The cheapest 300/280 engines are cheaper to run, but offer mediocre performance. The 400/420 V8 models give good performance but remain affordable to run. The 500 and 600 V8s and V12s are potent, smoother than the sixes and very swift – even the monster Limo. But deep pockets are a must.

This where the chauffeurs earn their money. It’s less agile than the 7-Series and is a real handful around town. But the ride is ultra-smooth over all surfaces. Stable and perfectly balanced under all conditions. Very impressive.