SLS AMG Goes All Out with New Lighter, More Powerful Black Series

First there was the SLS AMGMercedes-Benz SLS-ClassGermany, 2009 > present12 versions
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, then the GTMercedes-Benz SLS AMG GTGermany, 2012 > present5 photos
model that added 20ps, now MercedesMercedes-BenzGermany, 1924 > present197 models
9852 photos
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has topped the AMG range with the new SLS AMG Black Series that adds 60ps to the standard car bringing total power up to 631ps and 635Nm and decreases the weight by 70kg. The upgrade cuts acceleration time to 3.4 seconds to 100km/h compared to 3.8 seconds for the standard car. Top speed is still electronically limited to 315km/h like the other SLS models. 

In addition to carbon fiber reinforced plastic body panels, the Black Series has a wide body kit that wears 13mm in the front and 26mm in the rear, which also allows for wider tires. 

In addition to the bump in power, Mercedes has added adaptive coil-over dampers, ceramic brake discs, lighter wheels, sport tires, rear differential lock and a seven-speed dual clutch transmission all as standard. 

"The new SLS AMG Coupé Black Series is a perfect study in the one hundred percent transfer of technology and engineering from motorsport to the road. We have drawn inspiration from the worldwide success of the SLS AMG GT3Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3Germany, 2011 > present19 photos
customer sport racing car on both a conceptual and a technological level," said AMG Chairman Ola Källenius. 

The new engine is the same 6.2-liter V8 found in the rest of the line, but the redline has been increased from 7,200rpm to 8,000rpm. To make that work, the car has an all-new valve train with updated camshafts. It also has a higher compression ratio and a less restrictive air intake. To keep the engine cool, the oil and water system have been strengthened and have higher flow rates. It comes standard with a titanium exhaust, which saves 17kg from the steel unit on the regular car.

To further reduce weight, many body parts and reinforcements have been replaced with carbon fiber reinforced plastic units, including the drive shaft. The car also uses a lithium-ion battery to save further weight. 

The interior is covered in Alcantara that comes in either black or black and red.

The car has a few options as well. The AMG Aerodynamics package adds an adjustable carbon fiber rear wing, carbon fiber elements on the front apron, and carbon fiber trim leading to the air inlets. The other option is the AMG solar beam paint. The Command APS multimedia system from the standard cars is removed from the Black Series but can be added back onto the car. A Bang & Olufson sound system is also optional.

Mercedes has not announced a price for the SLS Black Series yet, but it will certainly be more than the €204,680 ($260,242) price for the SLS AMG GT. 

Mercedes has been building Black Series cars since 2006, and they represent the ultimate that AMG can create. The SLS Black Series is the fifth car to wear the name.