The two models launched under the Maybach name, the 57 and stretched 62, were both derived from the previous-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class. A V-12 was the only powerplant offered, ranging in displacement from 5.5 to 6.0 liters. When we last sampled a 2006 Maybach 57 S equipped with the 604-hp, 738-lb-ft 6.0-liter unit, we had this to say:

"Acceleration is impressive, not excessive, and it launches with smooth authority -- emphasis on 'smooth. 'Just as it should be in a luxury sedan, even a driver's version. The 57 S is as steady and solid as anything you'll drive well into the triple digits, although wind and road noise start to intrude at such speeds."

Handling was less stirring, given the car's lengthened body and additional 1400 pounds over the S-Class of the day.

"It rolls liberally in the corners, with slow but controllable transitions, until you remember the three-position Airmatic suspension adjustments. Medium-setting damping doesn't do much good, but the stiffest setting firms it up nicely, inspiring a lot of confidence in a car that's the length of a 1959 Buick Electra 225. There's still serious body roll in the top setting, as the suspension never becomes harsh over rough pavement. The recirculating-ball steering has no more feel than more modern Mercedes rack-and-pinion systems, but its weight and quickness are about right."

When word got out about Maybach's demise late last year, senior features editor Jonny Lieberman got a bit sentimental about the hyper-premium brand's death in a blog, saying:

"…I can't help feeling a tinge bad about the news. Truthfully, more than a tinge. Maybe it's just me, but I don't like when car brands die. I mean, I love cars, all cars, and it just strikes me like a lost opportunity when a brand packs up its tent and rides off into the junkyard sunset."

After reminiscing about the brand's pre-war roots, and knocking Maybach for not going through with the radical two-door Exelero concept, Lieberman speculates on where Maybach went wrong:

"If anyone knows the business of selling expensive four-wheeled objects to wealthy people, it's the folks behind the three-pointed star. …While Volkswagen and their strongman Piech seem not only good, but certifiablyskilled, at purchasing and revitalizing other brands (Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti), Benz doesn't seem to have it in them. They just don't care. Maybach, Smart, that still mind-numbing Chrysler 'merger,' and the brutal bordering on neglectful state that Daimler left Mopar in when they finally pulled up anchor and sailed back home, all point to the fact that Mercedes might honestly only be capable of caring about one brand and one brand only: itself."

Whether Maybach's death can be attributed to mismanagement or the current economic climate, one of the world's most opulent car brands is now lost. The one-percenters looking to own the ritziest three-pointed star will, for now, have to settle for an S-Class. Rest in peace, Maybach.