2016 Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster (R190) 4.0L V8 7AT (476 HP)

Vehicle Overview

One year after the introduction of the Mercedes-AMG GT coupe, the German automaker unveiled the open-top version of this, named GT Roadster.

Built on the same platform as its closed-cabin sibling, the GT Roadster was available in a few versions, but this one was the entry-level variant. A vehicle that was more of a GT and less of a sportscar. Still, its turbocharged engine and its performance showed that the brand was committed to taking a bigger chunk of the sportscar market. In addition, it boasted enough comfort features to be considered a continental cruiser.

Drawing its inspiration from the famous 300 SL “Gullwing” from the ’50s, the AMG GT and its open-top sibling featured a long and low hood. Its Panamericana grille was flanked by swept-back headlights that featured boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights pointing inwards. To further emphasize the connection with its famous predecessor, the GT Roadster featured a pair of vents on the front fenders adorned by the chromed V8 Biturbo lettering. The slightly ascending beltline started to descend behind the area where the retractable canvas roof was housed, onto the rounded rear end.

Inside, there was room for two people seated in high-bolstered seats. These were divided by a tall center console where the automaker installed the gear selector and the COMMAND infotainment system controls. Like most open-top Mercedes-Benz cars, the AMG GT Roadster featured the Airscarf system that blew warm air to the neck of the occupants.

Powering this heavy, open-top roadster was a hand-built 4.0-liter V8 boosted by a pair of superchargers mounted inside the cylinder banks. All the grunt was sent to the rear wheels via a dual-clutch seven-speed automatic gearbox (AMG SPEEDSHIFT).