Maybach Zeppelin Nameplate Makes a Return at Geneva

Almost seven years since the Maybach-Manufaktur brand made a comeback into the super-saloons for the super-rich market, the German head-honchos have decided to revive another Friedrichshafen-related nameplate. The legendary Maybach Zeppelin nameplate is to make a comeback in the form of a special version built on the technical basis of the 57 S and the long-wheelbase 62 S.

The new limited edition will be manufactured in only 100 units and is expected to be officially launched at the Geneva Auto Show, in March. Somehow, Maybach marketing people have arrived to the odd conclusion that people who are on the lookout for exclusivity would drive past even a Maybach or a Rolls-Royce Phantom in their quest. Therefore, the 2009 Maybach Zeppelins bring another level of exclusivity on top of the already exclusive “regular” Maybach range.

From a technical point of view, the new special edition models benefit from an increase in the power output of the “Spezial” models from 612 hp to 640 hp, while the torque figure remains electronically limited to 1000 Nm (737.6 lb ft). This pretty much makes the twin models the most powerful road-going Maybach models ever.

The exterior of the press pictures released so far bring a new two-tone paint finish. From the shoulderline upwards there's an ice-cream-like-named “Rocky Mountain” light brown color, while the rest f the body is painted in “Taiga” black. Of course, the road models can be painted in just about any color their well-fed potential clients may desire.

Apart from some newly-designed 20-inch alloy wheels in “Chrome Shadow” finish, the exterior also benefits from more aerodynamic mirrors, which minimize the car's already low drag coefficient and increase wind noise comfort.

The best part is the interior, as usual. California beige combined with Stromboli black leather provide a plush cockpit ready to satisfy the luxury needs of even our very own member  Sir May B. Bach. Trim elements also benefit from a piano lacquer finish on the dashboard, while the quilting pattern of the seats is embossed in a diamond pattern. PETA members might also be horrified by the presence of opulent lambskin carpeting.

One of the most opulent and money-pit features of the new models is the optional “fine interior fragrance atomizer”. The device is technically an internally illuminated Plexiglass sphere on the rear center console with an interior regulator pump that directs a gentle flow of perfume molecules into the vehicle's interior. A car perfume for the rich, in other words, especially since it costs a whooping 3,950 euros without VAT.

The new limited edition Maybach Zeppelins go on sale on the 3rd of March, with the first models to be delivered in September. The 57 Zeppelin starts from 406,000 euros on the German market, while the 62 Zeppelin has a starting price tag of 473,200 euros, excluding VAT.