(May 14, 2018) Later this year, Mercedes-AMG is extending its sports car portfolio with an attractive open-air model — the new AMG GT S Roadster. With this latest addition, the AMG GT family now has a dozen members: four two-door Coupes, three Roadsters, two customer sports racing cars and three four-door Coupes.

The basis for the high Driving Performance of the new AMG GT S Roadster is the combination of a lightweight aluminum spaceframe, a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, a seven-speed dual clutch transmission, a rear axle locking differential and a sport suspension with aluminum double wishbone axles.

"With the AMG GT S Roadster, our AMG GT family has gained another exceptionally sporty member that combines high driving dynamics with an emotional open-air experience," says Tobias Moers, chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "The new model represents the perfect alternative for the performance-oriented AMG GT Roadster customer."

Compared to the AMG GT Roadster, the AMG GT S Roadster is rendered even more dynamic by numerous modifications to the engine, suspension, brakes, design and interior. This positions it between the AMG GT Roadster and the even more powerful AMG GT C Roadster, now providing a choice of three open- top two-seaters.

The Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo in the AMG GT S Roadster delivers an output of 515 hp and maximum torque of 494 lb-ft. This is available over a wide engine speed range from 1,900 to 5,000 rpm. The eight-cylinder power unit delivers muscular performance in all engine speed ranges, combined with high efficiency for low fuel consumption and emission levels.

A sprint from standstill to 60 mph is completed in an estimated 3.7 seconds and the dynamic power delivery continues right up to the top speed of 192 mph.

The two turbochargers of the V8 are not positioned on the outside of the cylinder banks, but inside the cylinder "V." Advantages: a compact engine design, spontaneous response of the turbochargers and low exhaust emissions thanks to optimal airflow to the near-engine catalysts. The dry sump lubrication also ensures the oil supply even with high lateral forces and allows the engine to be installed lower, thus moving the center of gravity closer to the road and forming the basis for high lateral acceleration.

Power transfer is based on the combination of a front mid-engine and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G sport transmission in a transaxle arrangement, combined with a torsionally rigid torque tube. Thanks to the wide gear ratio spread, the decidedly high torque of the V8 biturbo engine can be used to optimum effect.

The weight distribution is also ideal for optimum driving dynamics at 47 percent (front) and 53 (rear) percent.

The Mercedes-AMG GT S Roadster will be available in U.S. dealers by late 2018. Additional details including pricing will be available closer to launch.