Maybachs and Motorsports for Mercedes’ Monterey Debuts

Mercedes-Benz picked Pebble Beach as the venue to unveil three new models: a pair of luxurious Maybachs and a celebratory AMG GT3.

Dropping its top for the first time in the California sunshine is the SL 680 Monogram Series, which Mercedes-Benz says is "the sportiest model in Maybach brand history." Characterized by a two-tone paint scheme in a choice of Obsidian Black over Garnet Red or White Magno, both versions feature Crystal White Nappa leather and chrome trim for the cabin. Maybach-specific features include a unique grille, rose gold accents for the headlights, and chrome trim for the windshield surround and side sills. Special 21-inch alloy wheels in a monoblock or multi-spoke design are also offered.

Gone are the days when a Mercedes model number referred to its engine size. Under the hood of the SL 680 is a four-liter twin-turbo V-8 that puts out 577 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Drive goes to all four wheels and a nine-speed auto takes care of gear shifts.

The same powertrain sits in the limited edition Mercedes-Maybach S680 Edition Nordic Glow. This U.S.-only limited edition will be limited to 50 units available through a select group of dealerships for $339,000. For that you get a two-tone Northern Lights Violet and Moonlight White metallic paint job and dark chrome trim with a Rose Gret Nappa leather pairing with Pattern Dark Walnut wood inside. The Executive Rear Seat Package Plus comes as standard, along with heated and cooled cupholders to keep your gluehwein warm or your Champagne chilled.

The final car to be unveiled is also the last of its kind. The Mercedes-AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport marks 130 years since the company first went racing. Only 13 cars will be built, and will be the very last AMG GT3s to be fitted with a naturally-aspirated engine. In final trim the 6.3-liter V-8 produces 671 hp, making it the most powerful GT3 ever built by AMG.

That's not all, however. AMG opted not to homologate this track special, which meant they could extract every ounce of performance for this final iteration. The engine does away with its air restrictor and gains a new exhaust system to reach that record number. Downforce has been increased by 15 percent over the standard GT3 thanks to a new splitter, fender louvers, side skirts, underbody and rear diffuser. There's also a wider, movable rear wing linked to a DRS system that increases top speed to 196 mph. Carbon disc brakes are fitted instead of the steel rotors mandated for racing and there are 18-inch magnesium wheels which can be fitted with a choice of track-suitable rubber.

The 13 buyers won't be able to compete in the GT3 130Y Motorsport, but they'll be provided with all the gear they need for the ultimate track day experience, including personalized racing gear from Puma and a Bell helmet. What's more, the car will be capable of absolutely dominating the time sheets, as the car has already set a GT-car lap record at Australia's legendary Mount Panorama circuit.