SLS AMG Black Series Offered in Limited Edition | Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series |
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series

SLS AMG Black Series Limited Edition

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series, inheriting the lineage of the racing machine "SLS AMG GT3" and featuring dedicated tuning for the highest power output in SLS history, has finally arrived in Japan.

Text by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)

25 Units Planned for Japan

Since its founding in 1967, AMG has developed high-performance cars powered by engines honed through motorsport. Since its partnership with Mercedes-Benz in 1990, it has, as you know, operated as a special division handling the company's high-performance models. The philosophy of "one man, one engine" continues today, and many fans are captivated by the craftsmanship of a single master meticulously assembling each engine by hand.

The "Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series" announced this time is a special limited edition model that embodies AMG's brand slogan, "Driving Performance." In addition to tuning for serious sports driving, such as circuit use, its most striking feature is its overwhelming styling, inherited from racing cars. The introduction of the Black Series to the Japanese market follows the "SL 65 AMG Black Series" in 2008 and the "C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series" in 2011, making this the third installment.

The powertrain features the AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine, the same as in the base model, the "Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT" However, by optimizing the modified camshafts, newly designed valve train, crankshaft, oil pump, and cooling system, the maximum engine speed has been increased to 8,000 rpm (compared to 7,200 rpm for the base model), achieving a maximum output of 631 hp (+60 hp over the base model) and a peak torque of 635 Nm. The 0-100 km/h acceleration is a mere 3.6 seconds, demonstrating overwhelming power performance.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series | Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series

Furthermore, the AMG's proprietary dual-clutch transmission, the "AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT," has undergone further enhancements, resulting in quicker response to shift commands. Its mounting position has also been lowered by 10 mm, reducing the vehicle's center of gravity and further improving handling dynamics. In terms of chassis, the track width has been increased by 20 mm at the front and 24 mm at the rear, and the suspension is equipped with the "AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension," which has also been specially tuned. This contributes to reduced body roll during high-speed cornering and improved grip.

While the SLS AMG Black Series features various dedicated tuning elements, its most significant highlight is the thorough weight reduction based on the "AMG Lightweight Performance Strategy." Carbon fiber is used for the bonnet, the back panel of the bucket seats, the underbody reinforcement panels, and even the torque tube between the engine and transmission. The vehicle weight is 1,550 kg, achieving a diet of 70 kg compared to the base SLS AMG. This results in a power-to-weight ratio of 2.45 kg/hp, the highest among the AMG Black Series models introduced to date.

Meanwhile, the interior, filled with a functional and sporty racing car ambiance, combines black leather and Alcantara, and features exclusive full bucket seats. These seats also achieve a weight reduction of 15 kg compared to the standard AMG sports seats, showcasing the unique attention to detail characteristic of the Black Series.

The retail price in Japan is 32.5 million yen, with only 25 units available. Deliveries are scheduled to begin sequentially from late August 2013.