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While the two-tone look of the "standard" Maybach super sedans leaves this writer a bit cold, all is well with the monochrome 57 S. Until now, the sportiest version of DaimlerChrysler's ultraluxury saloon was available in black or silver only, and both look good -- no surprise. The latest addition to the palette, however, is the best, and it'll be on display in Paris later this month.

The Maybach 57 S is now available in "Antiqua White," a pearlescent finish that has a richness befitting a car of this exclusive nature. There's something about the light-colored versions of vehicles like this that communicates wealth better than the darker shades. Similarly-colored Rolls-Royce Phantoms have the same effect. They look as if they cost even more money.

In any case, as casual observers and aficionados who enjoy this sort of thing, we're happy to see that the hottest Maybach is now available in the deluxe white finish. We're sure that our sentiment is shared by the scores of high-profile executives, entertainers, professional athletes, and bazillionaire Saudi oil magnates who will undoubtedly add the 57 S in Antiqua White to their shopping lists. In the case of the Saudis, Maybach had better stock up on paint supplies. Those guys order in bulk.

(Photos, press release after the jump)

[Source: DaimlerChrysler]


PRESS RELEASE:

Shining mother-of-pearl finish: Maybach 57 S in a shining white livery

At the 78th International Motor Show in Paris, Maybach is presenting its Model 57 S in a shining white paint finish for the first time. In this way the tradition-laden German luxury brand is meeting the desire of one of its customers for even more individuality. In standard trim the sporty and luxurious Model 57 S is only available with a single-tone paint finish in either black or silver. The shining new "Antiqua White" finish impressively emphasises the dynamic character of this high-end luxury saloon, whose outstanding performance potential particularly captures the enthusiasm of passionate owner-drivers.

The white paint finish of the 57 S is applied in multiple layers by experienced specialists using a highly involved process ndash; there are almost twice as many layers than is usual for other luxury cars. In contrast to conventional paint finishes using just one base paint to provide the colour tone, two different paints are necessary to achieve this incomparable, mother-of-pearl-like sheen ndash; one of these contains mica. This highlighting material is responsible for the particular sheen of the paint finish, which varies slightly depending on the lighting angle and shines especially brightly in sunlight. The paint layers are mainly applied by hand, and several additional layers of clearcoat ensure a highly resistant finish.

"Antiqua White" is available to customers on request, as part of the more than two million Maybach individualisation options.