2008 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG UK Version

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” Mercedes-Benz 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.

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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz 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‑SAFE 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 Mercedes-Benz 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.