This is not your regular S-Class. It features hydraulic windows and an oxygen tank.
Mercedes used to claim that the V12 would be only offered in the longer Maybach S–Class from now on. This Benz-branded limo has the twin-turbo 6.0 liter engine and is connected to an all-wheel drive system. It’s not the “ordinary” German full-size luxury sedan, but it is the Guard model. This Mercedes brand is known for its armored vehicle offerings.
The Mercedes-Benz S680 Guard 4Matic is the full name of this elegant sedan. It comes with a long wheelbase and has been designed to be VPAM VR10 certified. This certification is the highest in civilian ballistic protection and can withstand some explosions and gunshots. This is the best option for politicians and heads of state, as well as public figures who want maximum protection but also enjoy the luxury that the three-pointed star offers.
Instead of incorporating protective materials into an S-Class regular, engineers redesigned the entire bodywork to provide greater resistance than the Guard model. The car has 10 cm (nearly 4 inches) thick windows and rides on Michelin PAX flat tires that can travel up to 30 km (19 miles) after a puncture.
Hydraulic windows are another change to the standard S-Class. They will still function even after an attack on the electronics. Mercedes had to recalibrate its steering and gearbox to handle the additional weight of the armoring. We’re now hearing that the Guard weighs in at a massive 4.2 metric tons (9.259 pounds).
The V12 has been tuned in terms of torque to the Maybach configuration, as it now produces 830 Nm (612 Lb-ft) rather than 900 Nm (664 Lb-ft). The V12’s horsepower remains unchanged at 604 HP (450 kW). The Guard’s massive weight means that an electronic speed limiter kicks in at 118 mph (190 km/h) Price? Price? The finalization of a single S680 Guard car takes 51 days. German media reports that there will not be a stretched Guard-spec Pullman version, as this long-wheelbase Benz S-Class will be the only armored limousine.