Brabus highlights

A few days ago one of the founders of German automaker, Brabus, passed away. We take a look back at some Brabus highlights created by Klaus Brackman and Bodo Buschmann (RIP).

190E V8 (1984)

One of the first cars to put Brabus on the map was this 190E stuffed with V8 motor from the larger S-Class. The engine produced 207 kW in the mid-1990s, which made it quite quick for the time.

Brabus 190E 3.6 Lightweight (1988)

The earlier 190E model was a little overweight thanks to that massive motor in the nose. For the next version the firm chose an inline six that it enlarged to 3,6 litres, which produced 215 kW. In keeping with its name, the “Lightweight” had no air conditioning, less sound deadening and no rear seats. Check it out here.

Brabus EV12

The EV12 boasted a 7,3-litre V12 engine that pumped out 437 kW/780 N.m. This super saloon made headlines as it set a world record (as recognised by Guinness) for being the fastest four-door car in the world. It had an electronically limited top speed of 330 km/h, which still makes it faster than many supercars sold today.

Smart Roadster V6 twin-turbo

In later years, Brabus included Smart products in its portfolio. This special edition roadster featured a twin-turbocharged V6 motor reportedly good for 160 kW, in a car that weighed just under 900 kg.

Brabus Roadster V6

Brabus S-Class LWB        

Through its Startech division Brabus builds many custom models, aimed mainly at businessmen. This extended wheelbase W220 series S-Class was one of the earlier models to get the Brabus Business treatment.

S-Class LWB

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing”           

Through the Brabus Classic arm of the business, the firm restores older Mercedes models from the ground up. A prime example of their craftsmanship is this beautifully restored 300 SL.

Brabus SLS 700 Biturbo

As if the Mercedes-AMG SLS wasn’t crazy enough already, Brabus strapped a pair of turbochargers onto the 6,3-litre V8 to unleash 525 kW. That power output was enough to proper the modern Gullwing to a top speed in excess of 340 km/h.

Brabus 6×6

Who can forget this monster? Brabus took Mercedes larger-than-life G63 6×6 and gave it a shot of its special muti. With 525 kW the 3,8 ton behemoth can sprint to 100 km/h in 4,4 seconds. Despite its size finding parking shouldn’t be too difficult as you can just drive over everything else.