(July 24, 2011) Mercedes-Benz this weekend unveiled the newest version of the C63 AMG Black.

The new high-performance vehicle is the most powerful C-Class of all time, boasting a maximum output of 510 horsepower and a maximum torque of 457 lb-ft. The high-revving AMG 6.3-liter V-8 engine delivers exceptional performance accelerating from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds.

It's the fourth Black Series model to be launched since 2006. The first one was the SLK55 AMG Black Series (not offered in the U.S.). The AMG 5.5-liter V-8 engine in the two-seater boasted a maximum output of 400 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. Just 120 units were produced between between July 2006 and April 2007.

The CLK63 AMG Black Series followed directly in its footsteps. The two-seater coupe was powered by an AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine with 500 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. Just 700 units of this very exclusive model were built between April 2007 and March 2008.

The highlight until now was the SL65 AMG Black Series, unveiled in July 2008. The high-performance coupe remains an attention grabber to this day with its spectacular appearance, unique performance data, lightweight design and high-end exclusivity. The AMG 6.0-liter V-12 biturbo engine with a maximum output of 661 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque made the SL65 AMG Black Series the most powerful AMG vehicle ever to enter series production. A total of 350 units were built from September 2008 through August 2009.

The 2012 C63 AMG Black boosts "spectacular design, technology transfer from the world of motorsport and driving dynamics at the highest level ... embodying the new AMG brand claim, driving performance like no other AMG model," according to Mercedes.

"Exclusive fun at the wheel" comes courtesy of the adjustable AMG coil-over sports suspension, the AMG high-performance compound braking system and the advanced standard equipment.

The AMG Track Package is available as an option to enhance driving dynamics even further. It boasts sports tires and active rear-axle transmission cooling, plus the AMG Aerodynamics package including flics, a functionally tuned front splitter and an adjustable carbon-fibre rear aerofoil.

In visual terms the new high-performance vehicle is reminiscent of the SLS AMG GT3 customer sports car and symbolizes the transfer of technology from the sphere of motorsport, which has been part of the corporate philosophy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH for 44 years.

“AMG has its roots in international motorsport. The new C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series is the best proof there is for the permanent transfer of technology from the race track to the road," said Ola Källenius, the CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"The numerous successes in the DTM, the customer sports range featuring the SLS AMG GT3 and our commitment to Formula 1, where we have been providing the Official F1TM Safety Car and the Official F1TM Medical Car for the past 15 years, continuously spur on our engineers and technicians. The C 63 AMG Coupé Black Series embodies the new AMG brand claim, Driving Performance, like no other AMG model.”

U.S. market launch is expected in early 2012. No price has been set, but expect it in the neighborhood of $165,000.