Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series debuts with 670hp V12
Limited to 350 units, the SL 65 AMG Black Series combines a 670hp twin-turbo V12, 1,000Nm of torque and extensive carbon fibre construction for reduced weight and higher performance.
Mercedes-Benz has launched the SL 65 AMG Black Series, a limited-run flagship for its AMG performance division. Production is capped at 350 units over a 12-month period, with around 200 cars earmarked for the US market. The Black Series name signals the most extreme AMG models, and this SL 65 follows the SLK 55 and CLK 63 Black Series in the line-up.
The car is powered by a heavily reworked version of Mercedes’ 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged V12. New, larger turbochargers, a more efficient intercooler and revised exhausts lift output to 670hp at 5,400rpm, an increase of 57hp over the standard SL 65 AMG. Peak torque remains at 1,000Nm, available from 2,200 to 4,200rpm, but Mercedes says this is electronically limited from a theoretical maximum of 1,200Nm to protect the five-speed automatic gearbox and driveline.
Performance is as dramatic as the numbers suggest. Mercedes claims 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds, with 0-200km/h reached in 11 seconds. Top speed is limited to 320km/h (199mph). The standard SL 65 AMG, by comparison, claims 0-100km/h in under 4.2 seconds and a 250km/h limiter. The Black Series’ extra power is matched by a substantial weight saving: the use of carbon fibre body panels and a fixed roof (in place of the standard car’s folding hardtop) contributes to a 250kg reduction, bringing kerb weight down to 1,870kg.
Chassis and bodywork changes
The Black Series drops the SL’s complex Active Body Control and air suspension in favour of a bespoke coil-spring set-up, with increased track widths (97mm wider at the front, 89mm at the rear). The fixed roof improves torsional rigidity, while a retractable rear spoiler adds downforce at speed. The bodywork is wider and more aggressive, with flared arches and new bumpers. The overall result is a car that is both lighter and more focused than the standard SL 65 AMG.
Inside, Mercedes has developed two interior layouts to meet European and US safety standards. European cars feature seatbelts anchored to a new B-pillar and omit side airbags, while US cars retain the standard seats with integrated belts and side airbags.
Position in the AMG range and pricing
At launch in September 2008, the SL 65 AMG Black Series was priced around $320,000, positioning it as an indirect successor to the McLaren-built SLR Coupe, which had recently ended production. The Black Series was also seen as a technical showcase, previewing engineering solutions for future AMG models, including the then-rumoured SLC project.
