Mercedes S600L

Until the S63 AMG arrives next summer this is the quickest S-class available, but at a shade under £100k the long wheelbase-only range-topper is expected to tempt just three in every 100 buyers.
The twin-turbo V12 is the sole survivor from the old S-class engine range, though there’s an extra 17bhp and 22lb ft of torque to deal with the new car’s additional 45kg. Its monster 612lb ft torque peak overwhelms Merc’s 7G-tronic gearbox so the S600 sticks to the old five-speed auto.
Old-tech it may be, but this remains a very special S-class. Mercedes’ flagship is a heavy beast, and feels it even in 383bhp S500 form, but the 510bhp V12 is rather more convincing. Performance is spectacular for a 2180kg limo, 0-62mph is posted in an Aston DB9-beating 4.6sec and even on dry roads the traction control is tested when the 1900rpm torque peak is reached in second and third gears.
The combination of bigger tyres – 255/45 front and 275/45 rear R18s - and Mercedes’ Active Body Control makes swift progress possible on twisty roads, with steering and body control notably improved over the old car’s, though the same combination mean there is a touch more tyre and suspension noise than the S350 we tried last week.
Inside, the 600 feels special enough to justify its lofty price tag. The generous dose of Nappa leather out-blings other S-classes with a hide-clad wheel and dash, while extra standard kit includes parking sensors, harman/kardon stereo, TV tuner and that trick suspension.
Avoid the AMG bodykit and the S600 is a particularly subtle way to go very quickly, but it’s also exceptionally relaxing to drive when you’re not breaking speed records. If you can afford it, this is the ultimate S express.
Alastair Clements