The current W222 S-Class Saloon range takes a similar approach to its forebears, with rear-wheel drive transmissions (until now) as standard, and both V8 S63 AMG and V12 S65 AMG versions produced. Launched in 2013, both UK AMGs are now 7-speed automatics and come with a smorgasbord of AMG luxury accoutrements, including 20-inch alloys, a heads-up display, the latest versions of Mercedes' Active Body Control system - now with radar and infrared sensors that pre-scan the road for uneven surfaces, potholes and bumps - Pre-Safe, and Airmatic air suspension.
From 2013, a 585hp 5,461cc V8 biturbo powered the S63 AMG, whilst the 2014-on S65 AMG packed a 5,980cc biturbo V12 - good for a cool 630hp and an unworldly 738lb ft of torque, from just 2,000rpm.
The original asking price for the 'lesser' AMG was a tad over £125,000, whilst the range-topping V12 set first buyers back a cool £187,240. The S-Class also reappeared as a coupe (with S63 AMG and S65 AMG versions) from 2014, with the C217 replacing the previous CL-Class which had been manufactured since 1999.
S63 AMG Saloon buyers could choose a Driver's Pack, lifting the speed limiter from its standard 155mph to 186mph and adding AMG Performance Studio options including oodles of carbon fibre, high-performance ceramic composite brakes and of course extra lashings of AMG badging. And S65 AMG Saloon buyers could choose almost anything the Chief Exec wanted - including rear business telephones, individual rear entertainment systems and even folding work tables.
mid-life saloon
facelift has seen the introduction of revised grilles and a handful of other cosmetic tweaks, the only major change being the replacement of the S63's 5.5-litre biturbo V8 with a more efficient 612hp 4.0-litre biturbo - and the addition of 4Matic+ four-wheel drive for LHD markets only. Perversely the even more powerful S65 AMG will remain rear-wheel drive everywhere.
To date, Mercedes UK have shifted 233 S63 AMG Saloons and 41 four-door S65 AMGs. Compared to earlier models, all W222 S-Classes are still seriously pricey buys. A good example is still at least £60,000, but if you're lucky enough to be able to manage that, then the S63 is the AMG Saloon to go for: "The W220 S63 has an absolute monster of an engine, a true wolf in sheep's clothing it's a great car," enthuses CKS's Chet Sharma. And Steve Dickens is a fan too: "The ultimate high-performance luxury vehicle now has driver aids which complement the smooth drive." And reliability appears good too according to Olly Stoner at Prestige Car Service: "Although it's quite a rare car, it seems to be bulletproof so far."
The S65 AMG appears to have few problems either, but given the fact that the S63 AMG has now closed the performance gap almost completely there seems little point in taking the greater financial risk - unless you simply have to own a V12. Super rare, and specced like a spaceship, it's only recommended for those with extremely deep pockets.
Buy if: you want to save money on a new one and avoid the waiting list
Don't buy if: depreciation or running costs have any place in your decision making
We found: 2014 S63 AMG Saloon, silver, full Mercedes-Benz service history, 19k miles, £66,950
Price Guide
Poor: Under £60,000
Good: £60,000 to £75,000
A1: £75,000+
Special Editions: Late-plate S63 AMG can fetch up to £90,000, and S65 AMG up to £130,000