We all thought it was going to be epic, but who would have thought it was going to be as dazzlingly intense as this? It’s the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series, in bright yellow and contrasting carbon fibre.
A teaser shot was released around this time yesterday hinting towards the reveal. As speculated, the SLS Black comes with a revised version of the standard 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 producing 464kW and 634Nm – up from the standard 420kW output.
The engine has been made more powerful partly thanks to an extended redline which now cuts in at a screaming 8000rpm – it’s no wonder the prototype spotted earlier in the week sounded so good.
Some of the engine revisions include new cams, a new air intake, a lighter weight titanium exhaust system (saving 13kg), and the alterations to the ECU.
Matched up to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels, the SLS Black is capable of demolishing 0-100km/h in just 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 315km/h. The average fuel economy – not that you would care in a car like this – has been rated at 13.7L/100km.
Other highlights include a full bodykit with more aggressive front and rear bumper bars, a new rear spoiler, and lots of carbon fibre. There’s also a set of lightweight forged alloy wheels, and wider tracks front (20mm wider) and rear (24mm wider).
Inside is smothered in carbon fibre, including a carbon centre console, lighter weight bucket seats (saving 15kg), and a removed multimedia interface that saves a further 6kg.
Overall the SLS Black Series weighs 70kg less than the SLS AMG GT, tipping the scales at 1550kg.
The new performance model will go on sale in international markets in June, 2013. A possible Australian introduction is yet to be announced.
