2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series
Key Points: 1 of 500 CLK 63 AMG Black Series' Worldwide, RHD Example, Recently Undergone A Large Underside Restoration.
The Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG Black Series is widely regarded as one of the most memorable performance cars AMG has ever built. Introduced in 2007, it was only the second model to wear the now legendary Black Series badge, following the SLK 55 Black Series. Inspired by the Formula 1 Safety Car used during the mid-2000s, Mercedes-Benz took the standard CLK coupe and transformed it into something far more aggressive and focused, sacrificing comfort and refinement in favour of outright driver involvement.
At the centre of the car sits AMG’s hand-built 6.2-litre naturally aspirated M156 V8, an engine that has since become one of the most celebrated modern AMG powerplants. Producing 500 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, the Black Series sends all of its power to the rear wheels through a revised seven-speed AMG Speedshift automatic gearbox. What really defines the car, though, is the way it delivers its performance. Throttle response is immediate, the power delivery is completely linear, and the engine produces a deep, mechanical soundtrack that modern turbocharged cars struggle to match.
Visually, the CLK 63 Black Series looked far more serious than the standard car it was based on. The widened bodywork, heavily flared wheel arches and aggressive front and rear bumpers gave it a stance that bordered on touring car territory. Functional carbon fibre vents, a rear diffuser and lightweight 19-inch forged wheels all added to the purposeful appearance. Mercedes also used carbon fibre reinforced plastic for several exterior components to help reduce weight, while the rear seats were removed entirely in favour of a more focused, driver-oriented layout.
The engineering changes underneath were just as extensive. The Black Series featured a wider track, adjustable coilover suspension, stiffer bushings and a revised rear axle paired with a limited-slip differential. Compared to most Mercedes models of the period, the steering felt unusually sharp and direct, with impressive front-end grip and a chassis balance that rewarded confident driving. The ride could be harsh on rough roads, but that compromise was part of the car’s appeal. It was never intended to be a soft grand tourer.
Today, the CLK 63 AMG Black Series is seen by many enthusiasts as a high point for analogue AMG performance. With only around 500 examples produced worldwide, it remains a rare and highly sought-after car. More importantly, it represents the end of an era before turbocharging, hybrid systems and electronic driver aids became dominant. Loud, mechanical and unapologetically aggressive, the Black Series delivered a level of rawness that few modern performance cars can recreate.
