Updated: Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG Black Series

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG Black Series

STUTTGART, Germany ??” Mercedes-Benz has revamped another of its Performance Studio vehicles, the SLK 55 AMG Black Series.

The AMG-tuned 5.5-liter V8 has been goosed to 400 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. Among the hardware changes are a modified air intake, reduced-resistance sports air filters, new high-performance headers and a new valve-timing scheme. The V8 is mated to an AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic with manual drive program and aluminum shift paddles on the steering wheel.

Thanks to the extensive application of lightweight materials throughout the car, the latest iteration of the SLK55 AMG Black Series romps from rest to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds.

Among the changes, a non-retractable carbon-fiber roof has been fitted, along with wider front fenders made of reinforced plastic and ultralight carbon-fiber composite. The side outlets also are made of carbon fiber. Mercedes has managed to pare nearly 100 pounds from the car's curb weight, which helps contribute to its quickness.

You'll also find other AMG goodies, including an adjustable sport suspension, high-performance composite brakes and 19-inch forged alloy wheels. The tires are 235/35ZR19 in front and 265/30ZR19 in the rear.

A pair of AMG sport bucket seats are trimmed in black pearl velour and complemented by an AMG sport steering wheel in leather and Alcantara. The cabin is accented in carbon fiber.

European customers have begun receiving the first cars, which in Germany are priced starting at $145,600, including VAT.

What this means to you: All of a sudden, the Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 looks like a bargain.

Source: [url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=122393]Edmunds.com/Inside Line[/url]