LA Show: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series

Mercedes-Benz has officially pulled the covers of what it intends to be the ultimate road-going version of the SLS at the Los Angeles motor show. The SLS AMG Black Series is set to be the fastest ever Merc road car when it goes on sale next year. 

Power has been increased to 621bhp, almost 40bhp up on the recently launched SLS AMG GT model. Performance has been significantly improved, with a 0-62mph time of 3.6secs, although top speed remains unchanged at 197mph. The gearbox has been mounted 10mm lower in the car, and is now braced – along with the engine – with gas-filled struts to minimise the stresses when on track.

The power increase is thanks to a number of revisions to the 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8, including modified valvetrain and camshafts, optimised crankshaft, more open air intakes and exhaust – all to take advantage of a new higher rev limit, raised from 7200rpm to 8000rpm. Further changes to the oil and water cooing systems are also said to improve durability and efficiency.

Much of the Black’s upgrades were initially developed for the SLS GT3, and the extensive use of carbon fibre for the various components and stripping out any unnecessary weight, sees a total reduction of 150kg, keeping overall weight down to 1550kg.

Improvements to the chassis include wider front and rear track, fully adjustable coilover suspension and an electronically lockable differential.

At the show AMG boss Ola Kallenius told evo that the car is the result of 'significant demand' for customers for an ultimate version of the SLS. And although we don't know the final price, he also confirmed that it would 'start with a 2' in Euros, with informed speculation reckoning that buyers will have to find at least £250,000 to land one.