The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is the new standard-bearer for Daimler’s Maybach super-luxury brand. It is the wealthiest and most unique automobile in what may be the most generally appreciated and loved limousine line in the world.
According to looks, it was at least as much S-Class as Maybach, which is the outcome of Daimler’s strategic decision a few years ago to widen the reach of the Maybach label by establishing ‘halo’ Maybach models over several of its more standard Mercedes passenger vehicle lines. The ultra-rare, Simon Cowell-spec, Maybach-only 57 and 62 limos were also retired at the same time.
As a result, the fact that this automobile is ‘just’ an S-Class may be both its greatest strength and its worst weakness. An S-Class may not have the drool-worthy kerbside appeal of a Rolls-Royce or a Bentley, but it is the beneficiary of all those modern active suspension and driver aid systems, which helps to make it so magnificently polished, rich, and cosseting.
The flagship S650’s 603bhp twin-turbocharged petrol V12 (but the UK will also get the 496bhp 4.0-litre V8 S580) is hardly audible, and its commitment to comfort and good manners is exceptional. With an 18cm larger wheelbase than even the long-wheelbase version of the normal S-Class, even the longest-legged passengers will have plenty of room.
Number 4. Alpina B7
If exclusivity is what you want, don’t be misled by the BMW logo on the Alpina B7’s large hood. Only the Mercedes-Maybach, of all the highly unusual and uncommon automobiles on this list, is as unlikely to come into your view on public highways, and the standard B7 price tag of close to £200,000 after extras reflects that.
