Who knows this Maus?

[sixtee5cuda]

I found eight images of this car a while back, and wanted to make it a puzzle.  Unfortunately, I cannot find any solid information about who built it, or what it is based upon.

This purple Bugatti replica is said to be based upon either a Mercedes-Benz E-class, or a 1939 Buick.  The detail shot shows a large leaf spring in the front suspension, leading me to suspect it is based on a Buick.  The car is said to have been photographed both on the street, and at auto shows, in the Ukraine.  Some photos show the car with chrome side pipes leaving the engine compartment (and American $100 bills embedded in the paint).

The phone number shown below the MAUS plate, is for a company called either Maratex or Maratecks.

Can anyone else track down the origins of this car?

[Carnut]

I know that Avto Nomer site as one which has a lot of pictures of Russian self-built cars; I've sourced a few puzzles from there, some of which have never been solved!