Over the years, there have been many Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS models. Since their beginning in 2009, there have been an impressive 14 editions, from the first-ever Coupe to the latest Electric Drive. All of which have impressed their customers and flown out of the Mercedes garages once they were put on sale.
One model from the AMG SLS range that really stands out among the rest is the Black Series that was released in 2013. It is heavily inspired by the SLS AMG Coupé and the SLS AMG GT3, yet the Black Series is pretty fun and unique in its appearance and performance. Is it the faster engine or those super cool doors that make it special? Let's find out.
Let's take a closer look at the Mercedes-AMG SLS Black Series and unveil what makes it so special.
A Specification Overview Of The Mercedes-AMG SLS Black Series
The 2013 Mercedes Benz AMG SLS was never supposed to fulfill the spot of the most powerful model ever made. But, what it did do was push the boundaries for being the quickest car to leave the Mercedes Benz garage the year it was released in 2013.
Mercedes pushed the limits for the horsepower in this SLS Black Series, with a 6.2-liter V8 engine that could max out at 622bhp. This is 59 more brake horsepower than the previous model, the AMG GT.
The extra speed and power are not what made this model stand out. Although, it did sound pretty fierce. As we said, it certainly wasn't the powerful series from the AMG lineup.
From afar, the car looks similar to other AMG models. With sporty fins, a cool spoiler, and a chin. You cannot really tell that this model weighs 70kg less than the previous AMG, dropping the already slimline SLS’s curb weight down to just 1550kg.
This was accomplished by using carbon fiber materials in its body panels, frame, and mechanics. Furthermore, the exhaust system material changed to titanium, which further decreased the weight. You can only really tell when you hop in around drive around tight corners and inclines.
The dampers are more sophisticated than others in the range, making those tight corners even more comfortable. These features all sound ideal and pretty special. Yet, up close is where the truly special features really shine.
A Closer Look At The SLS Black Series' Interior
The main interior feature that is different in the Black Series is the steering wheel. As the aim was to reduce the weight of the car, every tiny detail was thought of. The team fitted an AMG performance wheel with a flattened rim. The steering wheel offers the driver controls from the volume, in-car entertainment, and taking a call.
Mercedes really did take the weight seriously, as they gave the option to customers to remove the infotainment system, which would reduce the weight of the car by a further 13 pounds. For those that wanted it kept in, its features included a Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, CD player, and phone connectivity.
There are two colorways available, either a black design leather with black Alcantara or black design leather with black and red Alcantara. Both offer red inserts and trims throughout the interior, giving it a sporty look.
How Did The Mercedes-AMG SLS Black Series Perform?
Many people would suggest that the AMG SLS Black Series closely competes with the likes of supercars, such as the Lamborghini Aventador and the Mercedes Benz SLS GT. Why? Because it grips like a mid-engined supercar, but with the balance, the steering feels and drifts like something from another era.
In terms of speed, the Black Series is impressively quick off the mark. It can hit 0 to 60 mph in a whopping 3.2 seconds and hits a top speed of 196 mph. If you are into speed and thrill, the Black Series shall not disappoint.
For comfort and further fun, the Black Series is kitted out with the AMG SpeedShift DCT 7-speed sports transmission that helps the ride achieve a lower center of gravity and improve gear shifting.
What Makes The Mercedes-AMG SLS Black Series So Special?
It could be argued that the special feature of the car is its impressive weight or speed. Yet, there are many cars on the market that could easily compete.
So, it has to be fair to say that the special feature award has to be given to the gullwing doors. They ooze coolness and luxury, don't they?
In our opinion, the Mercedes Benz AMG SLS Black Series is an all-around impressive ride. From an upgraded engine to its reduction in weight, it really made an impact and difference for the AMG SLS lineup.