LeBron James designed his own Maybach, and this is the one he’s not keeping. It’s heading to auction, with the proceeds going to his charitable work in his hometown of Akron, Ohio.
The 2027 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 crosses the block at Gooding Christie’s with no reserve, so it sells no matter where bidding stops. The estimate is $425,000 to $550,000.
James worked with Mercedes-Benz’s MANUFAKTUR Made to Measure program to build the car to his own specifications. It is one of only two Maybachs custom-designed for the NBA star. He kept the other for his personal collection, while this one was commissioned specifically to raise money for the LeBron James Family Foundation and its I PROMISE educational programs.
The sedan pairs a “Light Ivory” exterior with a deep “Stormy Weather Blue” Nappa leather interior accented by “Porcelain” contrast stitching. James’ crown-shaped “LJ” logo appears on the front fenders, headrests and floorboards. Other personal touches include custom floor mats, cushions and door sills, along with specially finished 20-inch forged Maybach wheels.
The best detail is on the center console: the GPS coordinates of Akron, engraved. It’s a nod to the city where he grew up, and the one this sale is meant to help.
Related Articles
- Princess Grace’s Rover P6 Went Off a Monaco Mountain Road 44 Years Ago, and the Questions Still Won’t Quit
- Elizabeth Taylor’s Final Maybach 57 Heads to No-Reserve Scottsdale Sale: What Buyers Should Know
Under the hood, the S 680 runs on a 6.0-liter V-12 engine rated at 621 horsepower. It’s a Maybach, so the options list reads accordingly: rear-axle steering, air suspension, a panoramic sunroof and a Burmester 4D surround sound system. Rear passengers get executive seats with heating, cooling and massage functions, calf support, power sunshades and four-zone climate control.
James has said designing his own Maybach was something he never imagined as a child in Akron, and that using it to lift up families served by his foundation carries special meaning.
The full hammer price will go to the foundation. The organization may issue a charitable contribution receipt for any amount paid above the midpoint of the pre-sale estimate. Gooding Christie’s noted it makes no promises about tax deductions and advised bidders to consult their own tax advisers.
Craftsmanship, celebrity provenance and a hammer price that goes to charity: that’s an unusual combination. Does a celebrity design earn its estimate, or are bidders really paying for the cause?
Images Via: Gooding Christies Auctions
About the Author
