Standout of the week: 2013 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Black Series

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One of the most anticipated cars from Mercedes Benz AMG has finally shown itself, the SLS AMG Coupe Black Series.

The SLS AMG Coupe Black Series is now the ultimate car AMG has to offer, coming armed with a high-revving 6.2-litre V8 producing 631hp at 7,400 rpm and 635Nm (468 lb ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm.  Thanks to its new high-revving nature, the Black Series produces slightly less torque than in the standard SLS.  However, acceleration from 0-100km/h is faster, getting there in 3.6 seconds and maxing out at 315km/h.

The gain in power can be attributed to: a revised valve train and modified camshafts; raising the redline to 8,000 rpm; as well as modifying the air intake ducting.  The Black Series also features an exhaust system made of titanium, which has helped save 17kg in weight and create a more aggressive exhaust note.

Having mentioned weight savings, the Black Series tips the scales at 1,550kg – which is 70kg lighter than the standard coupe.  Some of the measures taken to save weight include using carbon fibre on several parts of the body, such as; the bonnet, the diagonal braces on the underbody, the torque tube, as well as the rear panel behind the seats.  A lithium-ion battery is also being used instead of a normal starter battery, which helps save 8kg.

In terms of dynamic improvements, the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission has been installed 10mm lower to reduce the centre of gravity, while the rear mechanical locking differential has been replaced by an electronically controlled unit with a shorter axle ratio.  The suspension has been revised too, while the track width has been widened by 20mm at the front and 24mm at the rear.

The Black Series rides on matt black 10-spoke wheels measuring 10x19 at the front and 12x20 at the rear, and they are wrapped around in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (275/35 R19 front, 325/30 R 20 rear).  Carbon ceramic brake discs are standard (402mm front, 360mm rear), helping it save 16kg.

Mercedes Benz say that the design of the SLS AMG Black Series is inspired by their GT3 racing car.  New exterior elements include: wide flared wings; darkened headlamps and black surrounds on the rear lights; front and rear aprons in carbon fibre; carbon fibre front splitter; enlarged air intakes with carbon fibre flics.

Possibly the most noticeable addition to the Black Series’ exterior is indeed the addition of the rear spoiler.  Through an optional AMG Aerodynamics pack, customers will get the adjustable carbon fibre spoiler which should help increase downforce and not much drag.

It has been a long wait for the SLS AMG Black Series, however those rich enough to afford one will have to wait a bit longer to actually have one in their garage, with its market launch set for June 2013. The combined fuel economy for the Black Series is 13.7l/100km, while its CO2 emissions figure is 321g/km.