Quote:
Originally Posted by djsaad1
But if the performance is the same, or in the Mercedes case worse, then why pay more just for the bigger engine?
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The S63 4Matic has better traction off the line and the S65 should have a slight edge on the Autobahn, but that's not really the point why.
Besides performance and smoothness,
prestige is why manufactures offer V12 engines. If S-Class offers V12 engine and the 7-series doesn't, then the 7er will be considered as one tier below S-Class by the customers in that segment. In fact, BMW offered V12 in the E32 7-Series first in 1986 and Mercedes did not have a V12 in the S-Class until the early 90s IIRC.
Many also purchase the V12 for bragging rights. There isn't much that the M760i can do that the 750i M Sport can't do.
Quote:
Originally Posted by CesaroM
Alpina 600hp from 4,4l V8 800Nm
BMW 600hp from 6.6l V12 800Nm
Pretty similar except for the engine displacement.
And that's the deal breaker here. V12 = smooth , silent compared to V8 , V12 should deliver higher torque at lower rpm
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A V12 can also be a screamer, just depends on the setup from the factory. Let's not forget the BMW S70/2 that powers the legendary McLaren F1 and the Mercedes V12s powering the Pagani Zonda.
With active exhaust, you can easily switch from whisper quiet to holy screamer at a touch of the button. Will be interesting to see which offers a louder and sportier exhaust note. You would think its the B7, but the M760i should have some M to it as well.
I am also very interested in the weight penalty of the M760i compared to the B7 and if that meaningfully affects the handling characteristics of the car.
The ZF 8-Speed gearbox is so good that I am not sure how much more "effortlessness" the V12 can bring. Though given the opportunity and the means to do so, I would go for the M760i in a heartbeat. How can you say no to a V12 borrowed from Rolls Royce?