Amongst the well-heeled, Bentley has amassed quite the reputation thanks to its unmatched levels of comfort and luxury. From racing to building SUVs and grand tourers, Bentley’s portfolio has diversified to tailor to the varying needs of the wealthiest one percent.

Our focus, however, lies in the ever-popular Flying Spur. More specifically, its latest iteration, the sportier S model. While the Mercedes S-Class is very much the quintessential luxury limousine, we reckon wealthy buyers should consider the new Flying Spur S. Primarily because the Bentley comes loaded with fine materials and top-of-the-line equipment. Also, unlike the Maybach, it doesn’t always have to be driven by a chauffeur.

Enjoying the Flying Spur is not just limited to the rear seats. That said, the Maybach S-Class isn’t all bad news, at least when it comes to luxury. Being the luxe flagship of Mercedes, there are quite a few bespoke touches to indulge in. Of course, it all comes at a cost.

The new 2023 Bentley Flying Spur S will start around the $245,000 mark, while the 2023 V12 Maybach S-Class costs an estimated $215,000. Both cars are supremely expensive, but can the new Bentley topple the Maybach? Let’s find out.

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2023 Bentley Flying Spur S Vs Mercedes-Maybach S680: Let’s Talk Luxury

You can’t fault a Bentley. It’s never a car for the working class. Everything you touch is and will always be of top quality. Fun fact, Bentley uses hides from bulls instead of cows to avoid having stretch marks. Plus, designers will inspect the leather to see if there’s any imperfection, like a cut from a wire fence or uneven leather patterns, all of which are a no-go in Bentley world. Noticeable differences in the new sportier S model are blacked-out finishes around the headlights, doors, and pretty much all the chrome bits from the regular Flying Spur. But still, versus the Maybach, though, it’s a step below. That’s not to say the Bentley is any less posh. It just shows how fancy and opulent the Maybach is.

For starters, the Maybach S-Class is a whole 7 inches longer than the long-wheelbase S-Class. There’s loads of space on offer, as are a ton of features. From power-folding sunblinds to optional First-class seating—that makes it a borderline luxury jet—it’s absolutely beyond what anyone would ever need. On top of that, you (most likely the chauffeur) can open the rear doors while sitting at the front, something exclusive to the Maybach. You even have champagne flutes, along with bespoke holders. Really, on the inside, the Maybach S-Class just outclasses the Bentley.

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2023 Bentley Flying Spur S Vs Mercedes-Maybach S680: What About Driving Experience?

While the Mercedes is all about cosseting you in luxury, the Bentley is geared towards being the ultimate expression in luxury and performance. Under the hood of the 2023 Bentley Flying Spur S is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 542 horsepower and 569 lb-ft of torque. There’s also the option of a plug-in-hybrid V6 with 536 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of twist. Sadly, the W12 is not available for this model.

As for the Maybach S680, power comes from a twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 producing 621 horsepower and a whopping 738 lb-ft of torque. Opt for the S580, and a 496-horsepower twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 takes care of propelling this land barge.

In terms of the driving experience, both cars are quite different. The Mercedes gathers speed at a steady pace, while the Bentley is more sprightly and feels better-composed. From a driver’s perspective, it’s certainly the Bentley that is the most fun. Even though the Bentley weighs over 5,000 pounds, engineers have been able to cleverly disguise it. The sportier Flying Spur S features standard rear-wheel steering and active anti-roll bars for a more involving drive.

The moment you step inside the Maybach it’s evident that this is not meant for fast corners or any form of intense motoring. That’s not to say it’s slow. The Mercedes is more about steady progress, while the Bentley prefers utilizing the V8’s exuberance as much as it can. If it’s carefree wafting you want, the Maybach has you covered. If you’re into enjoying the chauffeur-driven experience but give equal importance to driving pleasure, it’s the Bentley for you.

2023 Bentley Flying Spur S Vs Mercedes-Maybach S680: Who Wins?

Honestly, both cars are incredibly good. A lot of effort has gone into developing these two land barges. Of course, you’re really not bothered about dealer discounts or coupons at this price point. You’re out there looking to waft around in sheer luxury while displaying your success. And luxury limousines like these do just that. If you like driving and prefer a confident and non-wallowy experience, the Flying Spur S is the one to have. But it’s the Mercedes-Maybach that really stands out in terms of technology and opulence.

Sources: Mercedes-Benz, Bentley Motors