DRIVEN: Mercedes-AMG S63 & S65 Cabriolet

Mercedes-AMG’s 63 and 65 derivatives are famous for being somewhat over-the-top powerhouses, with various examples dotted along the Stuttgart automaker’s line-up. So, what exactly do you get when you take a 430 kW+ engine and cram it into something that is essentially supposed to be an roofless luxury liner?

Making an open-top car is a challenging feat on its own, because of just how much you have to sacrifice, in terms of reduced structural rigidity, added mass and deterioration of NVH levels. This becomes even more of a problematic when you apply such a conversion to a performance car with supercar-like figures.

With that in mind, however, it is worth noting that the S-Class Cabriolet is already a superbly refined example of open-top driving, which is to be expected given its price point. Using the so-called “Aircap” function, turbulent winds struggle to find their way into the cabin (although wind noise increases noticeably). The Airscarf and Thermotronic systems, meanwhile, do a fine job of creating a satisfactory climate around the driver and passenger seats.

Much like the S500 Cabriolet, rear leg-room is limited, even for someone with as skinny a stature as mine. Luggage space is also compromised when the roof is folded; you would be lucky to squeeze in a mid-sized suitcase, so long-distance trips are not this car’s forte.

Mercedes-AMG S63 Cabriolet

The “entry-level” (for lack of a better word) AMG variant is an odd experience, but not without its merits. With 430 kW on tap, delivered to the rear wheels through the 7 MCT Speedshift transmission, it has more than enough power. But one has to ask whether this is excessive in a car that places such a focus on enjoying the open air, as a cabriolet should.

Despite possessing the AMG moniker, the S63 is not a car that goads you to drive it fast and hard; it still feels like a subtle grand tourer, but with the added benefit of straight-line speed and impressive cornering capabilities, should you need them. Despite missing a large chunk of its metal body, it is more rigid than one would expect through the bends, but it doesn’t quite inspire the sort of confidence required for “on the limit” driving.

The soundtrack is enjoyable and adds to the open-top experience. Although it is a fun machine to drive, unless you really want a folding roof, it is difficult to justify spending the extra money over its coupe sibling, which feels more dynamically inclined.

Furthermore, despite having air suspension and a comfort setting, the ride in the S63 is a little too firm for something in this class and it detracts from the experience of “cruising along the coast”. Ultimately, the S63 Cabriolet seems aimed at a niche market: those few who desire a luxury open-top with a brutal V8.

Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet

This twin-turbo 6,0-litre V12 has been used by AMG since the early 2000s, with some slight revisions being made along the way. The version in the S65 Cabriolet churns out 463 kW and 1 000 N.m of torque. Those figures are frankly astronomical, and while the car’s unhinged brutality is certainly entertaining, you again find yourself asking whether it is all a bit too much.

As with all V12 AMGs, the traction control understandably seems struggles to deliver a smooth transition of torque to the rear wheels and is thus prone to wheelspin, every time you so much as feather the throttle. With the removal of the roof, however, the S65 becomes a somewhat unsettled car in the corners. This, along with the fidgety traction delivery, makes the S65 Cabriolet more than just a handful.

In sedan form, this powertrain certainly has its appeal, thanks to the rigid body and longer wheelbase. But it feels as though it doesn’t quite belong in a cabriolet.

Interestingly, the soundtrack delivered by the V12 is not drastically different to the S63’s V8. While you can draw a clear distinction between the two of them, you’d expect the V12 to have a bit more drama.

Ultimately, although I have plenty of respect for AMG’s V12, it just feels out of place in this particular model.

Summary

The S63 and S65 can both definitely be pushed harder than the milder S500 derivative, but given the intended purpose of a cabriolet, I would have to agree with technical editor Nicol Louw’s impression and say that the S500 is the one to have. Both AMGs just feel a little too savage for an open-top cruiser and given the added premium, the S500 makes far more sense.

If you absolutely have to have an AMG badge on your open-top car, then I would say the S63 is the next best bet. The twin-turbo V8 behaves itself in most cases and offers a pleasant enough soundtrack that fits well with the open-top driving experience. Although, as mentioned before, this is an engine that seems far more appropriate in the S63 Coupe…