Affalterbach – In a year marked by celebration and reflection, Mercedes-AMG has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to motorsport with the unveiling of the highly exclusive GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport. Debuting at the prestigious Pebble Beach Automotive Week, this limited-edition masterpiece not only commemorates 130 years of motorsport history but also marks the final chapter of an era, as the last AMG GT3 variant to be powered by a naturally aspirated engine.
The GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport is more than just a car; it’s a testament to Mercedes-AMG’s rich racing heritage and cutting-edge engineering. With only 13 units available worldwide, this collector’s item fuses state-of-the-art motorsport technology with design elements that harken back to the legendary racing cars of the 1950s. The result is a vehicle that bridges two iconic eras of motorsport, delivering both performance and nostalgia in equal measure.
A Nod to History with Unmatched Power
Under the hood, the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport boasts the formidable AMG 6.3-litre V8 naturally aspirated engine, meticulously refined to produce a staggering 680 hp. This powertrain, free from the constraints of homologation, represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-AMG’s engineering prowess. Without the air restrictors typically mandated in competition, the engine breathes freely, delivering an exhilarating driving experience that sets this model apart from its predecessors.
Complementing this raw power is a suite of aerodynamic enhancements designed to maximize performance on the track. The redesigned front splitter, side skirts, and rear diffuser work in concert with an enlarged rear wing, increasing downforce by 15 percent compared to the base GT3 model. This enhanced aero package not only improves stability at high speeds but also allows the car to reach a top speed exceeding 315 km/h, aided by the Formula 1®-inspired Drag Reduction System (DRS).
A Design Inspired by Racing Legends
Visually, the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport pays homage to Mercedes-Benz’s storied past, particularly the 300 SL W 194 racing sports car from 1952. The exclusive silver paint finish, reminiscent of the iconic Silver Arrows, is complemented by blue rhombuses on the front wings and a colored radiator grille frame, echoing the design of the victorious 1952 Carrera Panamericana and Le Mans cars. The weight-optimized 18-inch magnesium wheels and extensive use of carbon fiber further underscore the car’s connection to both its historical roots and modern racing technology.
Inside, the tribute to tradition continues. The interior, while equipped with cutting-edge motorsport technology, features design elements inspired by the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 from 1955. The blue chequered fabric seat upholstery, along with brown leather accents on the headrests and door loops, evoke the spirit of Juan Manuel Fangio’s iconic race car. A specially developed steering wheel with anodized buttons and walnut wood handles adds a touch of craftsmanship to the high-performance cockpit, making it a true driver’s environment.
Performance Proven on the World Stage
The GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport is not just a showpiece—it’s a performer. During its development, Mercedes-AMG Performance Driver Jules Gounon set a new GT car lap record at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Australia, underscoring the car’s formidable capabilities. Gounon’s time of 1m 56.605s shattered the previous record by over two seconds, a testament to the engineering excellence and relentless pursuit of performance that defines this special edition.
An Exclusive Offer for the Discerning Collector
Each of the 13 units of the GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport comes with a bespoke delivery package that further enhances its exclusivity. Owners will receive a personalized racing suit, gloves, and shoes designed in collaboration with PUMA, a high-quality BELL helmet, and a matching bag—all crafted to mirror the vehicle’s distinctive styling. Additionally, a 1:8 scale model of the car and a personalized certificate of authenticity complete this extraordinary package.
Priced at EUR 1,030,000.00 (excluding VAT), the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport is not just a car—it’s a piece of automotive history, a collector’s dream, and a fitting tribute to 130 years of Mercedes-AMG’s relentless pursuit of racing excellence.
As Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, aptly put it, “With the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport, we are once again underlining our history and our commitment to our internationally very successful Customer Racing programme.” This vehicle is indeed a crowning achievement, representing the perfect fusion of past, present, and future in the world of motorsport.
