Maybach was an incredibly gifted engineer, prior to WWI he performed development work on a number of aircraft engines, while perfecting his own V12 used to power airships invented by Zeppelin. Intending to remain an engine manufacturer, but had difficulty finding a market for his superior, complex and expensive products. The first Maybach W3 automobile was introduced in 1921, then the famous V12 DS-7 and DS-8 in the early 30s. These were very large and expensive cars, usually requiring a chaffeur. The smaller SW-38 was introduced in 1936, with an option of three engines, 3.5, 3.8 and 4.2 litre capacities. Customers were captivated by this new lighter, more agile model, a total of 520 were built between 1936 and 1939, This car was used by Herbert von Dirkson, the last German Ambassador to Britain before WWII Len Southward bought the car in 1966 Engine; 140hp 3790cc 6 cylinder