17 MPG combined is not a typo. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT C Roadster exists in a realm where fuel economy is a minor concern, behind things like fast acceleration, loud exhaust, and the feeling of wind. This isn’t just transportation, it’s a statement, automotive theater. The buyer of an AMG GT C Roadster isn’t comparing it with a Prius, and they aren’t prioritizing the planet over driving pleasure.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2019 AMG GT C Roadster gets 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These numbers show the reality of a high-performance, hand-built 4.0L V8 engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission (AM7). The city number shows how much gas the engine uses during stop-and-go driving, where acceleration and deceleration prevent any conservation. On the open road, the 21 MPG highway number is possible, but only if you are careful with the accelerator. The temptation to use the GT C’s power is always there and using it will reduce efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT C Roadster is $3,400. This is based on the EPA’s assumption of 15,000 miles driven per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline, which this car needs. For owners who mostly use the GT C Roadster for weekend trips or track days, fuel costs may be lower. However, drivers with longer commutes or who drive aggressively could easily spend more. It is critical to understand that this vehicle requires premium fuel to realistically consider expected costs.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers. The real-world fuel economy for the AMG GT C Roadster depends on the driver. Factor in fast driving, frequent use of the car’s performance modes which often hold lower gears for quicker response, and the joy of hearing that V8 engine, and you’ll likely see lower numbers. Owners are more concerned with the cost of tires than they are with MPG. Fuel economy discussions at the country club rarely involve the AMG GT C Roadster.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance roadsters, the AMG GT C’s fuel economy is not great. The Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, for example, gets a combined 20 MPG with its turbocharged flat-six engine. Even the BMW M850i Convertible, with its strong V8, achieves around 20 MPG combined. You can see dramatically different results in other Mercedes-Benz models, and you can explore all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on this site. The AMG GT C Roadster doesn’t compete directly with these cars in terms of practicality or price, but the MPG differences show the trade-off inherent in its performance focus. If you are interested in the MPG across all years of this line, you can view AMG MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Fuel efficiency might seem unimportant for an AMG GT C Roadster owner, but there are strategies to consider. The car includes drive modes, from Comfort to Race. Use the Comfort mode for cruising, as it optimizes throttle response and shift points for fuel savings. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, as these actions increase fuel use. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain speed and minimize throttle inputs.

Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them as recommended. This is particularly important on a vehicle like this where the tires contribute to handling and grip, and are thus prone to pressure changes.

Reduce weight. Extra cargo in the car adds to the weight, requiring the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly.

Plan trips. Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient than driving a warmed-up engine. Avoid peak traffic hours to reduce stop-and-go driving, which reduces mileage for any vehicle.