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Why you need to be a millionaire to own a topless S-Class in SA

Cape Town - The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class cabriolet ushers in the automaker's first open-top four-seater in 45 years. 

Its new models offer a raft of advanced features such as warmth and wind protection concept, which includes intelligent climate control for convertibles.

And the the local price? The new S-Class cabriolet starts from R2.2-million to a staggering R3.4-million for the top-of-the-range S65.

Most comfortable convertible in the world?

Safety is paramount for the behemoth drop-top, for example the luggage compartment bulkhead is made of aluminium and magnesium as well as the aluminium rear floor.

The standard-fit rollover protection system behind the rear head restraints features pyrotechnic initiation of the actuators for the first time, in addition to which the roll bars themselves are moved into position by a gas generator.

The multilayer soft top is available in black, dark blue, beige and dark red, by virtue of pressing a switch in the centre console the soft top can be openend and closed in 20 seconds with speeds of up to 60km/h. The roof is deposited above the automatically extending luggage compartment. 

READ: Arrived in SA - Mercedes lifts lid on C-Class cabriolet


The five-metre long cabrio uses 60% of the coupes body-shell components. 

Inside, well it's an S-Class after all, so expect a broad scope for individualisation, there is a choice of leather, nappa leather or designo Exclusive nappa leather plus six different interior colour concepts, including a maritime-inspired combination of deep-sea blue and porcelain. 

Engines

There are three models available, the first-entry is the S500, which uses a 4.7-litre V8 engine producing 335kW/700Nm, that's more than enough oomph right? Well, according to Mercedes, no. That's why there are also new AMG derivatives. 

The S63 has a 5.5-litre bi-turbo engine making 430kW/900Nm. 0-100km/h takes place in 4.2 seconds according to Mercedes. 

The S65 uses a 6.0-litre bi-turbo V12 producing 463kW/1000Nm, the 0-100km/h sprint is 4.1 seconds and top speed is governed to 250km/h. 

Pricing

Mercedes-Benz S 500 Cabriolet - R2 299 900
Mercedes-AMG S 63 Cabriolet - R2 899 900
Mercedes-AMG S 65 Cabriolet - R3 499 900

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