The Mercedes-Benz CL 600 V12 (C140) represents the pinnacle of luxury grand touring offered by Mercedes-Benz during its 1996-1998 production run. Part of the second generation CL-Class (C140), this flagship coupe was designed to offer unparalleled comfort, performance, and technological sophistication. Positioned as the range-topping model, the CL 600 V12 catered to buyers seeking the ultimate in automotive luxury and exclusivity. It served as a statement vehicle, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess and commitment to high-end craftsmanship.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CL |
| Generation | CL (C140) |
| Type (Engine) | CL 600 V12 (394 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 24.5 l/100 km (9.6 US mpg, 11.5 UK mpg, 4.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 16.9 l/100 km (13.9 US mpg, 16.7 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 175.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 254.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 394 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 570 Nm @ 3800 rpm (420.41 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 120.982 |
| Engine displacement | 5987 cm3 (365.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.2 mm (3.16 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 20 l (21.13 US qt | 17.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2720 kg (5996.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 5065 mm (199.41 in.) |
| Width | 1912 mm (75.28 in.) |
| Height | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2945 mm (115.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.91 m (39.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The C140 CL-Class, produced from 1992 to 1998, represented a significant leap forward in Mercedes-Benz coupe design and technology. The CL 600 V12, introduced in 1996, was the ultimate expression of this ambition. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with the S-Class (W140), the CL 600 V12 offered a more sporting and dynamic driving experience while retaining the luxurious appointments expected of a flagship Mercedes-Benz. It was a direct competitor to grand tourers like the BMW 8 Series and the Porsche 928, aiming to provide a blend of performance, comfort, and prestige.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CL 600 V12 is the M120.982 6.0-liter V12 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant is a marvel of engineering, featuring a 60-degree V-angle, all-aluminum construction, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) per cylinder bank. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering precise fuel metering for optimal performance and efficiency. The V12 produces 394 horsepower at 5200 rpm and a substantial 420 lb-ft of torque at 3800 rpm. Paired with this engine is a 5-speed automatic transmission, specifically designed to handle the V12’s immense power and torque. This transmission featured adaptive shift logic, adjusting shift points based on driving style and conditions. The transmission was known for its smooth operation, but wasn’t particularly quick shifting by modern standards.
Driving Characteristics
The CL 600 V12 delivers a driving experience characterized by effortless power and refined comfort. While not a sports car in the traditional sense, the V12 engine provides ample acceleration, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.3 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, prioritizes comfort over aggressive shifting. The gear ratios are tuned for relaxed cruising, making long-distance journeys a pleasure. Compared to the CL 500 or CL 420 models, the V12 offers a significant performance advantage, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The added weight of the V12 engine does slightly impact handling agility compared to its six-cylinder siblings.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CL 600 V12 came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Leather upholstery was standard, along with wood trim, power-adjustable heated seats with memory function, and a premium sound system. Climate control, power windows, and a sunroof were also included as standard equipment. Optional extras included rear seat entertainment, upgraded leather options, and various cosmetic enhancements. The interior was designed to create a cocoon of luxury, with meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The C140 CL-Class featured a robust chassis with double wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The CL 600 V12 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control. Hydraulic power steering provided precise and responsive steering feel. The suspension was tuned to prioritize ride comfort, but the CL 600 V12 did benefit from a slightly stiffer setup compared to the lower-spec models to manage the increased weight.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CL 600 V12 was widely praised by automotive critics for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and refined driving experience. However, its high price tag and substantial fuel consumption limited its appeal to a relatively small segment of the market. Compared to the CL 500, the V12 offered significantly more performance but came with a considerable price premium and higher running costs. The CL 600 V12 was often seen as a status symbol, appealing to buyers who wanted the best that Mercedes-Benz had to offer. Fuel economy was a common criticism, with combined figures averaging around 13.9 US mpg.
Legacy
The M120 V12 engine is considered a landmark achievement in Mercedes-Benz engineering, renowned for its smoothness, durability, and distinctive sound. While the CL 600 V12 is now a relatively rare classic car, it remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The powertrain, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity. However, maintenance can be expensive due to the complexity of the V12 engine and the age of the vehicle. Today, the CL 600 V12 represents a unique blend of old-world luxury and high-performance engineering, offering a driving experience that is both refined and exhilarating. Finding well-maintained examples is becoming increasingly difficult, but those that remain offer a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excess and sophistication.
