02 Mar 05
If a Maybach saloon wasn't quite special enough, the 57S takes DaimlerChrysler's luxury limo a stage further. It's aimed at rich folks who like to drive themselves, rather than be driven. Engine power is up 45bhp to 612bhp with the addition of an AMG-tuned bi-turbo 6.0-litre V12 - giving 190mph and 0-60mph in five seconds - and each engine has a cover plate with its serial number and the signature of the AMG engineer who hand-built it. Torque output is now 1000Nm (electronically limited) and peaks between 2000-4000rpm. Helping keep all this on the road, the 57S has firmed-up suspension, which is said not to compromise ride comfort.To distinguish between this and lesser Maybachs, the 57S has a monochrome exterior paint scheme with black or silver finishes, a unique grille and revised headlights, two new exhaust tailpipes and re-contoured rear apron, new 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels plus 57S badging on the front wing and boot lid. The cabin has a piano lacquer/carbonfibre finish. And the cost? No less than £34,500 more than the 'standard' Maybach 57, adding up to a breath-taking £287,380.
