Explore the extraordinary Mercedes G65 6x6, the only 12-cylinder version of its kind, its unique features, history, and the experience of driving this remarkable vehicle.
Welcome back, Driver stream viewers! It’s still the 12-cylinder month here on the channel, and today we present the fourth and final video of the month featuring what can be described as the most unique Mercedes G-Class in the world. This episode is made possible by AC tronics, Whistler, Villa for You unique holiday homes, and in collaboration with our partner Vredestein tires.
Here it is: the Mercedes G-Class 6x6, equipped with six wheels and three axles, boasting an enormous cargo area. You might think that these vehicles are only produced with an eight-cylinder engine, and you would be correct—except for one. There is indeed one G65 6x6 in the world with a 12-cylinder engine, and it’s right here at Autovilla in Naarden. I was genuinely taken aback when I saw it in person, despite having done some research beforehand.
Before diving deeper into the G65, let’s take a quick tour of the showroom. Alongside the G-Class, we have a 12-cylinder Lamborghini Aventador, which we’ve previously driven. This particular model is the Aventador SVJ Roadster, one of only 800 units produced. It’s one of the last and most powerful Aventadors available.
We also have a stunning collection of Ferraris, including the 812 GTS and the 575 Maranello, which is my personal favorite. This particular Ferrari has clocked 100,000 km and is available for just 85,000 euros.
Now, let’s get to the main event: driving the G65 6x6. The team at Autovilla was very accommodating, handing me the keys and wishing me luck. As I climbed into the driver’s seat, I realized just how massive this vehicle is. It’s a beast on the road, and maneuvering it is quite a challenge.
Before hitting the road, we needed to refuel. Surprisingly, this vehicle consumes fuel at an alarming rate, and it takes up two pumps at the gas station. With a fuel tank that’s nearly empty, I had to fill it up to ensure we wouldn’t run out during our drive.
The G65 6x6 is not just a regular G-Class; it’s a unique creation. Only 99 units of the G63 6x6 were built, and this G65 is the only one with a 12-cylinder engine. The story behind this vehicle is fascinating. A wealthy Russian owner, who had residences in both Moscow and Monaco, decided to have his G65 converted into a 6x6 at the factory in Austria. He paid over 750,000 euros for the conversion, and then took it to Mansory for further customization.
This Russian owner, named Vladimir, didn’t just let this unique vehicle sit in a museum. Instead, he drove it regularly between Monaco and Moscow, accumulating around 50,000 km on the odometer. This usage adds to the vehicle's character and history.
The G65 6x6 is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine, producing 612 horsepower. It’s a true AMG, and the craftsmanship is evident in every detail. The vehicle weighs approximately 3,700 kg, which raises questions about licensing. In the Netherlands, you can drive it with a standard B license, as it weighs just under the 3,500 kg threshold.
Driving the G65 is an experience like no other. The turning radius is quite large, making it challenging to navigate tight spaces. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes about three seconds, but that’s not the primary reason for owning such a vehicle. It’s all about the uniqueness and the presence it commands on the road.
In conclusion, the Mercedes G65 6x6 is not just a vehicle; it’s a statement. With its one-of-a-kind 12-cylinder engine and luxurious modifications, it stands out as a remarkable piece of automotive engineering. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply appreciate unique vehicles, the G65 6x6 is a fascinating subject worth exploring. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope you enjoyed this look at one of the most bizarre and extraordinary vehicles in the world.
