It began with the Mercedes-Benz SL550, then the Mercedes SL63 AMG and now, the V-12 SL65 AMG. With a 6.0-liter biturbo twelve-cylinder engine, the Mercedes SL65 AMG outputs 621-hp and a massive 738 lb-ft of torque, propelling you from zero to 60 in a mere 3.9 seconds while on your way to a limited 186 mph top speed. In this video walk around, Rob Moran, Product Manager at AMG, discusses the Mercedes SL Roadster’s most powerful version ever.
2013 Mercedes SL65 AMG Standard Equipment
Comfort/Convenience
Performance/Handling
Safety/Security
Wheels
Stand Alone Options
Paint
Black, Magnetite Black, Obsidian Black (Special Order), Shadow Grey* (Matte Finish), Dolomite Brown*(Special Order), Mars Red, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Pearl Beige*, Diamond White, Lunar Blue*, designo Mocha Black, designo Graphite, designo Magno Alanite Grey (Matte Finish), designo Magno Cashmere White (Matte Finish)
Upholstery
Black AMG Exclusive Leather, Beige/Brown AMG Exclusive Leather, Red/Black AMG Exclusive Leather, Porcelain/Black AMG Exclusive Leather, designo Sand, designo Tuscany Beige Pearl*, designo Sienna Brown, designo Platinum White, designo Light Brown, designo Deep White
Trim
Brown Poplar (Satin) (Special Order), Burl Walnut, Black Ash, Aluminum (Special Order), Carbon Fiber, Designo Natural Bamboo, designo Black Piano Lacquer, designo Champagne White Piano Lacquer, designo Brown Poplar (Satin) (Special Order), designo Burl Walnut, Black Ash, designo Aluminum (Special Order), designo Carbon Fiber
*=highlight for 2013MY
Brabus, the Mercedes tuner widely known in the automotive world for building some of the world’s most powerful passenger cars, has just announced that they’ll be displaying their new Brabus 800 Roadster at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Based on the Mercedes SL 65 AMG, the Mercedes two-seater is powered by a 12-cylinder Biturbo engine that’s been updated with the Brabus T65 RS tuning program, bumping output to 588 kW / 800 hp (788 bhp) of power and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm. This results in an insane 0-62 mph sprint time of 3.7 seconds and a mere 9.8 second jaunt to hit 124 mph. If those numbers weren’t enough to impress you with the Brabus SL 65 AMG, how about an electronically limited top speed of 217 mph? Putting that speed in terms you may relate to, at yesterday’s Daytona 500, top speeds hovered just over 200mph.
In addition to the engine upgrades, Brabus offers equipment updates as well, including plenty of carbon-fiber body parts that help make the car more aerodynamic finished in your choice of matte or glossy. The Brabus SL rides on a set of Monoblock R “Platinum Edition” forged wheel wrapped in 255/30 ZR 20 tires (front) 305/25 ZR 20 tires (rear) high performance tires.
There is also a special control module that lowers the roadster about one inch (25mm) – while it may seem inconsequential while driving standard highway speeds, hit the track at 200 mph+ and you want to be as aerodynamically efficient as possible..
Lastly, Brabus has upgraded the Brabus 800 Roadster’s interior with all of the finest and tasteful finishing available.
For more information, expand the press release below.
Mercedes-Benz announced today that in the next few days, they will begin delivery the SL 65 AMG to customers worldwide. The exceptionally exclusive, top-of-the-range Mercedes V12 Roadster, with its maximum output of 463 kW (630 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 Nm, will also be in showrooms, making it available for test drives. “The combination of exclusive V12 dynamism and refined roadster driving experience is unique. We are convinced that, with the new SL 65 AMG, we are able to offer an incomparably exciting high-performance vehicle for the small, but loyal community of fans”, according to Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
As an alternative to the classic vehicle delivery method at dealerships and authorised agents of Mercedes-Benz, customers can also receive their SL 65 AMG direct from the AMG Customer Center in Affalterbach. When going this route, customers receive an exclusive insight into the world of AMG and also have a chance to experience the excellent quality of customer care which is typical and is expected of AMG. After being welcomed by a personal customer service attendant, and treated to some hospitality in the AMG Private Lounge, which was opened in 2011, you are taken on a tour of the plant. This also includes a visit to the AMG Performance Studio, where individual and one-off AMG vehicles are developed and produced by hand in limited numbers. In the AMG engine production facility, AMG customers have the unique opportunity to meet the engineers who have produced the V12 engine used in their SL 65 AMG by hand, in accordance with the traditional philosophy of “one man, one engine”.
The highlight of the day is finally the moment when the customer takes receipt of the new SL 65 AMG: in the new 360 m2 delivery hall, customers are extensively briefed on the technology and operation of their new V12 Roadster. Vehicle collection from the AMG Customer Center in Affalterbach is available for all AMG high-performance vehicles in Germany, and also includes a full tank of petrol.
The most powerful Mercedes-AMG Roadster
The AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine develops a maximum output of 463 kW (630 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 Nm. The unrivalled performance figures of the SL 65 AMG translate into an exceptional driving experience: acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4 seconds, with the 200 km/h mark being attained after just 11.8 seconds. The top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited). As with the SLS AMG super sports car, the use of an all-aluminium bodyshell results in a drastic reduction in weight. The new SL 65 AMG is some 170 kilograms lighter than before. The boot lid also helps to further trim the weight. For the first time on a mass-produced model, the internal support is made from lightweight carbon-fibre composite material. An important aspect of the new model is the intelligent lightweight construction which also contributes to reducing the fuel consumption: at 11.6 litres per 100 km (NEDC combined), it represents a saving of 2.4 litres or 17 percent compared with the preceding model, and establishes a new benchmark in the twelve-cylinder petrol engine segment.
AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control
Mercedes-AMG also makes systematic use of lightweight construction principles, as well as numerous axle components made of aluminium, for the suspension. As standard, the SL 65 AMG comes fitted with the AMG sports suspension, based on Active Body Control. The design and appointments are also exceptional and exclusive: the “twin blade” radiator grille, with two blade-shaped louvres and stylised “A” positioned underneath – a characteristic feature of AMG vehicles – all complement each other perfectly, along with the front apron’s lower cross strut finished in high-sheen chrome.
In addition to the two special chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, the characteristic V12 features include the “V12 BITURBO” lettering on the front wings and the AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and equipped with 255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 tyres on the front and rear respectively.
Particular highlights include the electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with single or two-tone upholstery in Exclusive nappa leather, special AMG V12 diamond-design seat upholstery layout and embossed AMG emblems on the seat backrests. The designo roof lining in leather with partial AMG V12 diamond-design stitching, AMG carbon-fibre trim elements and IWC-design analogue clock provide the perfect visual and tactile finishing touches.
Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system
An attractive highlight among the extensive standard equipment of the SL 65 AMG is the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system: Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG have created it in conjunction with famous Danish audio specialists Bang & Olufsen. The sound system enables an exclusive music experience to be enjoyed at the very highest level. The basis of the system is formed not only by the amplifier with a total output of 900 watts and 12 high-end loudspeakers including Frontbass, but also the precise distribution of the music signals, controlled by the sound processor, to the selectable seating positions of driver, front passenger or the central position.
Thanks to the digital sound processor (DSP), it is also possible to choose between the high-end “reference” studio sound and spacious surround sound. All of the functions are operated using the COMAND system via a special Bang & Olufsen menu. Particular highlights include the illuminated lens tweeters on the dashboard – they help to create the characteristic virtual sound stage in front of the vehicle occupants. High-quality aluminium loudspeaker covers finished in silver chrome with the Bang & Olufsen logo give an indication of the exceptional position enjoyed by this high-end system.
The extensive range of standard equipment includes:
Optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio:
The designo range for the SL 65 AMG, available ex-factory, offers a wealth of tailor-made individualisation options to cater for practically any requirement. As well as being able to choose between designo magno cashmere white and designo magno allanite grey matt paintwork or designo mocha black and designo graphite metallic paintwork, customers can also opt for an expressive designo zircon red paint finish. There is a range of Exclusive designo leather appointments in eight attractive colours to match these paint finishes – all rounded off perfectly by a choice of designo trim, headlining and seat-belt options.
Special anniversary model: the SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY”
To mark its 45th anniversary, Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance AMG brand is presenting the SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY”. Production of the special anniversary model is being limited to just 45 vehicles. The V12 roadster boasts an exclusive array of unusual appointments and design features, such as designo magno graphite matt paintwork, the matt-finish Exterior Carbon-Fibre package, and also AMG 10-spoke forged wheels painted in matt titanium grey with a high-sheen finish on the rim flange. Defining stylistic elements in the interior include upholstery in designo Exclusive STYLE leather in titanium grey pearl/ginger beige with AMG-specific, diamond-design V12 seat upholstery layout featuring, electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with embossed AMG emblems on the seat backrests, AMG trim elements in matt carbon fibre and a badge with the logo “45th ANNIVERSARY – 1 OF 45”.
The sales price for Germany (incl. 19% VAT) is:
SL 65 AMG : 236, 334 euros
SL 65 AMG “45th ANNIVERSARY”: 272,034 euros
Mercedes-AMG is launching itself into the 2012 roadster season with a vengeance. Arriving in U.S. dealerships in November, the new MY2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG V12 Roadster is making its world debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show. The AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine generates a peak output of 621 hp and a maximum torque of 738 lb-ft. The use of an all-aluminum body-in-white delivers a drastic weight reduction as the MY13 SL65 AMG is 254 pounds lighter than before. The distinctive front end is dominated by the new “twin-blade” grille with two blade-shaped fins and the lower horizontal bar in the front skirt in high-gloss chrome.
The SL65 AMG joins the SL550 roadster and the SL63 AMG roadster. The SL550 has a starting retail price of $106,375 and arrives in U.S. Mercedes-Benz dealerships in May. The SL63 AMG arrives in July.
“The combination of exclusive V12 dynamics and cultivated roadster pleasure was already unique in the previous model. We are certain that, with the new SL65 AMG, we have developed a stunning high-performance automobile beyond compare for a small, but loyal fan base,” says Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The intelligent lightweight design of the bodyshell also contributes to the reduction of fuel consumption. A key element in the improved fuel efficiency is the result of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission, the ECO stop/start function, and improvements to the internal efficiency of the engine and alternator management. Despite a considerable improvement in fuel economy, the peak output of the AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine is up from 604 hp to 621 hp. The maximum torque stands at a mighty 738 lb-ft.
This unparalleled output provides amazing propulsion for the new SL65 AMG – acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 3.9 seconds. Top speed in the U.S. market stands at 186 mph. The key attributes of the AMG biturbo twelve-cylinder include its heart stopping acceleration, and seamless power delivery combined with a distinctive AMG V12 soundtrack. In short, the SL65 AMG captures the imagination with its refined, stylish performance.
Overview of key data:
| SL65 AMG | |
| Displacement | 5,980 cm3 |
| Bore x stroke | 3.25 x 3.66 inches |
| Compression ratio | 9.0 : 1 |
| Power | 621 hp @ 4,800 r/min |
| Max. torque | 738 lb-ft @ 2,300-4,300 r/min* |
| Vehicle weight | 4,299 pounds |
| Fuel economy | TBD |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.9 s |
| Top speed | 186 mph* |
* electronically limited.
AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine with new technology
The AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine (M 279) is based on the previous M 275 unit and has been extensively developed for its application in the new SL65 AMG. New turbochargers with an enlarged spiral cross-section, new manifolds and wastegate channels optimized for airflow deliver an additional 17 hp. The multi-spark ignition with twelve twin ignition coils not only makes for smoother running, but also works together with a new, more powerful engine management and optimized cylinder heads to provide even more effective combustion. The outcome is fewer exhaust emissions, which is also in large part due to the optimized catalytic converter system.
The redeveloped AMG sport exhaust system incorporates a modified pipe layout for improved flow coupled with a weight reduction of seven pounds resulting from reduced wall thicknesses.
And it is not just the inner attributes of the AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine that are stunning – the engine also looks inspiring. The carbon-fiber and aluminum engine cover further underscores the exceptional nature of the powerful twelve-cylinder that lies beneath.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission
For the first time, AMG is combining the 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission. The wide ratio spread of the seven-speed automatic transmission delivers significantly lower revving and helps in the reduction of fuel consumption. A new fuel-economy torque converter, reduced-friction bearings and transmission oil thermal management further increase the efficiency of transferring power to the wheels.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission features four individual drive programs that can be selected at the touch of a button on the center console – Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S), Sport plus (S+) and Manual (M). The ECO stop/start function is always active in C mode. For the greatest sense of involvement and dynamics, there is the automatic double-declutch function for downshifting, as well as brief and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection during upshifting under full load. The latter also reduces shift times.
Intelligent lightweight design featuring all-aluminum body-in-white and carbon
Compared to the steel construction of the previous model, the all-aluminum body-in-white of the new SL65 AMG delivers weight savings, as well as superior stiffness, safety and comfort. Intelligent lightweight design also means optimizing components for their specific application. For instance, an array of different aluminum processes come into play – components are made using gravity die casting or vacuum pressure casting, worked into extruded profile or used as aluminum sheet with varying wall thicknesses. The results are a high degree of stiffness and safety and improved vibration characteristics. Engineers made use of the even lighter magnesium for part of the cover behind the fuel tank. High-strength steel tubes are integrated into the A-pillars for reasons of safety.
Further weight reduction comes courtesy of the rear decklid. The internal frame is made from carbon composite material. The plastic exterior shell is then fastened to the extremely stiff carbon component with adhesive. The result is a weight saving of eleven pounds compared with a conventional rear lid. The innovative solution is being used initially in AMG’s SL models. The outcome of the many lightweight design innovations is that the curb weight of 4,299 pounds for the new SL65 AMG is 254 pounds less than that of the previous model.
AMG sport suspension based on Active Body Control
When it comes to the chassis, Mercedes-AMG is focused on lightweight engineering. The four-link front suspension incorporates steering knuckles and control arms in aluminum, which also features in almost all suspension parts on the multilink rear axle. Agility is not the only aspect to benefit from the reduction of unsprung masses; the response characteristics of the spring-and-damper units are also improved. Like the previous model, the new SL65 AMG is fitted with the ABC active suspension system as standard. The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control is a further developed version of the setup in the SL63 AMG with the eight-cylinder engine, tuned specifically for this application.
Handling and performance were the top priorities during conception, development and testing. Two chassis settings are available for selection at the touch of a button – a very sporty setting with reduced roll rate and tighter body damping (“Sport”) and a program offering a high degree of long-distance comfort (“Comfort”). More negative camber on both axles, plus completely re-engineered elastokinematics deliver increased agility and higher cornering speeds.
New electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive steering
Combined with the all-new, electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the V12 top-of-the-range model offers a stunning ride with excellent dynamics and very clear feedback at the edge of the performance envelope. The steering ratio is constant and direct, while the power assistance adjusts in line with the chassis mode. Standard equipment also includes the 3-stage ESP®, a specialty exclusive to AMG with “SPORT Handling” mode for enthusiastic drivers. The enormous engine power is harnessed with the aid of AMG rear-axle locking differential, which is also standard equipment.
Top deceleration figures, perfect modulation and excellent stability – all standard features of an AMG high-performance brake system. The same applies to the all-new brakes on the SL65 AMG – on the front axle are 15.4 x 1.4 in. compound discs with six-piston fixed calipers, while the rear axle boasts 14.2 x 1.0 in. integral discs with single-piston floating calipers. An electric parking brake is standard equipment. The even more powerful and weight-optimized AMG carbon ceramic brake system familiar from the SLS AMG is available as optional equipment.
New AMG “face” with two blade-like fins
The SL65 AMG is clearly recognizable as a stylish and exclusive high-performance roadster not just technically, but also visually. The SL65 AMG is presented for the first time with the new AMG “face”. The two dominant visual elements – the grille and the lower air inlet – remain, but have been reinterpreted to give them a more distinctively dynamic and premium look. The central styling feature is the new twin-blade grille finished in high-gloss chrome. The Mercedes star is mounted on two blade-like fins with aerofoil profiles. The stronger arrow-form of the grille optimizes the vehicle’s longitudinal proportions, adding even more visual emphasis to the aerodynamic, minimalist design.
The stylized “A” that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles is retained beneath the twin-blade grille. Along the lower edge of the air intake is a slit beneath a fine black fin for optimum airflow to the cooling modules – a perfect combination of design and high technology. The lower horizontal bar on the front skirt is finished in high-gloss chrome and is lent significant visual depth by the slit above it, creating a premium visual accent. The twin-blade grille and lower horizontal element are two corresponding design features that emphasize the new AMG brand “face” – this look will be further developed in forthcoming AMG models, increasing even more the visual recognition of the AMG performance brand.
The top-of-the-range model is distinguished from the SL63 AMG by carefully placed applications in high-gloss chrome – as well as the twin-blade grille and the lower horizontal bar on the AMG front skirt, the bezels in the AMG-specific LED daytime running lights, the side fins on the fenders and fins on the hood all have the same surface finish. The characteristic AMG styling of the SL65 AMG also includes the front skirt with large openings for cooling the engine oil, water, charge air and transmission oil, the specially designed sill panels, the AMG spoiler lip and the rear skirt with a diffuser visual and body-color inlay.
Typical V12 features are not only the two chromed, standalone dual end pipes of the AMG sports exhaust, but also the V12 BITURBO lettering on the fenders and the titanium grey painted and polished 5-spoke AMG alloy wheels with 255/35 R 19 tires on the front and 285/30 R 19 on the rear. Optional AMG forged alloy multi-spoke wheels from the AMG Performance Studio with 255/35 R 19 tires at the front and 285/30 R 20 at the rear reduce unsprung mass are also available. The forged wheels are also available in matte black with polished outer rims.
Retractable hard-top with MAGIC SKY CONTROL
The sixth generation of the SL offers a space-saving electro-hydraulic retractable hard-top that converts the SL65 AMG from a roadster to a coupe in less than 20 seconds. In contrast to the previous model, the new SL comes with the unique MAGIC SKY CONTROL. Its transparency can be switched from light to dark at the touch of a button.
Interior – pleasure for all the senses
Inside, the SL65 AMG is distinguished from its eight-cylinder sibling by highly exclusive design and equipment features. One particular eye-catcher is the electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with one or two-color upholstery in exclusive leather featuring AMG-specific V12 diamond stitching. This distinctive upholstery also appears on the center door panels. The AMG logo embossed on the seat backs is a standard feature, as are AIRSCARF neck-level heating, the multi-contour function, seat memory and seat ventilation. The designo headliner in leather featuring AMG V12 diamond stitching provides a perfect finish that is both visual and tactile.
The cockpit design is reminiscent of the SLS AMG – the four air vents in jet-engine style, the E-SELECT gear lever and the AMG DRIVE UNIT are all evocative of the super sports car. The selection of exquisite materials and high quality of workmanship in the interior of the SL65 AMG creates a truly sensual masterpiece. This is underscored by the AMG trim elements in carbon, the analog clock in IWC design, the chromed and white illuminated AMG entry trim and the AMG performance steering wheel incorporating an AMG logo in the lower metal spoke. A 225 mph scale in the AMG instrument panel and the AMG start-up display with exclusive AMG V12 BITURBO animation hints at the phenomenal dynamics of the SL65 AMG.
The twelve-cylinder roadster comes with an extensive list of standard equipment:
• 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
• Power trunk closer with hands-free access
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist
• LED daytime running lights
• Bi-Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination Page 8
• KEYLESS-GO
• Enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation
• MAGIC VISION CONTROL (heated)
• NECK-PRO Active Head Restraints
• Mercedes-Benz mbrace2TM
• Retractable hard top with easy pack feature
• MAGIC SKY CONTROL
• Power wind screen
• Soft-close doors
• Automatic pop-up rollover protection for driver and passenger
Even more individuality is available from the AMG Performance Studio:
• AMG Carbon Ceramic Braking System
• AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Package (transverse element in front skirt, exterior mirrors and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fiber)
• AMG Performance Media
Standard paint finishes for the new SL65 AMG in the U.S. include Black, Shadow Grey (matte finish), Dolomite Brown, Mars Red, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Pearl Beige, Diamond White and Lunar Blue.
As well as Obsidian Black, further paint finishes are available for the SL65 AMG from the designo range. Two matte paint finishes designo Magno Cashmere White and designo Magno Alanite Grey and the metallic paints designo Mocha Black and designo Graphite.
Selected to match the exterior paint choices is a fine range of interior leather upholstery options – Black Exclusive Leather, Beige/Brown Exclusive Leather, Red/Black Exclusive Leather, Porcelain/Black Exclusive Leather. Trim is available in Carbon FiberBrown Poplar Wood (satin finish), Burl Walnut Wood and Black Ash Wood.
One of the world’s safest roadsters
Thanks to its collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard PRE-SAFE® System and assistance systems on a par with the S-Class, the SL is one of the safest roadsters in the world. The stiff aluminum body-in-white forms a stable occupant cell and provides precisely defined crumple zones front and rear. In the event of a rollover, the A-pillars in a steel/aluminum material mix and two automatic pop-up rollover bars offer outstanding protection for the passenger area.
The restraint systems that include two-phase driver and passenger airbags have been further developed. Head/thorax side impact airbags in the backrests protect the upper body in the event of a side impact. The NECK-PRO Active Head Restraints designed by Mercedes-Benz also feature as standard equipment. Pedestrian protection is enhanced by large surface-area, compliant impact surfaces.