Mercedes-AMG GT43: Why it could be the most-popular version

Borrowing the much talked about 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine from the new C63 AMG, Mercedes-Benz has plonked it into their flagship sports coupe. This is the Mercedes-AMG GT 43 and here’s why it has the potential of becoming the most popular version in the AMG GT line-up.

Putting out 421bhp and a whopping 500Nm from the tiny four-cylinder, the AMG GT is capable of hitting 0-100kmph in just 4.6 seconds. In comparison, the full-blown 585bhp V8 in the 63 AMG would do the same tilt in 3.2 seconds. The 55 AMG version with a 476bhp V8 will do the same in 3.9 seconds. This means the puny little 43 AMG is still quick.

Its Formula 1-derived electrically-operated turbocharger also feeds the belt-driven starter generator. So a 10kW of boost is also available for the 43 AMG version along with fuel-saving measures like start-stop and coasting functions.

It might appear slightly different from the more powerful versions, but the 43 AMG has adaptive aerodynamics. It has horizontal slats behind the front air inlet and an extendable rear spoiler. Now the GT 43 is RWD so it uses a revised rear suspension kinematics, lightweight coil springs, torsion bar stabilisers, and adaptive damping.

Even the ventilated discs carry the same dimensions as its more powerful version. The rear-wheel steering is available as an optional extra. On the inside, AMG spec doesn’t miss out on any sporty bits which are offered in the more expensive versions.

And that’s where the pricing will play a crucial role in the AMG GT 43’s success. Prices are yet to be announced but it will have a hefty price advantage over the more expensive 53 and 63 AMG versions. Despite being down by a few cylinders, the AMG GT 43 will offer more bang for the buck.