Los Angeles Auto Show, November 2012. Mercedes-AMG unveiled the SLS AMG Black Series, the fifth and most accomplished iteration of AMG’s legendary Black Series lineage and the first gullwing supercar to receive the distinguished designation. This was Mercedes-AMG’s definitive statement that uncompromising mechanical excellence and track-focused engineering could elevate already-legendary platforms to transcendent performance. The naturally aspirated 6.2-liter M159 V8 produced 622 horsepower at 7,400 rpm and 468 lb-ft of torque, delivering 196 mph capability while establishing credentials rivaling turbocharged competitors through mechanical sophistication and racing-derived technology.
Every component was reconceived for track capability, every detail optimized for circuit mastery. Production ran from 2012 through 2014, with approximately 350 to 425 examples built globally—an extraordinarily limited production establishing the SLS AMG Black Series as perhaps the ultimate expression of naturally aspirated supercar engineering in the modern era.
Background and Origins
The SLS AMG Black Series emerged from recognition that the SLS platform possessed extraordinary development potential. The Black Series designation carried extraordinary heritage, with previous iterations—SLK 55 AMG, CLK 63 AMG, SL 65 AMG, and C 63 AMG—representing the most extreme, track-focused variants of their platforms. Translating this philosophy to the SLS gullwing coupe would produce something unprecedented: the first gullwing-door supercar to receive Black Series engineering.
Development leveraged racing success of the SLS AMG GT3, extracting technologies and engineering solutions from the race car into road-legal specification. The result would prove to be the most track-focused, most powerful, and most visceral SLS ever created.
Design and Engineering
The SLS platform received comprehensive visual and mechanical transformation. Aerodynamic enhancements inspired by SLS AMG GT3 race car technology created aggressive distinctiveness. Enlarged air intakes with integrated carbon-fiber flics channeled air toward brake cooling while generating downforce. The optional adjustable carbon-fiber fixed rear wing and aggressive front canards provided measurable aerodynamic benefit.
The body featured widened fenders accommodating a staggered wheel configuration: 19-inch wheels measuring 275/35 R19 at the front and wider 20-inch wheels measuring 325/30 R20 at the rear, providing enhanced contact patch and aggressive visual stance.
The aluminum-intensive chassis received complete suspension recalibration for track performance. Ride height was lowered substantially, anti-roll bars strengthened, spring rates increased, and damper calibration refined for circuit capability. Braking featured ventilated carbon-ceramic discs with six-piston fixed calipers front and four-piston rear, providing exceptional stopping power. Anti-lock braking featured AMG-specific calibration optimized for track performance.
The naturally aspirated M159 6.2-liter V8 received comprehensive internal revision. Dual overhead camshafts controlled four valves per cylinder—32 total valves. Revised camshaft geometry with race-specification coated bucket cam followers enhanced valve control. Maximum engine speed increased from 7,200 to 8,000 rpm through modified high-speed valve train components. Intake air ducting was de-throttled and optimized for the elevated redline. Engine mapping was revised to increase intake pressure while maintaining reliability. The crankshaft assembly was optimized through modified oil bores and improved bearing design reflecting race-specification standards.
Output climbed to 622 horsepower at 7,400 rpm and 468 lb-ft of torque, representing 39 additional horsepower compared to the SLS AMG GT’s 583 horsepower, achieved exclusively through mechanical enhancement without forced induction.
The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission featured AMG-optimized shift calibration providing dramatic acceleration. The limited-slip differential managed torque distribution effectively, exploiting available grip during acceleration and cornering while maintaining chassis balance.
Weight reduction through carbon-fiber construction and systematic elimination of non-essential equipment achieved 1,550 kilograms DIN curb weight (3,417 lbs), which includes 90 percent fuel and fluids. Dry weight without fluids approached approximately 1,475 kilograms. This established an extraordinary power-to-weight ratio enabling 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.5 seconds.
Styling
The SLS AMG Black Series retained the iconic gullwing door architecture while comprehensive aerodynamic revision created immediately recognizable Black Series distinctiveness. Enlarged air intakes with carbon-fiber flics provided aggressive visual emphasis while serving functional purposes. The optional carbon-fiber rear wing and front dive planes dominated the aerodynamic character, celebrating track-focused engineering.
The iconic launch color was Solarbeam Yellow (AMG Solarbeam), establishing distinctive visual character celebrated worldwide. Additional production colors included Designo Magno Alanite Grey and White, offering more conservative aesthetics while maintaining distinctiveness. The gullwing doors remained the dominant visual element establishing the car’s distinctive identity.
Interior
The cabin emphasized driver engagement combined with luxury appointments reflecting Mercedes-Benz quality standards. High-bolstered Alcantara sport seats with integrated harness bosses provided excellent lateral support during aggressive driving while maintaining comfort for extended journeys. The driving position was commanding and precisely balanced.
Standard equipment included sophisticated instrumentation displaying engine parameters, carbon-ceramic brake performance monitoring, and suspension settings. Optional equipment included enhanced climate control, premium audio systems, and customized leather options reflecting individual customer preferences.
Specifications
- Engine: Mercedes-AMG M159 naturally aspirated V8, 6.2-liter / 6,208cc, DOHC, four valves per cylinder (32 total)
- Power: 622 hp (US specification) / 631 PS (European specification) at 7,400 rpm
- Torque: 468 lb-ft / 635 N·m at 5,500 rpm
- Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, rear-wheel drive
- Chassis: Aluminum and composite monocoque, 2,710mm wheelbase
- Suspension: Independent double wishbones (front and rear), coil springs, race-tuned dampers
- Brakes: Ventilated carbon-ceramic discs, six-piston front calipers, four-piston rear, ABS with track calibration
- Wheels: 19-inch front (275/35 R19) / 20-inch rear (325/30 R20), forged alloy
- Weight: 1,550 kg DIN curb weight / 3,417 lbs (with 90% fuel); dry weight approximately 1,475 kg
- Performance: 196 mph / 315 km/h top speed, 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds
Production and Legacy
Mercedes-AMG assembled approximately 350 to 425 examples globally between 2012 and 2014 at Affalterbach, Germany, with 132 or 133 units imported to the United States. Each car received meticulous hand-assembly reflecting AMG’s manufacturing standards. Production remained strictly limited, reflecting the car’s exclusive positioning and intensive labor required for individual optimization.
The SLS AMG Black Series proved that naturally aspirated engines could deliver supercar-competitive performance through intelligent engineering and comprehensive optimization. The combination of mechanical sophistication, race-derived technology, and uncompromising track focus established lasting appeal.
Today, SLS AMG Black Series examples command strong collector appreciation reflecting their legendary status and engineering achievement. The combination of gullwing doors, naturally aspirated character, and comprehensive Black Series optimization ensures lasting appeal among serious enthusiasts.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series represented Affalterbach at its most accomplished, proving that mechanical excellence and uncompromising engineering could create something genuinely transcendent. It remains one of the greatest achievements of the modern era.
