First Drive
Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG
Test date 09 May 2007
Price as tested £147,680
What is it?
The latest in a long line of insanely powerful Mercedes models. The CL65 uses the same engine as its predecessor: a twin-turbo 6.0-litre V12 delivering 612bhp at 4800rpm and a vast 737lb ft of torque at 2000rpm. Derived from the smaller-capacity powerplant found in the Maybach, it continues to be mated to Merc’s five-speed automatic transmission, owing to the newer seven-speed unit’s inability to cope with such outrageous twist.
What’s it like?
There are many things to like about the insanely powerful CL65 AMG – a car many will surely argue is wildly out of step with these environmentally sensitive times. However, nothing is more compelling than its ability to devour vast distances with such nonchalant ease. As a way to do this it is hugely convincing and, from behind the steering wheel at least, far more entertaining than any Airbus.
Supercar-challenging performance is coupled with the refinement to make some high-end GT rivals appear positively ragged in comparison. Despite tipping the scales at 2240kg, the CL65 AMG blasts its way to 62mph from standstill in just 4.4sec. Top speed, as ever, is an electronically limited 155mph. Which is a shame for autobahn cruising, because the CL65 is apparently geared for an unrestricted top speed of 212mph.
Whatever the case, the CL65’s overtaking ability is stunning. Floor the throttle to unleash all the torque and it romps down the road, making big distances shrink underneath its impressive-looking 20-inch alloys and open corners suddenly seem treacherously tight as you arrive at them at speeds well above what seems probable.
Dynamically, it is vastly improved over the old CL65 AMG, offering improved stability, sharper reactions and much more feel through the wheel. Push hard over challenging roads and it holds on remarkably well, but its natural environment is wide-open motorways.
Should I buy one?
If you’re the kind of person who demands the most of everything, then yes. But the most isn’t always the best, and we’d probably still say that the regular CL500 is the pick of the range.
Greg Kable
First drive data
How much?
- Price as tested £147,680
- Price as tested £149,565
How fast?
- 0-62 mph 4.4 sec
- Max speed 155 mph
How big?
How thirsty?
- Combined 19.1 mpg
- CO2 emissions 355 g/km
Engine
- Layout 12 , 5980 cc
- Max power 604 bhp at 4800 rpm
- Max torque 738 lb ft at 2000 rpm
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