This edition of Auction Dilemma explores ideal rides when the ordinary Mercedes S-Class or BMW 7 Series just won’t do. It’s a different kind of dilemma when the ultra-rich don’t want to be seen in these plain-jane $100,000 luxury sedans. So, let’s check out a 2004 Maybach 57 up for sale at Hemmings.com and a 2005 Rolls Royce Phantom at auction on Doug DeMuro’s carsandbids.com.
2004 Maybach 57
Eye-watering depreciation is a beautiful thing when someone else takes the hit. And somebody somewhere may have shed a tear over a luxobarge that’s now worth less than 25% of its original sticker price. Ahh, but you’ll look good going down the road as the money gets sucked out the windows. Based on the somewhat legendary W140 S-Class chassis, in 2002, Mercedes launched the Maybach brand to compete with BMW-owned Rolls Royce and VW’s Bentley. This is why the Maybach looks like a Mercedes on steroids. The Maybach 57 was configured for self-driving hedge fund managers, while the longer 62 model was set up for those who prefer to rely on a chauffeur.
This 2004 Maybach 57 appears in near pristine condition thanks to less than 22,000 miles on the odometer despite its age. Beyond the understated Himalayas Dark Grey exterior and black leather interior, we don’t know much about the car’s history as the seller is stingy with details.
The heart of all Maybachs from this generation is the 5.5L V-12 engine that easily outpowers its British counterpart we cover below. The Maybach’s engine output was originally rated at 543 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. And, despite weighing almost three tons, this Teutonic heavyweight can hit 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, according to Car and Driver. Impressive indeed. A five-speed automatic manages power going to the rear wheels.
Inside, the cabin appears virtually new and is accented with an abundance of lacquered wood trim. Interior amenities include heated seats in all four positions, navigation, and dual-zone climate control. The driver and front passenger can enjoy massaging lumbar support, while the back passengers can enjoy a movie via the integrated entertainment system.
2005 Rolls Royce Phantom
For extreme luxury sedans, it doesn’t get posher than a Rolls Royce. The Phantom has been around since 1925, and this seventh-generation model represents the first Roller made after BMW acquired the brand in 1998. Like its Maybach counterpart, this Blue Velvet Phantom enjoys modest mileage with 33,000 miles on the odometer. A $325,000 price when new and plummeting depreciation is another similarity with the Maybach. This multi-owner vehicle is reported as accident-free with registration history in Texas, South Carolina, and Illinois.
Surprisingly, the Phantom’s 6.75L larger V-12 comes up short against the Maybach’s powerplant. The Rolls’ engine output is factory rated at 453 hp and 531 lb-ft of torque, and Car and Driver reports a 5.4-second time from standstill to 60 mph time. Though it doesn't look it, the Rolls even weighs less than the Maybach 57. Rear-wheel-drive and a six-speed automatic round out the Phantom’s mechanicals.
The moccasin tan and wood-trimmed interior appear near-perfect except for wear on the driver’s door and some dead pixels on the radio screen, reports the seller. Equipment includes navigation, a 6-disc CD sound system, and Rolls Royce wool floor mats. Backseat passengers will enjoy an over-the-top experience that provides for veneered picnic tables, footrests, and power-opening rear-hinged rear doors.
Be A Bargain-Hunting Baller
Thanks to massive depreciation, six-figure ultra rides can be had for the price of a Mercedes E-Class. As of this writing, the Maybach 57 has a $69,900 asking price, and the Rolls Royce Phantom has two days remaining on the auction with a $60,000 high bid.
Sources: carsandbids.com., hemmings.com, cardanddriver.com