2011 Mercedes twin-turbo V8 by Brabus review and pictures

Mercedes twin-turbo V8 by Brabus review:

Up to 620 hp / 455 kW and 1,000 Nm: The BRABUS PowerXtra CGI Performance Kits for the New Mercedes-Benz V8 Biturbo Engines

BRABUS offers the world's most extensive engine tuning program for Mercedes-Benz automobiles. BRABUS now also introduces performance kits for the new Mercedes-Benz V8 biturbo engines of the latest S and CL 500 (US: S550 and CL550) as well as the S and CL 63 AMG models. Depending on the model and the level of tuning, the kits boost power output to up to 620 hp (610 bhp) / 455 kW and peak torque to 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft). In addition, there are aerodynamic-enhancement components made from exposed carbon fiber, custom-tailored tire/wheel combinations with diameters of up to 21 inches, and exclusive interior options. All components are backed by the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty? of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions, updated November 2006).

The BRABUS engine specialists have developed two performance kits for each of the new eight-cylinder biturbo engines. BRABUS recommends fully synthetic ARAL high-performance motor oil for all engines.

For the S 500 and CL 500 models, BRABUS offers the BRABUS B50 - 490 PowerXtra CGI performance kits that sell for EUR 4,900 MSRP. The BRABUS PowerXtra module is a plug-and-play device that is integrated into the engine electronics. After the installation the 4.7-liter (287 cu. in.) eight-cylinder biturbo engine produces a powerful 490 hp (482 bhp) / 360 kW, up from standard 435 hp (429 bhp) / 320 kW. Peak torque grows to 780 Nm (575 lb-ft).

The BRABUS B50 - 520 PowerXtra CGI performance kit, available for EUR 5,900 MSRP, results in a power increase by 85 horsepower for both 500 models. In addition to the PowerXtra module, this version includes a supplementary intercooler. Equipped with this kit, both sedan and coupe reach a top speed of 300 km/h (188 mph) in combination with the BRABUS Vmax Unit. Rated power output is 520 hp (512 bhp) / 382 kW with a peak torque of 820 Nm (604 lb-ft).

In addition to the auxiliary control unit for the engine electronics, the two BRABUS power upgrades for the S 63 and CL 63 models also include a water-to-air intercooler powered by an electric auxiliary pump. The lower charge air temperature in both cases benefits power yield and longevity even under extreme operating conditions.

For the S 63 and CL 63 models not equipped with performance package BRABUS offers the BRABUS B63 - 584 PowerXtra CGI performance kit for EUR 5,900 MSRP. It bumps power output by 40 hp (39 bhp) / 29.4 kW.

For all 63-series models equipped with performance package BRABUS offers the BRABUS B63 - 620 PowerXtra CGI version, which also costs EUR 5,900 MSRP. As the name indicates, after the conversion the biturbo engine produces 620 hp (610 bhp) / 455 kW at just 5,500 rpm. Simultaneously peak torque grows from 900 to 1,000 Nm (663 to 737 lb-ft), available between 2,250 and 3,750 rpm.

In S 63 and CL63 models with BRABUS B63 - 620 PowerXtra CGI tuning sprint time from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is shortened to 4.3 seconds. In combination with the integrated BRABUS V/max Unit, top speed increases to up to 320 km/h (200 mph).

The ideal complement to the tuning of the 5.5-liter engine is the BRABUS sport exhaust system with exhaust flap control. At the push of a button on the steering wheel the driver can choose whether to enjoy the V8 sound in the quiet and unobtrusive ?Coming Home' or in the markedly throaty ?Sport' mode. The fully stainless-steel exhaust system features two ceramic-coated tailpipes with striking design that add some visual thrills as well.

To transfer the increased power to the road with minimum slip, BRABUS offers a limited-slip differential with a locking rate of up to 40 percent for the S 63 and CL 63 models.

For even better directional stability at these extremely high speeds, the BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop appealing and functional aerodynamic-enhancement components for the body kit of the S 63 AMG. The components are manufactured from exposed carbon fiber.

The BRABUS front spoiler gives the production front apron a visual upgrade and reduces lift on the front axle. The more striking front is rounded out with carbon-fiber moldings for the gills in the sides of the front bumper. BRABUS aluminum sport fenders lend the car a decidedly dynamic appearance.

The BRABUS carbon-fiber diffuser with integrated reflector and the carbon-fiber rear spoiler reduce lift on the rear axle.

Naturally BRABUS also offers custom-tailored BRABUS Monoblock alloy wheels with diameters ranging from 19 to 21 inches for all Mercedes S- and CL-Class models. The wheels are mounted with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance tires.

Upon customer request BRABUS also refines the interiors of S-Class sedans and CL coupes to suit the owners' personal tastes.