The Newest Mercedes Race Car is Based on its Hottest Car Yet

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled its new GT4 race car.

Based on the Mercedes-AMG GT R, the latest race car has been made to meet the requirements of international GT4 race series and deliveries to the first Customer Racing Teams will begin at the end of this year. Prior to that, however, the Mercedes-AMG GT4 will undergo further intense testing that includes Test and Development drivers Bernd Schneider, Thomas Jäger, and Jan Seyffarth, who have already largely contributed to the car’s development. Although the new car has already proved its reliable endurance performance and high durability in a 30-hour test at race speed at the Lausitzring, the new testing program will include a total of more than 18,641 miles (30,000 kilometers) of track testing.

In addition, three prototypes will participate in selected test races during the current season, with those cars running in cooperation with development partner HWA AG, and if necessary, with support from partner teams.

SEE ALSO: Mercedes-AMG GT Concept is Headed for Production

Powering the Mercedes-AMG GT4 is a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine just like in the road car. The German automaker said depending on the balance of performance, the powerplant will provide output up to 503 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The powerplant is paired to a sequential six-speed competition gearbox, linked to the rear axle in transaxle formation, just like the Mercedes-AMG GT3.

Mercedes-AMG is aiming to keep weight around 3,064 pounds (1,390 kilograms) and pricing in the U.S. has not been announced. It will, however, start from 198,850 Euros (excluding VAT), which is about $231,730 when converted to USD.

“The GT4 segment is getting more and more popular. The production-based concept is an important factor, especially when you want to get started in motorsport as a team or as a driver. For some teams, the GT4 category also serves as a sensible addition to their existing involvement in GT3, for instance to support young drivers,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “For us as a manufacturer, GT4 competition is a logical next step to extend our Customer Racing Program. After the achievements in GT3 racing, the Mercedes-AMG GT4 is opening another valuable platform for us to prove our competence as a globally successful sports car and performance brand. There is no doubt that we will once again be setting new benchmarks in the segment with the latest member in our Customer Racing Program.”