This is the new Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster, a convertible version of the ‘Beast of the Green Hell’ that was first revealed in 2016 (and later updated last year). With performance that is almost identical to the coupe, the open-top driving experience appears to come at zero compromise.
Laying out the facts, the GT R Roadster is powered by a 4.0 litre V8 biturbo M178 engine with 585 PS at 6,250 rpm and 700 Nm of torque from 2,100-5,500 rpm. It’ll take 3.6 seconds to complete the zero to 100 km/h sprint, and hit a top speed of 317 km/h. Everything aside from the top speed is identical to the coupe, and even then, the top speed differential is merely down by one km/h.
The V8 unit and the accompanying AMG Speedshift DCT seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sit on dynamic mounts, while an electronically controlled limited-slip differential helps get the power down to wheels with the most traction.
Bringing the Roadster to a stop is the task of the composite brake system, which uses ventilated and perforated brake discs measuring 390 mm in diameter at the front and 360 mm in the rear. Pay more, and you’ll net ceramic composite brakes with larger discs (402 mm front, 360 mm rear) that are lighter (-15 kg) and offer even better fade resistance.
On the handling front, the coupe’s uniball spherical bearings on the rear lower wishbones, AMG coil-over suspension with adaptive adjustable damping, active rear-wheel steering and speed-sensitive sports steering are all carried into the Roadster.
These systems are linked to the AMG Dynamic Select system, with several drive modes available – Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, Race and Individual. As a feature in these modes, there’s AMG Dynamics to regulate the car’s ESP. Depending on your skill and confidence levels, you can cycle through Basic, Advanced, Pro and Master options.
In terms of styling, the Roadster looks pretty much identical to the coupe, featuring the same passive and aerodynamic features. The only (and obvious) difference is the addition of the folding, three-layered fabric soft top, which is supported by a multi-material structure.
Elsewhere, there’s also a new adjustable rear wing that sports an integrated brake light to make sure the car meets the safety regulations of certain markets when the roof is put down.
Inside the cabin, the Roadster gets AMG Performance seats upholstered in Nappa leather with different colour combinations, while the AMG Performance steering wheel is similar to what you’ll find as part of the updated AMG GT range. However, unlike the coupe, there’s no afterthought dial for the AMG Traction Control system, which is now controlled by the right context-aware dial on the steering wheel.
In place of the yellow dial are controls for the optional seat climate control, and you can also specify the Airscarf to keep your neck warm in cold climates. Other items that are standard include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.25-inch main display with AMG-specific screens.
Amongst cars that is built to have soul these days
BMW Z4
Rebadge as Toyota Supra.
Stunning. With the acceleration of electric propulsion and driver-less tech, wonderful, visceral, noisy beasts like this will only appreciate in both sentimental and dollar value. IC is dead. Long live IC.
With the advent and acceleration of electric propulsion and driver-less tech, wonderfully jelly-fying, visceral and noisy IC beasts like this will live long after its tech dies, going up in both sentimental and dollar values.