New Affordable Rear-Drive GT 43 Unveiled in the UK

Around a year ago, fans of rare AMG models might recall the announcement of the GT 43. This car was intriguing because it comes with the powerful A45 engine, delivering 421 horsepower, which is notably more than the SL 43’s 382 horsepower. What made it even more appealing was its lighter weight compared to the V8 model, the ‘63. However, UK buyers were initially unable to purchase it. Fortunately, Mercedes has reconsidered and now offers the GT 43 along with the GT 55 and the 63 Pro, available for order in the UK starting today.

The GT 43 has a starting price of £101,695. This price may seem quite high at first, but it is actually cheaper than the equivalent SL, which starts at £108,250. Moreover, it offers more power than the £100,000 Porsche 911, which has a 394-horsepower, 3.0-litre engine. On paper, the GT 43 and the 911 are closely matched; the AMG boasts more power and torque—369 lb-ft compared to the 911’s 332 lb-ft. However, when it comes to speed, the GT 43 takes 4.6 seconds to reach 0-62 mph, whereas the 911 achieves it in 4.1 seconds. The top speeds are also different, with the GT 43 maxing out at 174 mph compared to the 911’s 183 mph. Despite being lighter than the V8 option, the GT 43 is still heavier than the Carrera, tipping the scales at 1,790 kg compared to the 911’s 1,595 kg.

This new model adds an interesting choice to the GT lineup. It should present a thrilling contest with the 911 on the road. Some previous models, like the SL equipped with the A45 engine, lacked the true excitement of AMG’s powerful engines. Hopefully, the GT 43 can provide that thrilling experience. The GT 43 will be offered in two specifications: Premium and Premium Plus, the latter starting at £109,185.

Next in the lineup is the GT 55 4Matic+, which is only available in the Premium Plus configuration. It features a 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine that produces 476 horsepower, a reduction from the 585 horsepower seen in the ‘63 model. Thanks to its all-wheel-drive system, the GT 55 can accelerate to 62 mph in under four seconds, despite its weight of 1,970 kg. Both the GT 55 and the ‘63 have the same fuel economy of 20.2 mpg and emit 319 g/km of CO2. This option seems to cater more to buyers looking to save over £20,000, with the GT 55 priced at £143,605, while the ‘63 costs £164,905. However, adding more V8 options to Mercedes’ lineup is a positive for enthusiasts.

Lastly, the eagerly awaited GT 63 Pro is now available for order. This powerful model boasts 612 horsepower and can sprint to 62 mph in just 3.2 seconds, with a retail price of £176,605. While it is not the most powerful or fastest GT in this expanding range, that title belongs to the even more potent E Performance, the GT 63 Pro is aimed at track day lovers. It features impressive brakes and high-performance tires, designed to attract buyers looking to upgrade from their GT3s. Early reports have been promising, so we hope this model can capture the spirit of the beloved old GT R Pro. However, there is a chance that the four-cylinder GT might end up drawing even more attention in the market.