Air and graces: Merc reveals the 621bhp S65 AMG Cabriolet

Mercedes likes its V12s. It offers many of its Big Cars with them: cars like the S65 Saloon, SL65 Roadster, G65 and S65 Coupe. Now meet the newest member of Merc’s 12-cylinder family: the 6.0 litre S65 AMG Cabriolet.

Yep, a four-seat, convertible version of Merc’s delightful S65 Coupe, with 621 horses and more torque than you will ever require in this or any other life. There is 737lb ft of it, available from 2,300rpm.

That AMG engine, hand-built by a single technician don’t forget, features a pair of turbochargers and juicy stuff like an aluminium crankcase and a forged steel crankshaft. It’s mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox with many modes, powering the rear wheels.

As such, the S65 Cab will achieve some startling acceleration figures. 0-62mph takes just 4.1 seconds, and it’ll top out at a limited 155mph. Tick the AMG Driver’s pack, and this top speed rises to 186mph. Which is still limited. Let it off the leash, and you’d probably end up going very, very quickly.

There’s AMG-specific sports air suspension, forged alloys, and the option of composite brakes measuring in at 420mm x 40mm up front, and 360mm x 32mm at the back. Oh, and that multi-layered acoustic roof mirrors the coupe in silhouette when up, and can be opened and closed automatically in just 17 seconds, and at speeds of up to 31mph. Roof down? Gorgeous.

Thanks to a mix of aluminium and magnesium in the body panels, the weight of the S65 Cab matches the S65 Coupe – still over two tonnes – while inside, it’s all leather-lined opulence and tech. Sport seats, heated everything (including the armrests), Merc’s ‘airscarf’, a head-up display, lots of drive assistance, and a Burmeister 3D stereo.

Prices have yet to be confirmed, but for reference, the S65 Coupe weighs in at £183k. This will likely be more expensive. You'll be able to order one from April next year, with first deliveries the month after. Worth it? Or would you rather have a Bentley Conti GT?