The 2011 Maybach. Image: Mercedes-Benz

If you dream of owning a brand-new Maybach, consider yourself warned: you have until early 2013 to raise the $372,500 minimum price of admission for a Maybach 57, or the $423,500 it takes to own a Maybach 62. According to AutoWeek, Mercedes-Benz has finally made the official decision to kill off it’s under-performing uber-luxury brand, which never managed to achieve the 800 units per-year projected by Mercedes-Benz to make the brand profitable.

Mercedes will instead focus on the redesign of its flagship S-Class, and will work to take this model even further upscale than its current market position. When a new S-Class debuts in 2013, expect it to come in three different wheelbase lengths, with a variety of powerplant options and even a range-topping S600 Pullman.

Until the new S-Class debuts, the Maybach brand will soldier on, giving new NBA players and the teenage sons of rap and hip-hop moguls something to aspire to.

Image: Maybach

The richest man in the world is Mexico’s Carlos Slim Helu, who made his estimated $74 billion in telecommunications. I’m not sure where Mr. Helu lives, but I know this: sooner or later, he has to exit his secure compound and head out with the unwashed masses. When he does so, he’s now got a new choice of armored transportation befitting his net worth: Maybach has announced an armored version of their 62, called the Maybach Guard. Like the Maybach 62, the Maybach Guard offers a near-endless level of customization to suit an owners tastes. Unlike other armored limousines, the Maybach Guard isn’t a heavy, waddling pig at speed. In fact, Maybach is quick to point out that the specially developed armor plating adds just 893 pounds to the car and has no effect on handling. Even acceleration remains impressive, with 62 miles per hour coming up from a standing start in just 5.7 seconds. It’s the world’s fastest armored limo, too, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 miles per hour.

Now THAT'S a plush safe room. Image: Maybach

Maybach doesn’t provide the same level of detail on the Maybach Guard’s armoring, so we can’t tell you what it will stop and what it won’t. Since the car is really aimed at heads of state, that may be deliberate on Maybach’s part, but I think it’s safe to say that the car will withstand anything an armored BMW 7 Series or an armored Audi A 8 will, and then some. As you’d expect, pricing isn’t mentioned, because if you’re concerned about it you’re probably not a serious buyer.

Source: Autoblog

If you’re in Geneva for the 2011 Motor Show (you lucky bastard), don’t look for the Xenatec Maybach Cruiserio Coupe on the show floor. Auto show introductions, after all, are for common vehicles, much like your doctor or (God forbid) your plumber would drive. Cars for the elite and fat of wallet should be debuted in a more exclusive setting, away from the chaos of the unwashed masses, and the the Xenatec Cruiserio Coupe certainly falls into this category. If you want a first hand look, head on over to the gardens of the “La Réserve” hotel and look for the specially constructed pavilion; that’s where you’ll find the Cruiserio, in a setting more befitting of the cars stature.

The coupe is currently a one-off, designed by Xenatec’s Fredrik Burchhardt for a customer with exquisite taste and a very, very large bank balance. The exterior features a matte brass and silver finish, specially applied to enhance the car’s flanks. Inside, the Cruiserio gets natural buffalo hide leather, trimmed with dark brown nappa leather, all hand-stitched by craftsmen. The footwells are trimmed in dark Alcantara, but the headliner is pure nappa leather; you’ll appreciate this when you’re not gazing skyward through the coupe’s panoramic roof. There’s no word on increased horsepower, so I’m guessing that this customer’s budget was spent on updating the interior and exterior of a conventional Maybach 57 S. Besides, the Maybach 57 S’ 604 horsepower and 738 ft lb of torque are probably sufficient to get you the racquet club in time for your squash game.

The Cuiserio is currently one of one, but Xenatec is more than willing to build additional copies based on your own specifications. They aren’t mentioning a price, but if that’s even a question, you’re probably not the type of client that Xenatec does business with anyway.

Source: The Torque Report

Remember last year, when Diddy caused a media frenzy by buying his sixteen year old son Justin a brand new Maybach? Guess what Justin recently got for his 17th birthday? If you came up with “another Maybach”, you’d be entirely correct. Unlike last year, when Diddy admitted the gift was expected given the rapper’s net worth, this year Justin’s earned it. As quoted by popeater, Diddy says, “Justin has turned himself around and is now an honors student, which he wasn’t before, so I wanted to treat him. It’s a collector’s car so maybe he will use it for special occasions like on a first date, but like all my kids, he prefers the simpler things than the expensive things. Simple tastes.”

Maybe Diddy’s definition of simple tastes differs from mine, but I’d say simple is a Hyundai Elantra. Complex may be a Porsche 911 Turbo, while a second Maybach falls into the over-the top category. Think back to when you were 17: how happy would YOU have been to get the same present as last year, even if it was in a different color? Since dad gave it to you, it’s not like you can trade it in on something you really want (like a Ferrari 458 Italia, for example).

Of course the story is now being denied by Diddy, who claims he didn’t get Justin another car and doesn’t know where these rumors start. Believe what you want, but if I was Diddy’s son I’d be hoping for anything but another Maybach.

Source: Autoevolution

The Maybach 62S: guaranteed to make a statement at your high school reunion.

Rumors about the death of uber-premium brand Maybach have been flying for years. In the years prior to 2008’s global economic meltdown, the Maybach seemed like a sensible gamble; there was, after all, a percentage of the population who wanted the absolute best of everything, cost be dammed. In the clear light of day, Daimler is beginning to seriously reconsider if the brand still makes sense in a more fiscally conservative climate.

Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche addressed questions about the brand at the Detroit Auto Show. In his own words, “The success or failure of Maybach hardly shows up on our results, but it is something I want to have a decision on by year-end. And everything is on the table.” When pressed further on the issue of a potential shutdown, Zetsch simply repeated his last statement: “Everything is on the table.”

Pulling the plug is certainly one option, but it’s not the only one. Daimler could try to sell the brand, but it’s unlikely that they’d find interested buyers given the brands plunging sales. They could attempt to partner with another automaker to trim production costs, and there has indeed been dialogue between Daimler and Aston Martin. The question would be how to structure such a partnership to benefit all parties involved, while maintaining the level of quality that Maybach customers have come to expect. This much is clear: we won’t be speculating on the fate of Maybach after the end of 2011.

Source: Autoblog

The Bugatti Super Sport tops the list.

If you ever see me giving stock tips on RideLust, be afraid. I’m not a “play the stock market” kind of guy, and every spare dollar I’ve ever made has gone into cars, bikes, racing or travel (usually centered around cars, bikes or racing). With that in mind, you have a certain right to be skeptical when Forbes publishes a list of the most expensive cars. First, it’s only a snapshot in time, as new supercars are introduced every year. Next, there’s no clarification on where the prices are from, so I assume they’re a manufacturer’s list price, translated in to U.S. dollars. That’s hardly an accurate representation, as cars typically sell for higher prices in the EU than they do in the United States. Finally, any car’s price is based on supply and demand: since the entire run of Bugatti Veyron Super Sports has been spoken for, good luck finding one at the list price of $2.6 million.

Here’s Forbes’ list of the ten most expensive cars for 2010. I know that some of them don’t yet exist (like the Ferrari F70), so pricing is sheer speculation. Likewise, the list has a few glaring omissions (like the $550,000 Gumpert Apollo), so take it for what it’s worth. Just remember that there’s a reason we don’t give you investment advice on RideLust.

Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, $2.6 million

Koenigsegg Agera, $1.5 million

Maybach Laudaulet, $1.405 million

Pagani Zonda C9, $1.3 million

Ferrari F70, $870,000

SSC Ultimate Aero, $750,000

LeBlanc Mirabeau, $728,000

Ferrari SA Aperta, $520,000

Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SuperVeloce, $455,400

Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe, $447,000

Before you guys get all uppity and start ragging on all my selections I want you to go back and reread the title of this post. Keep in mind that it DOES NOT say, “Top 10 Cars That Will Get You Laid”, it says, “Top 10 Cars to Get Laid In” – there is a very big difference here. We all know that if you’re pimping in something super exotic at the club that your chances of getting a little action will go up. There are however some problems with this, for instance; have you ever tried to get laid in a Lamborghini, Ferrari or Corvette. There is no head room, no back seat and at the end of the night you’re going to be totally pissed if you get any bodily fluids on that fine leather. So, for that reason I’ve decided to give you a list of 10 pre-approved rides that are conducive for bangin’ boots.

Here’s some music to help set the mood…

1. Cadillac Eldorado: Early to Mid-1970′s

It was 19 feet long, had a 501 cu. inch engine, was front wheel drive and had a back seat that was as big as Texas. The Cadillac Eldorado’s from the 1970′s had enough space to shoot a full fledged porno in, and with that comfy back seat and convertible top you could play hide the pickle until the cows came home.

2. Rolls Royce Phantom: Current Generation

Sure it’s expensive, but it’s that way for a reason. I mean talk about the perfect sex machine, the Rolls Royce Phantom will not only get you noticed when you pull up, but with a massive rear cabin, built in bar and heated seats, this thing should keep you busy while at the same time keeping your legs cramp free.

3. Jeep Wrangler: Any Year.

The ultimate college hump mobile; drive down to the beach, pop the top, hit the back seat and give that off-road suspension a workout that would make Ron Jeremy proud.

4. GMC Denali XL or Chevrolet Suburban

They’re big, will haul anything and have enough room in both the front and rear seats to keep you and your partner happy all night long. Plus, with all the modern luxury amenities you could ask for as well as a massive back seat, there is no reason the GMC Denali XL or Chevrolet Suburban couldn’t be used as your full time rolling love shack.

5. Chrysler Town and County Mini-Van: Current Generation

It’s got “Stow and Go” seating ladies and gentlemen… nuff said.

6. American Muscle Car: 1965-1972

What more do you really need to know than almost every muscle car from 1965 to 1972 came stock with a massive bench seat up front. Start er’ up and hear the rumble, then take you’re babe for a front seat tumble!

7. Lincoln Town Car: Any Year

The Lincoln Town Car has always been a favorite amongst corporate executives and is used mostly as their private transport. They’re covered in leather, have loads of leg and head room, a massive back seat and for the most part, aren’t yours. What’s better than that?

8. Bentley Continental: Current Generation

The Bentley follows in the footsteps of the aforementioned Rolls Royce, but with a much sportier feel. Where Rolls will net you the “Super Cougar”, the Bentley will get you the “Gold Digger” and with a great interior and room to move, the Bentley will provide you with all night comfort.

9. Chevrolet C10 Pick-up

There is a bed in the back…. A BIG 5′x8′ BED. That’s all you need to know.

10. Maybach 62

You are now the ultimate pimp, in the ultimate pimp mobile, with the most comfortable rear porno seats in the industry. With integrated heat, ac, recline and massage features, the Maybach 62 is the ultimate comfort machine for high-class back-seat boot-knocking.

German tuning firm Xenatec announced their coupe version of the Maybach 57S last May. The original plan was to have cars delivered to customers beginning in July, but the summer passed without any update from Xenatec. That’s changed, and 4 Wheels News tell us that the tuning firm has now released these images (or renderings, it’s hard to tell) of the finalized Xenatec Coupe to announce the cars imminent production.

There’s no denying that the firm improved the looks of the über-conservative Maybach 57S sedan, and the car somehow looks more menacing as a long wheelbase coupe. Xenatec reworked nearly all the body panels, and the conversion called for the fabrication of entirely new doors. The B pillar was moved nearly eight inches to the rear, and combined with the new doors facilitates entry and exit for rear seat passengers. The interior looks like a great place to spend time, and it somehow looks more opulent than the Maybach’s insides. Is that a suede headliner I see in the images? What’s with the three semi-exposed fans?

The Maybach drivetrain and suspension remains unchanged, ensuring that the car can be serviced at any Maybach dealership. The Maybach’s 6.0 liter, twin turbo V12 is good for 604 horsepower and 738 ft-lb of torque, so it’s not like the car needed more power to begin with.

In the EU, the Xenatech Coupe will sell for €675,000 (about $925,000, based on current exchange rates), but there’s no word on whether or not the car will be available on this side of the pond. If you’ve got the bank for one, Federalization won’t be much of an obstacle for you, and I’m sure a team of lawyers and mechanics can set things to right quickly. Even if I had the money, the Xenatec Coupe wouldn’t be my cup of meat, but it certainly does stand out from the luxury car crowd.

A Maybach Zeppelin

Conventional wisdom would say that 200 to 300 units of worldwide sales is far from sufficient to keep a car marque alive, and rumors of Maybach’s demise have been circulating for months. If Automobile is correct, the brand will not only soldier on, but will see a focus on growth through new models, thanks to Daimler’s Joachim Schmidt. Schmidt sees opportunity for the high end brand in China, North America, Russia, and the Middle East, but only if the product line is revised and updated.

All new Maybachs are expected to be built on the upcoming Mercedes S-Class platform, scheduled for launch in 2012. The Maybach range is expected to add a four door coupe and a long wheelbase convertible, while the 57 and 62 models continue in their present configuration on the new platform. A hybrid Maybach is also said to be in the works, but it’s expected to have a modest battery-only range and will only produce some 20 supplemental horsepower.

Let’s be honest, though: Maybach buyers don’t really care about fuel mileage or gasoline prices, and hybridization is just Daimler’s way of making the Maybach appear more green to EU regulators. With a base motor that cranks out about 545 horsepower and an uprated motor good for 630 horsepower, current Maybachs get a fuel economy rating of just 12 mpg; even a hybrid drivetrain won’t increase that substantially.

Ever see a fat chick in spandex, a bald guy with a comb over, or a redneck with a mullet? To the perpetrators of these fashion crimes behavior like this is completely acceptable. When out in public the stares they garner are like badges of honor as are the comments they receive from onlookers. These people revel in attention as in their minds they actually think they look appealing. The real question that one must ask however is why? I mean have they never seen a copy of GQ, Vogue or Cosmopolitan before.

One such issue I have with individuals of this nature is that nine times out of ten they own an automobile which means their lack of good taste will most likely ravage their four wheeled companion with a vengeance. Take this smurfed-out Maybach for example that was recently spied at the Hotel de Paris in Monaco. Clad with what I hope is a one-off body kit, this hopped up luxury sedan looks as though it was attacked by a whole clan of Smurfs. Coated in a two-toned mix of gloss and matte blue paint over flared wheel arches and sunflower style rims, the mighty sedan just screams “TRAILER PARK”. If someone actually did this to a quarter million dollar car just think about what’s lurking in their closet back home… geesh…

Source: Carmagazine.co.uk