The Mercedes-AMG Black Series represents the pinnacle of performance and exclusivity within the AMG lineup. These models are renowned for their extreme power, advanced technology, and striking design, often drawing inspiration from motorsport. Each Black Series vehicle is meticulously engineered with enhanced aerodynamics, extensive use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber, and highly tuned engines delivering extraordinary horsepower. These cars feature race-inspired elements, including adjustable suspensions and high-performance braking systems. Limited in production, the Black Series stands as a testament to AMG's relentless pursuit of driving excellence, offering an unparalleled experience for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Born from the 35-unit SLK Tracksport, the SLK 55 AMG Black Series debuted in late 2006, marketed as the "purist" and "track-ready" version of its sibling. The heart of this machine was a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8, which saw its muscle flexed from 360 to 400 horsepower. Mated to a seven-speed automatic, this powerhouse was complemented by a manually adjustable suspension, Pirelli performance tires, and beefed-up brakes. The chassis was reinforced, and the ESP stability control, though not entirely defeatable, kept the beast in check.
Gone was the weighty retractable hardtop, replaced by a fixed carbon fiber roof, dramatically lowering both weight and the center of gravity. Initially, AMG hinted at no production cap, but with a hefty price tag, only 120 units rolled off the line between July 2006 and April 2007. It could hit a top speed of 280 km/h.
With the introduction of the legendary 6.2-liter V8, the CLK 63 AMG Black Series was born. The M156 engine, delivering a formidable 500 horsepower, was showcased in an extreme prototype on the Paul Ricard racetrack. By 2007, this monster had been unleashed onto the streets, boasting a top speed of 300 km/h.
Its wide track, 265/30R-19 front, and 285/30R-19 rear tires demanded expanded fenders. The chassis was stiffened, and the interior was draped in Alcantara and carbon fiber. Production was capped at 700 units, available globally from April 2007 to March 2008.
HWA Engineering took the reins for the SL 65 AMG Black Series, transforming it into a true juggernaut. Under the bonnet, the 6.0-liter V12, armed with larger turbos and intercoolers, unleashed 661 horsepower and a staggering 1,000 Nm of torque. This power was funneled to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic, enabling an electronically limited top speed of 320 km/h.
The retractable hardtop was ditched for a fixed carbon fiber roof, and the body was widened extensively, using carbon fiber throughout. Only the doors and side mirrors remained from the standard SL. Tested over 16,000 kilometers on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, 350 units were produced between September 2008 and August 2009, selling out almost instantly.
The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series hit the tarmac in late 2011, packing an iteration of the M156 6.2-liter V8. This version churned out 510 horsepower and 620 Nm of torque, delivered through a seven-speed automatic, propelling the car to a governed top speed of 300 km/h.
With a track-tuned adjustable suspension and wider track, the C 63 sported 255/35R-19 front and 285/30R-19 rear tires. AMG also offered a Track package and an Aerodynamic package. Initially set at 600 units, demand saw production bumped to 800, available in Europe from January 2012 and in the US as a 2013 model.
The last and most recent Black Series, the SLS AMG, debuted in spring 2013. The M159 engine was pushed to 622 horsepower and 635 Nm of torque, with power channeled through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, hitting a governed top speed of 315 km/h. The redline was raised to 8,000 rpm, and the titanium exhaust produced an intoxicating race car soundtrack.
Extensive carbon fiber use shaved off 70 kg compared to the standard SLS AMG. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires sized 275/35R-19 front and 325/30R-20 rear ensured grip, while an optional aero package included an adjustable carbon fiber wing. Only 350 units were produced, with fewer than 200 making it to the US.
The AMG GT Black Series is the pinnacle of AMG's performance lineup, drawing inspiration from the AMG GT3 race cars. It features a 720-horsepower V8 and numerous enhancements that set it apart from other AMG GT models, including the GT R.
The Panamericana-inspired grille is significantly larger, feeding bigger intercoolers. Carbon fiber is extensively used for the hood, roof, hatch, and front and rear fascias. The hood features large air outlets, and the aero package includes a manually adjustable front splitter and rear wing with an active aero flap. The aggressive bodywork features black wheels with 285/35ZR-19 front and 335/30ZR-20 rear Michelin Pilot Cup 2 R tires, available in two compounds. The car's striking appearance is completed with AMG "Magmabeam" paint.
Inside, aggressive bucket seats, a microfiber steering wheel, and microfiber door and instrument panels emphasize its racing focus. Carbon-fiber panels stiffen the body for precise handling, with adjustable camber settings on both front and rear axles. Carbon-ceramic rotors and Black Series-specific brake pads enhance track capabilities.
The modified twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, now called the M178 LS2, uses a flat-plane crankshaft for improved throttle response. The engine's redline is 7,200 rpm, with larger turbos delivering up to 1.7 bar of boost. The car features a 9-mode traction control system controlled from the dash.
With 720 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque, power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transaxle. AMG claims a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h, recommended for racetrack use only.
The answer isn’t simple, or without compromise, but there are lots of key stakeholders in development of a solution, and Porsche is one of them. As part of a multi-million pound investment Porsche has partnered with Exxon Mobil and Siemens in the research, development and ultimate production of carbon-neutral eFuel – the carbon-neutral bit being the key point there.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
