The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is already a celebrated icon, but Mercedes-AMG took it to the extreme with the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series. This fifth iteration in the prestigious Black Series lineage draws heavily from the SLS AMG GT3 race car, embodying a breathtaking fusion of aggressive design, exceptional driving dynamics, and a relentless pursuit of lightweight construction, all hallmarks of AMG’s Lightweight Performance strategy. Weighing in at just 3,417 pounds, the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series boasts a staggering power-to-weight ratio of 5.49 lb / hp, promising an unparalleled driving experience.
Performance and Power: The Heart of the Black Series
At the core of the SLS AMG Black Series lies a potent, naturally aspirated AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine, meticulously uprated to deliver a formidable 622 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. This makes the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG high-performance automobile with a combustion engine, second only to the electric SLS AMG Electric Drive in the broader SLS lineup.
This enhanced power propels the most dynamic SLS ever built from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, reaching a blistering top speed of 196 mph. Compared to the already impressive 583 hp of the SLS AMG GT, the Black Series gains an additional 39 hp through a series of significant engine enhancements:
- Increased Engine Speed: The maximum engine speed has been elevated from 7,200 to an exhilarating 8,000 rpm, unlocking higher power output at the top end.
- Revised High-Speed Valve Train: A fully revised valve train incorporates modified camshaft geometry and optimized bucket cam followers featuring a special coating – a technology typically reserved for race vehicles, ensuring durability and performance at high revs.
- Optimized Intake Air Ducting: De-throttling and adaptation of the intake air ducting to match the new, higher maximum engine speed allows for increased airflow into the engine.
- Adapted Engine Mapping and Intake Pressure: Fine-tuned engine mapping and an increase in intake pressure further contribute to the power boost.
Mercedes-AMG engineers further fortified the crankshaft assembly for unwavering stability under the extreme demands of race track driving. This includes modified oil bores in the crankshaft, new crankshaft bearings, a redesigned oil pump, and high-strength connecting rod bolts. The entire cooling system, for both water and oil, has also been optimized to maintain peak performance even under duress.
Adding to the race-bred character, the AMG V8 engine in the SLS AMG Black Series features a specialized mounting system. A gas-filled strut braces the eight-cylinder engine against the body, effectively minimizing unwanted load shifts during high-speed cornering and dynamic maneuvers. Staying true to AMG’s “one man, one engine” philosophy, each 6.3-liter V8 engine is meticulously hand-built in the AMG factory in Affalterbach, Germany. This handcrafted quality is certified by the black AMG engine badge bearing the signature of the engine builder, a distinctive hallmark of Black Series models.
The SLS AMG Black Series also boasts a newly designed AMG sport exhaust system crafted from titanium for the first time. This system features performance-enhancing, fan-type exhaust manifolds with distinctive center and rear mufflers, producing a more potent and truly captivating engine sound. The switch to titanium results in a significant weight saving of approximately 28.7 pounds compared to its steel predecessor, weighing in at just under 37.5 pounds.
Lightweight Engineering: AMG Lightweight Performance
The 2014 SLS AMG Black Series embodies the “AMG Lightweight Performance” strategy in its purest form. With a curb weight of 3,417 pounds, it is a remarkable 154 pounds lighter than the standard SLS AMG. This relentless pursuit of weight reduction results in the best power-to-weight ratio of any AMG Black Series vehicle to date, and an extremely competitive figure even among super sports cars at 5.49 lb / hp.
Numerous body components are crafted entirely from CFRP (carbon-fiber reinforced plastic), including the hood, the rear panel behind the AMG sports bucket seats, the diagonal braces on the underbody, and the torque tube connecting the engine and transmission. The carbon-fiber torque tube alone weighs just 29.3 pounds, a significant reduction compared to its 58.6-pound sand-cast aluminum counterpart. A CFRP drive shaft, weighing a mere 10.4 pounds, continues to handle power transmission between the engine and the dual-clutch transaxle mounted on the rear axle. CFRP components also replace various parts on the aluminum spaceframe, and a lithium-ion battery replaces the conventional starter battery, saving another 17.6 pounds.
Driving Dynamics and Handling: Track-Ready Performance
The SLS AMG Black Series takes handling to a new echelon with its AMG Adaptive Performance Coil-over Suspension and a host of other chassis and suspension refinements. While retaining the fundamental aluminum double wishbone layout at all four corners, virtually every component has been optimized for superior track performance.
Key enhancements include:
- AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension: Featuring a stiffer basic setup and electronically controlled two-stage shocks (Sport, Sport +), allowing for personalized adjustment to suit individual driving styles and track conditions.
- Coil-over Spring Suspension: Enables precise adjustment of wheel loads for tailored race track setups.
- Stiffer Elastokinematics: Elastokinematics are 50% more rigid at the front and 42% more rigid at the rear, enhancing stability in corners.
- Increased Track Width: Track width is increased by 0.8 inches at the front and 0.9 inches at the rear, enhancing grip and cornering prowess.
- New Front Wheel Mounts and Stabilizer Tuning: New front wheel mounts and front stabilizer tuning further enhance grip and reduce body roll during fast cornering.
- AMG Forged Alloy Wheels: Lightweight AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, finished in matte black with a high-gloss finish, contribute to weight reduction and optimal strength.
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 Sports Tires: Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sports tires (275/35 R 19 front and 325/30 R 20 rear) provide exceptional grip and cornering capabilities.
- AMG Speed-Sensitive Steering: AMG speed-sensitive steering with revised power steering characteristics delivers optimal steering precision and control.
The braking system on the SLS AMG Black Series is equally impressive, featuring the standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system. These brakes, measuring 15.8 x 1.5 inches at the front and 14.2 x 1.3 inches at the rear, offer exceptional deceleration and thermal stability. Their ceramic construction also results in a weight reduction of approximately 40 percent compared to steel/aluminum counterparts, reducing unsprung weight and improving both comfort and grip, while also delivering a more direct steering response.
Further enhancing the driving experience is the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, positioned 0.4 inches lower for an even lower center of gravity. It features four drive modes (C, S, S+, and M) with “Sport plus” and “Manual” modes offering even more aggressive performance and faster shift times than the standard SLS AMG. A new electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock further optimizes traction and stability under all driving conditions.
Design and Aerodynamics: Inspired by GT3 Racing
The design of the SLS AMG Black Series is visually striking and directly inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 race car. Flared fenders, widened by 0.5 inches at the front and 1.0 inch at the rear on each side, accommodate the wider sports tires and give the car an assertive stance. Tinted headlights and black surrounds for the rear lights further contribute to its aggressive aesthetic.
Aerodynamic balance is optimized by front, rear, and side skirts, along with a rear diffuser, all styled in the signature Black Series design. These components extensively utilize CFRP, particularly in the front splitter, side sills, and rear skirt. Enlarged air intakes with carbon-fiber flics ensure optimal airflow to the front cooling modules. The carbon-fiber hood features a central air outlet to dissipate engine heat and increase downforce at the front axle.
The optional AMG Aerodynamics package takes performance even further with an adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing replacing the standard wind deflector, along with additional carbon-fiber flics on the front skirt. This package significantly increases downforce, especially with the Gurney flap on the rear wing, enhancing stability at high speeds and during track driving.
Inside, the SLS AMG Black Series features a performance-oriented interior crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Customers can choose between two color variants: black designo leather with black Alcantara®, or black designo leather with black/red Alcantara®. The AMG Performance steering wheel is wrapped entirely in Alcantara® for optimal grip, and carbon fiber accents adorn the center console and trim. Optional features include the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system and various AMG carbon fiber packages.
The Legacy of Black Series and Market Value
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series represents the pinnacle of performance within the SLS AMG range and a significant chapter in the Black Series legacy. Following models like the SLK55 AMG Black Series, CLK63 AMG Black Series, SL65 AMG Black Series, and C63 AMG Black Series, the SLS AMG Black Series elevates the concept to new heights with its iconic design and unparalleled performance.
While the original Mercedes Benz Sls Amg Msrp would have been a significant figure reflecting its exclusivity and performance capabilities, these vehicles are now highly sought-after collectibles. The limited production run and exceptional engineering ensure that the SLS AMG Black Series remains a prized possession for automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its value on the pre-owned market reflects its rarity, performance pedigree, and the enduring appeal of the SLS AMG design.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series is more than just a car; it’s a statement of automotive passion, engineering excellence, and the unadulterated thrill of driving performance, bringing the spirit of motorsport directly to the road.
