1921 Maybach Typ W3 – Closed Bodywork 5.7

Vehicle Overview

Maybach introduced its first production model at the 1921 Berlin Motor Show, and it was available as a rolling chassis, an open-top tourer, and a closed-body vehicle.

After creating the W1 prototype, Karl Maybach understood what he had to do to create a successful model. Thus, it worked harder not only on the engine but also on the rest of the vehicle. Since the first prototype, the W1, was based on a Daimler touring car from the military surplus, the automaker could understand where he could improve it and make it better for its next project. Strangely, there was no W2 model, so he jumped directly to the W3. The W letter in the nameplate came from “Wagen” (Car in German).

While sadly, none of the W3 vehicles produced survived, older pictures and materials from those times’ press showed us a squared-looking bodywork with a chromed or body-colored surrounding for the radiator. The long engine compartment featured side vents to help cool the inline-six engine. Since it relied on a tall chassis, the W3 Closed bodywork needed a set of side steps to help the ingress and egress to the vehicle. Maybach created a unique shape for the front doors, with an arched line on the forward side.

The interior was created with exclusive, expensive materials. Karl Maybach understood that such an expensive vehicle should have been fitted with luxurious amenities inside. He also installed two seats at the front and a wide, comfortable bench in the rear. Even though it wasn’t the most beautiful car on the market, it was still one of the most elegant.

Under the hood, the automaker placed an enhanced version of the W2 inline-six engine that offered 70 PS. It paired it with a two-speed gearbox that sent the power to the rear wheels.