The Mercedes-benz S65 Amg stands as a testament to automotive excellence, blending unparalleled luxury with breathtaking performance. This high-performance sedan is engineered for those who demand the absolute best, offering a unique combination of power, sophistication, and cutting-edge technology. At the heart of this automotive masterpiece lies the legendary AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine, a powerhouse that sets the S65 AMG apart in its class.
The S65 AMG is not just a car; it’s an experience. It’s the embodiment of Mercedes-AMG’s relentless pursuit of perfection, delivering an intoxicating blend of raw power and refined elegance. For discerning drivers seeking the ultimate in performance and luxury, the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG remains in a league of its own.
Unleashing the Beast: The AMG 6.0-liter V12 Biturbo Engine
Powering the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is the formidable AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine. This hand-built masterpiece churns out an astounding 621 horsepower (463 kW) and a colossal 738 lb-ft of torque. These figures are not just numbers; they translate into an exhilarating driving experience that few cars can match. The engine’s immense power allows the S65 AMG to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.2 seconds, an astonishing feat for a vehicle of its size and luxury. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but the engine’s capabilities suggest it could go much further if unleashed.
Alt text: Close-up view of the handcrafted AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine in the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, showcasing its powerful engineering and design.
The AMG V12 engine is characterized by its effortless power delivery across the entire rev range. Whether cruising at low speeds or pushing the limits, the engine responds instantly with a surge of acceleration. This is complemented by the signature AMG V12 sound – a deep, resonant growl that is both refined and unmistakably powerful.
Key technical highlights of this engineering marvel include:
- Biturbocharging: Two turbochargers ensure rapid response and immense power.
- Aluminum Crankcase: Lightweight yet strong, contributing to engine efficiency and performance.
- Forged Crankshaft: Made from high-grade alloy steel for exceptional durability and strength.
- Multi-spark Ignition: With 12 twin-spark ignition units for optimized combustion and efficiency.
- Air-to-water Intercooler: Maintains optimal intake air temperature for consistent performance.
- Alternator Management & ECO Start/Stop: Enhances efficiency and reduces fuel consumption.
Each AMG V12 engine is assembled by hand at AMG’s engine production facility, following the “one man, one engine” philosophy. This meticulous process ensures the highest levels of quality and precision. The engine technician’s signature on the AMG engine badge serves as a testament to the craftsmanship and care that goes into each engine.
Seamless Power Delivery: AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC Transmission
To manage the immense power of the V12 engine, the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is equipped with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. This seven-speed automatic transmission offers a wide ratio spread, contributing to both fuel efficiency and dynamic performance. Compared to its predecessor, which used a five-speed automatic, the 7G-TRONIC allows for lower engine speeds, especially at cruising speeds, further enhancing refinement and efficiency.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC offers three distinct driving programs:
- Controlled Efficiency (C): Prioritizes fuel efficiency with smooth gear changes and early upshifts. The ECO start/stop function is active in this mode.
- Sport (S): Delivers quicker gear changes and a more responsive driving experience. Ignition and injection are briefly interrupted during upshifts under full load for faster shifts and a more pronounced sound.
- Manual (M): Allows the driver full manual control over gear changes using the steering wheel-mounted shift paddles.
Alt text: Interior view of the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG showcasing the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission selector and luxurious center console.
In Sport and Manual modes, the transmission emphasizes sporty driving dynamics, providing rapid gear changes and a more engaging driving experience. The brief interruption of ignition and injection during upshifts not only shortens shift times but also creates a more emotive sound, enhancing the overall driving pleasure.
Ride Comfort and Dynamic Handling: AMG Sports Suspension with MAGIC BODY CONTROL
The Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG redefines ride comfort and handling with its standard AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL. This innovative system, featuring ROAD SURFACE SCAN, is a groundbreaking technology that enhances both comfort and agility. ROAD SURFACE SCAN uses a stereo camera to detect road surface undulations ahead and proactively adjusts the suspension to minimize body roll and maintain a smooth ride.
Drivers can choose between “Comfort” and “Sport” suspension modes to tailor the ride to their preferences. In “Comfort” mode, the MAGIC BODY CONTROL system excels at delivering a supremely smooth and luxurious ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface. Switching to “Sport” mode firms up the suspension for enhanced body control and more direct handling, ideal for spirited driving.
Alt text: Illustration of the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG’s MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension system, highlighting its ability to adapt to road conditions for optimal comfort and handling.
The AMG-specific elastokinematics on the front and rear axles further contribute to the car’s dynamic capabilities, providing increased directness and precision in handling. ESP® Dynamic Cornering Assist is also standard, applying targeted braking to the inside rear wheel to enhance cornering agility and reduce understeer.
Complementing the advanced suspension is the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with a variable steering ratio. This system provides optimal steering assistance at all speeds, enhancing both low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. In “Comfort” mode, steering assistance is increased for easier maneuvering, while “Sport” mode provides a firmer steering feel for more direct feedback and control.
Lightweight Construction: Lithium-ion Battery and Forged Wheels
Mercedes-AMG engineers have employed lightweight construction techniques to enhance the S65 AMG’s performance and efficiency. Notably, the car features a lithium-ion battery, a technology that offers significant advantages over conventional batteries. The 78 Ah lithium-ion battery replaces both the starter battery and backup battery, resulting in a weight saving of over 44 pounds. This weight reduction contributes to improved handling, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
Alt text: Close-up of the meticulously designed AMG forged light-alloy multi-spoke wheel on the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, showcasing its lightweight construction and high-gloss polished finish.
The S65 AMG is exclusively equipped with AMG forged light-alloy wheels, further reducing unsprung mass and improving handling and suspension response. The standard wheels are AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, ceramic, high-gloss polished, measuring 20 inches in diameter. These wheels are not only lightweight but also visually striking, with a design inspired by classic spoked wheels from the 1930s. The intricate finishing process includes multiple polishing and grinding stages to achieve a deep sheen and exceptional appearance.
Optional AMG forged wheels in various designs and finishes are also available, allowing for further personalization.
Exceptional Braking Performance: AMG High-Performance Braking Systems
The Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is equipped with a weight-optimized AMG high-performance composite braking system, ensuring exceptional stopping power and fade resistance. For even greater braking performance, an AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system is available as an option.
The ceramic braking system offers several advantages:
- Reduced Weight: Over 20 percent lighter than the standard system, further reducing unsprung mass.
- Enhanced Dynamics: Improved handling, agility, and ride comfort due to lower unsprung weight.
- Longer Service Life: Increased durability and resistance to wear.
- Higher Thermal Stability: Maintains consistent braking performance even under extreme conditions.
The AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system features larger front brake discs (16.5 inches in diameter) and is identifiable by the “AMG Carbon Ceramic” logo on the bronze-painted brake calipers.
Design and Exclusivity: Exterior and Interior
The Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG exudes an aura of exclusivity and power through its distinctive design. The exterior combines the sensual clarity of Mercedes-Benz design with expressive AMG elements. The large, upright V12 radiator grille with six twin lamellas in high-gloss chrome immediately signals the car’s special status. The front apron with three large cooling air intakes and AMG-specific “A-wing” design further emphasizes its performance credentials.
High-gloss chrome accents are used extensively, highlighting the car’s luxurious and exclusive nature. These include the lower bumper grilles, flics on the side air intakes, front splitter, side sill panel inserts, and rear diffuser trim. “V12 BITURBO” lettering on the front wings and “S65 AMG” model badge on the boot lid further distinguish this model.
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG showcasing its imposing V12 grille, AMG-specific styling, and high-gloss chrome accents.
The interior of the S65 AMG is a sanctuary of luxury and sporty elegance. Exclusive nappa leather upholstery with a diamond-pattern design adorns the seats, creating a sense of opulence and refinement. The AMG sports seats offer exceptional long-distance comfort and lateral support, with electric adjustment, memory function, seat heating, and active ventilation as standard.
The Exclusive package further enhances the interior with features such as a nappa leather roof liner, leather-lined dashboard, diamond-pattern door center panels, and illuminated AMG stainless-steel door sill panels. Customers can choose from a range of exquisite color combinations for the interior.
The 2-spoke AMG sports steering wheel, trimmed in nappa leather with perforated leather in the grip area, provides excellent control and a sporty feel. Aluminum shift paddles allow for manual gear changes, while an IWC-design analogue clock adds a touch of sophistication to the dashboard.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Head-Up Display and Touchpad
The Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG incorporates advanced technology to enhance both comfort and safety. Two notable innovations are the head-up display and the touchpad.
The head-up display projects key information, such as vehicle speed, navigation instructions, and DISTRONIC PLUS data, onto the windscreen directly in the driver’s line of sight. This minimizes driver distraction and enhances safety.
The new touchpad provides intuitive control over the infotainment system. Located in the center console, the touchpad recognizes single and multi-finger gestures, swipe and zoom gestures, and handwriting input for letters, numbers, and special characters. It offers a modern and convenient way to operate the radio, telephone, and navigation system.
Intelligent Drive: Safety and Assistance Systems
The S65 AMG is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and assistance systems under the umbrella of Mercedes-Benz “Intelligent Drive.” These systems enhance both active and passive safety, making driving more comfortable and secure. Key features include:
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS: Anticipates potential rear-end collisions and takes preventative measures.
- Night View Assist PLUS: Uses infrared technology to enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
- ATTENTION ASSIST: Monitors driver drowsiness and provides warnings.
- Driver Assistance package: Includes a range of driving assistance features for enhanced safety and convenience.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Expression of Performance and Luxury
The Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury in the high-performance sedan segment. With its hand-built AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine, advanced suspension technology, and opulent interior, the S65 AMG delivers an unrivaled driving experience. It’s a car that embodies power, exclusivity, and sophistication, appealing to those who seek the very best in automotive engineering and craftsmanship. For drivers who demand uncompromising performance without sacrificing luxury and comfort, the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG remains the definitive choice.
