dingostew.com

Rapper Sean Combs, aka Diddy, has hit back at widespread criticism after buying his son a $360,000 (£245,000) Maybach limousine as a present for his 16th birthday.


Critics have lambasted the star for the lavishness of the gift during a time of recession, as the car is worth almost twice that of the average American house.

Speaking on US TV news show Nightline to British host Martin Bashir, a vexed Combs said: "I think it's appropriate for me to give my kids whatever I want to give my kids. Nobody knows the way I raise my children."

Combs gave his son Justin the Maybach in January, when he called it a car fit for a king. The gift didn't spark controversy until it was broadcast on MTV's My Super Sweet 16 TV show in February.

Bashir re-ignited the criticism when he asked Combs if he thought the Maybach was a sensible lesson for a child.

Combs' response was: "It wasn't even about a lesson. I can do whatever I want to do with my children, and you can't question me about it."

The Maybach 57 is powered by a 5.5-litre V12 engine developing 550bhp with a fuel economy rating of 17.8mpg. Despite weighing almost three tonnes it will hit 62mph in only 5.2 seconds and go on to a top speed of 155mph. In the UK it retails at just under £261,000.

nah, Maybachs are a sensible choice! 5 star safety rating, front/side/rear airbags. Smart traction control etc etc. Every 16 yr old should have one!!