So cute. Is that before or after a burn out?

Seriously, how's the handling of this car?

 

Vincent,

I've driven the W220 and ridden in a W221 S65 - handling it what you'd expect from a luxury-oriented Mercedes. Don't expect it to feel anything like a Porsche, becausae it's not going to feel like one. Brakes are electronic, suspension is hydraulic. It's not a car that should ever realistically see any kind of race track other than a drag strip.

That said - the W220 is an amazing deal. I was offered an '06 last fall for $130k brand new - and they've held up fairly well. If you can live with having an old body style, the W220 S65 is a fantastic car.

The W221 is just incredible in terms of luxury options, refinement, build quality, etc. It is a significant step up from the W220 in just about every sense. I think it's the pinnacle of sedans, period - the Bentley has more bling factor but it only costs as much as an S65 because they make so few. Yeah, the Bentley has it's own mystique and built differently, but if Bentley were making the S65 as a standalone car with their production #s it would cost $300k. If you actually have a chance to look inside of the W221 S65 you'll be amazed at how luxurious the car is, it's quite amazing.

Now one additional thing to note - and this may or may not matter to you - you have to take into account the perception of the S65. Some may not know the difference between an S550 and S65 but a lot of people see AMG and see $$$. I don't know what your professional situation is but if the impression you give to people you interact with on a daily basis is reliant on some financial humility, an S65 will not give you that. Just food for thought.

-m

 

If you're worried the 65 is too much (which it's not...) go for the 63 Both great looking, powerful cars.

 

Marcus just put it pretty well - its not gonna handle like a Porsche. Remember, its still a 5100lb sedan but the acceleration is amazing especially at the higher speeds. You dont really notice the heft due to the power but when trying to corner at high speeds you are brought to earth and reminded it is a 4 door car thats not suppose to act like an Elise! Though I still haul a*s around bends regardless and I dont think other sedans my size could handle it any better. The new 2007 S65's are in a whole different field then the older model IMO. Technology wise and appearance blows away the 2006 and I think you'd regret getting the older one - especially if you had the chance to ever drive the new 65 afterward! Oh and for what its worth - a lot of people know the difference between the 65 and the 550! Just pull into any valet or nice restaurant and its amazing how many people are like - OMG - never seen an S65 - and in the words of Borat.... Veddy Naice...How much?

 

correction, the brakes are not electronic. Only the 03-06 E, Cls and Sl had that. (sbc for short)
Having driven one, and worked on them. They are freakin sweet. Gobbs of torque. It is of no comparsion of an s63. the difference is night and day. They are very reliable. If you get one i would definately consider getting a Kleeman rear differential it makes a huge difference. And also get some custom sized fit wheels and tires because 265's and 700ftlbs of tq dont get you moving veryfast. The 65 motors really come alive around 80mph the turbos scream. Get it you'll fall in love. so comfortable and wicked when wanted. The dynamic seats are awesome too. The 07+ rides better but power is identical and obviously 07+ has a much more modern layout and command system

 

Vincent,

I drove the S65 and the S600 back to back for a day each. I bought the S600. I felt that the set up of the S65 was more appropriate for a 2 door coupe. Good power, firm seats and suspension but big. To me the 600 was the perfect 4 door. I did however also buy an SL600 at the same time. I would not hesitate to drive an S65 everyday but for me it just didn't make sense. The S65 is not perfect for any one thing. Coupes are faster and handle better and the S600 is much more comfortable.

If I were going to buy a 65 it would be a CL65.

 

Sweet! now go buy the kleeman ecu upgrades and you'll have the power of the 65 with quicker spool.

 

Love my dd...

 

It's too much for an Asian guy.

 

Got a friend that uses it as a daily driver. Has a F430 for play

 

If I had the $ I'd get one!

Ryan

 

S65>BFS

tough choice huh

 

S65 is fast(er) but i'd option the S63. enough power for the need & more sporty feel with the 7-speed tranny. also for the price difference i'd take S63 anyday.

 

Test drove an 06 S65 last weekend and was somewhat disappointed. The power is there but handling and breaking was just not sporty enough. I would be bored of this car in a month. I'll try all the 63 variants next.

 

I would go with an Audi S8 can beat the sound of that V10. But then again im an Audi Guy MB's were always great cars but seems as if there quality went down after the merger. That also can have something to do with the fact that the ML isnt built in Germany but Alabama