Sometimes the crew here at DiecastSociety.com let down their hair, and instead of the typical sport or supercar, we like to switch gears and present something a little different.  The model I have on tap for review today is the luxurious Mercedes-Maybach S-Klasse by AUTOart.  The model is completed in 1:18 scale and comes from AUTOart’s new composite line of models.

A few months ago we announced that AUTOart was moving to a new box/packaging for their opening price point assortment, well they are finally heading to market.  As you can see, they have moved to the closed box style with inner styrofoam shell.   The exterior is coloured in a deep blue, I like it.  What caught me by surprise was the yellow label side view.  Note, the model is stated as “Composite” and “Diecast” model car.  A move from their earlier releases where composite was the only label to be found.  Now how AUTOart defines what is composite and what is diecast metal I do not know, but hopefully one of their representatives will chime in.  Don’t hold your breath.

The model itself is huge, measuring almost 12 inches in length, while the box exceeds 15 inches.  The exterior paint is defined as White by AUTOart.  The application is excellent, consistent throughout the model.  Depending on the lighting, I can see a slight tone of metal flake.

Overall exterior lines represent the 1:1 well.  Shutlines and panel gaps are exceptional on this piece, as the photos will show.  The roof, rear side windows and rear glass come tinted, which adds a level of sophistication and class to the exterior.  Chrome work throughout is clean and authentic too.

The front of the Mercedes-Maybach is dominated by a huge grill – happy to report it is not a solid piece, though the lower three cooling intakes are.  Headlight detail is average, and based on price point they could be better.  The hood is topped with a metal Mercedes-Benz emblem, which is executed well.  I do like the fact that AUTOart included the sensors throughout the bumper.  Definitely adds to the overall realism of the piece.

Rear is much like the front.  Access to the rear storage is available, and is fully carpeted.  Very clean hinge work is present, but the lack of support struts is apparent.  Not sure if this is a cost cutting measure or manufacturing limitation of the somewhat fragile composite material.  Sensors are present here as mentioned earlier.

The Mercedes-Maybach is powered by a V12 Bi-Turbo.  Not much is seen under the bonnet due to the modern clean look of cars today.  The elements are present, overall execution is completed well. I like the mesh-look approach AUTOart took with the cover. Though not metal, but plastic with painted mesh, the effect is brilliant to say the least.  Notice the absence of any supporting hood struts.

The Mercedes-Maybach wheels are massive mono-block style items.  The chrome work is great and execution and detail is in line with typical AUTOart models of the day.  Rotors and calipers are present too, though much is hidden due to the overall size of the aforementioned wheels.

The Mercedes-Maybach is all about luxury and taking care of the driver and passengers from all angles.  The two-tone approach with this model is excellent, the Beige on Black work terrifically with the White exterior.  All the elements that encompass an interior are here, each is detailed above average, but is lacking the overall sophistication and temperament of the Maybach badge.  And based on past successes, the interior falls somewhat short.

I must admit the Mercedes-Maybach S-Klasse by AUTOart impressed me more than I thought it would.  Exterior is exceptional for the most part.  Where the model is somewhat lacking is the overall interior detail, not that it is bad, it just doesn’t meet the grade of the Maybach badge or price point of the piece.  It tips the scale around $269CND with applicable tax it is north of $300.  If the Maybach name is a theme in your collection, the model here is a must have.  Enjoy the pics!