2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG: When Too Much Isn’t Enough

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG. Image: Mercedes-Benz

If you want to go fast in a topless Mercedes-Benz today, your best current option is the 2012 SL63 AMG. The roadster packs a 6.2-liter V-8 good for some 518 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, which makes for an entertaining ride by almost anyone’s definition. What’s not to like about a 0-60 mph time of under 4.7 seconds?

For some, though, the SL63 is too sedate and too common. If a V-8 is good, wouldn’t a force-fed V-12 be better? If 518 horsepower is entertaining, wouldn’t 621 horsepower be even better? Who has the time to wait nearly five seconds to run from 0-60 mph when you can have a car capable of the sprint in just 3.9 seconds?

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG. Image: Mercedes-Benz

If you fall into this category, and if the cost of a car is of no concern, then Mercedes-Benz has a ride for you. Although it won’t make its official debut until next month’s New York Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz has leaked images of the new SL65 ahead of time, and it looks to be an impressive roadster.

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG. Image: Mercedes-Benz

First and foremost is the biturbo, 6.0-liter V-12 engine, good for the previously mentioned 621 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. Despite the SL65’s hefty curb weight of 4,299 pounds (which is still some 254 pounds lighter than the model it replaces), the ragtop will run sub-four-seconds times to 60 mph, on its way to a top speed of 186 mph. Shifting is handled by an AMG SpeedShift Plus 7-Speed transmission, which is likely the only gearbox in Mercedes’ inventory capable of handling the SL65’s earth-moving torque.

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG. Image: Mercedes-Benz

Inside, “best of everything” is the easiest way to sum up the SL65’s features. AMG sport seats come in one or two-tone leather, stitched in an exclusive diamond pattern. The “Airscarf” feature blows warm air on the back of your neck, ensuring a broader range of topless comfort. The retractable hardtop comes with “Magic Sky Control,” allowing drivers to set the amount of light coming through the roof at the press of a button, enjoying a view of the sky even in the middle of winter.

The SL65 will hit U.S. Mercedes dealers in November, at a starting price that’s yet to be announced. Given that the entry-level SL550 is priced from $106,375, we’d expect the range topping SL65 AMG to come close to the $200k price point.