New York Preview: Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG

While most everything in the MB AMG stable (including the CL63 AMG) is getting or has already gotten AMG's monster 6.2L 500+ horsepower all-motor V8 crammed underhood, the big CL-class coupe is the beneficiary of a second AMG upgrade. The CL65 AMG, arriving fall '07, receives the 6.0L biturbo V12 thrust carnival found in it's S-Class AMG cousin. This is a perfectly good thing, as the powerplant is good for 612 horses and a tire liquefying 738 lb-ft of torque. 62 miles per hour arrives in 4.4 seconds -- no small feat, given the CL's 4,900-lb curb weight. Those kind of numbers are usually reserved for aftermarket tuning houses whose upgraded machinery costs a lot more than the factory AMG cars.
The CL65 AMG debut coincides with AMG's 40th anniversary, and, as such, a special (and very limited) edition is available. Only forty CL65 "40th Anniversary" cars will be built, and each one is finished in liquid-metallic-looking Alubeam paint, which has previously appeared on Mercedes-Benz show cars only. Inside, diamond-patterned quilted leather, an Alcantara headliner, and edition-specific trim such as embossed "V12" headrest logos and carbon fiber accents round out the package. The rest of the car features everything you expect from AMG, including the tasteful aero kit and big split-spoke wheels. If you can't afford an SLR (not many can), this big coupe may well be the next best thing you can drive out of a Mercedes dealership.
Press release after the jump.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]
Gallery: 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG
PRESS RELEASE:
CL65 AMG: THE NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE COUPE
Also Available as "40th Anniversary" Limited Edition Model
Two special events make 2007 a particularly significant year for Mercedes-AMG: the arrival of a new top model – the CL65 AMG high-performance coupe 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 CL65 AMG. The powerful AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine familiar from the S65 AMG and SL65 AMG twelve-cylinder models delivers a truly impressive driving experience in the exclusive high-performance coupe. Its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp and maximum torque of 1000 Newton meters are reflected in its outstanding performance data: the CL65 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 body styling, 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 calipers offers maximum deceleration without fading: under emergency braking from 100 km/h at the permissible gross vehicle weight, the CL65 AMG comes to a standstill in 35.6 meters; this represents a maximum deceleration of 11.1 m/s2.
"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 CL65 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 coupe 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 color, which seems to be stretched over the vehicle body like a metallic skin, emphasizes the compelling lines of the large Mercedes coupe 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 nanometers 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 luster of the paintwork is enhanced. To put this into perspective, conventional paintwork pigments measure between 100 and 300 nanometers.
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.
Superb Interior Ambience with Special Appointments
The superbly styled interior also makes an impressive statement: the CL65 AMG "40th Anniversary" features two-tone EXCLUSIVE PASSION all-Nappa-leather upholstery with a diamond pattern, a color-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 center console confirms the exceptional character of the new coupe 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 hand rest of the COMAND controller.
Designed by the specialists of the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO, which was set up in 2006, the "40th Anniversary" CL65 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.
V12 Biturbo Engine: Dynamic Performance at the Highest Level
The highest level of performance is guaranteed by the AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine with its displacement of 5,980 cc: its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp is maintained between 4800 and 5100 rpm while the maximum torque of 1000 Newton meters (electronically limited) is available from 2,000 to 4,000 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.
The twelve-cylinder biturbo engine of the CL65 AMG features the very latest technology from the world of motorsports. 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 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 CL65 AMG complies with the EU 4 emissions standard as well as specific requirements of the US market.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-Speed Auto with Steering-Wheel Shift Paddles
The drive power of the new CL65 AMG is transmitted to the wheels by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT five-speed automatic transmission with AMG steering-wheel gearshift paddles and DIRECT SELECT gearshift. An "S/C/M" mode button in the center console allows the driver to choose between the "Sport", "Comfort" and "Manual" driving programs. 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-colored aluminum shift paddles on the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel.
AMG Sport 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 CL65 AMG negotiates bends of every type with a greatly reduced roll angle while body roll during fast avoiding maneuvers is effectively suppressed. In this way, the AMG V12 coupe not only opens up new dimensions of dynamic handling, but also offers noticeably enhanced comfort.
AMG High-Performance Brakes with Innovative Twin Sliding Calipers
The polished 20-inch AMG twin-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey also contribute to the superb roadholding of the CL65 AMG. At the front, the 8.5-inch-wide wheels are fitted with 255/35 ZR 20 tires, while 275/35 ZR 20 tires equip the 9.5-inch-wide wheels at the rear. With their filigree spokes, they offer tantalizing 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 CL65 AMG are equipped with twin sliding calipers. A world first, this new technology combines the advantages of a floating-caliper 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-caliper brake.
At the rear, braking is handled by a large frame-type sliding caliper. Composite blind-drilled brake discs at the front and rear with respective diameters of 390 and 365 millimeters ensure the shortest stopping distances, excellent resistance to fading and outstanding sensitivity. Under emergency braking from 100 km/h at the permissible gross vehicle weight, the CL65 AMG comes to a standstill in 35.6 meters; this represents a maximum deceleration of 11.1 m/s2. Based on the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system, the electronically controlled dual-circuit hydraulic brake system supports numerous driver assistance functions – such as the PRE‑SAFEâ Brake system, Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS – for even greater safety and comfort.
AMG Body Styling: Powerful and Elegant Design
The advanced technology of the CL65 AMG is complemented perfectly by the vehicle's powerful, elegant and dynamic design idiom. The AMG body styling and the self-assured lines of the large Mercedes coupe make a superbly cohesive formal statement. Large air intakes, side air outlets and round fog lamps with chrome surrounds dominate the front, as do the special AMG radiator grille with two horizontal chrome louvers and the darkened bi-xenon headlamps. Distinctive side skirts and "V12 BITURBO" lettering enhance the sides while the two twin chromed V12-design tailpipes and the muscular rear apron with its black diffuser 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 Nappa leather upholstery has a new diamond pattern. All four seats feature metal AMG badges. The AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel has a specially sculpted rim and silver-colored AMG aluminum gearshift paddles. Integrated in the AMG instrument cluster (which is calibrated up to 360 km/h and features "V12 BITURBO" lettering), 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.












Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
farmboy 8:12PM (1/09/2009)
The devil's daily driver
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Evotec 12:39PM (3/29/2007)
very nice...
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rem83 12:41PM (3/29/2007)
Are you sure 5800 lbs isn't its GVWR? Regardless, that's still one heavy car.
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Alex Nunez 12:47PM (3/29/2007)
#2 rem, you're correct. Post now reflects the curb weight of 4,900 lbs. Still, she's no dainty thing.
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Ben 12:48PM (3/29/2007)
One, please.
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bmw122487 1:00PM (3/29/2007)
I am salivating over the thought of this car with a renntech kit and a lamborghini in the rear view mirror.
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Ken 2:29PM (3/29/2007)
I want to buy that car and go on a long road trip!
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Mike 2:01PM (3/29/2007)
"...the 6.0L biturbo V12...good for 612 horses and a tire liquefying 738 lb-ft of torque."
OMFG?!?!?!??!
It's so sad to know that here in the Northeast the only people who will wind up driving this beast are nearly-elderly lawyers/executives and their wives, neither of whom know how to drive AT ALL nevermind how to drive this car. :-(
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cdiddy67 2:05PM (3/29/2007)
think I'll get a good trade-in offer on my pontiac g6 for one of these...and i'm sure they'll be offering all kinds of incentives to help move these cars off the lot, lol...
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Abdulrehman 2:30PM (3/29/2007)
is this the mystery car ?
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Michael 3:27PM (3/29/2007)
Dear Santa .......
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DPC car videos 3:09PM (3/29/2007)
I saw the Mercedes CL63 at the LA Auto show which looks identical to the CL65 in the picture. The only thing different is the wheels. In person this car looks awesome, defenatly one of the best looking cars in the entire show.
http://www.dpccars.com
DPCcars
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Namir 3:13PM (3/29/2007)
"Dynamic handling"
"250 kmh"
"0-100kmh in 4.4 seconds"
And all you people are salivating?!? This car is complete garbage.
The engine had to be detuned because the car would just seize up because the torque was too much for the traction control... And even with the adjustments you can't floor it because you'll see wheelspin for days and by that time you could have walked across the finish line.
180 thousand dollars to go 155 mph?!? You must be joking...
5 speed AUTOMATIC gear box.... rubbish
Dynamic handling?!? The CL is a boat and the AMG suspension won't be able to control the oversteer from all that torque so you will end up going around corners slower than a soccer mom in a mini-van.
That said... it looks loads better than the last gen.
But for that price I'd take a Gallardo, F430, or the 997 GT2 when it comes out.
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dave 5:38PM (3/29/2007)
3 Megamillion tickets please, cash-out option.
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Arun 7:34PM (3/29/2007)
#11:
Namir, I think you're missing the point of this car. This is a GT car (grand touring) meaning its supposed to have a 400+ Watt stereo, leather upholstery, more cupholders than occupants, navigation that rivals those of corporate business jets, etc. Also, MB doesn't make a manual transmission besides its overseas 4-bangers, and the V6 powered SLK. Period.
The cars you named are all hardcore, track ready (with some niceties) 2-door coupes with no back seat - 911 has a backseat that only pets, children, and contortionists fit in. Hell, the GT2 IS a track car (its the upped, track ready, less "controlled"- no stability management, RWD not AWD - version of the 997 Turbo).
This car is supposed to compete against the Vantage, Continental GT, M6 (the M6 is smaller though... and I think the 8-series, if it comes, won't have a backseat... so maybe no Bimmer competition), 612 Scaglietti - type cars. In the case of Porsche, it will compete against the upcoming 928 (which might be more sporty and less GT-ish still) rather than the 911. If you think about it even the 599 Fiorana is a GT car... it's more expensive than an F430, but it can't compete with it.
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Arun 7:36PM (3/29/2007)
*edit*
GT more accurately refers to "Grand Tourer". GT means "Grand Touring" in racing divisions: i.e. JGTC
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Namir 10:50PM (3/29/2007)
Arun, those are very valid points, I guess it's hard for me to see why anyone would spend 180k on that car because lets face it, I would much rather spend that money on real performance. As far as GT's go, I do think that the Vantage has a classy yet sporty James Bond appeal, and would be more fun.
The Continental GT seems like a better choice for the luxury seekers.
The M6 has the performance as well as a pretty nice interior.
599 GTB is in a different class, it isn't a 2+2, but I wouldn't even compare the two, the Fiorano is out of it's league.
I don't mean to CL bash, I think it is a stunning design, the engine numbers look impressive on paper.. but if it came down to spending that kind of money I just don't see what this car has to offer.
They could have at least thrown in a flappy paddle or a slick 7 speed auto. 5spd Auto sounds so dated. And Ferrari Aston & BM aren't slacking.....Bently however at least offers a 6 speed auto with pretend paddle shifters, but makes up for it with 16 inch rotors.
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chad.dawkins 1:46AM (3/30/2007)
The car is electronically limited to 155. It can go much faster. As far as the tranny goes. It has "only" a 5 speed auto(Merc doesn't put manuals on anything) because it would blow up the 7 speed auto they have. Remember it has 738 ft/lbs of torque. It is a beast of an engine. This car is a bahn burner. It's meant to go really fast in a straight line. Now I wanna see what Brabus can do to it.
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Abdulrehman 3:42AM (3/30/2007)
can someone please tell me that is this the mystery amg model ?
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Michael 3:56AM (3/30/2007)
#10 is right. I also saw the CL63 AMG. So does that mean there will be two different AMG models for the CL class?
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