Rare 2005 Mercedes-AMG CL65 V12 Auctioned for Over $303,000
A remarkable 2005 Mercedes-AMG CL65, driven for a mere 3,300 miles, recently commanded an impressive $303,303 at auction. This sale signifies a substantial appreciation for the model, far exceeding its original retail price and average market value, positioning it as a potential record-holder for the CL series. The vehicle's enduring appeal stems from its potent 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine, a symbol of Mercedes-AMG's commitment to high-performance, large-displacement powertrains before the industry shift towards smaller engines. The increasing scarcity of V12-powered Mercedes models further enhances the CL65's desirability among automotive enthusiasts and collectors.
This extraordinary auction outcome highlights the growing investment potential of specific classic and modern classic vehicles, particularly those representing a pivotal era in automotive engineering. The CL65's blend of luxurious appointments, robust performance, and limited production numbers creates a compelling case for its future value. As Mercedes-Benz continues to evolve its powertrain offerings, these V12-powered machines stand out as a testament to a bygone era of unapologetic power and grand touring luxury, ensuring their place as sought-after collector items.
Exceptional Value and Heritage of the Mercedes-AMG CL65
The recent sale of a pristine 2005 Mercedes-AMG CL65 for $303,303 at auction has sent ripples through the collector car market, establishing a new benchmark for the CL series. This stunning price far surpasses its original MSRP of approximately $178,220 and significantly outpaces the current market valuation of around $12,000 for similar models. The car's remarkably low mileage of just 3,300 miles is a critical factor in its exceptional valuation, indicating its status as a meticulously preserved example. Such a sale underscores the increasing recognition of specific Mercedes-AMG models as highly collectible assets, particularly those from an era defined by powerful, large-displacement engines. The CL65's luxurious interior, finished in Alabaster White over Java leather with Chestnut wood trim, further enhances its allure, embodying the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's grand touring coupe offerings from the mid-2000s.
This particular CL65 was originally acquired by renowned car collector and philanthropist Michael Flux, who maintained its pristine condition by driving it sparingly. The vehicle boasts a comprehensive suite of luxury features, including soft-closing doors, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium Bose sound system, and a power rear sunshade. While the model shared some build quality characteristics with the W220 S-Class, which faced some scrutiny, the CL65's interior remains a testament to opulent comfort and sophisticated design. Its status as a flagship coupe from that period, combined with its limited usage and significant appreciation, solidifies its position as a highly coveted vehicle for discerning collectors looking for a blend of performance, luxury, and historical significance. The auction result serves as a clear indicator of the robust demand for rare and well-maintained examples of performance-oriented luxury vehicles.
The Enduring Legacy of the CL65's V12 Powertrain
At the heart of the 2005 Mercedes-AMG CL65 lies its formidable 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine, a masterpiece of engineering that produces an impressive 604 horsepower and a staggering 738 lb-ft of torque. This power unit represents a golden age for Mercedes-AMG, where the focus was on delivering immense power and effortless performance without the constraints of modern-day downsizing trends. Despite the availability of newer seven-speed automatic transmissions at the time, Mercedes opted for a more robust five-speed automatic for the CL65, capable of handling its colossal torque output. This strategic choice highlights the car's dedication to raw power and durability. The V12's prodigious torque is channeled exclusively to the rear wheels, making it a thrilling, albeit challenging, car to launch, often requiring careful modulation of the throttle to prevent the traction control system from intervening excessively. Its ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over four seconds speaks to its formidable performance capabilities.
The CL65's V12 engine is more than just a power plant; it is a defining characteristic that sets it apart in the automotive landscape. With Mercedes-Benz moving away from V12 engines in many of its contemporary models, reserving them primarily for ultra-luxury offerings like the Maybach S680, the CL65 stands as a rare and significant piece of automotive history. Its fuel efficiency, estimated at 11 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway, with a combined average of 13 mpg, reflects the inherent trade-off for such an uncompromised level of power and luxury. However, for collectors and enthusiasts, this inefficiency is a small price to pay for the unparalleled refinement and power delivery of a twin-turbo V12. The increasing scarcity of V12-powered AMG models, coupled with Mercedes-Benz's future plans for electrification, positions the CL65 as an increasingly valuable asset, ensuring its status as a future classic that will continue to attract significant investment from those who appreciate its unique blend of power, prestige, and engineering excellence.