Mercedes-AMG GT3 Set for Race Debut in Summer

Photo: Laurent Chauveau/Endurance-Info

The new Mercedes-AMG GT3, officially launched Tuesday at the Geneva Motor Show, will make its race debut this summer, the German manufacturer confirmed.

The second-generation GT3 contender, powered by an evolution of the 6.3-liter V8 engine used in the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3, has begun an extensive testing and development program with factory drivers Bernd Schneider and Thomas Jaeger.

No word has been given on the venue for the car’s debut, other than a series of “test races” planned this summer, prior to deliveries to customers by the end of the year in time for the 2016 seasons.

Both the Total 24 Hours of Spa, in late July, and the 24H Series’ Paul Ricard 24 Hours earlier that month have been speculated as possible endurance tests for the GT3 contender, which would likely be run by the factory or a works-supported operation.

The Mercedes-AMG GT3 replaces the ultra-successful SLS AMG GT3, which has claimed 187 victories worldwide, including overall wins in the 24-hour races at Dubai, Nürburgring and Spa, as well as the Bathurst 12 Hour.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John