For a relatively small fee, one can now take a spin around the Nurburgring in a Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO with a pro driver.
Our Beast: Co-Pilot Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO
The latest iteration of the Mercedes-AMG GT has been somewhat criticized for being, well, a bit softer and less edgy than its predecessor, which isn’t terribly surprising given its co-development alongside the new SL. Regardless, there’s no denying that MB’s 911 rival is still a plenty capable machine, and that’s especially true of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ – a more track-focused machine that one can now take a co-pilot spin in around the legendary Nurburgring, with a pro driver behind the wheel.
While many of us like to think that we’re skilled enough to wheel something like the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO around a track with the best of them, the truth is, we’ll probably never get quite the same experience as riding along with a true professional driver. That’s precisely why the Nurburgring offers an array of co-pilot outings, which it says enables visitors to the track to “experience the most exciting lap of your life while learning what it means to hunt over the track in racing style.”
Those that wish to sign up for this experience must meet just a few requirements – they have to be 18 years of age or older, under 6’4″ tall, and can’t weigh more than 253 pounds. Participants must wear closed toe shoes and pants, but will be provided with a helmet with a built-in radio, racing overalls, and a balaclava. The whole experience takes around 30 minutes, with 10 minutes spent on the track, regardless of whether it rains or not.
As for the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO used in this experience, Nurburgring officials have lovingly named it “The Beast,” which is appropriate for a car packing a twin turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 cranking out 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque – less than the E Performance, but without the several hundred pounds added by that model’s hybrid system. Other notable goodies include carbon-ceramic brakes, a revised front bumper that aids cooling and increases downforce, and rear-axle steering.
Those interested in participating in the co-pilot experience in the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro can explore available dates and sign up by heading over here. The cost isn’t too bad, either – a mere $321 for a lap, which certainly seems like more of a thrill than spending the day at some amusement park.
