The Mercedes-Benz SL is one of the most celebrated cars in the German marque’s back-catalogue, with a history that stretches back to the 1950s.
Now the latest generation of the iconic roadster has been treated to a luxurious makeover by Maybach.
The result is the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680, launched at Monterey Car Week with a striking ‘Monogram Series Red Ambience’ special edition.
According to the boss of Mercedes-Maybach, Daniel Lescow, the new SL 680 demonstrates “everything that characterises a Mercedes-Maybach”.
Less speed, more refinement
The sportiest Maybach to date is based on the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 roadster. This means a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 that serves up 585hp and 590lb ft of torque, combined with 4Matic all-wheel drive.
The Maybach enhancements actually make the SL 680 marginally slower. Accelerating from 0-62mph takes 4.1 seconds, versus 3.6 seconds for the regular AMG version. Top speed is also electronically limited to 161mph, rather than 196mph.
Maybach has tuned the exhaust to be less raucous, and given the accelerator pedal a smoother action. Clearly, refinement is the order of the day, rather than outright performance.
Chrome and rose gold
A choice of two-tone liveries will be offered as standard, although buyers will be able to specify other colours.
The Monogram Series Red Ambience, seen here, features Obsidian Black metallic over bespoke Garnet Red metallic. Alternatively, the Monogram Series White Ambience features Obsidian Black and Opalite White Magno.
A chrome strip stretches the length of the bonnet, which can be decorated with a Maybach logo pattern. A chrome Mercedes-Benz badge presides above a bold chrome grille.
More chrome covers the windscreen surround, side sills and inserts on the front bumper. Buyers can choose between two designs of 21-inch forged alloy wheels, too.
As a finishing touch, the insides of the SL’s headlights are detailed with rose gold, while the tail lights feature a Maybach logo.
A bespoke Maybach interior
On the inside, the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 features acres of Crystal White Nappa leather upholstery. This swathes the door panels, centre console and seats, with the latter including a floral design.
Maybach-specific graphics are displayed on the digital instrument panel and central touchscreen, plus there is a unique Maybach steering wheel and more chrome trim.
For those who want the most ostentatious Mercedes SL to date, orders for European markets are expected to open in spring 2025.