Hitler’s Loss, Maharaja’s Gain: The Tale of a Dazzling DKK24 Million Maybach!
In a story that melds luxury, history, and a touch of irony, the tale of the ex-Maharaja of Patiala’s 1933 Maybach DS-8 Zeppelin Cabriolet reads like a script from a lavish period drama. With coachwork mirroring the style of Spohn and Wagner’s incredible standards, this automotive masterpiece isn’t just a car; it’s a rolling monument to opulence and engineering prowess.
Under its majestic hood lies a 7,922 cc SOHC 60 Degree V-12 Engine, capable of an awe-inspiring 200 bhp at 3,200 rpm. The Maybach’s 8-speed manual transmission, complete with pre-selection, and its advanced 4-wheel mechanical drum brakes, make it a marvel of its time. It’s not just a car; it’s a testament to pre-war luxury and technological advancement.
What makes this car more than just a piece of history is its story. Originally priced at a jaw-dropping DKK24,000,000 (approximately INR 28.83 crore) at a Bonhams auction in 2015, this car’s journey is as extraordinary as its price tag.
This particular Maybach Zeppelin, a name inspired by the legendary German airships powered by similar 12-cylinder Maybach engines, represents more than just automotive excellence. It’s a symbol of the lavish lifestyles of the pre-war era’s ultra-rich and influential.
The car’s first owner, the Maharajah of Patiala, received this luxurious beast as a “gift” from none other than Adolf Hitler – a political move aimed at winning favor for the German cause. Despite its intended purpose, the car, post-war, became a symbol of the Maharajah’s support for the Allies.
Chassis 1435, the heart of this story, was a sight to behold, initially decked out as a state limousine by Spohn. Its subsequent transformation into a two-seater cabriolet, a project led by Reifen-Wagner in Germany, only added to its mystique. The car’s dual nature, part-vault-like fortress and part-graceful giant, is a testament to the elegance and extravagance of its era.
Today, this Maybach stands not just as a relic, but as a centerpiece of automotive history. Its story, from the skies of Germany to the royal streets of Patiala, and its eventual emergence as a collector’s dream, is a journey worthy of its grandeur. This isn’t just a car; it’s a narrative on wheels, a blend of historical significance and unparalleled luxury, making it a prized jewel in any collection.
