Japan vs Germany — 1997 vs 2002
| Century V12 (GZG50) | 62 S Landaulet | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 612 hp |
| Torque | 339 lb-ft | 738 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,996 cc | 5,980 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 5.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 4,630 lbs | 6,294 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,025 mm | 3,827 mm |
| Length | 5,270 mm | 6,165 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 3,000 |
| Original MSRP | — | $1,380,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $800,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1997 Toyota Century V12 (GZG50) brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 2002 Maybach 62 S Landaulet answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1997 Toyota Century V12 (GZG50) versus 2002 Maybach 62 S Landaulet is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 2002 Maybach 62 S Landaulet holds a clear advantage in raw power with 612 hp compared to 280 hp, a 332-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota Century uses a V12 DOHC displacing 4,996 cc, while the Maybach 62 S relies on a V12 SOHC 36V Bi-Turbo with 5,980 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2002 Maybach 62 S Landaulet edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. The Toyota Century carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1664 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2002 Maybach 62 S Landaulet commands a significant premium over the 1997 Toyota Century V12 (GZG50), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.