Mercedes-AMG, the performance division of Mercedes-Benz, has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering, and the 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series stands as a testament to their relentless pursuit of power and precision. This model represents the most extreme iteration of the celebrated SLS AMG, drawing direct inspiration from the SLS AMG GT3 race car to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. As the fifth model to join the prestigious Black Series lineage, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series masterfully blends breathtaking design with exceptional driving dynamics and a commitment to lightweight construction, embodying AMG’s Lightweight Performance strategy.
With a curb weight meticulously reduced to 3,417 pounds, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series achieves a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 5.49 lb/hp. This impressive figure is made possible by the formidable AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine, which has been finely tuned to unleash a staggering 622 horsepower at a thrilling 7,400 rpm. This potent combination propels the most dynamic SLS variant ever created from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, offering a visceral demonstration of its sporting pedigree.
The SLS AMG Sport Black Series elevates performance to unprecedented levels through a suite of meticulously engineered enhancements. It features an AMG Adaptive Performance Coil-over Suspension, allowing for precise adjustments to suit various driving conditions and preferences. The inclusion of an AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system ensures exceptional stopping power and fade resistance, crucial for both track and spirited road driving. Weight-optimized, forged AMG light-alloy wheels, wrapped in specially developed sport tires, further contribute to the vehicle’s agility and responsiveness.
Further enhancing its dynamic capabilities are the electronically-controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock, which optimizes traction and stability, and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. This transmission is celebrated for its rapid and responsive gear changes, contributing to the overall exhilarating driving experience. For those seeking the ultimate in handling and aerodynamic prowess, the optional AMG Aerodynamics package provides an additional layer of performance optimization. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series made its highly anticipated debut in the U.S. market in the summer of 2013, quickly capturing the attention of sports car enthusiasts.
The “Black Series” designation from Mercedes-AMG is synonymous with automotive excellence and extreme performance, revered by experts and enthusiasts alike worldwide. Following in the footsteps of iconic predecessors such as the SLK55 AMG Black Series (2006), CLK63 AMG Black Series (2008), SL65 AMG Black Series (2009), and C63 AMG Black Series (2013), the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series marks a significant evolution. It elevates the Black Series concept to new heights, applying it to the iconic SLS AMG and forging an even stronger link between motorsport technology and road-going performance.
Ola Källenius, former Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, aptly described the essence of this model: “The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series is a perfect embodiment of the seamless transfer of technology and engineering from the racetrack to the road. We have directly channeled the global success of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sport racing car into its conceptual and technological development. With its extensive use of lightweight components and captivating dynamics, our fifth Black Series model guarantees pure, unadulterated ‘Driving Performance.’ The SLS AMG Sport Black Series is the definitive choice for achieving fast lap times and indulging in a profoundly emotional driving experience.”
Tobias Moers, incoming CEO and former Head of Total Vehicle Development at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, further elaborated on the technical sophistication: “Enthusiasts of high-performance super sports cars will be captivated by its advanced technology package. The foundation for its passionate performance and superior driving dynamics lies in numerous groundbreaking developments across the engine, transmission, suspension, and aerodynamics. We have also prioritized our ‘AMG Lightweight Performance’ strategy, and through exceptional efforts in lightweight design, we have achieved a remarkably low curb weight of 3,417 pounds.”
The Heart of the Beast: AMG 6.3-liter V8 Engine
At the core of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series lies the formidable AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerhouse has been meticulously enhanced to deliver an astounding 622 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. This makes the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series the most potent AMG high-performance vehicle equipped with a combustion engine, surpassed in sheer power only by the SLS AMG Electric Drive.
This enhanced V8 propels the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series to 60 mph in a blistering 3.5 seconds, and onwards to a breathtaking top speed of 196 mph. Compared to the already impressive 583 horsepower of the SLS AMG GT, the Black Series gains an additional 39 horsepower through a series of key modifications:
- Elevated Engine Speed: The maximum engine speed has been increased from 7,200 to a thrilling 8,000 rpm, allowing the engine to explore a higher range of its power band.
- Optimized Valve Train: A completely revised high-speed valve train incorporates modified camshaft geometry and optimized bucket cam followers with a specialized coating, technology typically reserved for racing vehicles, reducing friction and enhancing durability at high RPMs.
- Enhanced Intake Air Ducting: The intake air ducting has been de-throttled and adapted to accommodate the new, higher maximum engine speed, ensuring optimal airflow and minimizing restrictions.
- Refined Engine Mapping: The engine mapping has been recalibrated and the intake pressure increased to complement the mechanical upgrades and maximize power output.
Mercedes-AMG engineers further reinforced the crankshaft assembly to withstand the extreme demands of track driving. This included modifying oil bores in the crankshaft, implementing new crankshaft bearings and an upgraded oil pump, and utilizing high-strength connecting rod bolts to ensure robust reliability under high stress. The entire water and oil cooling system for both the engine and transmission has been further optimized to maintain ideal operating temperatures even under rigorous conditions.
To further solidify its race-bred character, the AMG V8 engine in the SLS AMG Sport Black Series features a specialized mounting system. A gas-filled strut braces the eight-cylinder engine against the body, effectively minimizing unwanted load shifts during aggressive, track-focused driving. Staying true to AMG’s “one man, one engine” philosophy, each 6.3-liter V8 engine is meticulously hand-built at the AMG factory in Affalterbach, Germany. This commitment to hand-crafted quality is proudly displayed by the black AMG engine badge, signed by the individual engine builder – a hallmark of the Black Series models.
Key Performance Data:
| Feature | SLS AMG Black Series |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,208 cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 4.02 x 3.72 inches |
| Compression Ratio | 11.3 : 1 |
| Horsepower | 622 hp @ 7,400 rpm |
| Max. Torque | 468 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm |
| Max. Engine Speed | 8,000 rpm |
| Engine Weight (dry) | 452 lbs |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 196 mph |
The front mid-engine layout, positioning the naturally aspirated V8 behind the front axle, contributes to the car’s exceptional responsiveness and high-revving nature, reminiscent of a purebred race car. The track-focused DNA of the AMG V8 engine is also unmistakably evident in its exhilarating sound.
For the first time, the newly designed AMG sport exhaust system is crafted from titanium. Featuring performance-optimized, fan-type exhaust manifolds with distinctive center and rear mufflers, it produces an even more powerful and captivating engine note. The switch to titanium also results in significant weight savings. Weighing just under 37.5 pounds, the new AMG sports exhaust system is approximately 28.7 pounds lighter than its steel predecessor, further enhancing the car’s agility.
AMG Lightweight Performance: A Core Strategy
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series embodies the “AMG Lightweight Performance” strategy to its fullest extent. With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, it is not only 154 pounds lighter than the standard SLS AMG but also boasts the best power-to-weight ratio of any AMG Black Series vehicle to date. Even within the realm of super sports cars, its power-to-weight ratio of 5.49 lb/hp is exceptionally competitive, achieved through the consistent application of lightweight engineering principles.
Numerous body components are fabricated entirely from CFRP (carbon-fiber reinforced plastic). These include the hood, the rear panel behind the AMG sports bucket seats, the diagonal braces on the underbody, and the torque tube connecting the engine and transmission. The carbon-fiber torque tube, weighing a mere 29.3 pounds, represents a significant weight reduction compared to its 58.6-pound counterpart with a sand-cast aluminum housing. A CFRP driveshaft, weighing just 10.4 pounds, continues to manage power transmission between the engine and the dual-clutch transaxle mounted on the rear axle. CFRP components also replace several parts on the aluminum spaceframe, and a lithium-ion battery replaces the conventional starter battery, saving an additional 17.6 pounds.
Enhanced Transmission and Drivetrain Dynamics
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is positioned 0.4 inches lower in the chassis to further lower the center of gravity, enhancing handling. It is braced against the body by gas-filled struts to minimize unwanted load shifts during dynamic driving. The dual-clutch transmission offers four distinct drive modes: C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport), S+ (Sport plus), and M (Manual). “Sport plus” and “Manual” modes provide even more aggressive performance compared to the standard SLS AMG and SLS AMG GT models. Beyond increased shift speeds, the transmission also responds more rapidly to driver inputs.
A particularly thrilling feature is the automatic rev-matching function during downshifts. Throttle blips during gear changes are more pronounced and impactful than ever, amplified by the AMG titanium sports exhaust system, adding to the auditory drama of performance driving. A new temporary M mode provides added flexibility. In C, S, or S+ mode, drivers can instantly engage manual mode by simply pressing an “up” or “down” shift paddle. This allows for on-demand manual gear selection within the automatic driving programs, enabling drivers to fully concentrate on the vehicle’s impressive capabilities.
Complementing the enhanced transmission is a new electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock with a shorter rear axle ratio, replacing the previous mechanical variant. Integrated into the compact transmission housing, this system provides variable locking effects during both acceleration and deceleration. The electronic control allows for quicker and more precise responses, optimizing traction for the rear wheels across diverse road surfaces. The electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock also enhances safety by mitigating yaw around the vehicle’s vertical axis, providing increased stability during slalom maneuvers or high-speed lane changes.
The standard three-stage ESP® system, offering “ESP ON”, “ESP SPORT Handling Mode”, and “ESP OFF” settings, is meticulously calibrated to work in conjunction with the electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock. The same precision tuning applies to the RACE START function, which leverages the electronic differential lock to ensure optimal traction for maximum acceleration from a standstill.
Chassis, Suspension, and Braking Refinements
The chassis and suspension of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series have been comprehensively redesigned. While retaining the fundamental aluminum double wishbone layout at all four corners, nearly every component has been refined to significantly elevate track performance.
Key enhancements include:
- AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension: Featuring a stiffer baseline setup and electronically controlled two-stage shocks (Sport, Sport +), this system allows for personalized adjustments to match individual driving styles and road conditions.
- Coil-over Spring Suspension: This adjustable suspension system enables fine-tuning of wheel loads to suit specific racetrack configurations.
- Enhanced Elastokinematics: Elastokinematics are 50% more rigid at the front and 42% more rigid at the rear, improving cornering stability and responsiveness.
- Wider Track Width: The track width has been increased by 0.8 inches at the front and 0.9 inches at the rear, enhancing grip and cornering prowess.
- Optimized Front Wheel Mounts and Stabilizer Tuning: New front wheel mounts and revised front stabilizer tuning further enhance grip and reduce body roll during high-speed cornering.
- Lightweight AMG Forged Alloy Wheels: AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, engineered for optimal strength and minimal weight, are finished in matte black with a high-gloss rim. Dimensions are 10 x 19 inches at the front and 12 x 20 inches at the rear, resulting in a weight saving of 8.8 pounds.
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 Sports Tires: Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sports tires, sized 275/35 R 19 at the front and 325/30 R 20 at the rear, provide exceptional grip and cornering capabilities.
- AMG Speed-Sensitive Steering: AMG speed-sensitive steering with revised power steering characteristics ensures optimal steering precision and exceptional control at all speeds.
Braking performance in the SLS AMG Sport Black Series is nothing short of exceptional, thanks to the standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system. Measuring 15.8 x 1.5 inches at the front and 14.2 x 1.3 inches at the rear, these brakes offer increased hardness for enhanced thermal stability and a weight reduction of approximately 40 percent compared to conventional steel/aluminum counterparts. This reduction in unsprung weight improves both ride comfort and grip, while the reduced rotating mass at the front axle contributes to more direct steering response. The overall weight saving from the ceramic brake system is approximately 35.3 pounds.
Exterior Design: A Tribute to Motorsport
The design of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series is heavily influenced by the SLS AMG GT3 race car, developed according to FIA GT3 regulations and a proven competitor in the super sports car racing arena.
Flared fenders, widened by 0.5 inches at the front and 1.0 inch at the rear on each side, accommodate the wider 10.8-inch and 12.8-inch sport tires, enhancing the car’s aggressive stance. Tinted headlights and black surrounds for the rear lights contribute to the muscular and purposeful aesthetic. Aerodynamic balance is meticulously optimized through front, rear, and side skirts, along with a rear diffuser, all designed in the signature Black Series style. Extensive use of CFRP is evident in the front splitter, side sills, and rear skirt. Enlarged air intakes with carbon-fiber flics ensure optimal airflow to the front cooling modules.
Mirroring the SLS AMG GT3, the carbon-fiber hood features a central air outlet. This not only effectively dissipates engine heat but also increases downforce at the front axle and improves aerodynamic efficiency. The wing-like cross-fin and the recessed star in the radiator grille are finished in high-gloss black, matching the exterior mirrors and hood fins. A carbon-fiber insert on the sides with an air outlet and black fin, also inspired by the GT3, aids in reducing engine compartment temperature, ensuring maximum stability even under demanding track conditions.
The side profile is further enhanced by the seamlessly integrated side skirts, which flow into the character line for a cohesive and dynamic look. Carbon elements along the lower edges visually extend the line of the carbon-fiber front splitter towards the rear. AMG forged wheels in the signature Black Series ten-spoke design, painted matte black with a high-gloss finish, provide a glimpse of the AMG ceramic high-performance two-piece brake system. Optional AMG forged wheels in matte black with a polished flange are also available.
The rear design of the SLS AMG Sport Black Series reinforces its muscular presence, dominated by wide fenders and a striking rear diffuser. The diffuser extends beyond the rear skirt to generate additional rear downforce, enhancing stability at high speeds. Visible air openings behind black grilles facilitate the dissipation of hot air from the AMG titanium sports exhaust system. Quad square cross-section chrome tailpipes visually communicate the car’s immense power, an impression further amplified by its distinctive exhaust note. The exclusive AMG logo with contrasting Black Series lettering in black adds a subtle yet impactful touch on the trunk lid.
Optional AMG Aerodynamics Package
For drivers seeking the ultimate in aerodynamic performance, the SLS AMG Sport Black Series offers the optional AMG Aerodynamics package. This package replaces the standard wind deflector with an adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing. The rear wing is supported by aluminum elements on the trunk lid, generating even greater rear downforce, particularly when combined with the Gurney flap. This 0.3-inch spoiler lip, positioned at a 90-degree angle on the rear wing, further increases downforce without significantly increasing drag. The rear wing is complemented by additional carbon-fiber flics on the front skirt, which further augment front downforce, contrasting with the standard inward-lying carbon-fiber flics that optimize airflow to the cooling modules. The exclusive AMG Solar Beam exterior paint is available exclusively for the SLS AMG Sport Black Series, adding to its visual distinction. Six additional exterior paint finishes from the SLS AMG range are also offered, including the matte finish designo magno alanite grey.
Interior: Performance and Refinement
The interior of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series seamlessly blends high-quality materials with meticulous craftsmanship and exquisite design details, reflecting its performance-focused character while maintaining a sense of luxury. Two color variants are available: black designo leather with black Alcantara®, or black designo leather with black/red Alcantara®. In the two-tone variant, the door center panels and accents on the center console and above the glove box are finished in striking red. The AMG Performance steering wheel, featuring a flattened bottom rim, is entirely wrapped in Alcantara® for exceptional grip. A red 12 o’clock marking at the top of the steering wheel provides a subtle racing-inspired touch. The metal bezel features a high-gloss black paint finish, complementing the high-gloss black surrounds of the air vents.
A unique Black Series detail is the “3D seam” that runs horizontally across the dashboard – a fine anthracite Alcantara® strip spanning the entire width of the leather covering. Red contrast stitching adds a striking finish to the 3D seam, underscoring the handcrafted nature of the interior. The combination of designo leather and Alcantara® is prevalent throughout the cabin, featured on the lower section of the dashboard, door center panels, and AMG sports seats with Alcantara® center sections. Embossed AMG logos on the head restraints further enhance the exclusive ambiance.
For those prioritizing weight reduction, the COMAND multimedia system can be deleted as an option, reducing the vehicle’s weight by an additional 13 pounds and further emphasizing the uncompromising character of the SLS AMG Sport Black Series. In place of the screen between the air vents, a carbon-fiber trim element enhances the authentic racing atmosphere. Carbon fiber trim extends across the entire center console, housing the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Bold accents are provided by red seat belts and red contrast stitching on the AMG sports bucket seats, center console, upper and lower dashboard sections, and door paneling. The floor mats also feature red piping, completing the sporty yet refined interior.
Optional Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG High-End Surround Sound System
For audiophiles, the optional Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, developed in collaboration with renowned Danish audio specialists Bang & Olufsen, provides an unparalleled in-car audio experience. This system, featuring Dolby Digital 5.1, utilizes a 1,000-watt amplifier and 11 speakers, with precise sound distribution managed by a digital sound processor based on selected seating positions (driver, co-driver, or central). The DSP also allows users to switch between high-end studio sound (“Reference”) and a surround sound option, all controlled through a dedicated Bang & Olufsen menu within COMAND. Illuminated 50-watt lens tweeters on the dashboard and a 250-watt subwoofer integrated into the rear shelf are standout features. High-quality speaker covers adorned with the Bang & Olufsen logo further emphasize the system’s exclusive nature.
Further individual options include:
- AMG carbon fiber exterior mirrors
- AMG carbon fiber engine cover
- AMG Interior Carbon Fiber Package
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Sport Black Series is more than just a car; it is a statement of automotive passion, engineering excellence, and a relentless pursuit of performance, perfectly embodying the spirit of AMG and delivering an unforgettable driving experience.
