Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram Is The Pinnacle Of Convertible Opulence
by AutoExpert | 20 August, 2024
This has never been seen before! Here we have the Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram, the first convertible to include the Maybach moniker. The first thing that catches the eye is the Maybach emblem, prominently displayed on the front air intake and soft-top roof. Customers can choose to add more Maybach emblems to the hood's chrome bonnet fin for an even more opulent touch.
Meanwhile, the windshield surround, front bumper lower air intake, illuminated custom Maybach grille, and nose-mounted Mercedes star all sport a sleek blacked-out finish.
To differentiate the 680 from other SLs inside, the media display and digital gauge cluster receive Maybach-exclusive startup animations and visuals. Crystal-white Nappa leather covers the steering wheel, seats, lower dash, and door panels.
In terms of performance, this model features the 4.0-liter V8 engine from the SL63 rather than the more powerful 805 horsepower PHEV V8 found in the SL63 S E Performance. Despite this, the V12's 663 lb-ft of torque is more than the V8's 590 lb-ft, and its 577 horsepower is likely not far behind the V12's 603 horsepower when taking its weight into account.
Power goes to all four wheels using the 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox. Mercedes hasn't revealed the specific weight difference between the SL63 and the SL680. However, the added weight is likely significant, given that the Maybach SL680 takes 4.1 seconds to reach 62 mph, compared to 3.6 seconds for the SL63 and 3.9 seconds for the SL55.
By incorporating a "noise-optimized" exhaust system, recalibrating the characteristics of the throttle pedal, and installing softer engine mounts, Maybach's engineers were able to bring the V8 to a level of refinement comparable to that of a V12. In comparison to the SL63, the SL680 has better soundproofing and a more comfortable suspension system.
Therefore, it will be slower than previous SLs, but the upgrades should make it feel more luxurious. Additionally, AMG offers SLs that prioritize agility and performance. The SL680's fewer seats are just one way it's sportier than other SLs. The most recent SL from Mercedes returns to a 2+2 layout not seen since the late '80s; however, the 680 ditches the cramped rear seats in favor of an aerodynamic cover that stretches the back deck all the way to the headrests of the front seats.
The price remains a mystery, but for reference, the SL63 starts at $187,000. If you choose to upgrade to the Red Ambience or White Ambience launch edition SL 680 Monogram Series—which features garnet red or opalite white magno paint with obsidian black metallic—the price will increase significantly. Deliveries to Europe will start in the spring of 2025, but customers in the United States and other markets will have to wait until later in the year to receive their vehicles.
