2007 Detroit Auto Show: Mercedes-Benz Concept Ocean Drive

It seems no one wants to wait until the main event to show off their wares. Mercedes-Benz took the wraps off of its elegant design study concept — that’s a safe way for the company to present the idea while not having to build the thing if no one likes it — called Concept Ocean Drive, based loosely on the new S Class and featuring the V-12 engine of the top-of-the-line S 600. While an ultra-luxury four-door convertible may seem like a niche vehicle, it’s a niche that’s growing. Bentley is selling a two-door version of its Continental called the GTC and Rolls Royce is contemplating one as well.

The new S Class is a tremendous step forward in Mercedes-Benz design and engineering, and the company is making a smart move by basing future models off of a proven winner. We’d expect this concept to come to market, eventually.

More photos below.