At the very pinnacle of Mercedes-AMG is its line of ultra-exclusive Black Series models, created to fulfill a seemingly ludicrous directive: exceed regular AMG models’ already astounding capabilities. To accomplish this, AMG devised the Performance Studio in 2006 to develop racier versions of mainstream AMGs in very limited numbers.

Unveiled in 2008, the SL 65 AMG Black Series—produced in partnership with HWA Engineering—garnered immediate acclaim, not only for its brutish styling and hair-raising performance, but as the most powerful roadgoing car AMG had ever built up to that point. An enhanced version of the standard SL 65’s 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-12 engine featured larger turbos, an expanded intercooler, and a remapped engine control unit, all of which increased power to an astounding 661 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. Bodywork was completely revamped with a new front bumper, wider fenders, and a fixed roof in place of the standard SL’s folding top, all in carbon fiber—only the doors carried over from the standard SL.

Likewise, the chassis was completely reengineered for peak performance on racetracks, with the SL 65 AMG Black Series having been tested for nearly 10,000 miles on the punishing Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Only 350 examples are understood to have been produced, with about half reportedly allocated to the United States.

Built in April 2009, this SL 65 AMG Black Series was delivered new to Los Angeles, California finished as it is today in Black (040) over Black and Anthracite Exclusive Leather (531A). In September 2010, it was offered for sale via Alex Rodriguez Mercedes-Benz of League City, Texas, and was acquired from that dealership by its second owner in October 2010 with 759 miles indicated.

Not content with car’s already lofty performance threshold, the second owner treated it to over $41,000 in enhancements by Mercedes-Benz performance gurus Renntech of Stuart, Florida in 2020, invoices for which are on file. Headlining the work is Renntech’s R3 Performance Package, which reportedly bumps output to over 800 horsepower and 1,000 pound-feet of torque through new turbochargers, upgraded engine and transmission control units, and a stainless-steel exhaust system. To help tame the additional power, a limited-slip differential was installed.

Renntech also tailored the car’s appearance, refinishing various body parts, moldings, and emblems in gloss black, installing an Alcantara and carbon fiber steering wheel, and adding carbon fiber trim throughout the cabin, including on the console and button surrounds. Brake calipers finished in yellow epoxy paint and a complete ceramic protective coating on the entire car round out the upgrades.

Work undertaken by Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables since the consignor acquired the car in 2024 includes changing the oil and brake fluid, servicing the transmission, repairing the rear spoiler, and fitting OEM paddle shifters.

Sporting a powertrain amplified by one of America’s most respected tuning companies and having been driven just 9,572 miles at time of cataloguing, this exceptional SL 65 AMG Black Series takes performance even beyond the already astounding standards set by Mercedes-AMG, making it incredibly unique and immeasurably desirable.