Mercedes-AMG is celebrating 130 years of motorsport heritage with a limited-production race car that will be the last to feature the brand’s iconic 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine.
Unveiled at Monterey Car Week and known as the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport, it’s a reimagining of the AMG GT GT3 (itself based on the AMG GT road vehicles) are formed outside the boundaries of the rules and regulations of approval.
While not competition-ready, the Edition 130Y Motorsport could put its rivals to shame, with 500kW of power and 730Nm of torque from its unrestricted 6.2-litre V8 (despite the 63 badge) and a top speed of over 315km/h.
That view was partly vindicated earlier this year, when AMG driver Jules Gounon clocked a 1:56.605 around Mount Panorama, 2.074 seconds faster than the previous lap record for a GT car.
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Aerodynamic upgrades complement the power increase. The 130Y Motorsport version generates 15 percent more downforce than the GT3, thanks to tweaks to the front splitter, air outlets, side skirts, underbody, rear diffuser and larger rear wing.
Under the skin, this anniversary edition is equipped with fully adjustable four-way sports shock absorbers.
Despite not being eligible for GT3 competition, all safety equipment is still fitted, including a carbon fibre safety box connected to the chassis, five-point seat belts, safety nets, steel roll cage, fire suppression system, safety tank and emergency hatch.
It’s not all about performance. The 130Y Motorsport Edition pays homage to racing machines of yesteryear.
Some design features are reminiscent of the 1950s and the entire car is inspired by the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL W 194 model from 1952.
Mercedes-AMG claims the silver and blue colour scheme originates from the winning racing cars driven by Hans Klenk and Karl Kling in 1952 in the Carrera Panamericana, and by Hermann Lang and Fritz Riess in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
The interior of the Edition 130Y Motorsport is also a mix of old and new. Aesthetically, there are nods to the 1955 Mercedes-Benz SLR 300, from the blue plaid fabric seats to the brown leather upholstery on the headrests and door hooks.
Ahead of the driver is a custom-designed steering wheel with anodized buttons and walnut grips, surrounding a Bosch cockpit display.
The Edition 130Y Motorsport version is limited to just 13 units, with each unit priced at up to $1.7 million.
During the sale, the buyer also receives a Puma racing suit, matching accessories, a custom helmet, a car cover, and a 1:8 scale model of the car. All come with a certificate of authenticity.
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