The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet, produced for the 2016 and 2017 model years, represents the pinnacle of open-top luxury from the German automaker. Positioned as the most exclusive variant of the W222 S-Class Cabriolet, it combined the opulent appointments of the Maybach sub-brand with a formidable 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. This ultra-luxury convertible was a limited-production model, aimed at discerning customers seeking a unique and exceptionally refined driving experience. It sat at the very top of the S-Class Cabriolet range, exceeding even the S 550 and S 63 AMG models in terms of price and exclusivity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | Maybach S-class Cabriolet |
| Type (Engine) | S 650 V12 (630 Hp) G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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 | 3.7 kg/Hp, 273.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.3 kg/Nm, 434.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 630 Hp |
| Power per litre | 105.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1000 Nm (737.56 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 279 E 60 AL |
| 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 | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5027 mm (197.91 in.) |
| Width | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| 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 R20; 285/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S 650 Cabriolet is the M279 E 60 AL 6.0-liter V12 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with two turbochargers, resulting in a substantial 630 horsepower and 737.56 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine’s architecture features a 9:1 compression ratio and four valves per cylinder. The G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission, a sophisticated unit known for its smooth and responsive shifts, is the sole transmission option. This transmission is specifically tuned to handle the immense power output of the V12, providing seamless acceleration. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The S 650 Cabriolet delivers a driving experience characterized by effortless power and refined comfort. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 3.9 seconds, a remarkable feat for a vehicle of its size and weight (over 5,000 lbs). The G-TRONIC transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and cruising, providing ample torque in any situation. Compared to the S 63 Cabriolet, which features a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8, the S 650 offers a more relaxed and refined power delivery, prioritizing smoothness over outright aggression. While the S 63 might feel more engaging for spirited driving, the S 650 excels in providing a serene and luxurious grand touring experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As a Maybach model, the S 650 Cabriolet came standard with an extensive list of luxury features. These included premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, a Burmester high-end surround sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The interior was adorned with exquisite wood trim and polished metal accents. Exterior features included unique Maybach badging, a distinctive grille, and 20-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras included a head-up display, a night vision system, and a variety of bespoke customization options through the Maybach Exclusive program, allowing customers to personalize their vehicle to an exceptional degree.
Chassis & Braking
The S 650 Cabriolet utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is electronically controlled, adapting to road conditions and driving style. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. Given the vehicle’s weight, the braking system is crucial for maintaining confident control. The steering system employs an electric power steering rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet was widely praised by automotive critics for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and refined driving experience. However, its high price tag (over $300,000 when new) limited its appeal to a very small segment of the market. Compared to other high-end convertibles, such as the Rolls-Royce Dawn, the S 650 offered a more technologically advanced and performance-oriented experience, while the Rolls-Royce focused more on ultimate luxury and exclusivity. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was relatively poor, typical for a large-displacement V12 engine.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet represents a unique and highly desirable chapter in the history of the S-Class. Its limited production run and exceptional features have made it a sought-after collectible in the used car market. The M279 V12 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. However, maintenance costs are substantial, reflecting the vehicle’s high-end status and intricate engineering. Today, the S 650 Cabriolet stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury, performance, and exclusivity, and a reminder of a time when automakers pushed the boundaries of automotive opulence.
