Brabus Unveils 800-hp E V12 Based on the New E-class Sedan

Where to start with this car? Well, it’s a new Mercedes-Benz E-class modified by Brabus. Power comes from the V-12 engine normally found in the Mercedes S600, although in this case it’s tweaked to put out 800 hp and 811 lb-ft of torque. (The engine could make 1047 lb-ft, but is neutered so as not to destroy the transmission.) Brabus says 62 mph flashes by in 3.7 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 217 mph. The power bump comes from stroking the 5.5-liter engine to 6.2 liters and adding higher-pressure turbochargers with four water-to-air intercoolers, along with a reprogrammed engine computer and less-restrictive exhaust system. The car’s five-speed automatic transmission had to be significantly beefed up for the extra power and it sports a limited-slip rear end. You can fully disable the E V12’s stability control system if you want, but that sounds unwise. Brabus adds a load of carbon fiber for aerodynamics: a new hood, front splitter, rear spoiler, and rear diffuser, as well as “speed spads.” They’re covers for the rear wheels that add 1.4 inches to the E V12’s width and allegedly improve aerodynamic performance, but look seriously uncool. Underneath is an all-new suspension with adjustable height, compression, and rebound settings. It all rides on 19-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli or Yokohama tires. The E V12 gets heavy-duty brakes, too: 12-piston units with 15-inch vented discs for the front axle, six-piston units with 14.2-inch discs out back. There’s still more. Inside are Brabus bucket seats and surfaces covered by Alcantara or leather. Brabus logos that glow blue are located in the fenders, door sills, and in front of the rear wheel arches. You can also opt to include a limited-edition Vertu Ascent cell phone that’s made of—you guessed it—carbon fiber. If all that seems too much, Brabus says customers can opt for a 750-hp version without the aggressive bodywork. There will be just ten of these cars built and, should you want one, it’ll cost the equivalent of $732,000.