There’s nothing within the three-pointed star’s stable that’s more showy to drive around than the RM1.15 million Mercedes-AMG GT S. That is until your wife decides that you’re getting a little too much attention for both your sakes. If you value the relationship more than the car but still want something that will satiate your need for speed, then that’s where the Mercedes-AMG S 65 Cabriolet comes to mind.
We’re sorry if you thought this car will be less showy, because this twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 cabriolet is just proof that you have an entire bank vault to your name. Revealed here in all its glory before debuting at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2016 is a heavier S 65 variant (2,180 kg as opposed to the 2,035 kg hardtop variant), thanks to the added bracing built within its platform. Despite being heavier, Mercedes-AMG claims that the S 65 Cabriolet sprints from 0 to 100 km/h as quickly as the S 65 Coupe at 4.1 seconds.
QUICK FACTS
| Name | 2016 Mercedes-AMG S 65 Cabriolet |
| Engine | 5,980cc; twin-turbo V12, 3-valves per cylinder |
| Transmission | AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic |
| Max Power | 630 hp @ 4,800 – 5,400 rpm |
| Max Torque | 1,000 Nm @ 2,300 – 4,300 rpm |
| 0 – 100 km/h; Top Speed | 4.1 seconds; 250 km/h (electronically limited) |
The AMG engine (every unit is hand-built, mind you) is the same roaring 12-cylinder block shared with the ridiculous powerful Mercedes-AMG SL, down to the exact tune of 630 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque. It’s mated to AMG’s 7G-Tronic automatic transmission sending all the power to the rear wheels. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h, although customers can specify to have it increased to 300 km/h with the optional Driver’s Package which comes with larger-profiled tyres.
The engine doesn’t come with cylinder deactivation, but features auto start-stop technology to conserve fuel whenever possible. Fuel consumption is rated at 12.0 litres per 100km.
What distinguishes this unassuming sleeper from the regular S-Class Cabriolet is the more extensive use of chrome around the car, particularly at the front air ducts. Other clear giveaways are the V12 BITURBO badges around the car and a set of multispoke 20-inch wheels. The front wheels are wrapped with 255/40 R20 series tyres while the rear settles for a fatter set of 285/35 R20 rubbers.
Its soft top is made of a multilayered acoustic fabric that’s electro-hydraulically operated and can be opened or closed (both done in 17 seconds) on the move at speeds up to 50 km/h. Stowing the top away will take up a bit of a boot space – a typical rag-top trait, and it can be had in four different colours; Black, Dark Blue, Beige (seen in these pictures) and Dark Red. Mercedes says the AIRCAP wind protection deflector and AIRSCARF neck warming system will ensure that passengers can cruise in comfort even with the top down and wouldn’t need to adjust the climate controls because they are fully automated.
Inside the S 65 Cabriolet is typical high-end Mercedes stuff, but this variant gets a luxurious Nappa leather sports seats (perforated) with integrated screens on both the back of the front head restraints. The front seats and armrest also feature heating function. It’s also loaded with Mercedes-Benz’s Intelligent Drive safety features which, if used with caution, will allow the S 65 Cabriolet to drive on its own via use of the active cruise control and lane departure warning system.
The 2016 Mercedes-AMG S 65 Cabriolet is scheduled to make its global debut next month in Detroit, and customers can expect to order the vehicle during the second quarter of 2016.
IMAGE GALLERY
