Mercedes-AMG is developing a V8 supercar to challenge the Porsche 911 GT3 RS

[PCauto] Mercedes-AMG is developing an all-new V8 supercar, codenamed Project C190, with a clear mission: to challenge the Porsche 911 GT3 RS for dominance on the track.

Built on the second-generation AMG GT platform

The car "Project C190" features a heavily upgraded version of AMG’s signature 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 engine (code-named M178). The revised powerplant is expected to deliver over 650 horsepower—around 5% more than the current AMG GT Black Series.

To cope with extreme track conditions, the car retains a pure internal combustion layout and adopts a motorsport-grade wet sump lubrication system. AMG has already teased the car’s aggressive exhaust note in its latest preview video.

To break the Nürburgring lap record held by the Porsche 911 GT3 RS.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, the car is benchmarked directly against the latest Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992.2). The development target is a Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time under 6 minutes and 30 seconds. This ambitious goal requires major advances in aerodynamics and chassis tuning.

The new supercar will feature even more efficient aero than the AMG ONE. A two-layer front splitter guides airflow both over the roof and under the chassis. At the rear, a GT3-style adjustable wing works in tandem with vortex generators on the roof to optimize airflow, boosting aerodynamic efficiency by 7% compared to the AMG ONE. These features enhance stability through high-speed corners.

Debuting AMG ACTIVE R Suspension

This model will make debut the new AMG ACTIVE R active suspension, which can adjust damping in milliseconds for optimal body control in corners. The chassis uses a carbon monocoque, cutting weight by 18% compared to the current AMG GT.

Notably, the car will also introduce an F1-derived electronic rear-wheel steering system to an AMG massive-production car for the first time, greatly improving high-speed cornering performance.

Global Debut Set for September at IAA Munich

The V8 track machine will make its global debut at the 2025 IAA Munich auto show in September. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in Q1 2026, with a global production cap of 1,500 units (including both LHD and RHD versions). Despite the EV era, AMG continues to push the limits of combustion performance. At the same time, development of the first fully electric AMG GT is well underway—the previously unveiled 1,341-hp Concept GT XX has already hinted at the brand’s future in electric performance.

This V8 supercar brings together AMG’s rich trackside heritage.

From the AMG 300 SEL’s victory at Spa in 1971 to the AMG GT’s blistering 6:43 lap at the Nürburgring in 2020, the racetrack has always been AMG’s ultimate testing ground.

Project C190 is more than just a challenger to the Porsche 911 GT3 RS—it’s a continuation of AMG’s legacy of performance born on the track.