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Motrolix

Car Clash: 2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet Vs. 2015 Bentley Continental Convertible

Mercedes-Benz this week gave us the first official look at its 2016 S-Class cabriolet, the first drop-top S-Class since production of the W111/W1112 S-Class ended in 1971. The automaker says the new full-size four-seat cabriolet is designed to go head-to-head with the Bentley Continental GT Convertible, so the question is, which would you rather have?

The S500 Cabriolet is expected to be offered with a 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 449 horsepower, however if performance is what you want, a 577 horsepower S63 AMG cabriolet will be available with a 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged V8. To make things even, let’s pit the 577 horsepower S63 AMG against at the standard 589 horsepower Continental GT Convertible, rather than the 626 horsepower Continental GT Speed Convertible.

While the S63 AMG Cabriolet will be offered with a V8, the Bentley beats it when it comes to engine size with its 6.0-liter W12. As previously mentioned, the S63 AMG produces 577 horsepower, a bit less than the Continental’s 589, however at 5,501 lbs, we’re expecting the S-Class cabriolet to be much lighter than the all-wheel drive Bentley.

Inside, you’d expect the Continental to have the upper hand, but that’s something that’s up for debate, in our opinion. We’ve driven the S500 Coupe briefly, and promptly concluded its cabin is of the nicest automotive spaces we’ve ever occupied. We’ve always found the Bentley’s interior to be nice, but it also feels similar to other products in the VW Group portfolio and not as special as a $200,000 car’s cabin should.

One area where the Bentley has the upper hand is in image. Sure, the neighbors will think you’re rich if you pull up in a brand-new S-Class cabriolet, but a Bentley sends a much stronger message. The winged ‘B’ sends a message of exclusivity and rarity, while a Mercedes three-pointed star is a much more common sight.

So, what will it be? Mercedes’ yet-to-be unveiled S-Class cabriolet, or the established Bentley Continental GT Convertible? Let us know by voting and commenting below.

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