Prepare to be confused. Last week we revealed Mercedes’ new CL65 AMG – a super-powerful four-seat coupe, which will join its existing CL63 AMG brother. Now Mercedes has unveiled the CLK63 AMG Black Series, a super-powerful four-seat coupe based on the existing CLK63 AMG. Unveiled at the New York motor show, the new CLK63 AMG is the second Black Series model, following on from last year’s low-volume SLK55 AMG Black Series. Unlike that car, however, the CLK63 Black Series will not be restricted to Continental Europe, with sales planned for a number of key markets, including the UK, from late 2007.The centre piece in Mercedes’ plans to extend its line-up to include a range of high-priced, limited-production models based on existing AMG models, the CLK63 AMG Black Series is modelled on Merc’s F1 safety car. It is distinguished from the standard CLK63 AMG by an aggressive new body kit. This consists of a deep front spoiler, heavily flared wheelarches, additional ducts in the front wings, new side sills underneath the doors, a re-profiled rear bumper and trunk lid lip spoiler. This makes it look remarkably similar to the limited-production CLK AMG DTM released in 2005.Carbonfibre and other composites are used throughout, although Mercedes-Benz is yet to reveal a weight figure for the new car. The price is certainly no lightweight; it’s expected to be over £80,000. Powered comes from a version of the standard car’s 6.2-litre V8 with 493bhp – 19bhp more than normal. Drive goes to the rear wheels via a seven-speed auto ‘box (with paddles on the wheel) and a limited-slip diff that packs a separate oil cooler, using a thermostatically controlled fan to limit temperature peaks. Mercedes claims 0-60mph in 4.1sec – a good half a second faster than the standard CLK63 AMG, with top speed limited to 186mph. Accompanying the boost in performance is an overhauled the chassis with new springs, dampers and towering 19-inch alloy wheels shod with 265/30 (front) and 285/30 (rear) Pirelli P Zero Cora tires. Braking is via uprated ventilated and cross-drilled discs.
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