A Test Drive After 45 Years

Mercedes-Benz held a test drive event for the S-Class Cabriolet in Nice. This luxurious, fully open-top model with a large body was unveiled to much acclaim at the Frankfurt Motor Show in autumn 2015.

"2016 is the year of the dream car," said Dr. Hermann-Josef Storp, head of S-Class Cabriolet development, who came from Germany for the test drive event. For Mercedes, a dream car means a fully open-top model. The current lineup includes the recently facelifted "SL," the "E-Class Cabriolet," the "C-Class Cabriolet," and the "SLC," which was renamed after a minor model change.

The S-Class Cabriolet sits at the pinnacle of this range. Its defining feature is being a full four-seater convertible, equipped with the latest features such as an advanced air conditioning system. While S-Class Cabriolets have traditionally been part of Mercedes' lineup, it has been a full 45 years since the "220SE" was released in 1971, and now I find myself behind the steering wheel.

"We are expanding our lineup of cars that can be called 'dream cars' because we recognize the importance of models that appeal to both emotion and driving pleasure. Convertibles and roadsters play a crucial role in this. Nice and Monaco, with their many superstar cars, are the perfect settings to experience our latest convertibles in depth."

As Dr. Storp mentioned, the S-Class Cabriolet is characterized by its spacious body and generously sized engines. The 5,027mm (European spec) long body has a wheelbase of 2,945mm, allowing adults to sit comfortably in the rear seats. The long hood and 18-inch wheels emphasize the car's length, especially with the top down, giving it a distinctly sporty impression. This impression is certainly not unfounded.

S 550 Cabriolet

S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet

Two models were available for the test drive: the Mercedes-Benz "S 550 Cabriolet" and the Mercedes-AMG "S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet." Above these, on a made-to-order basis, is the V12-powered Mercedes-AMG "S 65 Cabriolet." The S 550 is equipped with a 4,463cc V8 engine and is rear-wheel drive, producing a maximum output of 335kW (455ps) at 5,250-5,500rpm and a peak torque of 700Nm at 1,800-3,500rpm. The Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet goes a step further, featuring a 5,461cc V8 engine combined with a full-time four-wheel-drive system, boasting an immense 430kW (585ps) at 5,500rpm and 900Nm at 2,250-3,750rpm.

The test drive began along an elegant coastline lined with the masts of expensive-looking yachts, quickly transitioning into mountain roads. There are indeed many enjoyable routes.

A More Comfortable Ride Than the Coupe

The Mercedes-Benz S 550 (S 500 in local markets) is the entry-level grade in the S-Class Cabriolet lineup. With a V8 engine producing up to 335kW (455ps), calling this model "basic" is quite a luxury. Perhaps that's precisely what makes it truly luxurious. As soon as you drive it, you'll instantly realize that the word "basic" doesn't suit this car at all.

The appeal of the Mercedes-Benz S 550 lies in its abundant torque from low RPMs and its supple ride. With maximum torque available from 1,800rpm, it accelerates powerfully with just a slight press of the accelerator. It feels agile without any hint of hesitation. Yet, it lacks any superficial abruptness. It moves forward with strength. The tuning is masterful.

The combination of suspension tuning and steering is also excellent, impressing you from the moment you start driving. The steering, with its characteristic weight and feel familiar to Mercedes owners, might initially seem a bit heavy, but it's surprisingly responsive around the center. Even a slight turn of the wheel makes the car move precisely.

It's not overly sensitive, nor does it compromise straight-line stability. Thanks to this steering, you don't feel the car's considerable 1,899mm width, allowing for nimble driving even on Nice's congested roads, where lanes are only about 70% the width of those in Tokyo.

Approximately 60% of the body shell components are shared with the "S-Class Coupe" released in 2014, and the wheelbase is indeed identical. However, the rear floor is a newly designed aluminum structure, and the suspension tuning is unique.

According to the suspension development team, "Of the three models – sedan, coupe, and this cabriolet – the coupe is the firmest. The sedan is the most comfortable. The cabriolet leans towards the coupe but is slightly tuned for comfort." The suspension arms have ample travel. Furthermore, the standard semi-active air suspension system "AIRMATIC" with automatic damping control also contributes to the supple ride.

Basking in the Strong Southern French Sun

Nice is known for the Côte d'Azur, or the Azure Coast in English, famous for its brilliant blue sea and white-walled resorts along the coastline. However, mountains rise just behind it. Driving the S 550 Cabriolet through these areas, its ample torque allows it to handle inclines and sharp curves with ease, maintaining a brisk pace.

Frankly, I had anticipated a certain level of driving performance based on the capabilities of rear-wheel-drive Mercedes models. However, as I covered more distance, I found myself reluctant to part with this car. It offers a natural driving experience that never resists the driver's intentions.

Driving with the five-layer soft top, designed for weather resistance and sound insulation, fully open under the strong southern French sun provides an exhilaration unmatched by the sedan or coupe versions of the S-Class with their metal roofs. The front seats are equipped with "AIRSCARF," which blows warm or cool air from vents around the occupants' necks, proving highly effective during open-top driving. Personally, when driving with the top down, I prefer to lower the side windows as well and enjoy the wind buffeting as part of the experience.

When carrying passengers, "AIRCAP" can be used to virtually eliminate wind intrusion into the cabin. With the flick of a switch, a spoiler at the top of the windshield rises, and a screen behind the rear seats deploys. In spring or early summer, you can enjoy the warmth without the wind. Furthermore, it features the "THERMOTRONIC" fully automatic climate control system, which ensures comfort even during open-top driving.

The Solid S 63 4MATIC

The Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC was an even more luxurious car.

The Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet was introduced at the same time as the Mercedes-Benz S 550 Cabriolet. While some manufacturers (Porsche being a prime example) often introduce special models with a time gap, Mercedes frequently launches them simultaneously. The density of work accomplished in a limited time is impressive. The content is that well-executed.

The difference from the S 550 is significant. While the S 550 has 335kW (455ps) and 700Nm, the S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet boasts 430kW (585ps) and 900Nm. Furthermore, it's paired with a full-time four-wheel-drive system (left-hand drive only). Typically, 67% of the torque is distributed to the rear wheels. It's becoming standard for Mercedes to utilize all-wheel drive for high-performance models.

In a word, the impression is "solid." It features a chassis with high rigidity, a slightly firmer suspension system, and responsive steering. Despite its curb weight slightly exceeding two tons, the precise handling and manageable footwork allow you to enjoy driving it as if it were a car about two sizes smaller.

Despite its 5,027mm length and 1,899mm width (European specs), it handles like a pair of sports shoes. Utilizing lightweight materials, the chassis boasts high torsional rigidity, remaining silent and composed on any road, with no discernible impact on handling whether the top is up or down.

The "DYNAMIC SELECT" offers "ECO," "COMFORT," "SPORT," "SPORT+," and "INDIVIDUAL" modes. The Mercedes development representative who came from Germany to the Nice test drive recommended "SPORT+." As you switch modes from "COMFORT" to "SPORT" and "SPORT+" using the dial while driving, you can clearly feel the character change. The accelerator pedal response becomes particularly sharp, and the engine operates in higher rev ranges, giving it the feel of a four-seater sports car.

The S-Class Embraces the Joy of Open-Top Driving

Not only does the engine power increase, but the steering becomes quicker, and body roll is suppressed. You can navigate curves by making only slight movements of the steering wheel held at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions. The benefits of the "AIRMATIC" suspension's damping control, mentioned with the S 550, must also be significant.

The S-Class is, of course, a large sedan that prioritizes rear-seat comfort, but its derivative, the Cabriolet, not only boasts a flowing style but also emphasizes driving enjoyment. The Mercedes-AMG is not simply a more expensive model (while the S 550 costs 21.45 million yen, the Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC is 27.5 million yen). It would be a shame not to enjoy it as a sports model.

The dashboard design follows that of the sedan and coupe, impressing with its precision in creating a three-dimensional form with subtle curves. It represents the ultimate expression of Mercedes' concept of pursuing build quality over ostentatious appearance. The interior color options include white, beige, brown, and red, in addition to black, offering numerous variations.

The seats, with their three-dimensional design and perforated leather finish, not only enhance breathability and fit but also contribute to the luxurious aesthetic. The soft top is available in colors like red and blue, and when raised, it has a stylish coupe-like silhouette. However, when driving with the top down, the impression of luxury it conveys to onlookers is immense. Visitors to Nice choose convertibles to enjoy this effect. In essence, it is a car filled with diverse pleasures.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet | Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet
Body Size | Length 5,027 x Width 1,899 x Height 1,417 mm
Wheelbase | 2,945 mm
Engine | 4,663 cc V8 direct-injection DOHC twin-turbo
Compression Ratio | 10.5
Maximum Output | 333 kW (455 ps) / 5,250-5,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 700 Nm (71.3 kgm) / 1,800-3,500 rpm
Transmission | 9-speed AT (9G-TRONIC)
Drivetrain | FR
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs
Trunk Capacity | 250-350 ℓ
Tires Front/Rear | 245/40R20 / 275/35R20
Steering Position | Right/Left
Price | 21,450,000 yen

Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet | Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet
Body Size | Length 5,044 x Width 1,913 x Height 1,428 mm
Wheelbase | 2,945 mm
Engine | 5,461 cc V8 direct-injection DOHC twin-turbo
Compression Ratio | 10.0
Maximum Output | 430 kW (585 ps) / 5,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 900 Nm (91.8 kgm) / 2,250-3,750 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed AT (AMG Speedshift MCT)
Drivetrain | 4WD
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs
Trunk Capacity | 250-350 ℓ
Tires Front/Rear | 255/40R20 / 285/35R20
Steering Position | Left
Price | 27,500,000 yen