(September 10, 2014) The 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT sports car, the second vehicle developed by the brand’s in-house performance arm, goes on sale in the U.S. next April, Mercedes announced on Tuesday. The front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive Mercedes-AMG GT is expected to be priced at about $120,000 and compete with the Porsche 911 and the new BMW i8 plug-in hybrid.

The low-slung coupe with swoopy curves and conventional doors will not replace the larger, exotic SLS AMG, with its gull-wing doors and a $208,925 price tag, including shipping. The SLS AMG —the first car developed by AMG which usually does the engines and other components for mainstream Mercedes-Benz models — competes with exotic brands including Ferrari and Lamborghini.

The GT is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. Its front mid-engine design with a rear transaxle and use of intelligent aluminum lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience. Its newly developed AMG 4.0-liter V8 engine underscores the hallmark of AMG driving performance.

The first sports car engine from AMG with internally mounted turbochargers and dry sump lubrication is configured in two output ratings: as a GT with 456 horsepower and as a GT S with 503 horsepower. The new GT combines driving dynamics and first-class racetrack performance with superb everyday practicality and efficiency that sets new standards in the segment.

It has everything you would expect from an authentic Mercedes-AMG sports car — from the characteristic styling, thoroughbred motorsport technology to the optimum weight distribution. The drive system tailored to consistently delivering driving dynamics perfectly complements this set-up.

The centerpiece of the Mercedes-AMG GT is the new 4.0-liter V8 biturbo, which responds instantly with extreme power at low revs and delivers outstanding performance. Top figures such as 3.7 seconds from 0-60 mph (preliminary) and a top speed of 193 mph, combined with the outstanding driving dynamics will undoubtedly translate into extremely fast laps on the racetrack.

At the same time, this two-seater is a comfortable and reliable companion for everyday motoring thanks to its practical decklid, easily accessible luggage compartment, and high level of comfort on long journeys. It also features an extensive list of Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems which ensure the high level of safety expected from Mercedes-AMG.

"With the new Mercedes-AMG GT, we are venturing out into a challenging sports car segment with its top-class competitive field. This is an incentive and motivation for us at the same time to prove to sports car enthusiasts around the world the kind of performance that AMG is capable of", says Prof Dr Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

"With the new GT we are positioning Mercedes-AMG even more aggressively than to date as a dynamic sports car brand," said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"With its technological substance, the Mercedes-AMG GT fulfills our high aspirations with regard to driving dynamics, agility and sportiness. The new GT is the second sports car developed fully independently by Mercedes-AMG. The car is manufactured according to the motto 'Handcrafted By Racers' — which perfectly encapsulates our heritage and our spirit."

The combination of aluminum spaceframe, V8 engine with dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle, locking differential, sports suspension with aluminum double wishbone suspension and a low curb weight delivers racetrack performance. The front mid-engine design and rear transaxle configuration makes for a beneficial weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent between the front and rear axle. In conjunction with the vehicle's low center of gravity this translates into extremely agile handling and permits high cornering speeds. With a favorable power-to-weight ratio, the Mercedes-AMG GT self-confidently lines up alongside the very best in its segment.

"The new Mercedes-AMG GT is a sports car in its purist form", said Gorden Wagener, vice president Design Daimler AG. "Breathtaking proportions, powerfully sculpted surfaces and flowing lines turn the new AMG into a contemporary sports car which embodies the spirit of the glorious Mercedes sports cars. The GT is a consummate combination of beauty and intelligence."

The new Mercedes-AMG GT embodies pure sportiness and emotion. The two-seater is characterized by hallmark rear-wheel-drive proportions. The V8 biturbo front mid-engine ensures optimum weight distribution, which forms the basis for superb driving dynamics. The long hood with its pronounced powerdomes, the greenhouse which has been moved far back, the large wheels and broad tail end make up the distinctive looks. Additionally, the large deck lid conceals a practical luggage compartment.