Chassis No.: WDB2093772F245170

Engine No.: 15698260021170

Registration: LJ57 JJO

Mercedes-Benz launched the CLK63 AMG Black Series - a limited edition coupé model with just 700 examples produced worldwide between April 2007 and March 2008; a car that AMG says was largely inspired by the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Jeremy Clarkson was a fan and is quoted as saying ‘for sheer excitement, the CLK Black is a match for absolutely anything. Since my test car went back to Mercedes, I have been thinking about it a lot. Because I’m not sure that anyone’s life is quite complete unless they have one.’

The CLK Black Series is based around the regular CLK63, but whilst the two share the same driveline, the Black Series is very different. A huge front spoiler designed to force cooling air into an enlarged radiator whilst also dialling out lift to make it more neutral at speed, the car instantly appears more menacing than the standard CLK. Bulging wheel-arches incorporated into the body panels, air vents in the front wings, a deep rear valance, a carbon fibre rear spoiler, and a set of 19-inch alloys weighing just 11kg each continue the initial impression. Inside, carbon fibre reinforced trim on the door inserts and centre console, a forged aluminium gear selector, a flat-bottomed wheel and expensive bucket seats continue the race theme.

The car utilises AMG's largely hand-built M156 V8 rated as one of the greatest production car V8's ever built. Power is up from the standard car's 478bhp to 507bhp, giving the Black edition a power-to-weight ratio of just over 300bhp per tonne and 0-62mph time dropped by 0.3sec to just 4.3sec. The engine upgrades included a reworked, less restrictive, exhaust system and remapped electronics and the adoption of a larger magnesium dual-intake manifold with two butterfly valves. The gearbox is a speedshift 7G-Tronic fettled by AMG for efficiency and operated through the wheel mounted paddles is incredibly quick and responsive.

The front track is widened by 75mm and the rear track by 66mm and fully adjustable springs and shock absorbers allow you to set your own preference if you wish to take your anger out on any track. The electronic stability programmes are also less intrusive than the standard CLK 63 AMG enabling a purer experience.

Supplied by Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands, this UK right hand drive 2008 CLK63 AMG Black series was delivered new to music mogul Simon Cowell and specified in Metallic Obsidian Black with customary dark tint windows which are still in place; ideal for someone with such a high public profile. The car was then transferred to an employee of Mr Cowell before being sold to its long term owner in 2009. One of just 25 UK examples and only 1 of 120 produced worldwide we are informed this has a faultless Mercedes-Benz service history with Epsom Mercedes-Benz; however the most recent was carried out in December 2017 back at Mercedes-Benz World.

Having covered just 14,000 miles from new the condition is fabulous and, despite the track-honed design, this example is a totally compliant and usable road car and boasts satellite navigation, air conditioning and cruise control.

Priced at £67,850 when new including extras, This AMG boasts full carbon pack and, as with all CLK Black AMG's, sports the AMG bucket seats, race style flat bottom steering wheel and magnesium wheels which only weigh approx 11kilos each. Upon starting the car, the subdued rumble is ever so slightly understated but once the revs increase the sound from the exhaust is intoxicating. Loved also by another famous owner, Jeremy Clarkson, we can easily see why; this is a fabulous car produced in limited numbers with one of the best naturally aspirated engines ever produced - all the ingredients for these cars to become hugely popular with collectors and especially those with a heavy right foot.

https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=8493&au=8