The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe (C217) facelift, specifically the AMG S 65 variant produced from 2017 to June 2019, represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the C217 coupe range. Positioned as the flagship model, it offered a substantial step up in power and exclusivity compared to the S 560 and other variants. This two-door, four-seater coupe was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a grand touring experience with uncompromising performance and the prestige associated with the AMG brand. The C217 generation itself was a significant departure from the previous CL-Class, adopting the S-Class nomenclature to align it more closely with the sedan and long-wheelbase models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Class |
| Generation | S-Class Coupe (C217, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | AMG S 65 (630 Hp) G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | June, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.1 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.5 UK mpg, 5.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 279 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.3 kg/Hp, 298.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.1 kg/Nm, 473.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 630 Hp @ 4800-5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1000 Nm @ 2300-4300 rpm (737.56 lb.-ft. @ 2300-4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 279.980 |
| Engine displacement | 5980 cm3 (364.92 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2585 kg (5698.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5051 mm (198.86 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2108 mm (82.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2945 mm (115.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.60 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/40 ZR20; 285/35 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the AMG S 65 is the M279.980 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. This engine is a marvel of engineering, featuring direct fuel injection, a compression ratio of 9:1, and four valves per cylinder. The use of two turbochargers, along with intercooling, allows for a massive output of 630 horsepower and an astonishing 1000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) of torque. This torque is available across a broad rev range, from 2300 to 4300 rpm, providing effortless acceleration in any gear. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle. The G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned for the high output of the V12, provides smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission features a torque converter and is designed to handle the immense power and torque produced by the engine.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG S 65 delivers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. The immense torque allows for incredibly swift acceleration, with 0-60 mph times consistently around 3.9 seconds. The G-TRONIC transmission is programmed for comfort and efficiency in normal driving conditions, but can be quickly shifted into sport mode for more aggressive gear changes and a more engaging driving experience. Compared to the S 560, which utilized a smaller V8 engine, the S 65 offered a significantly more powerful and responsive driving experience. While the S 560 prioritized comfort and fuel efficiency, the S 65 was focused on delivering uncompromising performance. The weight distribution, combined with the advanced suspension system, contributes to excellent handling and stability, even at high speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG S 65 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. The interior was typically adorned with premium leather upholstery, often with quilted stitching and AMG-specific badging. Standard features included heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, a premium Burmester surround sound system, a large infotainment display with navigation, and a host of advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included carbon fiber trim, exclusive paint colors, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The overall interior design emphasized luxury and sophistication, with a focus on high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
Chassis & Braking
The S 65 featured an advanced chassis with an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension system was specifically tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. The car was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system also included ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and other electronic stability control systems. The steering was a rack and pinion system with electric power steering, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG S 65 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to other high-performance coupes, such as the Bentley Continental GT, the S 65 offered a more technologically advanced and aggressively styled package. The S 65’s fuel economy, while not its strong suit, was comparable to other V12-powered luxury coupes. Reliability was generally good, although the complexity of the engine and transmission meant that maintenance costs could be substantial.
Legacy
The M279 V12 engine, while complex, has proven to be a relatively robust powerplant when properly maintained. The AMG S 65 (C217) is now considered a desirable modern classic, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its combination of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. On the used car market, these vehicles command a premium price, reflecting their limited production numbers and high level of equipment. The C217 S 65 represents a high point in the development of the V12 engine and a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to engineering excellence.
