The recently released GT2 cars bring a new level of complexity to Assetto Corsa Competizione. This class has the highest power among the grand tourers but reduced aerodynamics, resulting in blistering straight-line speed and challenging handling.
Let’s learn more about the AMG GT2 and compare it to other GT2 challengers and Mercedes GTs in the simulator.
Introducing the Mercedes-AMG GT2
Despite what the model name might suggest, the GT2 performance and driving characteristics are between the GT4 and GT3 classes. The cars are notably faster than a GT4 on the track while offering a less demanding experience near its performance limits than a GT3.
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 aligns with the technical GT2 regulations set by the Stéphane Ratel Organisation (SRO) focused on ambitious amateur drivers. The GT2 strives to deliver thrilling performance without requiring the expertise of a professional driver.
The GT2 is the third race car by Mercedes-AMG in Assetto Corsa Competizione, joining its GT4 and GT3 models. All cars look similar but provide distinct levels of performance.
- The AMG GT4 is the introductory model derived from the road-going AMG GT. It uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V-8 engine restricted to about 400 horsepower by the GT4 balance of performance rules.
- The AMG GT3 features a naturally aspirated 6.3-litre V-8 engine with up to 550 horsepower. It has a highly adjustable setup and advanced aerodynamics, generating significantly more downforce than the GT4 and GT2 cars.
- The AMG GT2 has the most power among Mercedes grand tourers, packing 707 horsepower and weighing just 1,400 kilograms. However, the aero package is significantly simplified compared to the GT3 model.
The Basic Car Characteristics
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 boasts a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V-8 engine that delivers power to the rear slick tyres via a six-speed sequential gearbox. The car includes adjustable traction control (TC), antilock brake system (ABS), customisable anti-roll bars and 3-way motorsport shock absorbers, allowing for adjustable rebound and compression. The adjustable swan neck rear wing is a standout visual feature of the car compared to other Mercedes GTs.
The setup parameters in the simulator are similar to the GT3 car. The majority of performance potential lies in tyre pressures and mechanical grip, and you can fine-tune the behaviour with dampers, aero and electronics.
- The Coach Dave Academy team of drivers and engineers have released setup offerings for the Mercedes-AMG GT2 and other GT2 cars, available for purchase now as part of our setup subscription to get you on the pace.
Steering and Cornering
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 handles similarly to what you may expect from a powerful front-engine car with a simple aero package. A near-perfect weight distribution combined with a low centre of gravity grants the car a heavy yet stable feel and remarkable levels of traction and grip.
The suspension feels firm even in soft settings and maintains exceptional composure in the corners. The steering and force feedback are accurate and help navigate corners confidently once you become accustomed to them.
Compared to the GT3, the GT2 is more approachable and intuitive because it relies on mechanical grip more than on the aero downforce. But remember that the GT2 reaches higher top speeds and requires adjusted braking points compared to the GT3.
Power Delivery and Braking
The Mercedes AMG GT2 has formidable power even by the GT2 class standards. With a baseline weight of 1,400 kilograms and an engine producing 707 horsepower, the GT2 has approximately 20% better weight-to-power ratio than the AMG GT3.
The car is known for its exceptional straight-line speed and impressive acceleration, but throttle control is crucial to avoid wheel spin on corner exits due to its high torque. The car offers a lot of potential for overtaking on the straights if you can master its quirks at the early stages of acceleration.
In line with the modern GT racers, the AMG GT2 includes TC and ABS. Their settings range from 1 for the minimal intervention to 12 for the highest intervention, and you can turn them off completely. On the whole, running lower traction control will provide you with a competitive advantage, as is the current trend across all classes of cars in ACC.
Aerodynamics and Bodywork
In the real world, the AMG GT2 car generates about half the downforce of the AMG GT3, depending on the circuit and the rear wing angle. It is also very noticeable in the simulator: expect to hit much lower apex speeds in GT2, especially in the medium-speed corners.
When configured correctly and driven skillfully, the GT3 can outperform the GT2 in terms of lap times on most circuits thanks to its advanced aero package and suspension design. However, the optimal setup range on the GT3 is narrower than the GT2, and the GT3 is more challenging to drive on the limit.
- If you need help understanding how to handle the Mercedes-AMG GT2 on various circuits, watch the onboard hot laps on the Coach Dave Hotlaps YouTube channel.
Final Thoughts
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 features impressive straight-line speed but feels heavy in corners. This car should excel on high-speed circuits that do not demand top cornering performance, such as Monza, Indianapolis or Red Bull Ring.
