The Mercedes-Maybach SL680 – a V8 roadster billed as the “sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s history” – has arrived in SA. Here’s what this 2-seater costs…
- Mercedes-Maybach’s SL touches down in Mzansi
- R1.1-million premium over Mercedes-AMG SL63
- Twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 offers 430 kW & 800 Nm
Almost 2 years after the reveal of the Mercedes‑Maybach SL680, the ultra-luxurious version of the German automaker’s roadster has touched down in South Africa – likely in very limited numbers. Get your bank managers on the phone, folks…
Yes, we’ve discovered pricing for the the Stuttgart-based firm’s ultimate SL. Billed as the “sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s history”, the Mercedes‑Maybach SL680 Monogram Series (to use its full name) starts at a heady R5 029 628.
Though this price includes a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, it doesn’t include the cost of a maintenance plan, which the buyer is entitled to exclude (with the maintenance plan included, the price rises to R5 132 128). For the record, that makes the SL680 some R1 105 900 more expensive than the Mercedes-AMG SL63 (which currently starts at R3 923 728, or R3 988 378 including a maintenance plan).
From what we can tell, the available options for the SL680 are bespoke “Manufakuar Exclusive” paint colours (R229 000 per hue), a Maybach pattern for the bonnet (R161 500), multi-spoke 21-inch alloys (R118 000), a Maybach indoor car cover (R18 700) and a parking package with memory parking assist (R7 000).
Of course, the SL680 employs the same powertrain as the AMG-badged SL63. In fact, the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 petrol motor delivers an unchanged 430 kW and 800 Nm to all 4 wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission.
However, likely due to its added heft, the claimed 0-100 kph time slows by half a second to 4.1 seconds, while top speed falls by 55 kph to 260 kph. In addition, according to Mercedes, its engineers “adapted” the accelerator-pedal characteristics to ensure “the supremely dynamic driving pleasure expected of a Maybach”.
Moreover, the company claims “comprehensive measures” have been implemented to “guarantee a quiet and comfortable, typically Maybach, driving experience”. These include a “noise-optimised” exhaust system, an extensive insulation package and a “comfort-oriented” suspension set-up, along with “soft” engine mounts.
In terms of exterior styling, the Maybach-specific chrome grille features illuminated contours (and illuminated “Maybach” lettering), while the black bonnet bears an upright Mercedes-Benz star and a chromed fin running down its centre.
The headlamps boast rose-gold accents, while the windscreen frame is finished in chrome, a material repeated on the sill cladding. The “extensively insulated” acoustic soft top is fashioned from light black fabric, with the Maybach pattern incorporated in anthracite.
Round back, there’s a brand-specific rear skirt (with yet more chrome trim) and diffuser design. An “aerodynamically designed” double scoop means the rear bench has been ditched, which sees the Mercedes‑Maybach SL680 function as a strict 2-seater rather than a “2+2” roadster, like the SL63. Inside, you’ll find “sustainably tanned” crystal white Nappa leather and trim parts in silver chrome.
What does the Mercedes-Maybach SL680 cost in SA?
| DERIVATIVE | PRICE |
| Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram Series | R5 029 628 |
Note that though the price above includes Mercedes-Benz SA’s 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, it excludes the cost of a maintenance plan. With the latter included, the price rises to R5 132 128.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does the Mercedes-Maybach SL680 cost in South Africa compared to the AMG SL63?
A: The Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram Series is priced from R5 029 628, which includes a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty but excludes a maintenance plan. This represents a premium of over R1.1 million compared to the standard Mercedes-AMG SL63, which starts at R3 923 728.
Q: Does the Maybach SL680 have a different engine or performance profile than the AMG version?
A: Mechanically, it uses the identical twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine found in the AMG SL63, generating 430 kW and 800 Nm of torque through a 9-speed automatic transmission. However, due to added luxury insulation and a comfort-oriented setup, its 0-100 kph sprint is slightly slower at 4.1 seconds, and its top speed is lower at 260 kph.
Q: What unique design elements set the Maybach SL680 apart from standard SL models?
A: The Maybach SL680 functions as a strict 2-seater, completely removing the rear bench found in the AMG SL63 in favor of an aerodynamic double scoop. Visually, it stands out with a Maybach-specific illuminated chrome grille, an upright Mercedes-Benz bonnet star, rose-gold headlamp accents, and an interior completely upholstered in crystal white Nappa leather.
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