The S 63 AMG is powered by a high-revving V8 naturally aspirated engine developing 386 kW/525 hp, the S 65 AMG comes with a biturbo V12 engine that delivers 450 kW/612 hp between 4800 and 5100 rpm and maximum torque of 1000 Newton meters. The torque has been reduced from 1200 to 1000 Newton meters out of consideration for the drivetrain and is available between 2000 and 4000 rpm. At a mere 1000 rpm, the AMG 6.0-litre biturbo V12 engine delivers 570 Newton meters of torque to the crankshaft, while 750 Newton meters are on tap at 1500 rpm. The performance figures are impressive testimony to the phenomenal power harnessed by the AMG twelve-cylinder unit: the S 65 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds; the top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG also comes with an AMG sports exhaust with two chromed twin tailpipes, featuring a V12 design in the case of the S 65 AMG. Visual aspects which distinguish the V8 from the V12 model also include the attractive AMG light-alloy wheels with 20-inch AMG forged wheels painted titanium gray with a mirror finish and fitted with緿/35 (front) and 275/35 (rear) tires.

Both of the top-of-the-line models set new standards when it comes to active and passive safety through a combination of innovative camera and radar-based driver assistance systems. These include the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and the PRE-SAFE®Brakes, which are linked to the proximity regulating radar and intervene independently in the event of an impending accident to act like an invisible crumple zone. The Night View Assist with infrared camera also features a novel pedestrian detection system. The pictures from the windscreen camera are also used by the new Speed Limit Assist, available as an option. The Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control support the driver in the event of emergency braking. The PRE-SAFE® positioning function and NECK-PRO luxury head restraints are now also included as standard.

The 2009 Mercedes S65 AMG price starts at 185,900 Euros.