Maybach 62 2007 review

The Maybach Landaulet concept car returns to the traditional '30s style of limousine, featuring a rear compartment that can be converted to a topless cabin; while the front 'chauffeur' driving area remains under cover.

Rear passengers are seated in opulent surroundings, including white leather reclining armchairs, white velour carpet, piano lacquer, black granite and gold trim, voice-control DVD/CD entertainment and information unit, cooler and a drinks space to hold champagne glasses.

Peter Fadeyev, DaimlerChrysler Australia's corporate communications manager, says the Landaulet concept has been based around the Maybach 62 S vehicle, which is not offered for sale in Australia.

“The Maybach Landaulet study is a concept vehicle that showcases this new Maybach variant for the first time,” he says.

“It is expected to move into production some time soon."

“Currently there are no plans for this unique car to come to Australia as it is not yet in production, but we will naturally consider making this car available according to our customers' requests.”'

The word 'landau' means carriage and 'landaulet' generally refers to a simulated convertible vehicle.

When the Landaulet's roof is in its folded-down mode the side walls remain fixed, and have been reinforced with an integral tubular steel structure.

This means that the silhouette of the luxury saloon; as well as the big doors; will remain unchanged.

When closed, the black soft-top of the Landaulet rests on the frame formed by the roof bows, and is wind and weather-proof.

When requested by the passengers behind him, the chauffeur operates a switch in the centre console that electro-hydraulically opens the roof, which will fold back on to the parcel shelf in 16 seconds.

Landaulet has completed the traditional limousine look with gloss white paintwork and 20-inch traditional white-walled wheels with glossy spokes.

Despite all the opulence of the interior, the traditional exterior styling and floating on air suspension, under the bonnet is a modern twin-turbo V12 engine which has been developed at Mercedes-AMG.

The 5980cc V12 develops a maximum output of 450kW between 4800 and 5100rpm, delivering 1000Nm of torque between 2000 and 4000rpm.

The Maybach marque was launched in Australia at the end of 2002.

“At present, nine Maybachs have been sold in Australia since its local market release,” Fadeyev said.

Australia sells three different models; the Maybach 57 ($945,000), 57S ($1,050,000) and the 62 ($1,150,000).