Power, endurance and unlimited performance -- a perfect description of the dark flagship vehicles of Mercedes-AMG. Since 2006, only selected models have been awarded the "Black Series" crown. We illuminate the history of the dark flagships of AMG. Coming soon: The next Black Series model is about to join its powerful predecessors and expand this range to six AMG Black Series models in total. Each individual model represents a milestone in vehicle technology and performance. On the occasion of the new member's arrival to the fleet of AMG flagship vehicles, we would like to take a look at the history of the AMG Black Series. Therefore, we talked to the experts that are the closest to the Black Series models. Joerg Letzel, Product Manager of the new Black Series model, and Ralf Sporr, responsible for the historic AMG fleet, take us back to the beginnings of this special series and give us insights into the features and refinements of the individual models. AMG Private Lounge: What is the Black Series and how did the idea come about? Joerg Letzel (JL): As we all know, the history of AMG is based on motorsports. In 1967, the founders Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher had the vision to build vehicles based on Mercedes cars with such enormous power that they could also be used in motorsports. The focus of this consideration was therefore to transfer these motorsports genes, so to say our roots, to a street-legal vehicle. This is how the "Black Series" concept was born. Which model originally inspired the Black Series? JL: AMG was trying to create cars for a racing series in the Asian market at that time. The first model for this purpose was a Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG. The first generation back then still had a Vario convertible roof but was ultimately built as a closed version. The first Black Series was derived from this vehicle concept. Soon the sixth model will be launched. Why is the idea still being pursued today? JL: The response to the vehicle was positive. We wanted to continue to work on AMG’s brand profile based on this topic in order to strengthen AMG as a performance brand within the Daimler Group and thus establish the link to motorsports and racing expertise. This connection to racing was then continued and developed further with the CLK 63, as the basis for the second Black Series. To put it short, it was an opportunity to once again consistently sharpen the perception of the brand AMG as a performance brand. "In my opinion, Black Series models are always the flagship vehicles or a particularly sporty version of an AMG model range." What is so special about a Black Series model and how does it differ from other models? Ralf Sporr (RS): In my opinion, Black Series models are always the flagship vehicles or a particularly sporty version of an AMG model range. They represent the performance limit of a model range, where everything possible is drawn out of that model. This creates a new quality standard. Black Series bring together everything that can be achieved in terms of driving technology at a certain point in time and put it on the road. JL: In addition, following the motorsports roots, they have always been two-seater vehicles. Most important is maximum performance, but of course also the implementation of technical features in terms of driving dynamics. The vehicles are developed and optimized through the implementation of appropriate components and scopes so that they can also be used by our customers on a racetrack during Track Days for instance. The racetrack suitability is an important point here. The basic idea was that our customers could, for example, explore the possibilities of their vehicle on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. What role does the Performance Studio play in the vehicle development process? RS: The Performance Studio is a workshop here in Affalterbach. In the past, the vehicle quantities were not as high as they are now and, as with all beginnings, there was a lot of 'research in the dark'. With increasing quantities, the production was moved from the small manufacturer here in the Performance Studio to the larger workshops on site. Nowadays, Black Series are derivatives of the respective model range. How do the Black Series models differ from their original models? Are different materials used? JL: Let's start with the interior: In the Black Series models, for example, so far bucket seats have been installed in order to provide maximum lateral support. Of course, in addition to the performance on the racetrack also the brake system is important. This was designed for maximum performance and durability. The vehicle should offer performance and safety even under extreme conditions on the racetrack. RS: The series models are characterized by high-quality material and fine workmanship. The Black Series have an additional focus on extreme sportiness. Carbon is the sportiest material and it's also light and stable which offers many advantages for the driving experience. In addition, there have always been special rims, of course. In terms of the wheels, extreme emphasis was put on lightweight construction to save weight. On the SLK, for example, we see the forged wheels. That's what distinguishes it from the production models. Today, the forged wheels are also available as optional extras for the series models, but for the early models these were only intended for the Black Series models. "You steer and the vehicle does exactly what the driver wants it to do; with a perfection that is difficult to describe. You just have to experience it yourself!" What role does motorsport play for the Black Series models? How has the latest technology been incorporated? RS: Motorsport plays a big role. DTM, customer sport, and Formula 1 are always somehow involved in the models. You can't really separate these topics. For example Black Series models such as the SL have been developed in cooperation with the HWA AG. A lot of motorsports technology feeds into the development process through such interfaces. The electronics have been further developed and the performance has been increased -- our motorsports experience and its technology are taken full advantage of. Have you ever driven a Black Series model? If so, how would you describe the driving experience? RS: I think I have driven every Black Series model so far and each one was a very impressive experience in its own way. Of course, the cars have evolved over many years. Nevertheless, with every model you sit in your smile gets brighter and you are even more enthusiastic about the Black Series, or about AMG. Every AMG model is per se very sporty and great to drive. As a driver you have the feeling of complete control. This feeling even gets enhanced with the Black Series models. You steer and the car does exactly what the driver demands; with a perfection that is difficult to describe. You just have to experience it yourself! Mercedes-AMG Black Series: An Overview of All Models 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG Coupé Black Series The series began with the Safety Car in 2004 and 2005. With an all-round update consisting of a modified chassis, more powerful brakes and, above all, a fixed hardtop, the SLK was transformed from a roadster into a coupé, setting the tone for its successors. Even then, the SLK 55 AMG Black Series embodied the AMG brand claim of "Driving Performance": a combination of tangible driving dynamics, superior sportiness, unique technology and low fuel consumption figures. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Coupé Black Series The choice for the second generation of the Black Series was something very special. This model emerged from the Safety Car in 2006/07. The fact that it had to keep up with racing drivers like Michael Schumacher at that time speaks for itself. It’s fantastic handling on the racetrack and its special look made the CLK 63 AMG Black Series one of the most charismatic cars on the road. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Coupé Black Series As you can easily see in the picture, it is speed above all that makes the SL 65 AMG Black Series so unique. Running at 320 km/h, it literally swept the competition off its feet, completely lapping the original model. Also worth mentioning is the incomparable acceleration which makes it one of the most powerful road cars Mercedes has ever built. This offered all speed enthusiasts access to first-class motorsports technology. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series With the fourth generation, AMG has no doubt sent an unexpectedly extroverted candidate into the race. Wide, low, powerful and off the cuff ready to race. With its appearance, it seems like a tribute to the successful customer sports racing car SLS AMG GT3, perfectly embodying the vision of the Black Series: the transfer of genuine motorsport technology into street-legal vehicles. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Black Series The Black Series update put the dark crown on the SLS, which was anyway designed as a sports car. Inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 racing version, the high-end version of the gullwing impresses with its breathtaking design, grandiose driving dynamics and consistent lightweight construction in line with the "AMG Lightweight Performance" strategy. Born in Affalterbach. The newest member to the AMG Black Series family. YouTube (advertising) permission required! To watch YouTube videos, consent to cookies and data processing by YouTube, including for advertising purposes, is required. We provide videos via YouTube. In order to view them, consent to cookies and data processing by YouTube, including for advertising purposes, is required. Successful Teamwork Fascination Customer Racing When the traffic lights turn green, Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing teams around the world begin the pursuit of race wins, titles and trophies. But what exactly is Customer Racing? Join us as we explore the unique performance universe of GT sport.

You can't go to Tenerife without getting a taste of its endless nightlife, so we're hardly surprised to find a colleague who's overdone it on the local mistela passed out in the backseat of our 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 Sport Sedan. He's unwanted ballast and he's shown up just as we're about to hit the Carretera del Bailadero. This little mountain road winds its way through the northern tip of the largest of the Canary Islands. The verdant landscape is unreal, but you have no business here if you're liable to lose your lunch. Then, we decide this will make a good informal test of the revised drivetrain and suspension on the refreshed 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 Sedan. If we can carry some speed through the turns and still deliver our passenger alive to the hotel, well, maybe the 2012 C350 Sport finally has some of the sport-sedan character that's been missing from previous versions of Mercedes' entry-level luxury sedan. 300 or Bust One big reason we've never been able to take the current-generation Mercedes C350 Sport seriously as a sport sedan is its lack of power. With only 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the previous-generation C350 was significantly slower than the BMW 335i, Infiniti G37 and Lexus IS 350, all of which have 300-hp six-cylinder engines. For 2012, the C350 finally joins the 300-horse club. Mercedes has added direct injection to its V6, and this has allowed the engineers to raise compression from to The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 is rated at 302 hp at 6,500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. Flooring the throttle on Tenerife's main highway reveals a liveliness in the midrange that wasn't here before, along with a sweeter soundtrack. Mercedes is predicting a 0-60-mph time, but our 2012 C350 Sport feels a couple tenths quicker than that. This still won't be quite enough to keep pace with the 335i, which hits 60 mph in 5 seconds flat, or the G37, which does it in The C350's naturally aspirated V6 offers adequate low-end torque for accelerating out of the slow corners on Carretera del Bailadero, but of course it isn't the kind of instantaneous grunt you get with the turbocharged 335i. Nor does the C350's seven-speed automatic transmission match revs (though we're pretty sure G37-style automated throttle blips would have reduced our passenger to a quivering pile in the footwell). At least downshifts are respectably quick in Sport mode. Paddle shifters aren't available, and don't even ask about a manual gearbox — nobody in America wants a three-pedal Benz. Less Efficient Than Europe's V6 Gear ratios haven't changed on the seven-speed automatic, but engineers have made various improvements to reduce torque-converter slip and frictional losses. These updates, along with the new engine, will result in slightly better fuel economy — Mercedes estimates the 2012 C350 will get 21 mpg combined versus 20 combined for the 2011 model. This probably isn't the dramatic improvement you've been expecting from the direct-injected Mercedes V6, and that's because the version won't get all the fuel-saving measures on our Euro-spec C350 tester. The European-market 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 uses stratified-charge combustion in low-load situations up to 3,800 rpm. This cuts consumption by 10 percent. But the can't have it because our higher-sulfur gasoline would destroy the NOx catalyst. Our European-spec C350 also has a start-stop function. Although we find it unobtrusive when it engages at stop lights, Mercedes executives aren't convinced we won't freak out when the engine shuts off, so no 2012 C-Class will have it. If you're bent on saving fuel, you're better off with the entry-level 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250, which has a new turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder, rated at 201 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque. It comes with the seven-speed automatic, too, and will get 30 mpg on the highway, says Mercedes. In between, there's the C300 4Matic. It has a carryover, port-injected 228-hp V6. It's no quicker than the C250 ( seconds to 60 is the claim), and it's the least fuel-efficient of the three models (20 mpg combined), but it's the C-Class sedan to get if you want all-wheel drive. The C250 and C350 are rear-drive only. Sport or Luxury. Is That Even a Choice? We keep referring to our Euro-spec test car as the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 Sport, but that's actually the only way you can buy it in the — with adaptive dampers and a sport-tuned suspension calibration. The lower-line models also come in C250 Luxury and C300 4Matic Luxury variations with a softer state of tune, but the adaptive dampers are standard across the board. This midcycle refresh doesn't bring radical change to the C-Class suspension, which includes struts and dual lower links in front and a multilink rear, but the lead chassis engineer tells us they've increased compression damping to improve the ride, though we've never had any complaints about how the current-gen C-Class rides. And after our adventure on Tenerife's back roads, we still don't. However, even with the dampers in their sport setting, the 2012 C350 Sport still isn't very engaging. It's capable on technical roads, but it lacks the sharp turn-in response and communicative steering that make sedans like the 3 Series and G37 so addictive. The C350 may well match their handling numbers, but it won't inspire many "just because" drives. We remain fans of the Mercedes-Benz C350's brakes, though. They're unchanged for 2012, and that's OK because they work great. Less Austerity, More Features Every current-generation C-Class sedan we've been in has had excellent build and materials quality, but the hospital-ward vibe can run a bit thin, especially in our long-term 2008 C300 Sport's plain black cabin. So Mercedes has brightened the place up for 2012, adding more metal (Sport models) and wood inlays (Luxury models) and a couple new steering wheel designs. In a nod to our modern times, the automaker has integrated the 7-inch navigation screen into the dash, rather than having it pop out on command. Europeans will be able to use the screen to surf the Web and view SMS texts, and though we won't enjoy such diversions here, the new 80GB hard-drive-based nav system will include 3-D maps. New standard features include Bluetooth streaming audio capability and the Attention Assist system that will give you a virtual elbow if you doze off in your C-Class. Blind-spot and lane-departure warning systems will be a package option. In Europe, the systems will take corrective action if you don't, but in the they'll merely warn you, because we're all about personal freedom here. Price Isn't Going Up By day's end, we deposit our rested and rejuvenated passenger at the hotel, where he suits up for another night out. Although our 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 Sport has had a hand in his recovery, it still wouldn't be our first pick for a sport sedan under $50,000 when it goes on sale this August. The new direct-injected V6 puts the C350 back in the game, but the Benz still isn't as quick as the BMW 335i or Infiniti G37, and it doesn't offset that with outstanding fuel economy or amazing handling. Once again, the C350 Sport is just a well-executed luxury sedan that happens to have "Sport" in its name. It also happens to be a bit cheaper than its BMW rival, as Mercedes plans to hold the line on pricing for 2012. Look for the C350 to start around $40,000 and top out in the mid-$40Ks when equipped like our tester. With comparable equipment, the C350 will likely cost $3,000-$4,000 less than the 335i — at which point you have to decide just how much the BMW's stronger personality is worth to you. Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored press event to facilitate this report, which originally appeared on The Used 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C63 AMG Black Series is offered in the following styles: C63 AMG Black Series 2dr Coupe ( 8cyl 7A). The Used 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C63 AMG Black Series comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed shiftable automatic. The Used 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C63 AMG Black Series comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Rutland, ND. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a prew-owned vehicle from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a used or CPO vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C63 AMG Black Series. Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C63 AMG Black Series for sale near it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

That means pretty much all of the internals are new, compared with the cooking C63's motor. What this means is that the soundtrack to go with the handling is just as emotive and fruity as the CLK

With the release of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, it seemed like a good time for a brief history of each of AMG's previous Black Series models, dating back nearly 15 years. In 2006, it was part of a refocusing at AMG. To top the regular AMG models, distributed through the Mercedes-Benz dealer network, AMG created the Performance Studio with the goal of developing low-production, high-performance models based on AMG's more mainstream models. So far, five have been produced, and that sixth one is around the corner. Here's a look at the previous models, in chronological order:Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG 55 Black Series Unveiled in late 2006 and derived from the 35-unit SLK Tracksport, the SLK 55 Black Series was announced as "purist" and "ready for the track." Changes to the regular SLK 55 were extensive: The naturally aspirated V-8 breathed more freely and grew muscles, from 360 to 400 horsepower, yet it was still mated to a seven-speed automatic. A manually adjustable suspension, Pirelli performance tires, larger brakes and a strengthened chassis helped bring that power to the road. As did the ESP stability control system, which could not be turned off entirely. Wider fenders covered the 235/35R-19 front and 265/30R-19 rear tires. The fixed carbon fiber roof made the heavy kinematics of the regular SLK 55's retractable hardtop obsolete, lowering weight and the center of gravity significantly. At launch, AMG said there would be no specific limit to production. But the hefty price tag meant that no more than 120 units were built from July 2006 to April 2007. Top speed: 174 CLK 63 AMG Black Series When AMG launched the legendary M156 V-8, developed by Bernd Ramler, they used an orange-colored, extreme derivative of the C209 CLK to showcase it on the Paul Ricard racetrack. And while it initially launched in the regular CLK 63 AMG in 2006, it took only another year for the CLK AMG Black Series to be unveiled, with strong cues of that prototype and of the CLK DTM, a previous special edition that was still powered by older, supercharged V-8. In the CLK 63 Black Series, the engine made a full 500 horsepower, mated to a seven-speed automatic; top speed was 186 mph. The ultra-wide track and 265/30R-19 front and 285/30R-19 rear tires asked for brutally expanded fenders. The adjustable chassis was stiffened, the interior sported Alcantara and carbon fiber applications. Launched in 2007, 700 were made and sold globally from April 2007 to March SL 65 AMG Black Series This project was outsourced to HWA Engineering, who turned the SL 65 AMG into a true monster: The 36-valve V-12, force-fed by larger turbos and intercoolers, made 661 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque that was channeled to the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic. Terminal velocity was a nice and even, electronically limited 199 mph. The hard top was no more retractable, and it featured a lower roofline and a larger, more aggressively raked widened the body widened significantly and carbon fiber was used liberally. The only body parts shared with the standard SL were the doors and side mirrors. The chassis was redesigned for racetrack performance, and this Black Series stood on 265/35R-19 front and 325/30R-20 Dunlop Sport Maxx GT rubber. Before launch, this Black Series was tested for almost 10,000 miles on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. 350 units were built from September 2008 to August 2009 and the car was essentially sold out at C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series Launched in late 2011, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series was fitted with another iteration of the M156 V-8 that was fitted in the CLK 63 Black Series in the past. Rated at 510 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque, it channeled its power to the rear wheels through a 7-speed automatic box. Top speed was governed at 186 all other Black Series models, the C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series came with a adjustable suspension and a much wider track; tire sizes were 255/35R-19 up front and 285/30R-19 out back. The redesigned front axle later inspired the next-gen C-Class AMG's suspension. Extensive changes to the interior and exterior underscore this model's special position, yet AMG offered a Track package and an Aerodynamic package on top. The 800 units, available in Europe beginning in January 2012 and in the as a 2013 model, were sold out quickly; initially, AMG had planned for 600 units but couldn't resist adding another SLS AMG Black Series The last Black Series to date was the SLS AMG Black Series, launched in the spring of 2013. The M159 engine was tuned to 622 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque sent through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for a terminal velocity of a governed 196 mph. The M159 engine's redline was raised from 7200 to 8000 rpm, and the titanium exhaust system created the soundtrack of a race to extensive use of carbon fiber, the weight was was reduced by a whopping 154 lbs compared to a standard SLS AMG. The car was fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires sized 275/35R-19 in front and 325/30R-20 out back. An optional aero package included an adjustable carbon fiber wing. We hear that 350 were built, AMG will say that "fewer than 200" were imported to the United States. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at

Expect the sedan to house the same M156, 6.2-liter V-8 with a power output of 510 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque found in the coupe. Its 0-60 mph should hover around four seconds flat. The requisite

mercedes benz c63 amg black series