The Black Series name is commonly attached to Mercedes-AMG’s most powerful and expensive models. The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is not only a mouthful to name but also the most powerful Mercedes-AMG ever. With a twin-turbo V8 under the hood, a carbon fiber covered body, and imposing aerodynamics; it certainly isn’t cheap. According to Car & Driver, the GT Black Series has an absurdly high starting price of $389,000.

The GT Black Series is heavily inspired by the GT3 race-car

Look at the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, and you’ll find that it looks eerily similar to the GT3 race-car. The front bumper and massive front grille look almost identical to that of the GT3. Although the rear wing on the GT Black Series is enormous, it is tiny compared to that of the race-car. Despite the wing on the road car being noticeably narrower, it appears to be similar in height.

Much like the race-car, the GT Black Series’ hood also has massive openings; however, they are oriented differently. As you can imagine, the GT3 has a starting price of about $441,000. Given that the Black Series also has to be a road car, it is clear to see where the $389,000 came from.

It produces 720 hp from a twin-turbo V8

While the race-car is stuck producing just 503 hp, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series generates 720 hp from its twin-turbo V8. The engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which allows the Black Series to reach 60 mph in less than three seconds. Flat-out, the Black Series will go on to a top speed of over 200 mph, despite the massive aerodynamics.

While power is undoubtedly necessary, the Black Series’ party piece is its aerodynamic elements. While larger components such as the rear wing are very noticeable, every panel has some aerodynamically sculpted piece. The result is that the Black Series can generate up to 880 pounds of downforce at 155 mph. It is also important to note that almost every major body panel on the Black Series employs carbon fiber to keep the overall weight down.

While this level of downforce is impressive, especially for a road car, it does alter the GT Black Series’ design. As a result, the Black Series loses the elegant design we love of the standard GT and begins to beg the question if the Black Series is only enjoyable on track, why not just get the AMG GT R?

Is it really worth almost $200,000 over an AMG GT R Pro?

While the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series’ price-tag may be justifiable given the motorsport heritage and uniqueness, a big reason for the price-tag comes down to rarity. Much like the AMG GT R Pro, the Black Series is not a regular production model; it will only exist in minimal quantities. While this should keep second-hand values high, it does not make the $389,000 pill easier to swallow.

To put the Black Series’ price into perspective, consider that the GT R starts at $162,900 and the GT R Pro at $199,650. In terms of on-road driveability, we will have to wait until road tests are published. However, the Black Series will have to impress to justify an almost 100 percent markup over the next trim level. Despite this, it wouldn’t be hard to imagine that all of the available Black Series’ have already found homes.