Overview

As the name suggests, the Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster is the open-top convertible version of the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe, a high-performance sports car built by a specialist sub-division of Mercedes-Benz.

It comes in two variants, the regular GT Roadster and the faster GT C Roadster. Both are powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, which drives the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic gearbox. Rivals include the more potent Turbo versions of the Porsche 911 Convertible, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster, the Jaguar F-Type SVR Convertible and the Audi R8 Spyder.

There are many reasons for buying a car like this, but the chief decision makers are likely to be style and performance.

Why buy the Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster?

If it’s style you’re after, the regular AMG GT Roadster has it in spades. This is a statement-making car, with an electrically-operated soft-top that comes in a choice of three colours, opens or closes in 11 seconds and can be operated at up to 30mph.

Lowering the roof gives you the opportunity to appreciate better the glorious noise generated by that AMG V8. Performance isn’t exactly in short supply, either, as even this ‘entry-level’ model has 476hp and goes from 0-62mph in 4.0sec.

However, if it’s performance you want, the GT C is worth the extra cost. Not only does its version of the engine produce a socking-great 557hp – and sprint from 0-62mph in 3.7sec – the C borrows a number of components from the Mercedes-AMG GT R, which currently tops the coupe range.

Modifications include rear-wheel steering and an electronically-controlled limited slip differential (more sophisticated than the mechanical version fitted in the regular GT Roadster). In addition it has an extra driving mode (Race), adaptive suspension and wider-spaced rear wheels for increased grip, in turn necessitating wider bodywork at the back.

The GT C Roadster also comes with a higher level of standard equipment – though the GT’s optional Premium Equipment Line pack goes some way towards bridging the gap. The C’s aggressive looks may not be for everyone, however.