Even by the standards of AMG’s previous Black Series cars, the SL65 Black Series was considered to be particularly outlandish when it was unveiled in 2008. Not only was it able to relegate supercars of its day into the realms of visual conservatism with its DTM and CLK GTR–inspired aesthetics, but it also had performance figures to match its brutish looks. Its 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged V-12 engine produced a range-topping 661 bhp and 737 foot-pounds of torque, leading to a top speed of 199 mph, or 220 mph with the limiter removed. ‘Make no mistake…this is the meanest-looking production Mercedes ever made,’ said Evo magazine.

The most significant changes to the standard R230-generation SL65 AMG were the replacement of the SL’s retractable hardtop with a fixed carbon-fibre roof and the complete redesign of the car’s suspension. Gone was the heavy and incredibly complex active hydraulic ‘ABC’ suspension, replaced with a fixed coil-over setup developed in partnership with KW that featured bespoke spring links, camber struts, pull and pushrods, and lightweight wheel carriers. These two alterations accounted for the lion’s share of the massive 250 kg weight savings that, alongside the quicker steering and increased front and rear track, made the Black Series a completely different proposition both on the road and on the racetrack.

This SL65 Black Series was delivered to its first owner in 2009 via Mercedes-Benz of Westmont, Illinois. According to its CARFAX report, it remained in Illinois with subsequent owners until 2012, when it was acquired by an owner in Florida. There, in 2016, it was noted as sustaining minor damage to its lower front bumper, which has since been repaired. Presently showing under 5,300 miles from new, it presents well throughout, benefitting from a suitably menacing specification of Obsidian Black paintwork with black accents and badges, complemented by a cabin trimmed in extended black anthracite leather with carbon-fibre trims.

Only 350 examples of the SL65 Black Series were made, and this arresting example can only be one of a small handful with such a low mileage. This is a highly sought-after modern collectible for which demand is only set to increase.