Mercedes SLS AMG Black series revealed

    Hardcore limited-run SLS coupé teased before LA motor show debut

    Published On Nov 09, 2012 11:08:00 PM

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    Mercedes-Benz has revealed its new 622bhp 6.2-litre V8-powered SLS AMG Black Series ahead of the powered-up gullwing coupé’s debut at the Los Angeles motor show later this month.

    Sporting a series of aerodynamic and mechanical developments brought over from the SLS AMG GT3 race car, the headlining AMG model is the fifth in a series of limited production Black Series models.

    As tradition dictates, the SLS AMG Black Series is outwardly distinguished by series of exterior styling changes that serve to provide it with a distinctly brawnier appearance than the standard SLS AMG – all in keeping with its circuit bred lineage. Carbonfibre is used extensively for the more aggressive bodywork, including the deep front spoiler, bonnet and rear diffuser. An aerodynamic package is optional, which includes a lathe fixed rear wing.

    The rear bulkhead and centre tunnel are also fashioned from carbonfibre, changes which help shed the Black Series' kerb weight by 70kg over the standard SLS AMG to 1550kg.

    At the new car's heart is a heavily tuned version 6.2 V8 developing 59bhp than the standard SLS AMG and 41bhp more than the recently introduced SLS AMG GT, with 622bhp delivered at 7400rpm. Torque, on the other hand, has dropped by 1.52kgm over both existing gullwing models, with 64.7kgm arriving at 5500rpm.

    Carryovers from the GT3 racer to the Black Series road car include a larger inlet manifold, high lift camshaft, revised valve tappets, revised oil system, lighter bearings and stiffer conrods. The rev limit is raised from 7200rpm to 8000rpm.

    Further engine changes centre around the exhaust system which switches from steel to titanium construction – a move AMG claims not only provides a 13kg reduction in weight and reduced back pressure but an even more striking exhaust note.

    Channeling drive to the rear wheels is a modified six-speed double clutch transaxle, set 10mm lower than in the standard SLS to reduce its centre of gravity. Shifts are now faster and more aggressive and torque loading is increased.

    Additional driveline developments include the adoption of an electronically controlled differential lock in place of the existing mechanical arrangement. The ESP and race start systems are also revised.

    The Black Series can crack 0-100kph in 3.6sec and reach a 315kph top speed, 0.1sec quicker than an SLS AMG GT to 100kph but 5kph slower at the top end due to its increased downforce.

    Chassis developments include wider front and rear tracks and a firmed up coil-over suspension system, which also includes greater manual adjustment for the dampers.

    Also new are its lightweight 19in front and 20in rear alloy wheels and the adoption of carbon ceramic brakes.

    More images here

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