Mercedes-AMG GT R priced $50K higher than GT S

Mercedes-Benz has today announced local pricing for the Mercedes-AMG GT R, the new flagship model that adds exotic new underpinnings, revised aero kit and a thundering 430kW twin-turbo V8 to the specification of the existing GT S variant.

How much would you expect to pay for such a car?

If you thought all the extra goodness of the GT R would be worth $100K or $150,000 extra, you could be excused. After all, the new variant introduces new active aerodynamic elements, wider track front and rear (with panel changes to accommodate that), a nine-way adjustable traction control system, adjustable coil-over suspension with enhanced electronic control and enough engine output to shave the 0-100km/h down to 3.6 seconds – two tenths faster than the time for the GT S.

Selling the sizzle is none other than Mercedes-AMG CEO, Tobias Moers.

"With the new AMG GT R, we have reached the next level of driving performance," Moers was quoted spruiking in a press release.

"This road-going sports car with motor-racing genes and innovative technical solutions offers an ultimate driving experience that allows people to feel our motorsport origins in every fibre. It combines the driving dynamics of our AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday practicality of the AMG GT.

"Those with petrol in their veins will be thrilled by the radical longitudinal and lateral acceleration, the precise turn-in, and the sensational grip. We have modified all performance-relevant components and linked them together intelligently for maximum driving dynamics."

But wait, there's even more.

No steak knives thrown in, but you do get a 318km/h top speed.

And hold the phone, there's an exclusive new colour, 'AMG Green Hell Magno', to whisk you away in your Walter Mitty dreams of rocketing around the North Loop of the Nurburgring.

So how much would you pay?

Just $349,000 – barely $50,000 more than the GT S. Don't wait, place your order today (for local launch in July this year).