Mercedes-AMG unleashed the most extreme iteration of the celebrated SLS, the 2014 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 aesthetics, exceptional driving dynamics, and a commitment to lightweight construction, embodying AMG’s Lightweight Performance strategy. Tipping the scales at just 3,417 pounds, the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 5.49 lb/hp. Its formidable AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine churns out 622 horsepower at 7,400 rpm, propelling this most dynamic SLS variant to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds.
Pushing Performance Boundaries: Key Enhancements
The SLS AMG Black Series elevates performance to unprecedented levels through a suite of meticulously engineered upgrades. These include the AMG Adaptive Performance Coil-over Suspension, ensuring optimal handling and control, and the AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system, delivering exceptional stopping power with reduced weight. Weight-optimized, forged AMG light-alloy wheels, wrapped in new sport tires, further enhance agility and grip. Additional performance-focused features comprise the electronically-controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, renowned for its rapid and responsive gear changes. For drivers seeking the ultimate dynamic edge, the optional AMG Aerodynamics package further refines the vehicle’s handling prowess. The 2014 SLS AMG Black Series became available for purchase in the U.S. starting in the summer of 2013.
The Black Series Legacy: A New Dimension with the SLS AMG
The “Black Series” designation holds significant weight among automotive connoisseurs and enthusiasts globally. Following in the footsteps of the SLK55 AMG Black Series (2006, European model), the CLK63 AMG Black Series (2008), the SL65 AMG Black Series (2009), and the C63 AMG Black Series (2013), the fifth iteration marks a groundbreaking moment as the Black Series lineage extends into the realm of the iconic SLS AMG.
Ola Källenius, former Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, emphasized the motorsport DNA of the vehicle: “The new SLS AMG Black Series is a definitive study in the seamless transfer of technology and engineering from motorsport to the road. We have been directly inspired by the global success of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sport racing car, both conceptually and technologically. With its extensive use of lightweight components and captivating dynamics, our fifth Black Series model guarantees ‘Driving Performance’ in its purest form. The SLS AMG Black Series stands as the ultimate choice for achieving fast lap times and indulging in a profoundly emotional driving experience.”
Tobias Moers, incoming CEO and former Head of Total Vehicle Development at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, added, “Enthusiasts of high-performance super sports cars will be captivated by its advanced technology package. The foundation for its passionate performance and superior driving dynamics lies in numerous novel developments spanning the engine, transmission, suspension, and aerodynamics – all while prioritizing our ‘AMG Lightweight Performance’ strategy. Remarkable advancements in lightweight design have resulted in an impressive curb weight of just 3,417 pounds.”
AMG 6.3-Liter V8 Engine: The Heart of Thrilling Dynamics
The upgraded AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine is at the core of the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series, producing a staggering 622 hp and 468 lb-ft of torque. This makes it the most potent AMG high-performance production vehicle powered by a combustion engine, surpassed in power only by the SLS AMG Electric Drive with its 740 hp output.
The SLS AMG Black Series accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 196 mph. Compared to the 583 hp of the SLS AMG GT, the Black Series gains an additional 39 hp through several key enhancements:
- Increased maximum engine speed from 7,200 to 8,000 rpm.
- Completely revised high-speed valve train featuring modified camshaft geometry and optimized bucket cam followers with a specialized coating, typically employed in racing engines.
- Modified intake air ducting, eliminating throttling and optimized for the increased engine speed.
- Refined engine mapping and elevated intake pressure.
Mercedes-AMG engineers further fortified the crankshaft assembly to ensure peak stability under demanding racetrack conditions. This includes modified oil passages 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 in the engine and transmission has undergone optimization.
The AMG V8 engine in the SLS AMG Black Series also incorporates a specialized mounting system. A gas-filled strut braces the eight-cylinder engine against the chassis, effectively mitigating unwanted load shifts during high-intensity track driving. Staying true to AMG’s “one man, one engine” philosophy, each 6.3-liter V8 engine is meticulously hand-assembled at the AMG factory in Affalterbach, Germany. This handcrafted quality is confirmed by the black AMG engine badge, bearing the signature of the engine builder, a distinctive hallmark of the Black Series models.
| 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 |
Positioned as a front mid-engine configuration behind the front axle, the naturally aspirated V8 delivers race car-like responsiveness and exceptional high-revving capabilities. The racetrack pedigree of this potent AMG V8 engine is further underscored by its distinctive sound.
Crafted for the first time from titanium, the newly engineered AMG sport exhaust system features performance-optimized, fan-type exhaust manifolds with unique center and rear mufflers, producing a more resonant and even more captivating engine note. The shift from steel to titanium results in substantial weight savings; at just under 37.5 pounds, the new AMG sports exhaust system is approximately 28.7 pounds lighter than its steel predecessor.
AMG Lightweight Performance: A Strategy for Superior Agility
Weighing in at 3,417 pounds, the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series is not only 154 pounds lighter than the standard SLS AMG, but also achieves the best power-to-weight ratio of any AMG Black Series vehicle to date. Even among the elite super sports car segment, its 5.49 lb/hp power-to-weight ratio is exceptionally competitive, achieved through the consistent application of the “AMG Lightweight Performance” strategy.
Numerous body panels, including the hood, rear panel behind the AMG sports bucket seats, diagonal underbody braces, and the torque tube connecting the engine and transmission, are constructed entirely from CFRP (carbon-fiber reinforced plastic). The carbon-fiber torque tube, weighing only 29.3 pounds, is significantly lighter than its 58.6-pound counterpart with a sand-cast aluminum housing. As before, a CFRP driveshaft, weighing a mere 10.4 pounds, manages power transmission between the engine and the dual-clutch transaxle, which is flange-mounted at the rear axle. CFRP components also replace several parts within the aluminum spaceframe, while a lithium-ion battery substitutes the conventional starter battery, further reducing weight by 17.6 pounds.
Enhanced Transmission and Differential for Track Precision
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is positioned 0.4 inches lower to achieve an even lower center of gravity and is braced against the body with gas-filled struts to minimize unwanted load shifts. The dual-clutch transmission offers four drive modes: C, S, S+, and M. “Sport plus” and “Manual” modes deliver even more aggressive performance compared to the SLS AMG and SLS AMG GT models. In addition to quicker shift speeds, the transmission also exhibits faster response times to driver inputs.
A particularly thrilling feature is the automatic rev-matching function during downshifts, producing more pronounced and dramatic throttle blips, amplified by the AMG titanium sports exhaust system.
A new temporary M mode is also introduced. In C, S, or S+ mode, drivers can momentarily engage manual mode by simply pressing the “up” or “down” shift paddle. This allows drivers to experience the dynamism of manual gear changes within the automatic driving programs, with automatic up and down-shifting also available. This feature allows drivers to maintain focus on the vehicle’s exceptional performance.
Replacing the mechanical variant, a new electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock with a shorter rear axle ratio is implemented. Integrated within the compact transmission housing, this system provides variable locking action during both acceleration and deceleration. The enhanced responsiveness of the electronics ensures superior traction for the rear wheels across diverse road conditions. The electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock also contributes to safety by reducing yaw around the vertical axis, providing a stabilizing effect during slalom maneuvers or high-speed lane changes.
The standard three-stage ESP® system, featuring “ESP ON,” “ESP SPORT Handling Mode,” and “ESP OFF” functions, is precisely calibrated to the electronic AMG rear-axle differential lock. The same applies to the RACE START function, which collaborates with the electronic differential lock to deliver optimal traction for rapid launches from a standstill.
Suspension and Tires: Engineered for Track Domination
The chassis and suspension of the 2014 SLS AMG Black Series are extensively revised. While retaining the fundamental aluminum double wishbone layout at all four corners, virtually every component has been refined to significantly enhance track performance.
Key upgrades include:
- AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension with a firmer baseline setup and electronically controlled two-stage shocks (Sport, Sport +) for customizable adjustment to individual driving styles.
- Coil-over spring suspension enabling wheel load adjustments for specific racetrack setups.
- Elastokinematics with 50/42% increased rigidity (front/rear) for enhanced cornering stability.
- Wider track width, increased by 0.8/0.9 inches (front/rear), for improved grip.
- New front wheel mounts and revised front stabilizer tuning for enhanced grip and reduced body roll during fast cornering.
- AMG 10-spoke forged alloy wheels, lightweight forged design for optimal strength, painted matte black with a high-gloss finish, dimensions: 10 x 19 front; 12 x 20 rear. Weight saving: 8.8 pounds.
- Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 sport tires: 275/35 R 19 front and 325/30 R 20 rear, for increased grip and cornering prowess.
- AMG speed-sensitive steering with revised power steering characteristics for optimal steering precision and exceptional control.
High-Performance Braking System: Uncompromising Stopping Power
The brake system in the SLS AMG Black Series delivers exceptional deceleration and unwavering stability. The standard AMG high-performance ceramic two-piece brake system measures 15.8 x 1.5 inches at the front and 14.2 x 1.3 inches at the rear, featuring enhanced hardness for superior thermal stability and a weight reduction of approximately 40 percent compared to steel/aluminum counterparts. This reduction in unsprung weight optimizes both ride comfort and grip, while the reduced rotating mass at the front axle enhances steering response. The system achieves a weight saving of approximately 35.3 pounds compared to a conventional steel/aluminum brake system.
Exterior Design: Inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 Race Car
The design of the SLS AMG Black Series draws heavily from the SLS AMG GT3 race car, developed to FIA GT3 specifications and quickly establishing itself as a formidable contender in the super sports car racing scene.
The SLS AMG GT3 has participated in over 15 racing series across four continents during the 2012 motorsport season. Its achievements include a triple victory in the 24-hour Dubai race in January 2012, three driver and team titles in the FIA GT3 European Championship, the ADAC GT Masters, and the FIA GT3 World Championship, along with numerous podium finishes in various short-distance and endurance races. The car has amassed over 100 victories since the Customer Racing program’s inception in 2010.
Flared fenders, widened by 0.5 inches at the front and 1.0 inch at the rear on each side, accommodate the wider 10.8-inch and 12.8-inch sport tires. Tinted headlights and black surrounds for the rear lights contribute to the SLS AMG Black Series’ aggressive and muscular aesthetic. Aerodynamic balance is optimized by front, rear, and side skirts, along with a rear diffuser, all designed in the signature Black Series style. The package incorporates extensive use of CFRP for the front splitter, side sills, and rear skirt. Enlarged air intakes with carbon-fiber flics ensure optimal airflow to the front cooling modules.
Similar to the SLS AMG GT3, the carbon-fiber hood features a central air outlet, effectively dissipating engine heat, increasing downforce at the front axle, and improving the drag coefficient. The wing-like cross-fin and the star recessed into the radiator grille are finished in high-gloss black, matching the exterior mirrors and hood fins. The carbon-fiber side inserts with air outlets and black fins, reminiscent of the GT3, aid in reducing engine compartment temperature. The result is maximum stability, even under demanding racetrack conditions.
AMG forged wheels in a signature Black Series ten-spoke design, painted matte black with a high-gloss finish, showcase the AMG ceramic high-performance two-piece brake system. Optional AMG forged wheels are also available in matte black with a polished flange.
The rear design is dominated by wide fenders and a striking rear diffuser, extending beyond the rear skirt to generate additional rear downforce for enhanced high-speed stability. Visible air vents behind black grilles facilitate hot air discharge around the AMG titanium sports exhaust system. Two sets of twin square cross-section chrome tailpipes visually and audibly emphasize the super sports car’s power, further reinforced by the exhaust note. The exclusive AMG logo with contrasting black “Black Series” lettering adds a subtle yet distinctive touch on the trunk lid.
Optional AMG Aerodynamics Package and Exclusive Paint
The SLS AMG Black Series can be further enhanced with the optional AMG Aerodynamics package, featuring an adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing replacing the standard wind deflector. The rear wing is supported by aluminum elements on the trunk lid, providing even greater rear downforce, especially with the Gurney flap – a 0.3-inch spoiler lip fitted at a 90-degree angle that increases downforce without significantly increasing drag. The rear wing is complemented by additional carbon-fiber flics on the front skirt, further increasing front downforce, in contrast to the standard inward-lying carbon-fiber flics which optimize airflow to the cooling modules. Eye-catching AMG Solar Beam exterior paint is exclusively available for the SLS AMG Black Series, along with six other exterior paint finishes from the SLS AMG range, including the matte designo magno alanite grey.
Interior: Performance Focus with Premium Quality
The interior of the SLS AMG Black Series combines high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and exquisite details, available in two color schemes: black designo leather with black Alcantara®, or black designo leather with black/red Alcantara®. The two-tone option features red door center panels and red accents on the center console and above the glove box. The AMG Performance steering wheel, flattened at the bottom and entirely wrapped in Alcantara® for optimal grip, includes a red 12 o’clock marking at the top. The metal bezel is finished in high-gloss black, matching the high-gloss black surrounds of the air vents.
A unique Black Series detail is the “3D seam” – a horizontal anthracite Alcantara® strip running across the leather-covered dashboard. Red contrasting stitching enhances the 3D seam, emphasizing the handcrafted character.
The combination of designo leather and Alcantara® extends throughout the interior, featured on the lower dashboard, door center panels, and AMG sports seats with Alcantara® center sections. Embossed AMG logos on the head restraints further enhance the exclusive ambiance.
For additional weight savings, customers can opt to delete the COMAND multimedia system, reducing vehicle weight by another 13 pounds and further emphasizing the uncompromising nature of the SLS AMG Black Series. In place of the screen, a carbon-fiber trim element enhances the authentic racing atmosphere.
Carbon fiber also adorns the entire center console housing the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Red seat belts and red contrasting stitching on the AMG sports bucket seats, center console, dashboard sections, and door paneling provide striking highlights. The floor mats also feature red piping.
Optional Bang & Olufsen Sound System and Further Customization
An optional highlight is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, co-developed by Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, and Bang & Olufsen. This system with Dolby Digital 5.1 delivers an exceptional audio experience through a 1,000-watt amplifier and 11 speakers, with sound processing tailored to selected seating positions. The DSP digital sound processor allows switching between “Reference” studio sound and surround sound options, managed via a dedicated Bang & Olufsen menu in COMAND. Illuminated 50-watt lens tweeters on the dashboard and a 250-watt subwoofer integrated into the rear shelf are notable features, along with high-quality speaker covers bearing the Bang & Olufsen logo.
Further stand-alone options include AMG carbon fiber exterior mirrors and an AMG carbon fiber engine cover, and the AMG Interior Carbon Fiber Package for further personalization.
The Mercedes-AMG SLS Black Series stands as a testament to AMG’s unwavering commitment to pushing performance boundaries, blending motorsport technology with road-going exhilaration in a truly exceptional supercar.
