Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series caught working out in the cold

Hold on to your hats, folks. As if the current 451-horsepower Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG weren't hardcore enough, the folks in Stuttgart are working on an even hotter Black Series version of Merc's BMW M3 killer.

The bulgier fender flares you see here won't be the only visual upgrades – our spies tell us that a new front spoiler will be on deck, as well as a revised rear diffuser with some Formula One-inspired cues. This development car still uses the old front fascia not found on the new-for-2012 car, but we'll probably see the updated headlamps and LED running lights as part of the new package.

The automaker's 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 will still be the powerplant of choice, current intelligence reports suggest we can expect about 510 horsepower on tap – 29 more ponies than the already-potent C63 with the P31 Development Package. That grunt runs through Mercedes-Benz's seven-speed AMG Speedshift transmission, and even with the added Black Series bits, we'd expect that a few pounds have been shaved off of the AMG's curb weight.

Our spies even suggest that a C63 AMG Black Series Coupe is in the works, and it will bow shortly after the sedan's official debut. Consider that a proper successor to the shockingly great CLK63 AMG Black Series that debuted in 2007.

[Source: CarPix]