For enthusiasts seeking the ultimate expression of AMG’s engineering prowess, the Black Series designation represents the zenith of performance, exclusivity, and track-focused design. Think of the AMG Black Series as the most intense, most driver-centric, and most limited production models to ever emerge from Affalterbach. Building upon AMG’s already formidable foundation, the Black Series elevates performance through meticulous enhancements to powertrain, chassis, and aerodynamics, pushing dynamic capabilities to their absolute limit.
Since the inaugural SLK 55 Black Series, only a select few models have been deemed worthy of the prestigious Black Series badge. This elite lineage includes the SLK 55 Black Series, CLK 63 Black Series, SL 65 Black Series, C 63 Black Series, and, the focus of our deep dive, the Mercedes-Benz Sls Amg Black Series. Anticipation is also building for the upcoming GT Black Series, poised to join this legendary family. To truly appreciate the future of the Black Series, we must first celebrate the extraordinary models that have forged its iconic reputation, with a special emphasis on the breathtaking SLS AMG Black Series.
A Legacy of Black Series Excellence
The AMG Black Series is not just about raw power; it’s about a holistic approach to performance. Each model is a testament to AMG’s dedication to pushing boundaries, transforming already exceptional Mercedes-Benz vehicles into track-ready machines while retaining a degree of road usability. Let’s explore the lineage that paved the way for the SLS AMG Black Series.
SLK 55 AMG Black Series: Roadster Reborn as a Track Weapon
Key Facts & Figures:
- Developed within the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO, established in 2006 for bespoke models.
- Powertrain: Handcrafted AMG 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque.
- Production: Limited to just 120 units worldwide between 2006 and 2007. (Not available in the U.S. market)
- Unique Enhancements: The standard retractable hardtop was replaced with a fixed, lightweight roof, contributing to a weight reduction of approximately 100 pounds.
The SLK 55 AMG Black Series marked the beginning, showcasing AMG’s ability to transform a luxurious roadster into a focused performance car through weight reduction and powertrain optimization.
CLK 63 AMG Black Series: DTM Racing Spirit for the Road
Key Facts & Figures:
- Powertrain: Handcrafted AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine generating 500 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
- Production: 700 units produced globally in 2008.
- Unique Enhancements: Featured adjustable coil-spring suspension, reinforced chassis bracing with rear seat deletion, and a DTM-inspired widebody design with widened front and rear tracks for enhanced handling.
Inspired by DTM racing and Formula 1 safety cars, the CLK 63 AMG Black Series brought motorsport technology to the CLK platform, emphasizing handling and aggressive styling.
SL 65 AMG Black Series: Unleashing the V12 Biturbo Beast
Key Facts & Figures:
- Powertrain: Handcrafted AMG 6.0-liter V12 Biturbo engine delivering a staggering 661 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque.
- Production: Limited to 350 units produced globally in 2009.
- Unique Enhancements: Extensive use of lightweight carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) panels, with only the doors and side mirrors carried over from the standard SL. The retractable hardtop was fixed to further reduce weight and enhance rigidity.
The SL 65 AMG Black Series took the already potent SL 65 and amplified it with a massive power output and significant weight savings, creating a true force of nature.
C 63 AMG Black Series: The Most Powerful C-Class Ever
Key Facts & Figures:
- Powertrain: Handcrafted AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine producing 510 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque.
- Production: 800 units produced globally in 2013.
- Unique Enhancements: Widened track and bodywork, coil-over suspension system, AMG high-performance composite two-piece braking system, and track-focused aerodynamic enhancements for superior handling and braking.
The C 63 AMG Black Series delivered raw power and track-tuned dynamics to the C-Class, becoming an instant icon for its aggressive performance and muscular styling.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series: Extreme Performance Redefined
Key Facts & Figures:
- Performance: Handcrafted AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine unleashing 622 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque.
- Availability: Released in 2014, with fewer than 200 units imported to the United States, making it exceptionally rare.
- Unique Enhancements: Drawing inspiration from the SLS AMG GT3 race car, the Black Series variant is a symphony of breathtaking design, exceptional driving dynamics, and uncompromising lightweight construction. With a curb weight of just 3,417 pounds, it achieves a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 5.49 lb/hp. This is the most dynamically focused SLS AMG ever created.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series stands as the ultimate iteration of the celebrated SLS AMG. It’s more than just a car; it’s a statement of automotive passion and engineering excellence. Inspired directly by the SLS AMG GT3 race car, it takes the already thrilling SLS AMG and injects it with a potent dose of track-ready DNA.
Key to the SLS AMG Black Series’s phenomenal performance is its dedication to lightweight construction. Extensive use of carbon fiber throughout the body panels and interior components significantly reduces weight. This, combined with a naturally aspirated 6.3-liter V8 engine meticulously tuned by AMG, results in explosive acceleration and razor-sharp handling. The engine itself benefits from features like increased valve timing, revised camshafts, and a lightweight titanium exhaust system, all contributing to its heightened power output and responsiveness.
The aerodynamic enhancements are equally crucial. The benz sls amg black series features a prominent front splitter, wider fenders, side flics, and a large, adjustable rear wing – all sculpted in carbon fiber – to generate significant downforce and optimize airflow at high speeds. These elements aren’t merely cosmetic; they are functional components meticulously designed to enhance stability and cornering grip on the track.
Inside, the cabin of the SLS AMG Black Series reflects its performance-oriented nature. Lightweight bucket seats offer exceptional support during spirited driving, while the absence of unnecessary luxury features further contributes to weight reduction. The focus is purely on the driving experience, creating an intimate connection between driver and machine.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series is not just a faster SLS AMG; it’s a fundamentally different beast. It’s a track weapon disguised as a road car, a testament to AMG’s unwavering commitment to performance without compromise. For collectors and driving purists alike, the benz sls amg black series represents the pinnacle of the AMG Black Series lineage and a true automotive icon.
About Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse lineup in the luxury segment with 15 model lines ranging from the sporty A-Class Sedan to the flagship S-Class and the Mercedes-AMG GT R. MBUSA is also responsible for Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S.
More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbsprinterusa.com.
