The Mercedes SLS was the first clean sheet design by AMG, following Mercedes Benz’s acquisition of the company in 2005 and whereas the styling was intentionally retro, the engineering was cutting edge. Sculpted predominately from aluminum, it tipped the scales at over 770 lbs less than the concurrent R230 SL63 and even its least potent form the AMG powertrain was good for 563 bhp. This endowed the car with performance figures to match any supercar: a sprint to 60 mph in under four seconds and a near 200 mph top speed. The mesmerizing looks and intoxicating performance were only trumped by the accompanying soundtrack, which Jeremy Clarkson stated was nothing short of ‘an assault on your senses’.

During the production run from 2009 to 2014 there were several variants ranging from the Roadster in 2011, to the SLS AMG GT Electric Drive SLS in 2012, all sporting their own specialties. At the very top of the range was the SLS AMG Black Series.

For the Black Series, just about every area of the car was breathed upon in pursuit of ultimate performance. Under the (carbon fiber) bonnet an extra 70 bhp was unlocked at a higher rev limit of 8,000 rpm, permitted by use of a revised intake system, lighter valves and beefier main bearings. The increased power was marshalled to the rear axle by a completely new electronic differential, which in combination of the wider front and rear track, massively increased mechanical grip. The dampers too were bespoke, with 50 percent stiffer spring rates, whilst the gearbox was the same as that in the Ferrari F12 and installed 10mm lower in the SLS to help lower the center of gravity.

Aesthetically, a revised carbon fiber splitter, side skirts and fixed rear wing suggest that this is no ordinary SLS and the theme is continued in the cabin, which is a motorsport inspired mixed of alcantara, carbon fiber and racing bucket seats.

Perhaps most significant in terms of lap time, however, was that the Black Series was a full 70 kg less than the regular car, weighing at a 911 Turbo rivalling 1,550 kg. The lion’s share of the saving was achieved through the use materials usually the reserve of dedicated motorsport products; a full titanium exhaust system, carbon fiber housing for the propshaft, carbon ceramic brakes as standard and a featherweight lithium ion racing battery.

This particular SLS AMG Black Series was delivered to its first owner in October 2013 in San Rafael, California and has subsequently had two further owners. Despite covering just 2,300 miles in that time, it has been correctly maintained and regularly serviced throughout its life. Fully covered by a clear-bra, it is tastefully specified in Metallic Himalaya Grey with a black anthracite leather and alcantara cabin and it presents in condition commensurate with its low mileage. Extras include the excellent Bang and Olufsen sound system and aforementioned AMG full carbon pack.

There are few other cars that are as home on the racetrack as they are in a museum, turning heads even when surrounded by the most extreme exotica. This, coupled to its rarity, make the SLS AMG Black series an extremely sought-after machine and this immaculate example would sit well in any collection.