Two special events make 2007 a particularly significant year for Mercedes-AMG: the arrival of a new top model – the CL 65 AMG high-performance coupé with its 450 kW/612 hp V12 engine – which rounds off the unique AMG range and which also, in "40th Anniversary" limited edition guise, marks a special anniversary: the high-performance brand of the Mercedes Car Group (MCG) celebrates its 40th birthday in 2007.
Another dream car has joined the AMG model range in the form of the new CL 65 AMG. The powerful AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine familiar from the S 65 AMG and SL 65 AMG twelve-cylinder models delivers a truly impressive driving experience in the exclusive high-performance coupé. Its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp and maximum torque of 1000 Newton metres are reflected in its outstanding performance data: the CL 65 AMG attains 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reaches the 200-km/h mark in 13.3 seconds. Its maximum speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).
Standard features include AMG bodystyling, 20-inch AMG forged wheels, the unique AMG interior and highly advanced technology, such as AMG sports suspension, based on the Active Body Control system, and the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®. The AMG high-performance brake system with new double-frame sliding callipers offers maximum deceleration without fading.
"40th Anniversary" edition with AMG Alubeam paint finish
In order to mark the 40th anniversary of Mercedes-AMG – the high-performance brand of the Mercedes Car Group – in suitably glittering style, the CL 65 AMG is also being offered as a "40th Anniversary" limited edition model. A new type of paint finish reflects the special status of this exclusive version, which is restricted to just 40 vehicles for the whole world. This exceptional AMG coupé is the very first series-production Mercedes to feature AMG Alubeam, a unique paint finish which has previously only been seen on a handful of Mercedes show cars.
A world first, this new process causes the paint to gleam like liquid metal. The colour, which seems to be stretched over the vehicle body like a metallic skin, emphasises the compelling lines of the large Mercedes coupé more effectively than any other paint finish while the light plays on them in a way calculated to make them even more vivid. This is made possible by the use of pigment particles which measure just 30 to 50 nanometres and are therefore able to be incorporated in the surface of the paint much more evenly. As a result, the light is reflected much more intensively and the lustre of the paintwork is enhanced. To put this into perspective, conventional paintwork pigments measure between 100 and 300 nanometres.
This fine pigment structure calls for a perfect body surface which the Mercedes experts achieve by means of an elaborate preparatory process before the actual painting stage. It goes without saying that AMG Alubeam also has a clear coat with enhanced scratch resistance which offers greater protection from environmental influences. The exclusiveness of this limited-edition model is highlighted by the use of carbon for the rear apron's diffuser.
Superb interior ambience with special appointments
The superbly styled interior also makes an impressive statement: the CL 65 AMG "40th Anniversary" features two-tone EXCLUSIVE PASSION all-nappa-leather upholstery with a diamond pattern, a colour-coordinated Alcantara roof lining and embossed V12 logos on the front head restraints. The airbag unit of the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel is also finished in nappa leather. High-quality trim elements made from genuine carbon add a decidedly sporty touch. The "40th Anniversary" lettering on the centre console confirms the exceptional character of the new coupé and at the same time serves as a reminder of the incomparable history of AMG. Further evidence of the car's highly exclusive status is provided by the "ONE OUT OF 40" badge on the handrest of the COMAND controller.
Designed by the specialists of the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO, which was set up in 2006, the "40th Anniversary" CL 65 AMG belongs to the exclusive "Editions" category of vehicles whose distinctive look and feel differentiate them from the series-production models and give them their special appeal.
AMG V12 biturbo engine: dynamic performance at the highest level
The highest level of performance is guaranteed by the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine with its displacement of 5980 cc: its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp is maintained between 4800 and 5100 rpm while the maximum torque of 1000 Newton metres (electronically limited) is available from 2000 to 4000 rpm. These impressive engine data are the key to exceptional performance and superbly assured driving dynamics. But the powerful AMG twelve-cylinder unit is also in its element when cruising effortlessly in high gear. Its superbly responsive character is as impressive as its smooth, low-vibration running qualities which guarantee the high level of touring comfort typically associated with Mercedes.
Key Data for the Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG at a Glance
- Cylinder arrangement / valves per cylinder - V12/3
- Displacement - 5,980 cc
- Bore x stroke - 82.6 x 93.0 mm
- Compression ratio - 9.0 : 1
- Output - 612 hp (450 kW) @ 4,800-5,100 rpm
- Max. torque - 1000 Nm @ 2,000-4,000 rpm
- Acceleration 0-100 km/h - 4.4 s
- Top speed - 250 km/h
The twelve-cylinder biturbo engine of the CL 65 AMG features the very latest technology from the world of motorsport. Highly resilient components and materials guarantee consistently high power and torque levels, even at extreme operating temperatures. A case in point is the charge-air cooling system which uses an air/water heat exchanger and a particularly large low-temperature radiator at the front of the vehicle. The maximum charge pressure is 1.3 bar. The characteristic AMG twelve-cylinder sound is ensured by the AMG sports exhaust system with two twin chromed AMG V12-design tailpipes. Catalytic converters with tri-metallic coating provide a faster response from a cold start, more efficient exhaust-gas aftertreatment and a longer service life. The CL 65 AMG complies with the EU 4 emissions standard as well as specific requirements of the US market.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel gearshift paddles
The drive power of the new CL 65 AMG is transmitted to the wheels by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission with AMG steering-wheel gearshift paddles and DIRECT SELECT gearshift. An "S/C/M" mode button in the centre console allows the driver to choose between the "Sport", "Comfort" and "Manual" driving programmes. As well as changing the transmission characteristics, these modify the accelerator response and the spring/damper settings of the AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control. Gears can also be shifted manually at any time by means of the silver-coloured aluminium shift paddles on the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel.
AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control
The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control reduces almost all of the body movements that occur when moving off, cornering and braking. The CL 65 AMG negotiates bends of every type with a greatly reduced roll angle while body roll during fast avoiding manoeuvres is effectively suppressed. In this way, the AMG V12 coupé not only opens up new dimensions of dynamic handling, but also offers noticeably enhanced comfort.
AMG high-performance brake system with innovative twin sliding callipers
The polished 20-inch AMG twin-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey also contribute to the superb roadholding of the CL 65 AMG. At the front, the 8.5-inch-wide wheels are fitted with 255/35 ZR 20 tyres, while 275/35 ZR 20 tyres equip the 9.5-inch-wide wheels at the rear. With their filigree spokes, they offer tantalising views of a brake system, the like of which is not to be found in any other manufacturer's products. The system in question is the AMG high-performance brake system which sets new standards for stopping power, sensitivity and resistance to fading. In keeping with the innovative approach typical of AMG, the front brakes of the CL 65 AMG are equipped with twin sliding callipers. A world first, this new technology combines the advantages of a floating-calliper brake – lower heat transfer to the brake fluid and significantly enhanced comfort as a result of the way the brake pads are located – with the performance of a large fixed-calliper brake.
At the rear, braking is handled by a large frame-type sliding calliper. Composite blind-drilled brake discs at the front and rear with respective diameters of 390 and 365 millimetres ensure the shortest stopping distances, excellent resistance to fading and outstanding sensitivity. Based on the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system, the electronically controlled dual-circuit hydraulic brake system supports numerous driver assistance functions – such as the PRE SAFE® Brake system, Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS – for even greater safety and comfort.
AMG bodystyling: powerful and elegant design idiom
The advanced technology of the CL 65 AMG is complemented perfectly by the vehicle's powerful, elegant and dynamic design idiom. The AMG bodystyling and the self-assured lines of the large Mercedes coupé make a superbly cohesive formal statement. Large air intakes, side air outlets and round foglamps with chrome surrounds dominate the front, as do the special AMG radiator grille with two horizontal chrome louvres and the darkened bi-xenon headlamps. Distinctive side skirts and "V12 BITURBO" lettering enhance the sides while the two twin chromed AMG V12-design tailpipes and the muscular rear apron with its black diffusor insert make the rear of the vehicle particularly eye-catching.
Interior: dynamic style and the finest materials
Inside, too, the V12 top model impresses with its dynamic style and its use of the finest materials: the AMG sports seats have a special upholstery pattern as well as both multicontour and massage functionality; the EXCLUSIVE PASSION all-nappa-leather upholstery has a new AMG V12-diamond pattern. All four seats feature metal AMG badges. The AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel has a specially sculpted rim and silver-coloured AMG aluminium gearshift paddles. Integrated in the AMG instrument cluster (which is calibrated up to 360 km/h), the AMG main menu shows the currently selected gear and recommends when to shift up to the next gear. It also allows the driver to choose between viewing the engine oil temperature or the battery voltage as well as the "RACETIMER". Using the latter, the driver can measure lap times – when driving on a private race circuit, for example. A particularly notable highlight of the interior is the IWC-design analogue clock. Fine poplar wood trim elements as well as AMG door sills and the AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel complete the picture.
Source: Mercedes-Benz