Mercedes AMG has launched a new cannon for the road: the SL 65 AMG Black Series. The immense power and torque of the engine – 670HP, 1000Nm – is matched by the two-seater’s broad, muscular body, 14cm wider than the standard SL, while the expansive mudguards, retractable rear spoiler and rear apron with diffuser fins all hint strongly at its motorsport origins (DTM C-Class or 1997 CLK-GTR, perhaps?).

The generous cooling apertures in the front apron and bonnet are a clear indication that something special is lurking in the engine bay. Newly developed turbochargers, with a larger spiral cross-section and optimised wastegates, boost the already impressive power of the 6.0-litre V12 biturbo power unit, while modified air intake ducting promises rapid response across all engine speeds.

Aside from the styling and performance, AMG also aims to delight your ears, with an evocative V12 sound emerging from the two trapezoidal tail-pipes, a sonorous note resulting from redesigned rear silencers. The reason for the redesign was not, however, to achieve this distinctive sound but to reduce backpressure and increase power… the V12 howl was simply a desirable by-product.

The SL 65 AMG Black Series, the most powerful AMG model yet produced, claims a 0-62mph time of 3.9sec and an electronically limited top speed of 199mph. Production is scheduled to start in January.

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: Daimler AG