Twenty cylinders, four turbochargers, and a whole lotta rubber to burn.
Since it’s debut the Paris Auto Show in 2006, the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class has been one of the automaker’s most alluring luxury coupes, boasting state of the art technology and a sleek, refined design. For 2011, the CL-Class receives a mid-life refresh along with two updated AMG models: the CL63 AMG and CL65 AMG.
Both AMG models showcase new, powerful bodywork and AMG aerodynamic styling to improve downforce and differentiate themselves from the rest of the CL-Class lineup. Distinct AMG front and rear bumpers create a bold appearance and help to reduce aerodynamic lift. Both models wear “V-12 Biturbo” or “V-8 Bitrubo” badges across both front fenders, flaunting the power hidden beneath the hood. New AMG wheels are also fitted to both AMG models, the CL63 receiving 20-inch five double-spoke alloys, while the CL65 is fitted with forged 20-inch alloys with the same design. The AMG wheels wear the same 255/35 ZR 20 front and 275/35 ZR 20 rear high performance tires. Peeking out from the five double-spoke wheels are 15.4-inch ventilated and cross drilled discs with dual sliding calipers, while 14.4-inch discs are equipped at the rear axle.
Wearing a more muscular and sleek skin, both AMG models receive updated engines, the CL65 AMG utilizing the twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12 engine, while the CL63 AMG is fitted with the all-new 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-8. Sitting atop the CL model line, the CL65 AMG features the same basic engine as the pre-facelifted version, but with new turbochargers and engine electronics for a maximum 1.52 BAR (22 PSI) of boost and 17 more horses. This brings the power output for the smooth V-12 to 621 hp at 4,800 RPM and 738 lb-ft of torque (electronically limited from 885 lb-ft) at just 2,000 to 4,000 RPM. Positioned just below the CL65 AMG, the CL63 showcases the new AMG 5.5-liter twin-turbo V-8 that develops more power and achieves greater fuel mileage than the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter unit it replaces. For the CL63 AMG, the 5.5-liter pumps out 536 hp at 5,500 RPM and 590 lb-ft of torque from 2,000 to 4,500 RPM with a 27 percent reduction in fuel consumption.
Featuring two powerful engines, the new CL63 and CL65 AMG post improved acceleration figures over the pre-facelifted models. With the all-new V-8, the CL63 can reach 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, and is limited to a top speed of 155 mph. Add four cylinders, and the sprint to 60 mph takes just 4.2 seconds for the CL65, while top speed is raised to 186 mph.
Inside, the two CL-Class models are dressed in AMG exclusive features. Showcasing the athleticism of both models are new AMG performance steering wheels with aluminum paddle shifters. Heated and ventilated 14-way adjustable AMG seats wear premium leather, while the 11-speaker Harmon/Kardon Logic7 surround sound system provides an invigorating interior environment. As an option customers can opt for the exclusive designo customization, which offers unique paint finishes, leather options, and trim elements for an individual CL-Class.
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG and CL65 AMG are due to arrive in U.S. showrooms this November. Pricing for the CL63 AMG is expected to start at $150,000, while the CL65 AMG is predicted to start at $210,000.
Engine:
CL63 AMG:
Displacement: 5.5 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-8
Aspiration: Twin-turbocharged
Maximum Horsepower: 536 at 5,500 RPM
Maximum Torque: 590 lb-ft at 2,000 to 4,500 RPM
CL65 AMG
Displacement: 6.0 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-12
Aspiration: Twin-turbocharged
Maximum Boost Pressure: 1.52 BAR (22 PSI)
Maximum Horsepower: 621 at 4,800 RPM
Maximum Torque: 738 lb-ft at 2,000 to 4,000 RPM
Transmission:
CL63 AMG
Type: Seven-speed AMG Speedshift MCT
Drive: Rear-wheel
CL65 AMG
Type: Five-speed AMG Speedshift
Drive: Rear-wheel
Performance:
CL63 AMG
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds
Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
CL65 AMG
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 4.2 seconds
Top Speed: 186 (electronically limited)
Wheels and Brakes:
Wheels: 20-inch AMG twin five-spoke alloy (forged on CL65 AMG)
Front Tires: 255/35 ZR 20
Rear Tires: 275/35 ZR 20
Front Brakes: 15.4-inch ventilated and cross-drilled discs with dual sliding calipers
Rear Brakes: 14.4-inch inch ventilated and cross-drilled discs with sliding calipers
Would you rather have the CL63 AMG or the CL65 AMG? Leave a comment and let us know!
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]
