Mercedes-AMG unleashed the most extreme iteration of their celebrated SLS, the 2014 model-year SLS AMG Black Series, a vehicle directly inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 race car. This fifth Black Series model from Mercedes-AMG masterfully blends breathtaking design with exceptional driving dynamics and a commitment to lightweight construction, perfectly embodying the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy. Weighing in at a mere 3,417 pounds, the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 5.49 lb/hp. The heart of this beast, the AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine, churns out a formidable 622 horsepower at 7,400 rpm, propelling this most dynamic SLS ever built to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds.
The Mercedes-benz Sls AMG Black Series elevates performance to unprecedented levels thanks to its AMG Adaptive Performance Coil-over Suspension, AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system, and weight-optimized, forged AMG light-alloy wheels wrapped in new sport tires. Further enhancing its capabilities are the electronically-controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, renowned for its rapid shifts and exceptional responsiveness. For those seeking the ultimate in handling and aerodynamics, the optional AMG Aerodynamics package takes the driving experience even further. The 2014 SLS AMG Black Series became available for purchase in the U.S. in the summer of 2013, marking a new chapter in the iconic SLS lineage.
AMG Lightweight Performance: A Core Philosophy
The SLS AMG Black Series is a testament to AMG’s “Lightweight Performance” strategy. This philosophy is central to the car’s design and engineering, aiming to maximize driving dynamics through significant weight reduction. Compared to the standard SLS AMG, the Black Series sheds a remarkable 154 pounds, achieving a curb weight of just 3,417 pounds. This weight saving is crucial in achieving the outstanding power-to-weight ratio and contributes directly to the car’s agility and responsiveness.
This impressive weight reduction is achieved through the extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in key areas of the vehicle’s construction. Components such as the hood, the rear panel behind the AMG sports bucket seats, diagonal braces on the underbody, and the torque tube connecting the engine and transmission are all crafted entirely from CFRP. Notably, the carbon-fiber torque tube weighs a mere 29.3 pounds, a significant saving compared to the 58.6-pound aluminum counterpart. Further weight savings come from a CFRP driveshaft and a lithium-ion battery, demonstrating AMG’s meticulous approach to lightweight design throughout the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series.
The Potent AMG 6.3-Liter V8 Engine
At the heart of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series lies the formidable AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine, a powerplant synonymous with thrilling driving dynamics. Uprated to produce a staggering 622 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque, this naturally aspirated V8 makes the Black Series the most powerful AMG high-performance automobile with a combustion engine, second only to the electric SLS AMG Electric Drive in the SLS lineup.
Compared to the already potent SLS AMG GT, the Black Series gains an additional 39 horsepower through a series of significant enhancements. These include an increase in maximum engine speed from 7,200 to 8,000 rpm, a completely revised high-speed valve train with modified camshafts and optimized bucket cam followers featuring a special coating derived from racing applications. The intake air ducting has been modified for de-throttling and optimized for the higher engine speeds, along with adjustments to the engine mapping and an increase in intake pressure.
Mercedes-AMG engineers further reinforced the crankshaft assembly for unwavering stability under demanding race track conditions. This involved modifying oil bores in the crankshaft, incorporating new crankshaft bearings and oil pump, and utilizing high-strength connecting rod bolts. The entire cooling system for both engine and transmission has been meticulously optimized to ensure peak performance even under extreme stress. Adding to the engine’s robustness, a specialized gas-filled strut mounting system braces the V8 against the body, effectively minimizing unwanted load shifts during high-speed cornering and dynamic driving maneuvers, crucial for optimal car detailing and performance.
The AMG V8 engine in the SLS AMG Black Series is hand-built in Affalterbach, Germany, following AMG’s “one man, one engine” philosophy. This dedication to craftsmanship is highlighted by the black AMG engine badge, signed by the engine builder, a signature element of the prestigious Black Series models. The sound emanating from this engine is as thrilling as its performance, providing an aural experience that matches the visual drama of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series.
| SLS AMG Black Series | |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,208 cc |
| Bore x stroke | 4.02 x 3.72 inches |
| Compression ratio | 11.3 : 1 |
| Horsepower | 622 hp at 7,400 rpm |
| Max. torque | 468 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm |
| Max. engine speed | 8,000 rpm |
| Engine weight (dry) | 452 lbs |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.5 seconds |
| Top speed | 196 mph |
Precision Transmission and Enhanced Drivetrain
Power from the V8 engine is channeled through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, repositioned 0.4 inches lower for an even lower center of gravity, further enhancing handling. The transmission is braced against the body with gas-filled struts to eliminate undesirable load shifts. Offering four drive modes – C, S, S+, and M – the transmission provides a spectrum of driving experiences, with “Sport plus” and “Manual” modes delivering even more aggressive performance compared to the standard SLS AMG and SLS AMG GT. Shift speeds are increased, and the transmission responds more rapidly to driver inputs.
A particularly exciting feature is the automatic rev-matching function during downshifts. Enhanced and amplified by the AMG titanium sports exhaust system, the throttle blips during gear changes are more pronounced and visceral, adding to the immersive driving experience. The inclusion of a temporary M mode allows drivers to momentarily engage manual mode from C, S, or S+ modes by simply using a shift paddle. This provides on-demand manual control without fully disengaging the automatic driving programs, allowing drivers to concentrate fully on the car’s performance.
Complementing the advanced transmission is a new electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock, replacing the mechanical variant and featuring a shorter rear axle ratio. Integrated into the transmission housing, this system provides variable locking effects during both acceleration and deceleration. The electronic control offers faster response, ensuring exceptional traction in all driving conditions. Furthermore, the electronic differential lock enhances safety by reducing yaw around the vehicle’s vertical axis, providing increased stability during quick maneuvers such as slaloms or high-speed lane changes. The standard three-stage ESP® system and RACE START function are finely tuned to work in perfect harmony with the electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock, optimizing both performance and control.
Track-Honed Chassis and Suspension
The chassis and suspension of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series have been comprehensively re-engineered for superior track performance. While retaining the fundamental aluminum double wishbone layout at all four corners, nearly every component has been refined to elevate handling dynamics.
The upgrades include AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension with a firmer baseline setup and electronically controlled two-stage shocks (Sport, Sport +) allowing for customized driving dynamics. The coil-over spring suspension enables precise adjustment of wheel loads for specific race track setups. Elastokinematics are 50% more rigid at the front and 42% more rigid at the rear, enhancing stability during cornering. Track width is increased by 0.8 inches at the front and 0.9 inches at the rear, providing enhanced grip. New front wheel mounts and retuned front stabilizer further contribute to grip levels and reduce body roll during high-speed cornering.
The car rides on AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, engineered for lightness and strength, finished in matte black with a high-gloss rim. These wheels are paired with newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sports tires (275/35 R 19 front and 325/30 R 20 rear), maximizing grip and cornering prowess. AMG speed-sensitive steering with revised power steering characteristics ensures optimal steering precision and exceptional driver feedback.
Uncompromising Braking Performance
Ensuring exceptional stopping power, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series is equipped with the standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system. Featuring larger dimensions (15.8 x 1.5 inches front, 14.2 x 1.3 inches rear) and increased hardness for improved thermal stability, these ceramic brakes offer a substantial weight reduction of approximately 40 percent compared to conventional steel/aluminum brakes. This reduction in unsprung weight enhances both ride comfort and grip, while the reduced rotating mass at the front axle contributes to more direct steering response. The overall weight saving from the braking system is approximately 35.3 pounds, further contributing to the car’s agility.
Motorsport-Inspired Design
The design of the SLS AMG Black Series is heavily influenced by the SLS AMG GT3 race car. Wider fenders, flared by 0.5 inches at the front and 1.0 inch at the rear on each side, accommodate the wider sports tires. Tinted headlights and black surrounds for the rear lights contribute to the car’s aggressive stance. Aerodynamic balance is optimized with front, rear, and side skirts, along with a rear diffuser, all designed in the signature Black Series style and featuring extensive use of CFRP. Enlarged air intakes with carbon-fiber flics ensure optimal airflow to the cooling modules.
The carbon-fiber hood incorporates a central air outlet, effectively dissipating engine heat while also increasing downforce at the front axle and improving aerodynamic efficiency. The radiator grille features a wing-like cross-fin and recessed star in high-gloss black, matching the exterior mirrors and hood fins. Carbon-fiber side inserts with air outlets, reminiscent of the GT3 car, aid in reducing engine compartment temperature, ensuring maximum stability even under demanding track conditions.
The optional AMG Aerodynamics package further enhances downforce with an adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing and additional carbon-fiber flics on the front skirt. Exclusive AMG Solar Beam exterior paint is available for the SLS AMG Black Series, along with six other exterior paint finishes from the SLS AMG range.
Performance-Oriented Interior
The interior of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series is a blend of high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and functional design. Two color options are available: black designo leather with black Alcantara®, or black designo leather with black/red Alcantara®. The AMG Performance steering wheel, wrapped entirely in Alcantara® for superior grip, features a flattened bottom rim and a red 12 o’clock marking. An exclusive “3D seam” detail runs horizontally across the dashboard, adding a handcrafted touch.
Throughout the interior, designo leather and Alcantara® are combined, including on the AMG sports seats with Alcantara® center sections. Embossed AMG logos on the head restraints further emphasize the car’s exclusivity. For purists seeking ultimate weight reduction, the COMAND multimedia system can be deleted, replaced by a carbon-fiber trim element, saving an additional 13 pounds and enhancing the race-inspired ambiance. Carbon fiber trim extends across the center console, and red seat belts and contrasting stitching add bold accents.
Optional features include the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, AMG carbon fiber exterior mirrors, and AMG carbon fiber engine cover, allowing for further personalization of this exceptional Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series.
Conclusion: The Apex of AMG Performance
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series represents the pinnacle of AMG’s engineering and design philosophy. Inspired by motorsport and built for ultimate driving performance, it delivers an unparalleled experience for enthusiasts seeking the most extreme expression of the SLS lineage. With its potent V8 engine, lightweight construction, track-tuned chassis, and aggressive design, the SLS AMG Black Series stands as a true testament to AMG’s commitment to “Driving Performance” and a highlight in the history of Mercedes-Benz sports cars.
