Mercedes AMG GT with Gull-wing Doors: A Blast from the Past

Imagined AMG GT Gull-wing / Photo Source = Instagram ‘@j.b.cars.’

The Mercedes-Benz high-performance division AMG lineup has been showing a more diverse spectrum with electrification. Recently, the GT 63 S E Performance, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model of the two-door coupe GT with the highest specification, was unveiled and attracted attention.

Based on the mighty power of a total system output of 827 horsepower and a maximum torque of 144.8kgf.m, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 2.8 seconds. However, some say it is still disappointing that the Gull-wing door of the first-generation SL is not there. What will the AMG GT look like with these specifications applied? Attention is focused on renderings that add a little imagination.

Mercedes AMG GT

Photo Source = Instagram ‘@j.b.cars’

What is the Origin of the Gull-wing Door of the Benz 300 SL?

J.B.Cars, a creator specializing in vehicles, presented a virtual rendering on Instagram on April 24th. Although it appears to be the latest AMG GT, it boasts a stylish appearance thanks to the Gull-wing doors. The model, a typical long-nose, short-deck rear-wheel drive coupe, has its roots in the SLS AMG, SLR McLaren, and 300 SL.

The 300 SL, launched in 1954, is the mass-produced model of the 300 SLR that participated in the 24h LE MANS. As it was based on a race car, the space frame was applied as is, but due to the structural characteristics, it was impossible to install a regular door that opens to the side. It is said that redesigning the frame was a considerable risk, so after much consideration, a unique door that opens upward was applied.

Mercedes Benz 300SL

Mercedes Benz SLS AMG

Applied to SLS AMG, Safety Issues Resolved

When the door was opened, it resembled a seagull with its wings spread, making it the name Gull-wing door. This is the secret to increasing the popularity of the 300 SL, and it has become a symbolic element. As the door hinge was mounted on the roof, the Roadster specification had a standard door, but the coupe maintained the same structure until it was discontinued in 1963.

The SLS, the first supercar developed independently by AMG, was also the spiritual successor to the 300 SL. So, among the many homage elements, Gull-wing doors were applied. At the time of development, an electric opening and closing method was also proposed, but the gas lift method was eventually used due to weight issues. If the vehicle overturns and the door cannot be opened, advanced safety features are also applied, such as a micro-explosive built into the hinge that separates the door.

Mercedes AMG GT

Is Gull-wing Door Tuning Possible?

However, starting with the AMG GT, standard doors were applied. This is because many disadvantages of the gull-wing door were pointed out, such as the need to extend one’s arm quite far to close it after getting in the vehicle and the inconvenience of getting in and out of a narrow parking space. Above all, there was a problem with various devices, including a gas lift installed on the roof, raising the center of gravity.

Instead of boldly giving up the Gull-wing door, the AMG GT was the first Mercedes-Benz to use a carbon roof. Some fans wanted the unique sensibility of the gull-wing door even if it had to endure many shortcomings, but they could not go against the trend. We think there may have been cases where tuning with Gull-wing doors was attempted, but this is a significant undertaking that goes beyond simple structural changes and is at the level of developing a half-new vehicle. Unfortunately, it seems we will have to be satisfied with virtual rendering.