2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
Mercedes-Benz has dropped its V-12 SL-Class models, the SL600 and SL65 AMG sledgehammer, from its 2012 lineup as it prepares for the introduction of the redesigned 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class in the latter half of next year.
The SL600, powered by a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-12 developing 510 horsepower and 610 pound-feet of torque, was the first to go, being dropped from the 2011 lineup without a word from the automaker.
Now the SL65 AMG, which sports a 604 horsepower and 740 pound-feet of torque twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12, has been dropped from the 2012 lineup, with the official word being that the cars are being phased out gradually in the lead up to the new 2013 model.
However, part of the reason is likely due to the slightly less powerful yet similarly priced SLS AMG and recently introduced SLS AMG Roadster stealing much of the limelight as, well as sales.
What’s not clear is whether Mercedes-Benz will be phasing out its V-12 models completely in favor of more fuel efficient V-8 units. Let’s hope the automaker keeps at least one 12 cylinder model in its lineup, even if it’s only a limited edition model like the all out insane SL65 AMG Black Series.
