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Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series: 670 horsepower under the hood!

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Khatir Soltani
The Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG produces 604 horsepower and 738 pounds-feet of torque, but if that's not enough for you, this sure will -- introducing the new Black Series, an even higher-performing variant of the German automaker's ultra-sporty coupe.

The 6.0-liter, twin-turbo V12 of the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG has been tweaked to generate an impressive 670 horsepower at 5,400 rpm. Theoretically, the engine could develop as much as 885 lbs-ft of torque, but engineers saw fit to leave it at 738 lbs-ft (available from 2,000 rpm to 4,200 rpm).


The turbochargers have been upgraded not only to increase power but also to maximize intercooling and quicken throttle response. The exhaust system has also been revised to optimize exhaust flow and give this AMG a totally unique sound.

The fearsome V12 is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode (including four dynamic settings).

With all that power, the SL65 AMG Black Series accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in only 11 seconds. Top speed is limited at 320 km/h.

Improving handling and stability is an advanced suspension with compression and rebound adjustments. The driver can also fine-tune the car's ride height, wheel alignment and camber angle.

Slowing the car are 390-mm front discs with 6-piston callipers and 360-mm rear discs with 4-piston callipers. Tire size is 265/35R19 up front and 325/30R20 in the back.

Compared to the regular SL65 AMG, the Black Series is 250-kg lighter. To achieve this significant weight reduction, engineers used a number of carbon fiber components, including the front and rear bumpers, hood, trunk lid and rear spoiler. The retractable hard top has been replaced by a fixed roof, also made entirely of carbon fiber.

From the outside, this exclusive model is easy to recognize with flared fenders, a retractable spoiler and a rear diffuser. Just to make sure, Mercedes also incorporated aggressive alloy wheels measuring 19 inches in diameter up front and 20 inches in the back.

Elsewhere, the all-black interior features carbon fiber seats wrapped in Nappa leather and Alcantara, a smaller steering wheel with silver paddle shifters as well as a new instrument cluster.

Delivery is scheduled to begin in November. Though no official price has been announced yet, you should know that the current SL65 AMG retails for $238,500.
photo:Mercedes-Benz
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada