First look: Zeppelin flies again

LUXURY car buyers seeking a higher level of salubriousness and exclusivity can now order the Maybach Zeppelin.

To be unveiled at the Geneva motor show in March, only 100 Zeppelins will be produced, with deliveries slated from September.

Based on the ‘S’ version of the standard-wheelbase 57 and long-wheelbase 62 models, the Zeppelin ups the power ante of the tweaked twin-turbo 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine from 450kW to 471kW, while torque remains the same at 1000Nm.

Exterior changes are subtle, extending to larger (20-inch) chrome-finish alloy wheels, more streamlined door mirrors for reduced wind noise, darkened tail-lights, special two-tone paintwork, and the word ‘Zeppelin’ inscribed under the Maybach emblem.

Inside, buyers will be able to order a special perfume dispenser costing around A$8000 to discreetly releases a fragrance of the owner’s choice, among a variety of high-end equipment designed to make life inside the Zeppelin a gas.

Champagne flutes, a partition screen on 62 models, diamond-quilted seat covers and lambskin carpets are also part of the Zeppelin package.

Mercedes-Benz Australia communications manager David McCarthy said no pricing details were available, and no Zeppelins had been earmarked for Australia for the time being, but the order book was open for those wanting the ultimate Maybach experience.

The original Maybach was formed in 1909, supplying engines for German aircraft and rail machinery manufacturer Luftschiffbau Zeppelin GmbH. It spread into automobile making from 1921 to 1940, using the Zeppelin nomenclature from about 1930 to 1937 for its 12-cylinder DS 7 and DS 8 flagship models.

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