Few cars have left the factory wearing as sinister a stance as the Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series. For the 350 examples, the wheel arches were dramatically flared compared to the droptop R230 model upon which it was based. These extensions allowed for a front track that grew by 97 millimetres, while the rear axle was 85 millimetres wider. New carbon fibre-reinforced plastic panels also had to accommodate 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch rears.

Despite the larger bodywork—only the doors and side mirrors were left untouched—and the addition of an active rear wing and diffuser, the Black Series shed some 250 kilograms compared to the standard SL model. Such a weight saving was achieved by virtue of gaining a fixed roof, which meant the mechanism for the folding hardtop was no longer required.

Rated at 612 horsepower, the regular SL 65 AMG hardly wanted for power. Yet the Affalterbach engineers found a further 60 horsepower for the Black Series by developing a brace of 12 per cent larger turbochargers for the 6-litre V-12. The engine proved so brawny that torque was electronically limited from a theoretical maximum of 885 foot-pounds to 738, which was transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission.

The configuration of this even more exclusive right-hand-drive example, with just 12 cars believed to have been delivered new to the UK, only enhances the menacing qualities of the SL 65 AMG Black Series. An Obsidian Black exterior is complemented by a Black and Anthracite cabin specified with the Exclusive Leather package. The interior further benefits from an AMG Performance steering wheel and high gloss carbon fibre trim.

Delivered on 1 July 2009, this car was first registered two months later on 1 September. Since then, it has spent most of its life in the care of English owners, enjoying annual servicing through to June 2017, when it was recorded at 21,001 miles. This Black Series has been used sparingly thereafter, with a 24 June 2024 service invoice (available to view on file) from Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough recording the odometer at 22,690 miles.

Showing 22,719 miles at the time of cataloguing and accompanied by a history file plus owner’s guides, this usable example of a sought-after SL 65 AMG Black Series would be ideal for thrill seekers and marque enthusiasts alike who desire a statement addition for their collection.