Mercedes-AMG Black Series Returns: The Most Radical Track-Focused Legends of Affalterbach
The head of AMG division at Mercedes-AMG, Michael Schiebe, has officially confirmed that the iconic Black Series models will return to the market. Limited editions are considered mandatory for the performance brand, and development of a new radical track-oriented car is already underway.
The last Black Series model was introduced in 2021 as the brutal Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series producing 730 horsepower. Now the legendary badge is preparing for a comeback. To understand why this matters for collectors and performance enthusiasts in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, we need to revisit the history of the most extreme road-legal Mercedes models ever built.
What Makes a Mercedes Black Series Special
Black Series cars are not simple power upgrades. Each model receives:
• Significant weight reduction
• Extensive carbon fiber body panels
• Track-tuned suspension
• Wider track and aggressive aerodynamics
• Limited production numbers
These cars are designed primarily for circuit driving rather than boulevard cruising. That philosophy aligns perfectly with UAE drivers who value high-performance machines for both track days at Yas Marina Circuit and premium road presence.
Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG Black Series 2006
The story began with the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG Black Series. While the standard SLK 55 AMG produced 360 hp from its 5.4 liter V8 M113 engine, the Black Series version was upgraded to 400 hp and 520 Nm of torque.
Technical specifications:
Engine: 5.4L naturally aspirated V8 M113
Power: 400 hp
Torque: 520 Nm
0 to 100 kmh: 4.5 seconds
Top speed: 280 kmh
Production: 120 units
Engineers replaced the folding metal roof with a fixed carbon fiber roof, reducing weight by 45 kg and lowering the center of gravity. Suspension was stiffened, and the 7G-Tronic AMG Speedshift transmission was recalibrated. The price exceeded 100,000 euros, making it an instant collector item.
Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series 2007
The second model was the Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series, created for AMG’s 40th anniversary.
Technical specifications:
Engine: 6.2L naturally aspirated V8 M156
Power: 507 hp
0 to 100 kmh: 4.3 seconds
Top speed: 300 kmh
Production: 700 units
The rear seats were removed, suspension became adjustable, and carbon fiber components reduced weight. It even served as a Formula 1 safety car for a season, proving its dynamic capability.
Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series 2008
The Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series remains the only Black Series powered by a V12.
Technical specifications:
Engine: 6.0L twin turbo V12
Power: 670 hp
Torque: 1000 Nm
0 to 100 kmh: 3.8 seconds
Top speed: 320 kmh
Production: 350 units
With extensive carbon fiber bodywork, widened track, and reinforced differential, it delivered brutal straight-line acceleration while improving handling compared to the standard SL.
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series 2011
The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Black Series used an upgraded M156 V8 derived from the SLS AMG.
Technical specifications:
Engine: 6.2L V8 M156
Power: 517 hp
0 to 100 kmh: 4.2 seconds
Top speed: 300 kmh
Production: approximately 800 units
Forged pistons, crankshaft, and connecting rods enhanced durability. It also acted as DTM safety car and became a favorite among collectors.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series 2013
The ultimate naturally aspirated V8 masterpiece was the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series.
Technical specifications:
Engine: 6.2L V8 M159
Power: 631 hp
Torque: 634 Nm
Redline: 8000 rpm
0 to 100 kmh: 3.6 seconds
Dry weight: 1550 kg
Production: 350 units
Carbon fiber panels, titanium exhaust, ceramic brakes, and even a carbon fiber driveshaft made it one of the most extreme road cars of its era.
Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series 2020
The modern icon, Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, became the most powerful road-going Mercedes at launch.
Technical specifications:
Engine: 4.0L twin turbo V8 M178 LS2 flat plane crank
Power: 730 hp
Torque: 800 Nm
0 to 100 kmh: 3.2 seconds
Top speed: 325 kmh
Price at launch: 335,000 euros
Inspired by the AMG GT3 race car, it featured aggressive aerodynamics, double rear wing, active aero elements, and extensive weight reduction. It briefly held the Nürburgring lap record for production cars.
Why the New Black Series Matters for UAE Drivers
The UAE market has a strong appetite for limited supercars. Black Series models combine investment potential with extreme performance. Their rarity and track-focused engineering make them ideal for collectors in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
For RentCarUAE readers, such models also elevate demand for premium Mercedes rentals. Clients searching for AMG GT, G63 AMG, or high-performance coupes often aspire to Black Series variants.
Recommended internal links to include in the article:
• Mercedes AMG rental Dubai page
• Luxury car rental Dubai
• Supercar rental Abu Dhabi
• AMG GT rental Dubai
What to Expect From the Next Black Series
Although details remain undisclosed, expectations include:
• Electrified hybrid assistance for higher output
• Advanced aerodynamics inspired by GT3 racing
• Output exceeding 750 hp
• Limited production under 1000 units
The return of Black Series confirms that even in the era of electrification, Mercedes-AMG remains committed to extreme performance.
For collectors, investors, and performance enthusiasts in the UAE, the next Black Series could become the most desirable Mercedes of the decade.
