Mercedes-AMG Technology
Established as an independent tuner and racer of Mercedes cars in 1967, AMG built its reputation on engine, chassis and driveline technology proven on the racetrack. Now, as a part of the Mercedes Car Group, Mercedes-AMG serves as their high-performance division, combining its renowned ingenuity and quality with the global resources of Mercedes-Benz. AMG engineers develop Mercedes performance technology to the highest level for optimized power, braking and handling. Mercedes-AMG vehicles feature most or all of the following technology:
1. AMG Engines
Each new AMG engine is hand-assembled one at a time by an expert technician at Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach, Germany. Mercedes-AMG follows a philosophy of "one man, one engine," which means that a single technician – identified by the signature plate affixed to the engine – is responsible for the complete assembly of an AMG high-performance engine from start to finish. With the utmost care, the craftsman installs each and every part – from the crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons to the intake system, wiring harness and oil fill-up. Only about 50 master engine builders assemble every AMG engine, and each engine builder assembles only two or three engines per day from start to finish. Each new engine is bench-tested to ensure consistent quality and maximum performance.
AMG develops special exhaust systems for its engines, which use larger-diameter pipes, freer-flowing mufflers and signature AMG oval chrome exhaust tips. AMG exhaust systems provide a performance benefit and signature sound.
AMG 6.3-Liter V8
The first engine developed entirely by AMG, the naturally aspirated 6.3-liter V8 produces between 451 and 518 horsepower, depending on the model. The 2013 AMG models powered by this highly successful engine include the C63 AMG sedan and coupe. Built almost completely from a high-strength silicon-aluminum alloy, the 6.3-liter features four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing, bucket followers (rather than rocker arms) and a variable-length intake manifold.
AMG 5.5-Liter Biturbo V8
AMG has developed its own special version of a new Mercedes-Benz V8 engine that produces more power while getting better fuel economy – an astounding feat, considering that increasing either one usually decreases the other. After debuting the engine in the S63 AMG sedan and CL63 AMG coupe, the company is also installing it in the E63 AMG sedan and wagon and CLS AMG coupe. Replacing the normally aspirated 6.3-liter V8, the smaller-displacement 5.5-liter V8 features twin turbochargers, direct fuel injection, and multi-spark ignition. The AMG twin-turbo V8 produces 536 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque, while the outgoing engine produced 518 hp and 465 lb.-ft. In particular, the new engine makes 125 additional lb.-ft. of torque, and yet gets 25 percent better fuel economy.
2. AMG Aerodynamics
The high top speed of most AMG vehicles requires carefully developed aerodynamics that both minimizes drag and produce neutral lift at high speed. AMG body components are designed for high-speed stability and include optimized front and rear aprons as well as side ground effects.
3. AMG SPEEDSHIFT Transmission
AMG has developed the Mercedes-Benz automatics into formidable performance transmissions. Features of AMG transmissions include 35-percent-quicker shifts than standard Mercedes transmissions, special programming for active engine braking (double downshifts) as well as holding of gears during cornering.
For faster manual shifting, Mercedes-AMG cars now control AMG SPEEDSHIFT by two shift paddles on the steering wheel. Some AMG models come with AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS, which includes an automatic rev-matching feature that makes downshifting smooth yet exciting, even in power-on turns.
4. MCT Transmission with AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS MCT (for multi-clutch technology) seven-speed sports transmission features an innovative start-up clutch that replaces a conventional torque converter. Thanks to its low rotational mass, the start-up clutch, which runs in an oil bath, helps the transmission respond instantaneously and dynamically with no slip. Providing the direct feedback of a manual transmission with the total convenience of an automatic, the MCT transmission offers impressive versatility and faster shift times.
The MCT transmission is now standard equipment in the 2013-model C63 AMG sedan and coupe; the E63 AMG sedan and wagon; the S63 AMG sedan; the CL63 AMG and CLS63 AMG coupes; and the SL63 AMG roadster.
The MCT includes a Race Start feature, which helps maintain full-throttle acceleration and optimal traction during motorsports competition. After selecting the Race Start mode, the driver steps on the brake with the left foot and pushes the ESP Sport switch. When confirmation appears in the central display, the driver reconfirms Race Start by pulling the upshift paddle once, flooring the accelerator and releasing the brake. Engine speed is set automatically, and the car launches with full acceleration.
5. AMG Brakes and Suspension
AMG disc brakes are developed based on the experiences of AMG participation in European DTM road racing. AMG systems employ larger, two-piece perforated brake discs and calipers as well as refined brake programming to take full advantage of this stopping power. AMG suspension likewise consists of specially developed shocks, springs, and, on applicable models, a reprogrammed ABC active suspension or Airmatic system.
A three-stage ESP feature provides outstanding driving dynamics. With ESP on, the system senses understeer or oversteer and applies the brakes on one wheel to counteract the slide. In the "ESP Sport" mode, the driver can purposely slide the car to its limit of control before the system reacts, while in "ESP off," the system is turned off.
The SLS AMG GT Supercar
The first-ever car designed and developed from the ground up by Mercedes-AMG, the SLS AMG GT is available as a coupe with dramatic gullwing doors or a convertible model with a retractable cloth top and conventionally hinged doors. For 2013, the GT designation denotes a more powerful engine, a recalibrated AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed sports transmission and modified AMG Adaptive Suspension.
The AMG dry-sump V8 engine in the 2013 SLS AMG GT is now rated at 583 hp and 479 lb.-ft. of torque, up 20 horsepower over last year's version. For 2013, the GT model also comes with darkened headlights and taillights, red brake calipers and a high-gloss black finish on the front grille and outside mirrors as well as the fins on the hood and fenders. New interior highlights include red seatbelts, red contrast stitching and Alcantara upholstery.
With its front-mid engine and rear-mounted, dual-clutch, seven-speed transaxle, the compelling SLS AMG boasts ideal weight distribution of 47-53, and in combination with its extremely low center of gravity and sophisticated double-wishbone sport suspension, provides race-car-like handling.
Black Series Cars Showcase AMG Technology
AMG has begun to develop innovative models that are dramatically different than their production counterparts. What began with the CLK63 AMG Black Series has now evolved to several limited-production AMG models designed in part for racing. For example, the SL65 AMG Black Series features a carbon-fiber fixed roof, front fenders, hood, trunk lid and front and rear aprons.
With its flatter roof, broader front fenders (nearly six inches wider), large air intakes in the front apron and hood, a rear apron with air diffuser fins and retractable rear spoiler, the SL65 AMG Black Series looks dramatically bolder from all angles. Designed to perform equally well on public roads and on the race track, the SL65 AMG Black Series comes with two-piece brake discs and even larger wheels and tires.
The already formidable 6.0-liter AMG V12 engine has been modified to produce 661 horsepower and a staggering 738 pound-feet of torque. Its twin turbochargers are 12 percent larger, passages for intake air and the turbo wastegates have been modified, and the intake air intercooler is 30 percent more efficient. The result is zero-to-60 mph acceleration of only 3.6 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 199 mph.
Fully Adjustable Suspension
AMG has even developed a fully adjustable sport suspension for Black Series models. Adjustable coil-spring struts provide a proven motorsports solution that allows fine tuning of shock absorber jounce and rebound, ride height and wheel alignment. Spring links, camber struts, push-pull rods and wheel carriers have been specially developed for this vehicle. Track width is nearly four inches wider.
Optional Performance Package
On many of its models, AMG offers an optional Performance Package, which includes limited-slip differential, forged alloy wheels, two-piece brakes and, on some models, a track-calibrated suspension. The Performance Package also boasts a higher electronically limited top speed, typically 186 mph.
About AMG
AMG has been the high-performance subsidiary of Daimler AG since 1999 and is located near Stuttgart in the country village of Affalterbach, Germany. AMG employs more than 600 specialists in development, production and administrative areas.
AMG develops each of its models, including the transmission, chassis, brakes, aerodynamics, interior and – most importantly – the engine. AMG engines are the product of a surprising combination of cutting-edge technology, computer-aided design and old-fashioned hand craftsmanship. No automobile capable of eye-popping flat-out performance also displays such a docile nature in every-day driving. Each engine is produced and tested at AMG's headquarters in Affalterbach, and AMG models are assembled at the main Mercedes-Benz vehicle plants.
With more than 50 percent of AMG sales, the U.S. is the top market for AMG worldwide. While all Mercedes-Benz authorized dealers offer AMG products, about 25 U.S. dealerships serve as AMG Performance Centers, which include specially trained staff, uniquely branded point-of-sale materials and highly popular "AMG Performance Tour" weekend driving events. AMG also offers track-based Driving Academy and AMG Challenge programs.
