10 German Cars That Ooze Luxury And Opulence

Not all German cars are created equal, but some of them made a strong statement of luxury in much simpler times.

The automotive world has seen its fair share of luxury, power, and innovation, but few countries have left as indelible a mark as Germany. The pioneering spirit of German automotive engineering can be traced back to the pioneer Gottlieb Daimler and his Motorwagen, a harbinger of the extraordinary machines that would follow. As the automobile industry evolved, Germany gave birth to one of the earliest luxury cars: the Horch 853A. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Horch 853A set the stage for what German luxury automobiles would ultimately become.

The spirit of innovation sparked by the Horch 853A has existed ever since. German automakers have continuously set new benchmarks, pushing the boundaries of both design and engineering. While affordability and reliability are cornerstones of brands like Volkswagen, the German Big Three - Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi - have always focused on cutting-edge technology, silky smooth performance, and an upscale ownership experience.

Beyond just being nice to drive, German luxury cars envelop occupants in opulent interiors furnished with the finest leather, real wood trim, and metals like brushed aluminum. Here are 10 of the most luxurious German cars ever built, each representing the pinnacle of style, performance, and prestige from their era.

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To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the facts and figures presented, we have gathered data from automakers and other sources like CarEdge and Edmunds.

The Mercedes-Benz 600 ‘Großer’ (German for ‘large’) reigned as the brand’s ultra-luxury flagship model throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. Hand-built and sporting lots of luxurious features, the 600 had hydraulics to adjust the seats, windows, trunk lid, and even the steering column.

Engine

6.3L V-8

Power

250 HP

Torque

391 LB-FT

Weight

5,380 LBS

It was powered by a 6.3L V-8 and pioneered safety features like crumple zones and a fuel tank that wouldn’t rupture in a crash. With a cost exceeding $20,000 (about $197,220 today) in 1964, the 'Grosser' commanded a premium price befitting its status as the pinnacle of luxury motoring.

Standard air suspension ensured a sublime ride quality worthy of royalty and heads of state, many of whom chose the 600 as their official vehicle, including Popes, Kings, and Presidents. As the model of choice for the world's elite, the Mercedes 600 'Großer' boldly established itself as the pinnacle of automotive luxury within the Mercedes family.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 stands tall as a timeless symbol of luxury and engineering excellence. Its fusion of lavish interiors and groundbreaking technology not only set new benchmarks for S-Class sedans but redefined the very concept of opulence. From its sophisticated air suspension to its meticulously designed ergonomic controls, every facet of this luxury classic radiates sophistication and refinement.

Engine

5.6L V-8

Power

245 HP

Torque

288 LB-FT

Weight

4,350 LBS

This model revolutionized the automotive landscape, showcasing a self-leveling hydropneumatic suspension system that ensured an impeccable ride, even on the most uneven roads. The integration of anti-lock brakes (ABS) not only enhanced safety but also demonstrated Mercedes-Benz's commitment to innovation. With an initial cost of $57,500 ($242,110 adjusted for inflation), the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 was an emblem of luxury that continues to inspire admiration and awe.

The E32 generation of BMW’s flagship sedan debuted a range-topping 750iL model, the first time a 12-cylinder engine had been installed in a 7 Series. The 750iL had a 5.0-liter V-12 that put out 296 horsepower, as well as a self-leveling air suspension. The excellent handling and balance BMWs are known for was very much present in the big, luxurious 750iL.

Engine

5.0L V-12

Power

300 HP

Torque

332 LB-FT

Weight

4,170 LBS

The car's advanced onboard computer not only aided in diagnostics but also foreshadowed the future of in-car technology. An integrated navigation system, a novelty of its time, underscored BMW's commitment to innovation. The 750iL's opulence extended beyond its performance, with sumptuous leather interiors and a meticulously crafted cabin. The suspension system combined comfort and agility, making every journey a delight.

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The Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class is remembered as one of the most luxuriously over-engineered sedans ever, with power everything, double-pane glass and even automatically extendable rear seat belts. The 600 SEL sat above the V-12 models and packed a 6.0-liter V-12 that made 394 horsepower. Mercedes subtly styled the W140 to appear even larger and more imposing than its predecessors.

Engine

6.0L V-12

Power

394 HP

Torque

420 LB-FT

Weight

4,740 LBS

Pioneering the marriage of power and elegance, the 600 SEL boasted innovations like power-closing assist doors and trunk, and an interior designed to indulge royalty. With an authoritative price tag of $120,000, the 600 SEL variant of this series epitomized ultimate grandeur.

The Porsche Panamera shattered conventions by combining sports car agility with luxury sedan comfort when it was introduced in 2009. Offered in various trims, its distinctive silhouette housed a range of powerful engines and a meticulously crafted interior, epitomizing the notion of a true driver's luxury sports car.

Engine

4.8L V-6 (High-performance Trim)

Power

550 HP

Torque

567 LB-FT

Weight

4,400 LBS

It offered an array of powerful engines, with some trims harnessing up to 550 horsepower that delivered breathtaking performance that few sedans could match. The fusion of sports car agility and luxurious comfort was a defining characteristic, underpinned by features like adaptive rear spoiler and dynamic chassis control. Its enduring legacy as a symbol of performance and luxe continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

Mercedes went all-out for the 2008 launch of its W221-generation S-Class, loading it with innovations in comfort, safety, and performance. The S65 AMG had a hand-built 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 that pumped out 604 horsepower, enough to rocket this large sedan from 0-60 MPH in just 4.2 seconds.

Engine

6.0L W-12

Power

604 HP

Torque

738 LB-FT

Weight

4,703 LBS

Dynamic multi-contour seats with eight massage functions and a refrigerator nestled between the rear seats set new standards of luxury. Innovations like Drive-Dynamic multi-contour seats and Night View Assist further enhanced the opulence, securing the S65 AMG's spot among the most coveted luxury vehicles.

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A redesigned Audi A8 arrived in 2012, once again offering a W-12 model that joined the V-8 lineup at the top. Along with the expected tech like MMI infotainment, Audi upped the luxury with standard features like a Bang & Olufsen sound system and internet hotspot. The A8 L still had a lavishly trimmed, comfort-oriented interior perfect for being driven in.

Engine

6.3L W-12

Power

500 HP

Torque

460 LB-FT

Weight

4,564 LBS

The W-2 model married performance with tech-driven luxury. Technological marvels graced the A8 L, including Google Earth integration and an internet hotspot. The optional night vision assistant and multi-contour seats with ventilation transformed every ride into an indulgent experience. The Audi A8 L W12 showcased luxury beyond measure, setting benchmarks for both elegance and connectivity.

The BMW 7 Series (G11) M760i, unveiled in 2016, was a symphony of luxury and performance. The centerpiece was a 6.6-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine that generated a staggering 601 horsepower and redefined the essence of driving pleasure.

Engine

6.6L V-12

Power

601 HP

Torque

590 LB-FT

Weight

4,836 LBS

BMW packed it with a host of upgrades like available laser headlights, remote parking, and gesture controls. Rear-seat passengers basked in the lap of luxury with heated, cooled, and massaging seats. The integration of a Samsung tablet for controlling vehicle functions further amplified the sense of opulence. From integral active steering to rear seat entertainment tablets, the M760i encapsulated BMW's commitment to making the pinnacle of luxury vehicles.

Reviving the legendary Maybach name for its ultraluxe S-Class, Mercedes created a new brand-within-a-brand with Maybach. The S650 in particular was the masterpiece sedan that set out to combine performance with unparalleled luxury, and it sure did. It was propelled by a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine that pumped out 621 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

6.0L V-12

Power

621 HP

Torque

738 LB-FT

Weight

5,335 LBS

From bespoke Maybach styling touches to a hand-finished interior, this sedan transcended traditional luxury. The chauffeur package with power footrest, rear console refrigerator, and 'Hot Stone' massaging seats. Rear passengers enjoy power reclining seats, folding tables, and optional champagne flutes. The Mercedes-Maybach S650 ultimately redefined opulence, setting new standards for the elite.

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Reigning supreme from 2002 until the Maybach brand was retired in 2012, the Maybach 62 redefined automotive opulence with its bespoke features and attention to detail. With a staggering launch price of $385,250 then, this luxurious marvel was reserved for those who demanded nothing less than the finest in elegance and sophistication. Crafted for those who demanded the utmost luxury, it boasted reclining seats, a champagne fridge, and more legroom than most first-class flights.

Engine

6.0L V-12

Power

543 HP

Torque

664 LB-FT

Weight

6,035 LBS

Beyond its twin-turbo V-12 engine, the Maybach 62 boasted an array of opulent features that redefined luxury. Illuminated and ventilated seats cocooned passengers in sheer comfort, while privacy curtains added an aura of exclusivity. With its large dimensions and lavish amenities, the Maybach 62 was the preferred choice of heads of states and elites. This rolling palace redefined what it meant to travel in opulence, becoming a symbol of prestige that elevated the automotive landscape to unprecedented heights.