The Monteverdi Tiara was an ultra-exclusive luxury sedan produced by Swiss car manufacturer Monteverdi between 1982 and 1983. It was the brand's final production car before it ceased automobile manufacturing operations.
Posted by Venkie2Maybach@reddit | WeirdWheels | View on Reddit | 13 comments
Based on the long-wheelbase Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class (specifically the 500 SEL), the Tiara was essentially a bespoke re-bodying of the German sedan. Only three units were ever built, making it one of the rarest luxury vehicles of its era.
Available with the 3.8L V8 (204 hp) and the 5.0L V8 (231 hp).
The 5.0L version could reach a top speed of roughly 235 km/h.
At its 1982 launch, it cost 172,000 Swiss Francs, which was twice the price of the equivalent Mercedes-Benz S-Class at the time.
Redesigned with a vertical chrome grille and four round headlights, similar to the older Monteverdi High Speed 375 series.
While the doors, glass, and roof remained original Mercedes parts, Monteverdi heavily modified the front and rear to create a more "angular" look that echoed the brand's earlier 1970s styling.
The rear was modified with a more squared-off trunk and tail lights sourced from a Peugeot 505.
Mostly identical to the high-end S-Class interior, though it featured a custom steering wheel with the Monteverdi emblem. Optional luxury "extras" included a built-in television and a voice recorder.
Of the three produced, two are reportedly held in museum collections (including the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne), while the third has occasionally appeared for sale on the private market.
asfletch@reddit
This...isn't great, but I forgive them because they gave the world the Hai (Shark) 450 SS:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monteverdi_Hai_450
nickN42@reddit
So they took an already luxury Mercedes, changed exterior appearance for the worse, didn't do anything else and charged double? Great plan.
ianfixesdents@reddit
And three people said “Slower than the Mercedes you say?”, “Twice the price?” “Custom steering wheel?” “I will take one.”
JCDU@reddit
Didn't they also build custom 4-door Range Rovers before Land Rover started making them?
Substantial_Luck_133@reddit
Luxury car brand.
Uses Peugeot tail lights. 😱
JCDU@reddit
McLaren F1 used Iveco truck tail lights, what's your point?
rogorogo504@reddit
While there are Monteverdis that effluviate a certain charm and many boutique Brands of a certain era and vintage managed to crate something alluring with Limited means and subpar parts - this did not hit any mark except making an W220 look worse ( or less good )
onedarkhorsee@reddit
There's something about it. It just doesn't look quite right, i can't put my finger on it though.
BigFreakingZombie@reddit
AMC vibes from that grille.
nonfading@reddit
Headlights
infinitejones@reddit
Picture
Rear lights
Autoamazed@reddit
Its fate is reminiscent of Bitter. More expensive than its German competition, but a less prestigious and well-known brand.
opgary@reddit
shocking