Mercedes

Mercedes S600

New V12 Mercedes S600 launched

Mercedes have launched their new S600 saloon. At £87,500 the S600 is a huge, although typically discreet, car. A couple of small V12 badges and unique alloy wheels are about the only things that identify this car from the lesser S class models.

Using a twin turbo V12 engine the new Mercedes S class flagship has 500bhp on tap, and as you would imagine, massive amounts of torque.

Hitting 62mph in 4.8 seconds, the electronically limited 155mph top speed belies the theoretical maximum of just over 190mph! In fact, performance is on a par with the recently launched V8 S55 AMG, a more 'sporting' Mercedes model.

Mercedes have packed the S600 with gadgetry including braking and stability equipment to take care of most driver shortcomings.

It's not the first time that Mercedes have put a massive performance engine in what would otherwise be a traditional, almost stately, limousine. Remember the 450 SEL 6.9 of the early 1970's?

Once again Mercedes have come close to motoring perfection. Competition indeed for (cheaper) rivals BMW with their 7-series and the new Jaguar XJ8.

A. W.

15-03-03