2017 Mercedes-AMG GT C spy pics

Spy photographers have snapped pics of AMG snapping pics of its latest GT model, the Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupe.

GT C is the “more luxurious version” in a diversified AMG GT line-up, according to company boss Tobias Moers.

This means the GT model range now has four variants, with the GT C slotting in under the flagship AMG GT R, and above the second-tier GT S and base model GT.

Like the folding roof GT C Roadster, shown ahead of the Paris motor show earlier this year, the GT C Coupe will feature a 410kW/680Nm version of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine used in the GT range. Acceleration is likely to be the same as the GT C Roadster, at 3.7 seconds from zero to 100km/h.

AMG boss Tobias Moers told Wheels the GT C was about blending some of the technology and thinking in the GT R with a more comfortable road car.

GT C gets the same sophisticated rear axle as the GT R – which has rear-wheel steering and torque vectoring – and the GT R’s revised electronic power steering.

Moers said that the much-improved variable ratio steering will eventually filter through to all GT models.

AMG has also added its Ride Control suspension to GT C, which includes adaptive adjustable damping for increased compliance.

Its styling also incorporates elements of other AMG GT models, including the GT R’s 57mm wider rear guards and broader rear apron, with 20-inch rear wheels and 19-inch fronts.

Quad tail pipes exit at the back, rather than the GT R’s central exhaust outlet.

The Panamericana front grille fitted to GT C is also shared with the GT R, and modelled off the Mercedes-Benz W194 300SL that won the 1952 Carrera Panamericana in Mexico.

The GT C Coupe spotted in these photos features matte black paintwork, and our spy snappers made mention of a unique ‘Edition 50’ badge on the boot lid, suggesting a special edition to coincide with AMG’s 50th birthday in 2017.

Moers admitted to Australian media at Paris that the ‘C’ model designation doesn’t officially stand for anything. However, it is possible we could see ‘C’ variants spreading to a wider range of Mercedes-AMG product.

Both GT C Coupe and GT C Roadster are expected to arrive in local showrooms late in 2017. The rumoured Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is expected to follow sometime in 2018.