The different classes of GT sports car racing can be puzzling to the occasional race fan. Essentially, low value numerals such as GT1 and GT2 typically denote professional outfits with highly modified machines backed by manufacturers; GT3 class is a notch below showcasing a mix of professional and amateur teams, while GT4 is the ‘entry-level’ class helmed by amateur racers using road cars that are track optimised.
While the GT4 class receives little media coverage, it has been growing in popularity in Europe and North America with numerous manufacturers offering GT4-spec race cars under their customer racing programmes, Since its market launch in 2018, the Mercedes-AMG GT4 had competed in 363 races, managing 137 podiums, 151 class wins and 53 overall wins, and now the new 2020-spec GT4 has been unveiled.
Apart from looking meaner with its facelifted exterior styling, the performance of 2020 GT4 has been optimised with better brake and engine cooling, improved illumination with new LED headlamps, toughened track rods at the rear axle for better race endurance and upgraded overall safety for the driver with the roll cage bolted to the aluminium space frame and a recovery hatch integrated into the roof of the car.
The Mercedes-AMG GT4 is powered by a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 rated at 476 hp and 630 Nm (subject to classifications) which is mated to a 6-speed sequential gearbox with adjustable differentials. The 1,390 kg race car also comes with competition-spec traction control, multi-adjustable ABS and electronic torque control, and rides on all-round double wishbones and fully adjustable shock absorbers.
Mercedes-AMG quotes a 0-100km/h time of ‘under 4 seconds’, top speed of ‘over 250 km/h’ and a price tag of 209,000.00 Euros (before VAT) for the 2020 GT4. Well, we just ogle at how lovely it looks.
Mercedes-AMG GT4 gallery
