How much is too much? More specifically, just what constitutes too much when it comes to torque? The latest AMG version of the S Class Coupé might just have the answer. 
One thousand. 1,000. It’s a fairly significant number whatever the usage, but for Mercedes-Benz it symbolises the torque output for the AMG models at the very top of the tree. That’s 1,000 Newton Metres by the way, not foot pounds. 1,000 lb-ft would just be ridiculous of course… 
Making all that twist in the new S 65 AMG Coupé is a 6.0 litre V12 biturbo engine – don’t be fooled by the badging – it’s not a 6.5 litre – that’s related to the unit used in the Pagani Huarya. The key figures are 621 bhp and, of course, 738 lb-ft of torque. This engine has already featured in the S 65 AMG saloon, SL 65 roadster and even the G 65 AMG off-roader. It’s quite a special engine, but dropping it into something as elegant as the S Class Coupé just seems to make it… naughtier. 
Even in something weighing the best part of 2 tons, the V12 biturbo can still make the S 65 Coupé shift. With a seven-speed AMG Speedshift gearbox (that includes a sport mode) putting power to the rear wheels, 0-62 mph takes just 4.1 seconds. Top speed is limited to an autobahn friendly 155 mph. Realistically, removing that limiter would undoubtedly result in that figure becoming much closer to 200 mph. Despite the ridiculous power and performance, official combined fuel economy comes in at 23.7 mpg and C02 emissions of 279 g/km; a fair improvement on the old CL 65 from 2010.
AMG sports suspension incorporates Magic Body Control and Road Surface Scan – the latter a system which leans the car into corners much like riding a motorbike. This tilting function is aimed at making the driving experience more exciting, and operates at speeds up to 110 mph, using a stereo camera mounted behind the windscreen to read the road ahead. Both comfort and sport mode choices come as standard with the Active Body Control suspension. The two modes also modify the settings of the electromechanical steering, with greater feedback and weight from the sport mode option. Braking is done by conventional steel discs, with a ceramic setup on the options list.
Externally the S 65 AMG Coupé looks relatively understated, despite the huge firepower beneath the bonnet. The only real clue comes in the chrome trim on the front grille, splitter, air-intake surrounds, side sills and rear diffuser. Oh, and the V12 Biturbo badges sitting on the front wings. Although sizeable, the exhaust tailpipes are neatly integrated into the rear bumper and even the 20″ multispoke alloy wheels hardly look dramatic. Mercedes claims that the ‘twisted’ design of the 16 spokes on each wheel make them appear bigger; we’re not convinced.
AMG sports seats dominate the interior, which also gains a new three-spoke steering wheel with aluminium paddles for the gearbox. As a range-topping model, the specification is high with climate control for those sports seats, a digital head-up display system and a touchpad to control the Infotainment screens just some of the highlights.
So, how much for all this power and technology? £183,000 is the asking price, putting it out of reach of normal mere mortals. That’s a huge chunk of money from new, but near vertical depreciation means it’ll be a relative bargain in just a few years. For instance, check out this seven year old CL 65 AMG for £49,989 or this 2005 version available for only £16,990. Granted they might not be brand new, but they’re both packing the infamous 1,000 NM of torque which is, of course, the important bit.
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