Channeling drive to the rear wheels is a modified six-speed double-clutch transaxle. The Getrag-produced unit, which forms part of the rear-axle assembly, has been extensively reworked with a mounting system that sits it 0.4 inch lower than on the standard SLS AMG as part of efforts to lower the car's overall center of gravity, revised software that is claimed to provide faster and more aggressive downshifts, and a lower final drive for improved acceleration in combination with the increased torque loading.

The SLS AMG Black Series gets a lavishly appointed interior with carbon-fiber components. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

Additional driveline developments include the adoption of an electronically controlled differential lock in place of the existing mechanical arrangement. The system is claimed to provide faster lockup intervention, improved traction and increased yaw rate for added agility. The three-stage electronic stability program and race-start system have also been recalibrated in line with the car's increased performance.

AMG claims the SLS Black Series accelerates to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 196 mph. The marginal reduction in top speed over its less-powerful siblings is a reflection of the new car's added downforce.

Underpinning the new car is a heavily revised chassis boasting tracks that have increased by 0.8 inch in width up front and 0.9 at the rear, new wheel carriers and a larger diameter front roll bar.

The double-wishbone suspension is also heavily revised and is described as being 50 percent firmer up front and 42 percent firmer at the rear than the standard SLS AMG. It also offers manual adjustment of the damping for individual tuning.

Further changes center on the adoption of unique 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design shod with 275/35 and 325/30 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, respectively. The Black Series also uses ceramic composite brakes, which feature 15.8-inch front and 14.2-inch rear discs as standard.

The first customer deliveries of the SLS AMG Black Series are planned to get underway in June 2013. Pricing was not announced, although the standard gullwing coupe starts at $189,600.

This story originally appeared at Autoweek.com.