The Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet V12 (630 Hp) 4MATIC, produced for the 2017 model year, represents the pinnacle of open-top luxury and off-road capability within the iconic G-Class lineage. This ultra-exclusive vehicle, built in extremely limited numbers, combined the robust engineering of the G-Wagen with the bespoke craftsmanship and opulent appointments expected from the Maybach division. It was positioned as a statement vehicle, appealing to a clientele seeking unparalleled exclusivity and a unique driving experience. Production was limited to a single year, further enhancing its collectibility.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G-class |
| Generation | Maybach G-class |
| Type | G 650 Landaulet V12 (630 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle, Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 22.7 l/100 km (10.4 US mpg, 12.4 UK mpg, 4.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 17 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.6 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 397 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp, 251.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.5 kg/Nm, 399.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 630 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1000 Nm @ 2300 rpm (737.56 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 279.982 |
| Engine displacement | 5980 cm3 (364.92 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2505 kg (5522.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 96 l (25.36 US gal | 21.12 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 200 kg (440.92 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 5345 mm (210.43 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2056 mm (80.94 in.) |
| Height | 2235 mm (87.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3428 mm (134.96 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 450 mm (17.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.3 m (46.92 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 51.6° |
| Departure angle | 43.8° |
| Ramp-over angle | 47.4° |
| Climb angle | 45° |
| Wading depth | 1000 mm (39.37 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives all four wheels permanently. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC SPEEDSHIFT PLUS |
| Front suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 325/55 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the G 650 Landaulet is the M279.982 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. This engine, a mainstay of Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance offerings, produces 630 horsepower at 5000 rpm and a staggering 1000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) of torque at 2300 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. The twin turbochargers, coupled with an intercooler, provide significant boost, contributing to the engine’s impressive power output. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a 7G-TRONIC SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth and responsive shifts. This transmission was specifically calibrated to handle the immense torque of the V12 engine.
Driving Characteristics
Despite its considerable weight (2505 kg / 5522.58 lbs), the G 650 Landaulet delivers surprisingly brisk performance. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 5.0 seconds, and the vehicle is electronically limited to a top speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The 7G-TRONIC transmission provides smooth gear changes, but its programming prioritizes comfort and refinement over outright sportiness. Compared to other G-Class variants, such as the G 550, the Landaulet offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in effortless acceleration and strong pulling power. However, the open-top configuration and luxurious appointments add weight, slightly diminishing the agility found in more focused G-Class models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G 650 Landaulet was essentially a fully-optioned vehicle, with a focus on providing an unparalleled level of luxury. Standard features included a fully leather interior, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a premium sound system, and a host of advanced driver-assistance systems. The rear compartment featured two individually adjustable seats with massage functions, creating a lounge-like experience for passengers. Unique to the Landaulet was its retractable soft top, allowing for open-air driving. Customers could further personalize their vehicles with a wide range of bespoke options, including custom paint colors, unique interior trim materials, and personalized embroidery.
Chassis & Braking
The G 650 Landaulet retains the robust ladder-frame chassis that has been a hallmark of the G-Class for decades. The suspension utilizes a rigid axle setup at both the front and rear, providing exceptional off-road capability. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. Given the vehicle’s weight and performance, the braking system is crucial for maintaining control. The steering system employs a cone worm and recirculation balls mechanism with hydraulic power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet was not subject to extensive critical review due to its limited production run and exclusive nature. However, it was widely praised for its opulent interior, powerful engine, and unique open-top design. Its fuel economy, unsurprisingly, was poor (17 l/100 km combined), and its high price tag placed it firmly in the realm of ultra-luxury vehicles. Compared to other high-performance SUVs, the G 650 Landaulet stood out for its distinctive styling and off-road heritage. It offered a unique combination of luxury, performance, and capability that few other vehicles could match.
Legacy
The G 650 Landaulet represents a unique chapter in the G-Class’s history. Its limited production run and exclusive features have made it a highly sought-after collectible. The M279 V12 engine, while known for its complexity, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. On the used car market, the Landaulet commands a significant premium, reflecting its rarity and desirability. It remains a symbol of automotive excess and a testament to Mercedes-Maybach’s commitment to creating the world’s most luxurious vehicles.
