Mercedes-AMG stormed into the 2013 roadster season with the formidable Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Convertible. Making its grand entrance at the 2012 New York Auto Show, this powerhouse of performance and luxury was poised to redefine open-top driving. Set to arrive in US dealerships in November of 2012, the MY2013 SL65 AMG V12 Roadster was not just an evolution; it was a revolution, boasting a potent AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine churning out a staggering 621 horsepower and a colossal 738 lb-ft of torque. Beyond raw power, intelligent engineering was at play. An all-aluminum body-in-white contributed to a remarkable weight reduction, making the MY13 SL65 AMG an astonishing 254 pounds lighter than its predecessor. Visually striking, the redesigned front end commanded attention with its new “twin-blade” grille, featuring distinctive blade-shaped fins and a high-gloss chrome lower horizontal bar, signaling a new era for AMG roadsters.
This V12 marvel joined the esteemed SL roadster family alongside the SL550 and SL63 AMG, each offering a unique blend of performance and luxury. While the SL550, with a starting price of $106,375, debuted in May, and the SL63 AMG followed in July, the SL65 AMG was positioned as the ultimate expression of open-top performance.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH at the time, perfectly encapsulated the essence of this machine: “The combination of exclusive V12 dynamics and cultivated roadster pleasure was already unique in the previous model. We are certain that, with the new SL65 AMG, we have developed a stunning high-performance automobile beyond compare for a small, but loyal fan base.” This statement highlighted not only the car’s exclusivity but also its dedication to delivering an unmatched driving experience.
The pursuit of driving pleasure didn’t come at the expense of efficiency. The SL65 AMG incorporated intelligent lightweight design principles throughout its bodyshell, significantly contributing to reduced fuel consumption. This efficiency was further enhanced by the advanced AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission, the ECO stop/start function, and optimized engine and alternator management. Remarkably, despite these fuel-saving measures, the AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine saw a power increase from 604 hp to 621 hp, while maintaining its earth-shattering 738 lb-ft of torque.
This unparalleled power translated into breathtaking performance figures. The new SL65 AMG could launch from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds, and reach an electronically limited top speed of 186 mph in the US market. The heart of the SL65 AMG experience lay in its explosive acceleration, seamless power delivery, and the unmistakable, soul-stirring AMG V12 soundtrack. It was a roadster designed to captivate, offering refined and stylish performance that ignited the senses.
| SL65 AMG | |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,980 cm3 |
| Bore x stroke | 3.25 x 3.66 inches |
| Compression ratio | 9.0 : 1 |
| Power | 621 hp @ 4,800 r/min |
| Max. torque | 738 lb-ft @ 2,300-4,300 r/min* |
| Vehicle weight | 4,299 pounds |
| Fuel economy | TBD |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 3.9 s |
| Top speed | 186 mph* |
* electronically limited.
The Potent Heart: AMG 6.0-liter V12 Biturbo Engine
At the core of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Convertible resided the meticulously engineered AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine, designated as M 279. While building upon the foundation of its predecessor, the M 275 unit, this engine underwent substantial enhancements specifically tailored for the new SL65 AMG. The AMG engineers focused on boosting power and efficiency, integrating new turbochargers with enlarged spiral cross-sections, redesigned manifolds, and airflow-optimized wastegate channels. These refinements alone contributed to a significant 17 horsepower increase.
Further enhancing the engine’s performance and refinement was the advanced multi-spark ignition system, featuring twelve twin ignition coils. This system not only ensured smoother engine operation but also worked in concert with a new, more powerful engine management system and optimized cylinder heads to achieve more complete and efficient combustion. The result was not only increased power but also a reduction in exhaust emissions, further aided by an enhanced catalytic converter system.
Complementing the engine’s internal upgrades was a re-engineered AMG sport exhaust system. This system featured a modified pipe layout optimized for improved exhaust flow, while simultaneously achieving a weight reduction of seven pounds through the use of thinner wall thicknesses. This attention to detail extended beyond mere performance gains, contributing to the overall lightweight philosophy of the SL65 AMG.
Alt text: Close-up view of the handcrafted AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine, showcasing the carbon fiber and aluminum engine cover in the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Convertible.
The visual appeal of the AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine was as captivating as its performance. The engine was adorned with a striking carbon-fiber and aluminum cover, underscoring the exceptional nature of the powerful twelve-cylinder powerplant nestled beneath. This detail highlighted AMG’s commitment to both performance and aesthetics.
Seamless Power Delivery: AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed Transmission
For the first time in a V12 AMG model, the 2013 SL65 AMG Convertible paired its immense power with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission. This advanced transmission played a crucial role in optimizing both performance and fuel efficiency. The wider ratio spread of the seven-speed automatic transmission allowed for significantly lower engine revving, contributing directly to reduced fuel consumption, especially during cruising.
Further enhancing efficiency, the transmission incorporated a new fuel-economy torque converter, reduced-friction bearings, and sophisticated transmission oil thermal management. These features worked synergistically to maximize the efficiency of power transfer to the wheels, ensuring minimal energy loss.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-Speed transmission offered a dynamic driving experience with four distinct drive programs, selectable via a button on the center console: Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S), Sport plus (S+), and Manual (M). In “C” mode, the ECO stop/start function was always active, prioritizing fuel economy. For drivers seeking maximum engagement and dynamic performance, the “S,” “S+,” and “M” modes delivered progressively sportier characteristics. These modes featured an automatic double-declutch function during downshifting, and rapid, precisely timed retardation of ignition and injection during upshifts under full load. This “ignition retardation” technology not only sharpened shift times but also added an aural dimension to the driving experience.
Intelligent Lightweight Design: Aluminum and Carbon Fiber Revolution
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Convertible embraced intelligent lightweight design as a core engineering principle. Moving away from the steel construction of its predecessor, the new SL65 AMG featured an all-aluminum body-in-white. This fundamental shift in material resulted in substantial weight savings, alongside significant improvements in structural stiffness, safety, and overall comfort.
Intelligent lightweight design extended beyond simply using aluminum. AMG engineers meticulously optimized individual components for their specific functions. Various aluminum fabrication techniques were employed, including gravity die casting, vacuum pressure casting, extruded profiles, and aluminum sheets of varying thicknesses. This multi-faceted approach resulted in a body structure that was not only lightweight but also exceptionally stiff and safe, with enhanced vibration damping characteristics. Even lighter magnesium was utilized for specific components, such as parts of the cover behind the fuel tank. For critical safety, high-strength steel tubes were integrated into the A-pillars.
A significant innovation in lightweight construction was the rear decklid. Its internal frame was crafted from carbon composite material, a technology typically reserved for high-performance sports cars. A plastic exterior shell was then bonded to this incredibly stiff carbon component using adhesives. This advanced construction method alone saved eleven pounds compared to a conventional rear lid. The SL65 AMG was among the first AMG models to benefit from this innovative solution. Collectively, these lightweight design innovations contributed to a remarkable curb weight of 4,299 pounds for the new SL65 AMG, a substantial 254 pounds reduction compared to the previous model.
AMG Sport Suspension: Active Body Control for Supreme Handling
Chassis engineering in the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Convertible mirrored the lightweight philosophy of the body. Mercedes-AMG prioritized lightweight components in the suspension system. The four-link front suspension incorporated aluminum steering knuckles and control arms. Aluminum was also extensively used in almost all suspension parts of the multilink rear axle. Reducing unsprung mass not only enhanced agility but also improved the responsiveness of the spring and damper units, resulting in a more precise and controlled ride.
The new SL65 AMG, like its predecessor, came standard with the Active Body Control (ABC) active suspension system. The AMG sport suspension, based on ABC, was a further refined version of the system found in the SL63 AMG with the eight-cylinder engine, specifically tuned for the unique characteristics of the V12 roadster.
Handling and high-performance driving dynamics were paramount in the development and testing of the chassis. The driver could select between two distinct chassis settings at the touch of a button: “Sport,” offering a very sporty setup with reduced body roll and firmer damping, and “Comfort,” prioritizing a more compliant ride suitable for long-distance cruising. Increased negative camber on both axles, along with completely re-engineered elastokinematics, further enhanced agility and cornering prowess.
Electromechanical AMG Speed-Sensitive Steering and High-Performance Brakes
The 2013 SL65 AMG Convertible featured an all-new electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering system. This system, combined with the V12’s immense power and the advanced chassis, delivered a driving experience characterized by exceptional dynamics and remarkably clear feedback, even at the limits of performance. The steering ratio was constant and direct, providing precise control. Power assistance was automatically adjusted based on the selected chassis mode, optimizing steering feel in both sporty and comfort settings.
Standard equipment also included the 3-stage ESP® (Electronic Stability Program), an AMG-exclusive feature offering a “SPORT Handling” mode for drivers seeking a more permissive stability control intervention for spirited driving. To effectively manage the V12 engine’s colossal power output, the SL65 AMG was equipped with an AMG rear-axle locking differential as standard, enhancing traction and cornering stability.
Braking performance was equally crucial in a high-performance roadster. The SL65 AMG featured an all-new AMG high-performance brake system. The front axle was equipped with substantial 15.4 x 1.4-inch compound discs and six-piston fixed calipers, while the rear axle utilized 14.2 x 1.0-inch integral discs with single-piston floating calipers. An electric parking brake was standard. For drivers demanding the ultimate braking performance, the even more potent and weight-optimized AMG carbon ceramic brake system, derived from the SLS AMG, was available as an optional upgrade.
The New AMG Face: Striking and Distinctive Design
Visually, the SL65 AMG Convertible made a powerful statement, clearly distinguishing itself as an exclusive, high-performance roadster. The 2013 model marked the debut of the new AMG “face,” characterized by a reinterpretation of the grille and lower air inlet, designed to project a more dynamic and premium aesthetic.
The central design element was the new twin-blade grille, finished in high-gloss chrome. The iconic Mercedes star was prominently mounted on two blade-like fins with aerofoil profiles. The grille’s more pronounced arrow shape optimized the car’s longitudinal proportions, accentuating its aerodynamic and minimalist design language.
Alt text: Front view of the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Convertible highlighting the new twin-blade grille design in high-gloss chrome, a signature element of the AMG “face”.
The stylized “A,” a hallmark of AMG vehicles, was subtly integrated beneath the twin-blade grille. Along the lower edge of the air intake, a discreet slit beneath a fine black fin optimized airflow to the cooling modules, seamlessly blending design and functionality. The lower horizontal bar on the front skirt, also finished in high-gloss chrome, added visual depth, creating a premium accent. The twin-blade grille and lower horizontal element worked in harmony to define the new AMG brand “face,” a design direction that would be further developed in future AMG models, enhancing brand recognition.
Distinguishing the top-of-the-line SL65 AMG from the SL63 AMG were carefully placed high-gloss chrome accents. These included the twin-blade grille, the lower horizontal bar on the AMG front skirt, the bezels surrounding the AMG-specific LED daytime running lights, the side fins on the fenders, and the fins on the hood. Characteristic AMG styling cues on the SL65 AMG also encompassed the front skirt with large cooling openings, specially designed sill panels, an AMG spoiler lip, and a rear skirt with a diffuser-look inlay in body color.
Typical V12 design elements included the two chromed, standalone dual end pipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, “V12 BITURBO” lettering on the fenders, and titanium grey painted and polished 5-spoke AMG alloy wheels. Optional AMG forged alloy multi-spoke wheels from the AMG Performance Studio were also available, further reducing unsprung mass and enhancing aesthetics.
MAGIC SKY CONTROL: Retractable Hard-Top Innovation
The sixth-generation SL, embodied by the SL65 AMG Convertible, featured a space-saving electro-hydraulic retractable hard-top. This sophisticated system transformed the roadster into a coupe in under 20 seconds. A groundbreaking feature, unique to the new SL, was the MAGIC SKY CONTROL. This innovative panoramic roof allowed occupants to switch its transparency from light to dark at the touch of a button, offering unparalleled control over cabin ambiance and light levels.
Luxurious Interior: Sensory Delight and Cutting-Edge Technology
The interior of the SL65 AMG Convertible was meticulously crafted to provide a sensory experience of unparalleled luxury and performance. Distinguishing itself from its eight-cylinder sibling, the SL65 AMG boasted exclusive design and equipment features. Electrically adjustable AMG sports seats, upholstered in exclusive leather with AMG-specific V12 diamond stitching in one or two-tone options, were a visual centerpiece. This distinctive stitching pattern extended to the center door panels. AMG logos embossed on the seat backs, AIRSCARF neck-level heating, multi-contour function, seat memory, and seat ventilation were all standard, underscoring the commitment to comfort and luxury. The designo headliner in leather, also featuring AMG V12 diamond stitching, provided a perfect tactile and visual finishing touch.
The cockpit design drew inspiration from the iconic SLS AMG, with jet-engine style air vents, the E-SELECT gear lever, and the AMG DRIVE UNIT evoking the spirit of a super sports car. The selection of exquisite materials and the impeccable quality of workmanship created a truly sensual and luxurious ambiance. AMG carbon fiber trim elements, an analog clock in IWC design, chromed and white illuminated AMG entry trim, and an AMG performance steering wheel with an AMG logo further elevated the interior. The AMG instrument panel, featuring a 225 mph scale and an AMG start-up display with an exclusive AMG V12 BITURBO animation, subtly hinted at the phenomenal performance capabilities of the SL65 AMG.
The twelve-cylinder roadster came generously equipped with a comprehensive list of standard features, including:
- AIRSCARF neck-level heating system
- PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Pre-Safe Brake
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG Surround Sound System
- Frontbass
- Carbon fiber trim
- COMAND with 40 GB hard-drive GPS navigation
- In-dash 6-disc DVD changer
- Multi-color ambient lighting
- IWC-design analogue dashboard clock
- Anti-theft alarm
- Power trunk closer with hands-free access
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- LED daytime running lights
- Bi-Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination
- KEYLESS-GO
- Enhanced voice control for audio, telephone and navigation
- MAGIC VISION CONTROL (heated)
- NECK-PRO Active Head Restraints
- Mercedes-Benz mbrace2TM
- Retractable hard top with easy pack feature
- MAGIC SKY CONTROL
- Power wind screen
- Soft-close doors
- Automatic pop-up rollover protection for driver and passenger
For further personalization, the AMG Performance Studio offered a range of optional enhancements:
- AMG Carbon Ceramic Braking System
- AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Package (transverse element in front skirt, exterior mirrors and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fiber)
- AMG Performance Media
Standard paint finishes for the SL65 AMG in the US market included a wide spectrum of colors, from classic Black and Iridium Silver to more unique options like Shadow Grey (matte finish) and Lunar Blue. The designo range offered even more exclusive paint finishes, including matte options like designo Magno Cashmere White and metallic choices like designo Mocha Black. Complementing the exterior paint selections were a curated range of interior leather upholstery options and trim choices, allowing for a truly bespoke configuration.
Uncompromising Safety: One of the World’s Safest Roadsters
The Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Convertible prioritized safety, earning its place as one of the world’s safest roadsters. Its collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard PRE-SAFE® System, and a suite of advanced assistance systems on par with the S-Class contributed to its exceptional safety credentials. The rigid aluminum body-in-white formed a robust occupant cell with precisely defined crumple zones at the front and rear. In the event of a rollover, A-pillars constructed from a steel/aluminum material mix and two automatic pop-up rollover bars provided superior protection for the passenger compartment.
The restraint systems, including two-stage driver and passenger airbags, were further refined. Head/thorax side impact airbags integrated into the seatbacks provided upper body protection in side impact collisions. NECK-PRO Active Head Restraints, a Mercedes-Benz innovation, were also standard equipment. Pedestrian protection was enhanced through large surface-area, compliant impact surfaces.
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Convertible represented the pinnacle of open-top performance and luxury, seamlessly blending raw V12 power with advanced technology, intelligent design, and uncompromising safety. It was a roadster crafted for a discerning clientele who demanded the ultimate driving experience, a true beast unleashed in convertible form.
