Posted on Wednesday 11 July 2007
DaimlerChrysler’s ultra-luxury brand Maybach, suffering from poor sales and a limited lineup, could expand its range with rumored convertible and SUV models in an effort to increase profitability. Though chances of a high-end SUV are slim, the likelihood of a convertible model based on the current 57 limo is high considering that sister-brand Mercedes-Benz has confirmed production of its own four-door luxury drop-top.
Sharing its underpinnings with the Maybach 57, the new cabrio will seat up to four passengers and is expected to be produced in a limited run of just 25 to 50 cars. UK’s Car reports that each model will be made to special order with the first deliveries likely to kick-in late next year.
The car will be differentiated from its sedan sibling thanks to a new grille, lights and bumpers, and it will likely feature an electrically operated soft-top as a folding metal roof would be too heavy and complex in a vehicle this size.
Maybach’s annual production stood at just 280 cars last year, a smidgen compared to its main rivals Bentley and Rolls-Royce, whose production levels range into the thousands. The story gets worse because both competitors are preparing new or updated models, which means Maybach will have to really kick it up a gear.
I’m happy to say that Puff Daddy and Jay Z have come to an agreement: PD will get the RR Drophead Coupe and Jay Z will get this new abortion of a car from MB. Peace reigns again in the hip hop world!
Seriously… A convertible Maybach? What? MB isn’t ashamed enough of the crappy sales and cliff face depreciation of the regular Maybach not to mention its Korean exterior and S class on steroids interior? Oh the humanity…
Looks pretty nice. I am a huge Mercedes fan. I currently drive an E-class, and will upgrade to a CL within a year. The styling on the Maybach sedans are questionable. I think the S-class (both 2000-2006 and 2007+ versions) look better. Also, I’d rather drive a Bentley or get driven in a Rolls Royce, for similar price tags. However, I think Maybach might be on to something with this convertible; to me, it looks more aesthetically pleasing than the sedans and the lines seem more graceful, yet still masculine.
—Paul