The Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG stands as a testament to automotive excellence, blending breathtaking power with luxurious open-top driving. At its heart lies the formidable AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine, delivering a staggering 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse, combined with an all-aluminum body, makes the MY14 SL65 AMG a significant 254 pounds lighter than its predecessor, enhancing agility and performance. The distinctive front fascia, featuring the new “twin-blade” grille, immediately sets it apart as a high-performance machine.
Unleashing the Beast: AMG 6.0-liter V12 Biturbo Engine
The soul of the SL65 AMG is undoubtedly its hand-built AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine (M 279). Evolved from the M 275, this engine has been meticulously refined to produce even more impressive figures. Compared to the previous model, horsepower has been boosted from 604 hp to a thrilling 621 hp. The torque remains an earth-moving 738 lb-ft, available across a wide rev range, ensuring effortless acceleration in any gear.
This immense power translates to exhilarating performance. The SL65 AMG catapults from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds. For markets like the U.S., the top speed is electronically limited to 186 mph. However, it’s not just about raw speed; the V12 engine delivers a uniquely smooth and refined power, accompanied by the signature AMG V12 soundtrack that is music to any car enthusiast’s ears.
The M 279 engine incorporates advanced technologies to optimize both performance and efficiency. A key feature is the multi-spark ignition system with twelve twin ignition coils. This system, working in conjunction with enhanced engine management and redesigned cylinder heads, ensures more complete and efficient combustion. The result is not only smoother running and increased power but also reduced exhaust emissions, further aided by an optimized catalytic converter system.
The auditory experience is further enhanced by the redeveloped AMG sport exhaust system. Modifications to the pipe layout improve exhaust flow, while a reduction in wall thickness contributes to a seven-pound weight saving. The engine’s visual appeal is equally striking, with a carbon-fiber and aluminum engine cover proudly showcasing the powerful twelve-cylinder beneath.
Seamless Power Delivery: AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed Transmission
To effectively manage the V12’s immense power, the SL65 AMG is equipped with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission. This advanced automatic transmission offers a wide ratio spread, contributing to lower engine revs at cruising speeds and improved fuel economy. A new fuel-economy torque converter, reduced-friction bearings, and optimized transmission oil thermal management further enhance efficiency.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission provides a versatile driving experience through four distinct drive programs: Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S), Sport plus (S+), and Manual (M). In “C” mode, the ECO stop/start function is always active, prioritizing fuel conservation. For a more engaging drive, “S” and “S+” modes sharpen throttle response and gear changes. Manual mode (M) gives the driver full control via paddle shifters.
For dynamic driving, the transmission features an automatic double-declutch function during downshifts and a brief, precise interruption of ignition and injection during upshifts under full load. These features not only enhance driver involvement but also contribute to quicker and smoother gear changes.
Intelligent Lightweight Engineering: Aluminum and Carbon Fiber
The MY14 SL65 AMG benefits significantly from intelligent lightweight design. The bodyshell is constructed entirely from aluminum, a departure from the steel construction of previous models. This all-aluminum body-in-white achieves significant weight savings while simultaneously increasing stiffness, safety, and comfort.
The intelligent approach extends to component optimization. Various aluminum forming processes are employed, including gravity die casting, vacuum pressure casting, extruded profiles, and aluminum sheets of varying thicknesses, ensuring the right material and process are used for each specific part. Magnesium, even lighter than aluminum, is utilized for the cover behind the fuel tank. High-strength steel tubes are integrated into the A-pillars for enhanced safety.
Further weight reduction is achieved with the rear decklid, which features an internal frame made from carbon composite material. This innovative solution, where a plastic exterior shell is bonded to the stiff carbon component, saves eleven pounds compared to a conventional rear lid. These weight-saving measures contribute to the SL65 AMG’s curb weight of 4,299 pounds, a remarkable 254 pounds less than its predecessor.
Advanced Agility and Control: AMG Sport Suspension and Steering
The chassis of the SL65 AMG is engineered for both exceptional handling and comfort. Lightweight engineering principles extend to the suspension, with aluminum steering knuckles and control arms in the four-link front suspension, and aluminum used extensively in the multilink rear axle components. Reducing unsprung mass improves agility and the responsiveness of the suspension.
The SL65 AMG comes standard with AMG sport suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC). This system, an evolution of the setup in the SL63 AMG, is specifically tuned for the V12 model. ABC actively controls body roll, pitch, and dive, providing a remarkably flat and stable ride, even during aggressive maneuvers.
Drivers can select between two chassis settings: “Sport” for a firmer, more dynamic setup with reduced body roll, and “Comfort” for a more compliant ride suitable for long journeys. Increased negative camber on both axles and revised elastokinematics further enhance agility and cornering prowess.
Complementing the advanced suspension is the new electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering. This system provides a direct and consistent steering ratio, while the power assistance adapts to the selected chassis mode, offering optimal steering feel and feedback across the performance spectrum. Standard features also include 3-stage ESP® with “SPORT Handling” mode for drivers seeking more dynamic control. To manage the V12’s immense power, the SL65 AMG is equipped with an AMG rear-axle locking differential as standard.
The AMG high-performance braking system ensures exceptional stopping power. The front axle features 15.4 x 1.4 inch compound discs with six-piston fixed calipers, while the rear axle utilizes 14.2 x 1.0 inch integral discs with single-piston floating calipers. An electric parking brake is standard. For even greater braking performance, the optional AMG carbon ceramic brake system, derived from the SLS AMG, is available.
Striking AMG Design: Exterior and Interior
The SL65 AMG makes a bold visual statement, reflecting its high-performance capabilities and exclusive nature. It debuts the new AMG “face,” characterized by a more dynamic and premium interpretation of the grille and lower air inlet. The centerpiece is the new twin-blade grille in high-gloss chrome, featuring the Mercedes star mounted on two aerofoil-profile blades. This design enhances the car’s longitudinal proportions and aerodynamic presence.
The stylized “A” of AMG is retained beneath the grille. A black fin detail in the lower air intake optimizes airflow to the cooling modules, blending design and functionality. The lower horizontal bar on the front skirt, also finished in high-gloss chrome, adds visual depth and refinement. These design elements represent the evolving AMG brand identity, emphasizing visual recognition across future models.
Distinguishing the SL65 AMG from the SL63 AMG are subtle yet significant high-gloss chrome accents, including the twin-blade grille, lower horizontal bar, bezels of the LED daytime running lights, side fender fins, and hood fins. The characteristic AMG styling also encompasses the front skirt with large cooling openings, unique sill panels, AMG spoiler lip, and rear skirt with a diffuser-look inlay.
Typical V12 design cues include the two chromed, standalone dual end pipes of the AMG sports exhaust and “V12 BITURBO” lettering on the fenders. Titanium grey painted and polished 5-spoke AMG alloy wheels, sized 255/35 ZR 19 front and 285/30 ZR 19 rear, are standard. Optional AMG forged alloy multi-spoke wheels from the AMG Performance Studio, with staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear tires, are available to further reduce unsprung mass. These forged wheels can also be specified in matte black with polished rims.
The SL65 AMG features a retractable hard-top that transforms the roadster into a coupe in under 20 seconds. The innovative MAGIC SKY CONTROL allows the roof transparency to be switched from light to dark at the touch of a button, enhancing the open-air driving experience.
Inside, the SL65 AMG elevates luxury and performance. Electrically adjustable AMG sports seats, upholstered in exclusive leather with AMG-specific V12 diamond stitching, are a highlight. This distinctive stitching extends to the center door panels. AMG logos are embossed on the seat backs. The designo leather headliner with AMG V12 diamond stitching further enhances the opulent ambiance.
The cockpit design draws inspiration from the SLS AMG, with jet-engine style air vents, the E-SELECT gear lever, and the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Carbon AMG trim elements, an IWC-design analog clock, illuminated AMG entry trim, and an AMG performance steering wheel with an AMG logo underscore the exclusivity. The AMG instrument panel features a 225 mph speedometer and an AMG start-up display with a unique AMG V12 BITURBO animation.
Comprehensive Standard Equipment and Options
The SL65 AMG comes generously equipped with features including:
- AIRSCARF neck-level heating system
- PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE Brake
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG Surround Sound System
- Frontbass®
- Carbon fiber trim
- COMAND with 40 GB hard-drive GPS navigation
- In-dash 6-disc DVD changer
- Multi-color ambient lighting
- IWC-design analogue dashboard clock
- Anti-theft alarm
- Electronic trunk closer
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- LED daytime running lights
- Bi-Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination
- KEYLESS-GO with HANDS-FREE ACCESS
- Enhanced voice control
- MAGIC VISION CONTROL (heated)
- NECK-PRO Active Head Restraints
- Mercedes-Benz mbrace2TM
- Retractable hard top
- MAGIC SKY CONTROL
- Power wind screen
- Soft-close doors
- Automatic pop-up rollover protection
Further personalization is available through the AMG Performance Studio, offering options like:
- AMG Carbon Ceramic Braking System
- AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Package
- AMG Performance Media
A wide range of designo paint finishes and exclusive leather upholstery options allow for bespoke customization.
Uncompromising Safety
The Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG prioritizes safety with its collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard PRE-SAFE® system, and advanced driver assistance systems. The stiff aluminum body-in-white provides a robust occupant cell with defined crumple zones. Steel/aluminum A-pillars and automatic pop-up rollover bars offer enhanced rollover protection. Advanced restraint systems, including two-phase airbags and head/thorax side impact airbags, are standard. NECK-PRO Active Head Restraints and pedestrian-friendly design features further contribute to the SL’s safety credentials, making it one of the safest roadsters in its class.
The Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG represents the zenith of open-top performance and luxury, a V12-powered roadster that delivers an unparalleled driving experience.
