AMG GT R

Segment
Coupe

As the current Mercedes-AMG GT reaches the twilight of its life, the good folks at Affalterbach are currently at work on the ultimate Black Series variant. It's the ideal way to say "goodbye." This isn't without precedent, however. In 2012, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series was unveiled for the gullwing coupe's final outing before being replaced by the current AMG GT. It's vital to know the Black Series isn't just some basic performance package with a few styling upgrades but rather a full-on series of high-performance-focused improvements.

We'll get back to those shortly because first we must discuss this 2014 example scheduled to cross the stage at Mecum's Indy 500 auction event next month. With only 86 miles on its clock, it's one of fewer than 200 units imported to the US that year. The exterior paint is Iridium Silver while a combination of black leather and Alcantara adorn the interior. There's also slick red trim accents and red seatbelts.

Like all SLS AMG Black Series, power comes from a naturally aspirated hand-built 6.2-liter V8 totaling 622 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox routes power to the rear wheels. Other features include a Bang and Olufsen sound system with a six-disc DVD/CD changer, the COMAND infotainment unit with navigation, Sirius XM radio, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. Like every SLS AMG, the car utilizes an aluminum spaceframe but, aside from the engine, those AMG wizards added many other upgrades.

These include an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential, AMG-specific carbon ceramic disc brakes, titanium exhaust (instead of steel), and a performance suspension. There's also a carbon fiber driveshaft and an adjustable carbon fiber rear spoiler. Needless to say, these upgrades reduced weight (154 pounds to be precise) over the standard car and thus enabled even more incredible performance times.

In 2013, an SLS AMG Black Series lapped the Nurburgring in 7:25.670. For comparison, the Ferrari Enzo did the same deed in 7:25.21. Mercedes also clocked a 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph. Already the SLS AMG Black Series is a highly sought after collector's item and given that this one has barely been driven, expect it to sell for a hefty price.

Unfortunately, the auction house does not provide an estimated price range, but an online search reveals they don't go for anything less than $400,000. Given the ridiculously low mileage on this example, we wouldn't be surprised to see the hammer slam down at closer to $475,000.