about 11 seconds and can be operated at speeds of up to 31 mph, Mercedes said. With the two roadsters, the Mercedes-AMG GT lineup will consist of five models. In addition to the GT R, there is also the $112,125 GT and the $132,125 GT S. Both prices include shipping. The GT Roadster and GT C Roadster are to arrive at U.S. dealerships by fall 2017. Pricing will be announced later.
