2005 Maybach Exelero Concept

In this world, downforce is key, intertwined in the vehicle's design so as not to disturb its jaw-dropping looks. Specially

Despite the fact that you could almost park a MINI Cooper in the space of the Exelero's wheelbase, its exterior and shape limit it to carrying two occupants. (Photo: Fulda Reifenwerk)

positioned front and rear air dams with integrated intakes provide necessary cooling and channel air through a rear diffuser, which helps keep the tail stuck to the ground. Every little detail on the vehicle was styled and crafted to meet the car's goal, from the fins that flank the rear fenders, to the side-mounted exhaust tips.

The Maybach Exelero is a two-seat vehicle. That's right; despite the fact that you could almost park a MINI Cooper in the space of the Exelero's wheelbase, its exterior and shape limit it to carrying two occupants. The cockpit's design is, surprisingly, nothing special, taking many components out of the standard 57 and 62, including the upper and lower dashboard, door panels and steering wheel. The instrument cluster is also standard Mercedes kit, although it measures speeds of up to 360 km/h. A reworked centre console holds the standard Mercedes-Benz COMAND and HVAC controls, albeit in place with red and black weave. Two

Maybach chose Mercedes-Benz's ultimate engine, the AMG-tuned 5.9-litre twin-turbocharged V12 to power the heafty Exelero. (Photo: Fulda Reifenwerk)

extra-supportive racing buckets with racing harnesses hold driver and passenger snug in place.

To propel a 5.8-metre-long two-door limousine with a curb weight of 2,660 kg to speeds above 350 km/h takes a lot of power. This is why Maybach chose Mercedes-Benz's ultimate engine, the AMG-tuned 5.9-litre twin-turbocharged V12, akin to the unit fitted to the 65-series AMG S, SL and CL-Class luxury vehicles. However, the 600-some horsepower provided in standard form is not nearly enough to satiate Fulda and Maybach's appetite for speed; modifications to both turbochargers and a healthy increase in boost crank output to 700 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque. Even then, the engine has the typical Mercedes-Benz character - smooth and refined, producing its peak torque at a lazy 2,500 rpm.