S650 vs S65AMG
#1
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Thread Starter
S650 vs S65AMG
Greetings!
I am considering purchasing an '18-'20 S650 or S65AMG...
I would greatly appreciate any experience related to the following questions:
1. Which suspension has a better ride quality and why? I realize the 650 has a longer wheelbase which should account for improved ride quality. They both have Magic Body Control. But does the AMG have a stiffer suspension, making it ride harsher?
2. Does the 65 AMG cost more to maintain?
3. Is the 650 noticeably more difficult to maneuver and park due to it's longer wheelbase?
4. Apart from the engine noise, does the AMG allow more tire and road noise into the cabin?
Many thanks!
I am considering purchasing an '18-'20 S650 or S65AMG...
I would greatly appreciate any experience related to the following questions:
1. Which suspension has a better ride quality and why? I realize the 650 has a longer wheelbase which should account for improved ride quality. They both have Magic Body Control. But does the AMG have a stiffer suspension, making it ride harsher?
2. Does the 65 AMG cost more to maintain?
3. Is the 650 noticeably more difficult to maneuver and park due to it's longer wheelbase?
4. Apart from the engine noise, does the AMG allow more tire and road noise into the cabin?
Many thanks!
#3
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2020 E 300 Coupe and 2019 GLS 400
I don't have direct experience with the W222 platform. But owning a number of Mercedes and AMG cars, I believe the following:
1- AMG suspension is tuned for handling and sporty driving. You sacrifice comfort for handling. To what extent, this is subjective, but to me the difference is significant. The Maybach is almost 7 inches longer, will this make a difference? Its only a 3% increase IMO.
2- AMG Brakes are larger and bite harder
3- AMG transmission/ MCT is snappier but some perceive it as harsher engaging compared to the traditional torque converter Mercedes transmissions.
4- I believe sound insulation is the same between AMGs and regular Mercedes (not sure about Maybach though). However do expect an increased amount of NVH due to the harsher suspension, larger wheels, and the engine/exhaust noise (whether real or fake noise).
5- For maintenance, AMGs are more expensive to maintain, especially for tires, brakes, and other consumables. AMG exclusive/branded parts cost more. I believe as is teh case with Maybach parts.
Since both cars have the same V12 M279 engine, I think drivetrain maintenance costs would be similar.
To recap, both cars are beautiful luxury cars. However, they cater to opposite tastes. The S65 is for those who want to enjoy AMG power/noise in luxury. While the Maybach is for those who want to ride in ultra luxury smoothly and effortlessly. If I wanted to enjoy driving a car I would go with the S65. If I wanted to sit back, be driven around, I would pick the S650.
Good luck.
1- AMG suspension is tuned for handling and sporty driving. You sacrifice comfort for handling. To what extent, this is subjective, but to me the difference is significant. The Maybach is almost 7 inches longer, will this make a difference? Its only a 3% increase IMO.
2- AMG Brakes are larger and bite harder
3- AMG transmission/ MCT is snappier but some perceive it as harsher engaging compared to the traditional torque converter Mercedes transmissions.
4- I believe sound insulation is the same between AMGs and regular Mercedes (not sure about Maybach though). However do expect an increased amount of NVH due to the harsher suspension, larger wheels, and the engine/exhaust noise (whether real or fake noise).
5- For maintenance, AMGs are more expensive to maintain, especially for tires, brakes, and other consumables. AMG exclusive/branded parts cost more. I believe as is teh case with Maybach parts.
Since both cars have the same V12 M279 engine, I think drivetrain maintenance costs would be similar.
To recap, both cars are beautiful luxury cars. However, they cater to opposite tastes. The S65 is for those who want to enjoy AMG power/noise in luxury. While the Maybach is for those who want to ride in ultra luxury smoothly and effortlessly. If I wanted to enjoy driving a car I would go with the S65. If I wanted to sit back, be driven around, I would pick the S650.
Good luck.
#4
Super Member
Thread Starter
I don't have direct experience with the W222 platform. But owning a number of Mercedes and AMG cars, I believe the following:
1- AMG suspension is tuned for handling and sporty driving. You sacrifice comfort for handling. To what extent, this is subjective, but to me the difference is significant. The Maybach is almost 7 inches longer, will this make a difference? Its only a 3% increase IMO.
2- AMG Brakes are larger and bite harder
3- AMG transmission/ MCT is snappier but some perceive it as harsher engaging compared to the traditional torque converter Mercedes transmissions.
4- I believe sound insulation is the same between AMGs and regular Mercedes (not sure about Maybach though). However do expect an increased amount of NVH due to the harsher suspension, larger wheels, and the engine/exhaust noise (whether real or fake noise).
5- For maintenance, AMGs are more expensive to maintain, especially for tires, brakes, and other consumables. AMG exclusive/branded parts cost more. I believe as is teh case with Maybach parts.
Since both cars have the same V12 M279 engine, I think drivetrain maintenance costs would be similar.
To recap, both cars are beautiful luxury cars. However, they cater to opposite tastes. The S65 is for those who want to enjoy AMG power/noise in luxury. While the Maybach is for those who want to ride in ultra luxury smoothly and effortlessly. If I wanted to enjoy driving a car I would go with the S65. If I wanted to sit back, be driven around, I would pick the S650.
Good luck.
1- AMG suspension is tuned for handling and sporty driving. You sacrifice comfort for handling. To what extent, this is subjective, but to me the difference is significant. The Maybach is almost 7 inches longer, will this make a difference? Its only a 3% increase IMO.
2- AMG Brakes are larger and bite harder
3- AMG transmission/ MCT is snappier but some perceive it as harsher engaging compared to the traditional torque converter Mercedes transmissions.
4- I believe sound insulation is the same between AMGs and regular Mercedes (not sure about Maybach though). However do expect an increased amount of NVH due to the harsher suspension, larger wheels, and the engine/exhaust noise (whether real or fake noise).
5- For maintenance, AMGs are more expensive to maintain, especially for tires, brakes, and other consumables. AMG exclusive/branded parts cost more. I believe as is teh case with Maybach parts.
Since both cars have the same V12 M279 engine, I think drivetrain maintenance costs would be similar.
To recap, both cars are beautiful luxury cars. However, they cater to opposite tastes. The S65 is for those who want to enjoy AMG power/noise in luxury. While the Maybach is for those who want to ride in ultra luxury smoothly and effortlessly. If I wanted to enjoy driving a car I would go with the S65. If I wanted to sit back, be driven around, I would pick the S650.
Good luck.
#5
Super Member
I have a W222 S65 but not a Maybach. I have test driven a Maybach at the dealer. Here are the differences as I see them.
First, all W222 V12 Biturbo's have a 7 speed transmission with a torque converter and Speed Shift Technology. No V12's have an MCT transmission. The shifts in C mode at light to moderate throttle are undetectable. The S650 and the S65 should drive the same except for the additional weight of the S650.
Second, the S650 has a longer wheelbase so it should have a slightly better ride. The S650 also has a larger cabin volume than the S65 so the Burmester 3D sound system should sound very slightly better in the S650.
Third, the S65 has non run flat tires, these are almost always softer and quieter than RFT's which are on the S650. I believe the S650 has additional acoustic insulation so overall it should still be a bit quieter than the S65. With Michelin PS4s's the S65 is almost silent on the highway.
Fourth, the S65 has a more aggressive exhaust, it is audible in the car when accelerating, but not at steady cruise. S and M modes add a lot of entertaining exhaust sounds when accelerating or when lifting off the throttle.
Fifth, the S65 has a far better suspension setup including AMG specific parts. C mode is close to the standard S class MBC setup, the slightly firmer S suspension mode is more firm than on the standard S class but nowhere near as firm and unyielding as the P030 track setup on my SL65. The AMG suspension eliminates the camber issue on the rear of the S class so the tires always wear perfectly even across the tread.
Sixth, if it matters, the S65 speed limiter programming is 186mph, far higher than the S650.
We also have a W213 E63S. The S65 rides so much better than the E it is hard to describe. The S65 is also quieter cruising than the E63S and our E has the optional, extra cost, acoustic sound deadening package.
my opinion is the decision between the S650 and the S65 would be based on the car's usage. Will it frequently be carrying four people that need the extra rear seat room? We have the Executive Plus rear seating with the tray tables etc. No one in the back ever said they needed more room.
First, all W222 V12 Biturbo's have a 7 speed transmission with a torque converter and Speed Shift Technology. No V12's have an MCT transmission. The shifts in C mode at light to moderate throttle are undetectable. The S650 and the S65 should drive the same except for the additional weight of the S650.
Second, the S650 has a longer wheelbase so it should have a slightly better ride. The S650 also has a larger cabin volume than the S65 so the Burmester 3D sound system should sound very slightly better in the S650.
Third, the S65 has non run flat tires, these are almost always softer and quieter than RFT's which are on the S650. I believe the S650 has additional acoustic insulation so overall it should still be a bit quieter than the S65. With Michelin PS4s's the S65 is almost silent on the highway.
Fourth, the S65 has a more aggressive exhaust, it is audible in the car when accelerating, but not at steady cruise. S and M modes add a lot of entertaining exhaust sounds when accelerating or when lifting off the throttle.
Fifth, the S65 has a far better suspension setup including AMG specific parts. C mode is close to the standard S class MBC setup, the slightly firmer S suspension mode is more firm than on the standard S class but nowhere near as firm and unyielding as the P030 track setup on my SL65. The AMG suspension eliminates the camber issue on the rear of the S class so the tires always wear perfectly even across the tread.
Sixth, if it matters, the S65 speed limiter programming is 186mph, far higher than the S650.
We also have a W213 E63S. The S65 rides so much better than the E it is hard to describe. The S65 is also quieter cruising than the E63S and our E has the optional, extra cost, acoustic sound deadening package.
my opinion is the decision between the S650 and the S65 would be based on the car's usage. Will it frequently be carrying four people that need the extra rear seat room? We have the Executive Plus rear seating with the tray tables etc. No one in the back ever said they needed more room.
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#6
Super Member
Thread Starter
I have a W222 S65 but not a Maybach. I have test driven a Maybach at the dealer. Here are the differences as I see them.
First, all W222 V12 Biturbo's have a 7 speed transmission with a torque converter and Speed Shift Technology. No V12's have an MCT transmission. The shifts in C mode at light to moderate throttle are undetectable. The S650 and the S65 should drive the same except for the additional weight of the S650.
Second, the S650 has a longer wheelbase so it should have a slightly better ride. The S650 also has a larger cabin volume than the S65 so the Burmester 3D sound system should sound very slightly better in the S650.
Third, the S65 has non run flat tires, these are almost always softer and quieter than RFT's which are on the S650. I believe the S650 has additional acoustic insulation so overall it should still be a bit quieter than the S65. With Michelin PS4s's the S65 is almost silent on the highway.
Fourth, the S65 has a more aggressive exhaust, it is audible in the car when accelerating, but not at steady cruise. S and M modes add a lot of entertaining exhaust sounds when accelerating or when lifting off the throttle.
Fifth, the S65 has a far better suspension setup including AMG specific parts. C mode is close to the standard S class MBC setup, the slightly firmer S suspension mode is more firm than on the standard S class but nowhere near as firm and unyielding as the P030 track setup on my SL65. The AMG suspension eliminates the camber issue on the rear of the S class so the tires always wear perfectly even across the tread.
Sixth, if it matters, the S65 speed limiter programming is 186mph, far higher than the S650.
We also have a W213 E63S. The S65 rides so much better than the E it is hard to describe. The S65 is also quieter cruising than the E63S and our E has the optional, extra cost, acoustic sound deadening package.
my opinion is the decision between the S650 and the S65 would be based on the car's usage. Will it frequently be carrying four people that need the extra rear seat room? We have the Executive Plus rear seating with the tray tables etc. No one in the back ever said they needed more room.
First, all W222 V12 Biturbo's have a 7 speed transmission with a torque converter and Speed Shift Technology. No V12's have an MCT transmission. The shifts in C mode at light to moderate throttle are undetectable. The S650 and the S65 should drive the same except for the additional weight of the S650.
Second, the S650 has a longer wheelbase so it should have a slightly better ride. The S650 also has a larger cabin volume than the S65 so the Burmester 3D sound system should sound very slightly better in the S650.
Third, the S65 has non run flat tires, these are almost always softer and quieter than RFT's which are on the S650. I believe the S650 has additional acoustic insulation so overall it should still be a bit quieter than the S65. With Michelin PS4s's the S65 is almost silent on the highway.
Fourth, the S65 has a more aggressive exhaust, it is audible in the car when accelerating, but not at steady cruise. S and M modes add a lot of entertaining exhaust sounds when accelerating or when lifting off the throttle.
Fifth, the S65 has a far better suspension setup including AMG specific parts. C mode is close to the standard S class MBC setup, the slightly firmer S suspension mode is more firm than on the standard S class but nowhere near as firm and unyielding as the P030 track setup on my SL65. The AMG suspension eliminates the camber issue on the rear of the S class so the tires always wear perfectly even across the tread.
Sixth, if it matters, the S65 speed limiter programming is 186mph, far higher than the S650.
We also have a W213 E63S. The S65 rides so much better than the E it is hard to describe. The S65 is also quieter cruising than the E63S and our E has the optional, extra cost, acoustic sound deadening package.
my opinion is the decision between the S650 and the S65 would be based on the car's usage. Will it frequently be carrying four people that need the extra rear seat room? We have the Executive Plus rear seating with the tray tables etc. No one in the back ever said they needed more room.
Comparing the two based solely on ride quality, at cruising speeds, with S65 in C on Michelin PS4s's, would the S65 be similar to the 650 with regards to road noise and ride softness?
I would rather get the AMG if it's close to the 650 ride quality at cruising speeds
Thank you!
#7
Super Member
The S65 had Continental 5P's on it and I was very satisfied with their performance. They were harsh and noisy. Replacing them with MichelinPS4s tires was a major improvement, the harshness disappeared and they were substantially quieter. These are ultra high performance summer tires. The best choice in all season tires may be different. The tires do need to warm up, they ride softer after they get to normal temperature.
To make the decision I really think you should find an S65 to drive. I am a "driver", so I value low noise and prioritize feeling the road. I do not like mushy feeling tires and a car that does not follow the road. The S65 is very quiet and smooth on the highway. It is possible the S650 could be slightly quieter but in my opinion it is not enough to be a decision maker. The S650 will ride softer if the RFT's are replaced with non run flats, but the S65 is not harsh to begin with. No one who has ridden in our S65 has ever realized it had performance tires and suspension. Most say it is quieter and smoother than their car. They do realize it has a lot of power. Everyone who rides in the E63S comments negatively about the jarring ride.
My decision was easy, I did not want to be driving a limo, I wanted the best high performance luxury car, and that's what I think AMG made in the S65.
To make the decision I really think you should find an S65 to drive. I am a "driver", so I value low noise and prioritize feeling the road. I do not like mushy feeling tires and a car that does not follow the road. The S65 is very quiet and smooth on the highway. It is possible the S650 could be slightly quieter but in my opinion it is not enough to be a decision maker. The S650 will ride softer if the RFT's are replaced with non run flats, but the S65 is not harsh to begin with. No one who has ridden in our S65 has ever realized it had performance tires and suspension. Most say it is quieter and smoother than their car. They do realize it has a lot of power. Everyone who rides in the E63S comments negatively about the jarring ride.
My decision was easy, I did not want to be driving a limo, I wanted the best high performance luxury car, and that's what I think AMG made in the S65.
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#8
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Thread Starter
The S65 had Continental 5P's on it and I was very satisfied with their performance. They were harsh and noisy. Replacing them with MichelinPS4s tires was a major improvement, the harshness disappeared and they were substantially quieter. These are ultra high performance summer tires. The best choice in all season tires may be different. The tires do need to warm up, they ride softer after they get to normal temperature.
To make the decision I really think you should find an S65 to drive. I am a "driver", so I value low noise and prioritize feeling the road. I do not like mushy feeling tires and a car that does not follow the road. The S65 is very quiet and smooth on the highway. It is possible the S650 could be slightly quieter but in my opinion it is not enough to be a decision maker. The S650 will ride softer if the RFT's are replaced with non run flats, but the S65 is not harsh to begin with. No one who has ridden in our S65 has ever realized it had performance tires and suspension. Most say it is quieter and smoother than their car. They do realize it has a lot of power. Everyone who rides in the E63S comments negatively about the jarring ride.
My decision was easy, I did not want to be driving a limo, I wanted the best high performance luxury car, and that's what I think AMG made in the S65.
To make the decision I really think you should find an S65 to drive. I am a "driver", so I value low noise and prioritize feeling the road. I do not like mushy feeling tires and a car that does not follow the road. The S65 is very quiet and smooth on the highway. It is possible the S650 could be slightly quieter but in my opinion it is not enough to be a decision maker. The S650 will ride softer if the RFT's are replaced with non run flats, but the S65 is not harsh to begin with. No one who has ridden in our S65 has ever realized it had performance tires and suspension. Most say it is quieter and smoother than their car. They do realize it has a lot of power. Everyone who rides in the E63S comments negatively about the jarring ride.
My decision was easy, I did not want to be driving a limo, I wanted the best high performance luxury car, and that's what I think AMG made in the S65.
#9
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S650 is for those who are riding in the back seat.
Put some effort into finding an S65 with Carbon Ceramic brakes. They are great... no dust... pads last and last.... brake rotors don’t wear.
#10
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Folks there is/was no S650.
S 600 with M277 6.0TT V12
AMG S 65 with M279 6.0TT V12
S 600 with M277 6.0TT V12
AMG S 65 with M279 6.0TT V12
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#12
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Thanks. I stand partially corrected.
The OP did not specify Maybach as a target, and called out AMG in the selection set.
IMO comparing an AMG to a Maybach is apples and oranges; horses for courses. The S 600 and Maybach S 650 have more in common than the AMG S 65 IMO.
The OP did not specify Maybach as a target, and called out AMG in the selection set.
IMO comparing an AMG to a Maybach is apples and oranges; horses for courses. The S 600 and Maybach S 650 have more in common than the AMG S 65 IMO.
#13
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Thread Starter
I have an emergency spare tire from my 2018 S 560. Will it fit a 2018 S 650? Thanks
#14
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Pull a front wheel and see if it fits. My nickel in a bet says brakes for the S650 are too big for the spare and/or offset will not work. Also... is there a spot for the spare, jack and tools in the boot? I have not looked in the boot of an S650 but my S65 has this cool carbon fiber thing under there that is not going to accommodate a spare and tools. This is why we get the misnamed ‘toolset’ of goo and a hose to try and inflate a tire that will no doubt be shredded on the side of the road. Pro-tip.... Keep fresh tires on the car and pay attention should it ever alert you to a soft tire. Blow-outs are a flat bed tow. I did appreciate having a doughnut spare and tools for the 221 S65.
#15
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Thread Starter
Pull a front wheel and see if it fits. My nickel in a bet says brakes for the S650 are too big for the spare and/or offset will not work. Also... is there a spot for the spare, jack and tools in the boot? I have not looked in the boot of an S650 but my S65 has this cool carbon fiber thing under there that is not going to accommodate a spare and tools. This is why we get the misnamed ‘toolset’ of goo and a hose to try and inflate a tire that will no doubt be shredded on the side of the road. Pro-tip.... Keep fresh tires on the car and pay attention should it ever alert you to a soft tire. Blow-outs are a flat bed tow. I did appreciate having a doughnut spare and tools for the 221 S65.
yes, I need to pull a wheel off and try it
thanks for your reply!
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I was going to say that as to depreciation, I would think the S65 would hold its value better than the S650, BUT it looks like you have taken the plunge already. Is that the case?
#17
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also, it will be used as a freeway car and a parked quiet mobile office, so did not need the performance of the S65 with it's higher AMG maintenance cost
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#19
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thank you!
I read with interest your posts when you were looking at getting a 650 and your test drive negative experience. I have found the ride quality to be similar to my 560, maybe a little quieter, but I am new in the saddle. I debated getting the newer model S but could not get past the interior aesthetics. Also, I wanted the executive rear seating plus (with tray tables) that I had in the 560, which is not available anymore in the US, only in Canada.
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thank you!
I read with interest your posts when you were looking at getting a 650 and your test drive negative experience. I have found the ride quality to be similar to my 560, maybe a little quieter, but I am new in the saddle. I debated getting the newer model S but could not get past the interior aesthetics. Also, I wanted the executive rear seating plus (with tray tables) that I had in the 560, which is not available anymore in the US, only in Canada.
I read with interest your posts when you were looking at getting a 650 and your test drive negative experience. I have found the ride quality to be similar to my 560, maybe a little quieter, but I am new in the saddle. I debated getting the newer model S but could not get past the interior aesthetics. Also, I wanted the executive rear seating plus (with tray tables) that I had in the 560, which is not available anymore in the US, only in Canada.
#21
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I will report back after I get some more time driving it. So far it's very smooth and quiet.
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#22
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I removed the standard Goodyear run flats and put on Michelin PS4S's, noticed big difference right away, softer and quieter ride
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#24
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I don't know if it's due to the longer wheel base, V12 and more weight, more noise insulation? But it will spoil you fast, definitely an upgraded experience.
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#25
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I was able to drive several hundred miles, mostly freeway driving. This thing is a magic carpet ride. Much quieter and smoother ride, compared to my S560. Feels more planted, very solid feel. It's smooth as silk.
I don't know if it's due to the longer wheel base, V12 and more weight, more noise insulation? But it will spoil you fast, definitely an upgraded experience.
I don't know if it's due to the longer wheel base, V12 and more weight, more noise insulation? But it will spoil you fast, definitely an upgraded experience.