Introduced at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG marked a significant chapter in the brand's history, combining classic design elements with cutting-edge performance. Hot on the heels of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, it was designed as the spiritual successor to the iconic 300 SL Gullwing, and therefore featured the characteristic gullwing doors and a long hood, beneath which sat a handcrafted front-mid-mounted 6.2-liter V-8 engine. Multiple limited-edition models were released over its five-year production run, including the roadster in 2011 and the unique SLS AMG GT Electric Drive in 2012, but none would top the Black Series.

It would not be until 2014 when Mercedes-Benz would introduce the Black Series—its highest-performance variant, inspired by the SLS AMG GT3. Crafted for uncompromised performance, the monstrous front-mid-mounted V-8 was modified to produce an incredible 622 horsepower and 468-pound-feet of torque, making it the highest-horsepower naturally aspirated production V-8 in the world at the time. This was coupled with the significant use of carbon fiber throughout, a titanium exhaust system, and lower placement of its DCT seven-speed sports transmission, allowing for vastly improved handling characteristics in comparison to the standard SLS AMG. With a staggering 8,000-rpm rev limit, 0 to 60 mph could be reached in just 3.5 seconds on the way to a top speed of 196 mph. Proof was truly in the numbers for the dynamic sports coupe.

Aside from its impressive performance upgrades, the Black Series could also be differentiated from the standard SLS AMG by its wider fenders, fixed carbon fiber rear wing, and exclusive staggered diameter forged alloy wheels. Continuing onto the interior, a blend of luxury and sportiness was achieved thanks to the use of high-quality materials such as Alcantara and carbon fiber accents, most notably on key areas such as the lightweight racing seats and bespoke race-inspired steering wheel. Mercedes-Benz has offered just six exceptional models with the distinctive Black Series badge, with the SLS being one of the most exclusive. By the end of its production run in 2015, only 132 were delivered to the United States—making it an incredibly rare offering when one comes to market.

This SLS AMG Black Series, painted in the launch color for the Black Series, Solarbeam Yellow, was delivered new to its first owner through Mercedes-Benz of Pembroke Pines in Florida. Optioned with staggered-width Black Series forged black wheels, Bang & Olufsen AMG surround sound system, and the Black Series Telematics package, its total MSRP reached nearly $300,000. After its purchase in September of 2014, this United States-specification car was exported to the United Arab Emirates. There, it would spend the next six years with its first owner, in which a total of 3,300 pampered miles would be added to the odometer, as reflected in its phenomenal condition. In 2020, the car returned to the United States. Only 503 additional miles would be added in the subsequent four years, with majority of its time being spent in a climate-controlled garage between its two most recent owners. Routine servicing would take place in 2021, including a complete brake, transmission, and diff fluid flush, along with the recent addition of a full car paint protection film, intended to further safeguard the exquisite Solarbeam Yellow paint. By February of this year, the car was sent to Mercedes-Benz of Fresno where it received a major B service.

Offered by its third owner and now displaying a mere 3,803 miles at time of cataloguing, this SLS AMG Black Series presents beautifully, and is accompanied by its owner’s manual and service invoice copies. There have been very few cars offered in recent times which combine the illustrious gullwing design with raw, lightweight performance. The SLS AMG Black Series manages to accomplish just that—making this low-mileage, superbly kept example a perfect addition to the astute collector’s garage.