Brabus Mercedes-Benz S-Class 2007
01/01/2007
Brabus has been specializing in aftermarket customization, or tuning as the Germans prefer, of Mercedes-Benz vehicles since 1977. Brabus CEO and founder Bodo Buschmann, son of a Mercedes-Benz dealer, enjoys a special relationship with DaimlerChrysler (including a joint partnership to build a line of Smart cars) that allows Brabus access to the technical aspects of the automaker’s latest models and technology. Brabus is serious about testing its high-performance engines, wheels, brakes, and suspension parts. This includes high-speed runs at Italy’s Nardo test track, where a V-12 powered CLS has reached 225 mph. The company also takes pride in having its own leather processing facilities. Speaking of pride, the pride of the Brabus fleet is the latest (W221) S-Class. Brabus engineered a set of 21-inch, nine-spoke alloy wheels specifically to enhance the muscular fender bulges of the 2007 S-Class. Of course, the heart of any Brabus machine is the engine, and the 730 hp bi-turbo V-12 moves an S600 from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in four seconds, a feat Brabus claims is the world’s best for a luxury sedan.PRICE: $290,000 (estimated)
ENGINE: 6.3-liter bi-turbo V-12
TRANSMISSION: 5-speed automatic
POWER: 730 hp at 5,100 rpm
TORQUE: 811 ft lbs at 2,100 rpm
CURB WEIGHT: 2270 kg (convert)
0-60 MPH: 4.0 seconds
TOP SPEED: 211 mph (limited)
PROS: A clear expression of superiority
CONS: Overkill for most people