Mercedes-AMG S65 Final Edition unveiled

ABU DHABI: High-performance luxury sedans were unheard of back in the day, until Mercedes plonked a V12 in their flagship sedan. This created the S600, derived from the 3rd generation W140 S-Class. From the 4th generation onwards, these V12 powered luxury sedans wore the S65 badge and became a legend in their own right. Also, check out the SL Grand Edition that was revealed recently by the company. 

With the world heading towards smaller engines and electric power, the end is near for the Mercedes V12 luxury sedans. Enter the Mercedes-AMG S65 Final Edition model which pays homage to this dying breed of V12 powered cars, which may not exist in the next generation. Under the hood of the S65 Final Edition is a 6.0-litre V12 which pumps out 630 hp between 4,800-5,400 rpm and a massive 1,000 Nm of torque between 2,300-4,300 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 7-speed AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission. These figures are identical to the regular S65. The Final Edition model also gets the AMG driver package which increases the top speed by 50 kmph, i.e., to 300 kmph.

So, what makes the Final Edition model different over the regular S65? For starters, you get bronze multi-spoke 20-inch wheels. Also, bronze is used in various other areas to add a classy contrast touch. You also get a high-gloss obsidian black paint scheme, which is the only color available in the Final Edition model. Enter inside, and you are wrapped in luxury with the dark exterior theme continuing from the outside. The seats are draped in exclusive black Nappa leather with contrast copper topstitching. This stitching extends to the carbon-fibre trim and floor mats. Well, the pièce de résistance has to be the badge on the centre console. This bears the ‘1 of 130’ badge illuminated by a copper ambient light. Going by this, it is safe to assume that only 130 units of the S65 Final Edition model will be produced.

Even though the V12 era might be coming to an end for Mercedes, it is great to see cars like the S65 Final Edition bringing it to a close. The company says that it is aimed at “collectors of exclusive vehicles and fans of superlative 12-cylinder engines.” Mercedes even includes a bespoke car cover to protect this valuable asset.