Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series launched in U.S. at Laguna Seca

Alongside the pair of modified ML63 AMG SUVs shown today, the SL65 AMG Black Series was launched for the U.S. at Laguna Seca raceway in California. The 661hp (493kW) V12-powered German supercar also received European pricing today, though Americans will simply be left to apply the adage "if you have to ask, you can't afford it."

Europeans, on the other hand, know that the car will command a €100,000 ($129,180) premium over the standard SL65 AMG, pushing the Black Series' price to a hefty €327,250 ($422,740). As usual, U.S. pricing will likely slide in somewhat below what Europeans will pay. With a U.S. base price for the SL65 AMG of about $200,000, expect the Black Series to start around $300,000.

For those not already intimately familiar with the most excessive of Mercedes' sports cars, the SL65 AMG Black Series features a heart-stopping yet electronically limited 738lb-ft (1,000Nm) of torque in addition to the 661hp that helps the car get to 62mph (100km/h) in just 3.9 seconds despite its 4,100lb (1,870kg) weight.

The Black Series is nevertheless also about 550lbs (250kg) lighter than the standard SL65 AMG thanks to carbon fiber front fenders, hood, and a solid fixed top among other lightening measures. For more details on the Teutonic powerhouse, check out our coverage of its debut here.