Mercedes-AMG debuted sweeping updates to its GT Coupe and Roadster at the 2018 L.A. Auto Show, but the biggest news is the addition of the AMG GT R Pro model. Designed to enhance performance at the track, this Pro model was developed as an extension of the brand's GT3 and GT4 race efforts. It gets updates to the suspension and powertrain while gaining a whole slew of aero bits and pieces for the exterior that help it cut through the wind and make it immediately recognizable as something special.
Under the GT R Pro's hood is a modified version of the automaker's 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Power is pushed to 577 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. That's enough gumption to shove the beast to 60 in 3.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 198 miles per hour.
The GT R Pro gets a coil-over suspension setup that is mechanically adjustable, and a carbon fiber torsion bar at the front of the car joins a steel unit at the rear in providing additional tuning capabilities. Spherical bearings are said to be more wear-resistant while also cutting out any play that could affect toe-in and camber. A rear stiffening structure of carbon fiber further contributes to the car's rigidity. Ceramic composite brakes come standard.
An aggressive body package hewn from carbon fiber adds to the car's track performance. A splitter at the front and a large rear spoiler are obvious additions. A revised front apron, front-fender air slots and rear wheel arch elements are less noticeable but important to manage air flow. Finally, the carbon fiber roof has a lowered center section.
Nobody will misidentify the Pro as a lesser GT with a unique graphics package. A unique gray wrap with green racing stripes makes sure of that. If you don't want to stand out quite so much, the wrap can be omitted, but where's the fun in that?
All these modifications equal additional performance at the race track. To highlight its achievements, Mercedes-AMG racing driver Maro Engel recorded a 7.04.632 lap of the Nürburgring North Loop. Mercedes isn't giving specific figures of improvement over the standard model, but best we can tell that's about six seconds quicker 'round the 'Ring than the best recorded lap of the first-gen AMG GT R.
