MONTEREY: The limited Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport recently celebrated its world premiere at the Aug 9-18 Monterey Car Week in California.
The GT3 car unites two iconic eras of motorsport - state-of-the-art motorsport technology meets traditional design features of the legendary racing cars of the 1950s.
With 680hp, the non-homologated special model is the most powerful GT3 vehicle ever built in Affalterbach. It is also the last Mercedes-AMG GT3 version to be powered by a naturally aspirated engine.
This edition is being offered worldwide as a collector's item in a limited edition of just 13 vehicles.
Unlike the base model, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport is not subject to the limits of homologation.
For this reason, the legendary AMG 6.3-litre V8 naturally aspirated engine has been further optimised. Without air restrictor and with a special exhaust system, it develops a peak output of 680 hp (500 kW).
The aerodynamic components have also undergone extensive development and increase downforce by 15 per cent compared to the GT3 base model. To achieve this, the front splitter and the air outlets (louvres) in the front wings were redesigned.
Changes to the side skirts, the underfloor and the rear diffuser also increase downforce. The wider rear wing also helps to optimise the aero balance.
The Drag Reduction System (DRS), inspired by Formula 1 and Class 1 DTM, is a new and central feature.
At the touch of a button on the steering wheel, the main element of the rear wing moves into a flat position and drag is reduced.
To maintain the aero balance, active elements on the front floor are extended at the same time.
Thanks to this technology, top speeds of over 315 kilometres per hour are possible despite the essentially high downforce level.
During lateral acceleration or deceleration, the active elements immediately return to their original downforce position.
The exclusive high-performance braking system is also inspired by Formula 1.
In contrast to the steel discs compulsory in the GT3 regulations, the brake discs in the special model are made of carbon.
They also play their part in making the edition model significantly lighter than the homologated GT3 version.
Power is transmitted via a sequential six-speed racing transmission with modified gear ratios.
As with all Mercedes-AMG racing cars, the transaxle transmission is mounted on the rear axle and connected to the engine in a torsionally rigid and torque resistant manner by a carbon fibre torque tube.
The suspension features fully adjustable 4-way motorsport shock absorbers.
The collector's item offers all proven safety attributes of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 - a carbon fibre safety cell connected to the chassis, a five-point harness, safety nets, a steel roll cage, a fire extinguishing system, a safety tank and an emergency hatch.
The extensive equipment also includes an effective racing ABS and a multi-adjustable traction control system.
After two years of development and intensive testing, Mercedes-AMG Performance Driver Jules Gounon (AND) demonstrated the outstanding performance of the vehicle for the first time on 17 February 2024 at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Australia.
In a prototype of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport, he beat the track record for GT cars on the iconic 6.213-kilometre circuit by 2.074 seconds in a time of 1m 56.605s.
Exclusivity: Extensive overall package with race gear and vehicle cover
Each of the 13 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport comes with a comprehensive delivery package.
In addition to a vehicle cover specially developed for the special model, this includes a complete racing equipment for the driver.
The race kit was co-designed by Mercedes-AMG Official Partner PUMA and its design is based on the stylistic features of the vehicle's exterior. It includes a personalised racing suit, gloves, racing underwear and shoes.
The race gear is complemented by a high-quality, customised helmet from BELL.
Customers also receive a personalised bag, which is designed to match the seat cover in a stylish blue chequered pattern and offers sufficient space for all the racing equipment.
The delivery package is rounded off with a 1:8 scale model car of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport and an exclusive, personalised certificate of authenticity.
