2018 Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster

2018 Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster First Look by Auto Critic Steve Hammes

Mercedes-AMG is expanding its GT family with two new open-air models: the GT Roadster and the GT C Roadster with a performance level between the GT S and the range-topping GT R. With these 2 new variants, the GT family now has six members.

Outputting 550 horsepower, this 2018 GT C Roadster is stuffed with a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 driving the rear wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.  Taking cues from the mighty GT R, this car also utilizes active rear-wheel steering and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential.  It also packs the GT R’s more muscular proportions with wider rear fenders and wider rear wheels for higher cornering speeds and outstanding traction.  With 502 pound-feet of torque, the GT C does its 0-to-60mph sprint 2/10ths of a second faster than entry Roadster, timed at only 3.7 seconds via an improved RACE START feature. Top speed is 196mph.

The GT C Roadster is equipped with the AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension with Adaptive Damping System as standard. The electronically controlled system automatically adapts the damping on each wheel to the current driving situation, speed and road conditions or the driver can dial in 1 of 3 preset stages.

The GT C Roadster also features a lithium-ion battery and comes complete with a highly exclusive specification including a nappa leather interior, AMG Performance steering wheel and an additional RACE mode for the transmission.

The GT C Roadster further differentiates itself with the standard Exterior Silver Chrome Package, which is unique to this variant. The three-layer fabric soft top opens and closes fully automatically at the push of a button in around eleven seconds, and can do so at speeds of up to 31 mph.  And for another modern technology twist, the new AMG Track Pace feature is available as part of the optional COMAND infotainment system and turns your iPhone® into a personal race engineer.

Customers can use the app to analyze and improve their driving style on the track as well as share their track video and data with other AMG drivers via social media.

Pricing will be announced closer to the GT C Roadster’s arrival later this fall.