For 2025, Mercedes gave us the second-generation AMG GT. The heritage of the AMG GT goes back to the 1950s and the Mercedes 300SL "Gullwing". While the original classic, its spiritual successor, the SLS AMG, and the first-generation AMG GT were all supercars of their respective period, this new generation is something else.
Like all current Mercedes-Benz models, the new model is a tech-fest on wheels. However, this contributes to a hefty weight of 4,345 pounds for the AMG GT63 variant. Direct competitors like the Porsche 911 Turbo S and the now-deceased Nissan GT-R R35, weigh significantly less despite packing an impressive array of hi-tech features.
Porsche 911 Turbo S weighs 3,615 pounds and the even if it goes the hybrid route, the new Porsche 992.2's T Hybrid system adds just 103 pounds. Even the Nissan GT-R, which was previously thought to be heavy tips the scales at 3,867 pounds. But wait, there is more. The range-topping Mercedes AMG GT63 S E Performance comes with a complex hybrid system and tips the scales at a whopping, 4,722 pounds.
What makes the Mercedes AMG GT so heavy?
1.The rear seats.
For the first time ever, the range-topping, two-door, Mercedes AMG model features a 2+2 layout. The back seats are about as usable as you may think and are only good for ex-girlfriends, lousy friends, and additional storage.
The main point is, that the extra row of seats in the AMG GT doesn't weigh more than 60 pounds, so we can't really blame the “obesity issue” on that, despite the having a minor contribution. Also, the rear seats are optional on the 2024 Mercedes AMG GT.
2. The hybrid powertrain.
It is a well-known fact that hybrid vehicles are heavier than non-hybrid vehicles, and often, on par with EV models. It's worth noting that the range-topping Mercedes AMG GT63 S E Performance is the heaviest version of the car, albeit also the most powerful, with a combined output of 816 horsepower and 1,047 pound-feet of torque.
But how much heavier is the hybrid variant of the 2025 Mercedes AMG GT63 S E Performance, compared to the non-hybrid, V-8 models? In AMG GT55 and AMG GT63 guise, the Mercedes AMG GT has a curb weight of 4,343 pounds, which is 379 pounds less than the hybrid AMG GT.
The 6.1-kWh battery weighs 196 pounds and allows for just over 8 miles of range purely on electricity. At this time, we don't have an exact weight figure of the rear-mounted electric motor of the AMG GT63 S E Performance, but a safe assumption would be less than the average man.
3.The high-tech features
Like all new Mercedes-Benz models, the AMG GT63 S E Performance is full to the brim with advanced systems. I am not even going to mention the multimedia system or any other interior-related features as those are to be expected at this price range.
I will, however, mention the PHEV AMG GT63's active anti-roll system, which is hydraulic instead of relying on anti-roll bars. The high-performance Mercedes also benefits from rear-wheel steering and an electronic limited-slip differential. The German supercar also comes standard with the company's 4MATIC all-wheel drive, which even in hybrid mode relies on a traditional driveshaft to transmit power from the twin-turbo V-8 engine to the rear.
What's the power-to-weight ratio of the 2024 Mercedes AMG GT63 S E Performance?
At its heaviest, the Mercedes AMG GT63 S E Performance tips the scales at 4,720 pounds or 2,141 kg (2.14 tons), which comes up to 381.13 horsepower per ton. To put things in perspective, the 992-generation Porsche 911 Turbo S has superior power-to-weight ratio, despite not being a hybrid. Rated at 650 metric horsepower and 3,615 pounds (1,640 kg), the rear-engine Porsche Turbo S has a power-to-weight ratio of 390.24 horsepower per ton.
Competing with the Porsche 911 is a bad idea
I am not saying the Mercedes AMG GT63 S E Performance is a bad performance car. Having experienced the savage power of the four-door (non-hybrid) AMG GT63 S, I have even higher expectations when I, eventually, get behind the wheel of the new, two-door version.
That said, I think Mercedes is making a mistake by directly targeting the Porsche 911. Porsche sports cars are like scalpel while Mercedes AMG's creations are more like sophisticated Muscle cars. Considering Mercedes’ substantial EV lineup, giving the range-topping AMG GT a complex plug-in hybrid powertrain may not have been the best idea. If you would like, feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
About the author
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
Image source: 2024 Mercedes AMG GT63 S E Performance