Mercedes-AMG has unleashed its most extreme customer racing car to date, the GT2 Edition W16. This highly anticipated, limited-run, track-only machine draws profound inspiration from the Formula 1 team's W16 E Performance race car and features the endorsement of driver Kimi Antonelli. With only 30 units slated for production, it stands as the rarest and most powerful GT sports car ever conceived by AMG, serving as a testament to Affalterbach's capability in blending cutting-edge F1 innovation with established GT racing prowess.

At the heart of the GT2 Edition W16 lies a meticulously handcrafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine. Unlike its F1 counterpart, this vehicle is unburdened by homologation rules, allowing AMG to maximize its potential. The engine delivers a staggering base output of 720 hp, significantly surpassing the 577-hp AMG GT 63. Further enhancing its performance, a 'Push2Pass' button on the steering wheel provides a temporary boost of 98 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, elevating total output to an impressive 818 hp and 738 lb-ft. This makes the GT2 Edition W16 the most powerful GT-class sports car ever developed by AMG. For context, while the AMG One hybrid hypercar produces around 1,020 hp and the AMG GT 63 S E-Performance makes 830 hp, both carry substantially more mass (3,737 pounds for the AMG One and 5,507 pounds for the four-door GT 63 S E-Performance). By contrast, the GT2 Edition W16 boasts a lean curb weight of just 3,153 pounds (1,430kg), resulting in a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 3.85 lb/hp – superior to its higher-output siblings. A drag-reduction system (DRS), mirroring the technology found on F1 cars, flattens the rear wing and closes active louvers, enabling the GT2 Edition W16 to achieve a claimed top speed of 'over 199 mph'. While the AMG One tops out at 218 mph, the GT2 W16 Edition positions itself as perhaps AMG’s sharpest track weapon, outside of the F1 W16 itself.

The formidable engine power is channeled to the GT2 Edition W16's rear wheels via a robust carbon fiber torque tube connected to a rear-mounted six-speed sequential transmission. The chassis is engineered for precision, featuring adjustable four-way dampers and four-stage anti-roll bars, allowing for meticulous fine-tuning on the circuit. Massive brakes, with 15.4-inch fronts and 14.0-inch rears, coupled with adjustable bias and AMG Traction Control, provide professional-level feedback and unwavering confidence for the driver.

Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the GT2 Edition W16’s track performance, with its aero package extensively developed on Formula 1 circuits. This includes active louvers above the front wheels, a re-worked front diffuser, a carbon spoiler lip integrated into the boot lid, and redesigned wind-friendly mirrors. The striking aesthetic is completed by a distinctive livery, featuring a hand-painted star pattern wrapping the rear flanks, contrasted by vibrant emerald green PETRONAS highlights – a direct homage to the AMG F1 car's iconic appearance.

Inside the cockpit, a blend of functionality and F1-inspired luxury awaits. The interior is dominated by matte carbon fiber and emerald green accents across the seat, doors, and center console. A standout feature is the Cube Controls steering wheel, which appears to be directly transplanted from an F1 car. Further exclusive touches include a '1 of 30' badge embedded in the center console and door sill plates personally signed by Kimi Antonelli, whose family lineage includes GT sports car racing.

As with all AMG Customer Racing cars, the GT2 Edition W16 is fully equipped for track safety. It features a carbon safety cell, a five-point harness, an integrated roll cage, a comprehensive fire suppression system, and an extrication hatch. The 30 fortunate buyers will also receive a custom racing suit and helmet, styled after the F1 team’s equipment and supplied by OMP and Bell Motorsports, the team's official suppliers.

Acquiring one of these exclusive vehicles is an event in itself. Each of the 30 cars will be handed over at an exclusive European track event, which includes dedicated driving sessions and a unique meet-and-greet opportunity with members of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. The price tag for this ultimate track toy is a cool €679,000 (approximately $733,000) before taxes, with orders accepted exclusively through Mercedes-AMG Motorsport. Given the extremely limited production run, these units are expected to be snapped up quickly. American customers are welcome, and comprehensive support will be provided for them in the U.S., encompassing technical assistance, driver training and mentoring, and a 24/7 online portal for ordering spares and requesting aid. The Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16 transcends being merely another GT variant; it is a profound celebration and seamless fusion of the brand's passion for both Formula 1 and GT racing. With its 818 hp, advanced DRS aero, and the esteemed blessing of its rising star driver, it represents the pinnacle of AMG track performance and a coveted collector’s dream.