Mercedes-AMG Unleashes the GT3 Edition 130Y: A Fusion of Heritage and High-Performance
Mercedes-AMG marks its 130th anniversary in motorsport with the iconic three-pointed star this year. The historical reference point for this anniversary is the inaugural automobile race from Paris to Rouen on July 22, 1894, where a Daimler licensed engine clinched victory. Celebrating this significant milestone, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport makes its global debut at Pebble Beach Automotive Week in California, USA, under the banner "Racing Legend Remastered". This limited edition GT3 car merges two iconic motorsport eras, blending state-of-the-art technology with the classic design cues from the legendary 1950s racers. Boasting 680 hp, this non-homologated particular model stands as the most potent GT3 vehicle ever assembled in Affalterbach and the final version to feature a naturally aspirated engine. Only 13 units are offered globally, making it a prized collector's item.
Unlike its base model, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport transcends homologation limitations. The legendary AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, enhanced for higher performance without air restrictors and paired with a unique exhaust system, delivers an impressive 680 hp (500 kW). The car's aerodynamics have been extensively refined, increasing downforce by 15 per cent over the standard GT3 model through redesigned front splitters, front wing louvres, side skirts, underfloor, and rear diffuser enhancements. The wider rear wing and a new Formula 1® and DTM-inspired Drag Reduction System (DRS) optimise aerodynamics, allowing speeds over 315 km/h despite high downforce levels. During dynamic driving scenarios, active aero components swiftly revert to enhance stability. Moreover, this model features a high-performance braking system inspired by Formula 1®, with carbon brake discs that considerably lighten the car compared to the homologated GT3.
Power is routed through a six-speed racing transmission with revised gear ratios, typical of Mercedes-AMG's rear-mounted transaxle design, ensuring optimal weight distribution and stability. The suspension is equipped with fully adjustable 4-way motorsport shock absorbers. This collector's model embodies all proven safety features of the Mercedes-AMG GT3, including a carbon fibre safety cell, five-point harness, safety nets, steel roll cage, fire extinguishing system, safety fuel tank, and emergency hatch. The car also features sophisticated racing ABS and a multi-adjustable traction control system.
After two years of rigorous development and testing, Mercedes-AMG Performance Driver Jules Gounon showcased the vehicle's superior capabilities by setting a new track record for GT cars at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Australia on February 17, 2024.
The design of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport draws inspiration from the 1952 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL W 194, with stylistic elements reminiscent of the brand's first enclosed top racer. The exclusive silver paint finish, blue rhombuses on the front wings, and the coloured grille frame pay homage to Mercedes' historical successes. The vehicle features lightweight 18-inch magnesium rims and extensive carbon elements linking past and present. Inside, the advanced Bosch DDU 10 cockpit display and blue chequered fabric seats with brown leather accents reflect the heritage of the famous Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 models from 1955.
Each 13 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport unit includes a comprehensive delivery package with a customised vehicle cover, complete racing attire co-designed by PUMA, and a high-quality helmet from BELL. The package is completed with a 1:8 scale model of the car and a personalised certificate of authenticity.
