As the world’s leading provider of TÜV-certified performance upgrades and increased-displacement engines for Mercedes-Benz automobiles, the product range of BRABUS already included a number of performance levels for the current Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+.
The Bottrop-based company now enters a new dimension in performance for the current E-Class with the BRABUS ROCKET 900 V8 twin-turbo increased-displacement engine. The immense know-how from more than four decades of automotive tuning entered into its development. What is more: the company engine shop equipped with hi-tech machinery enables the company to build these engines at the BRABUS Manufaktur in Bottrop.
The increase in displacement to 4.5 liters (275 cubic inches) involves boring out the eight-cylinder engine block to 84 mm (3.3 in) and fitting it with the corresponding larger pistons. In addition, a precision-balanced billet crankshaft and eight special piston rods lengthen the stroke to 100 millimeters (3.9 in).
Of course, the inner workings of the V8 are not the only modified components. To achieve the desired increase in power, BRABUS developed an even more efficient turbocharging system. It includes two special BRABUS high-performance turbochargers with a larger compressor unit and a special core assembly with reinforced axial bearings. This configuration makes a maximum boost pressure of 1.4 bar possible. The BRABUS BoostExtra adapters ensure the engine produces a clearly audible blow-off noise when the driver lifts off the gas.
On the exhaust side, BRABUS adds larger downpipes with a diameter of 75 millimeters (3 in), metal catalysts and special particulate filters. The BRABUS high-performance exhaust system is made entirely of stainless steel and minimizes the exhaust back pressure. In addition, integrated actively controlled butterfly valves in the system enable the driver to choose between a subtle “Coming home” mode and a decidedly powerful eight-cylinder sound.
A modified intake system ensures an optimized supply of fresh air, while high-pressure pumps provide the correspondingly adapted fuel supply. A special BRABUS engine cover made of red carbon makes sure that this engine is also a visual treat.
The engine modification also required a revised engine management system. Extensive series of tests on stationary engine test benches and all-wheel rolling roads, supplemented by road and racetrack testing, were conducted to program it. The result is new mapping for injection, ignition and boost pressure control that produces stunning power delivery, flawless throttle response over the entire rev range and compliance with the strict EURO 6D ISC-FCM emissions standard.
Reflecting the constructive complexity, the ROCKET 900 V8 increased-displacement engine delivers outstanding performance figures. It produces its peak output of 662 kW / 900 hp (888 bhp) at a low 6,200 rpm. Just as gigantic is the peak torque of 1,250 Nm (922 lb-ft), on tap at a low 2,900 rpm. In order to protect the drive line, this figure is electronically limited in the vehicle to 1,050 Nm (774 lb-ft).
BRABUS recommends hi-tech lubricants from technology partner MOTUL for this engine. It goes without saying that this high-performance engine also comes with the exemplary three-year or 100,000-km/62,000-mile BRABUS Tuning Warranty® (see BRABUS Warranty Terms and Conditions, updated July 2013).
Naturally this wolf in sheep’s clothing is in a class of its own with regard to the performance on the road as well. In perfect interaction with the nine-speed SPEEDSHIFT transmission and 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, the BRABUS 900 accelerates in just 2.8 seconds from zero – 100 km/h (62 mph). The 200-km/h mark (124 mph) is reached after just 9.7 seconds. Only 23.9 seconds pass to 300 km/h (186 mph). The electronic speed governor kicks in at 330 km/h (205 mph) in order not to overstress the tires.
Of course, the handling stability is also an important issue at these high speeds. To optimize it, the BRABUS designers developed aerodynamic-enhancement components, which are produced from carbon and can be ordered with high-gloss or matt coating. The BRABUS front lip spoiler with raised flaps at the sides attaches to the bottom of the bumper. Its shape further reduces aerodynamic front-axle lift at high speeds. What is more: in concert with the carbon intakes for the side air scoops, it gives the supercar an even more striking face. The two carbon air intakes on the left and right in the radiator grille are another distinctive BRABUS feature.
BRABUS also offers aerodynamic fine tuning for the rear end of the sedan. The subtle lip spoiler on the trunk lid generates additional rear-axle downforce at high speeds. The carbon diffuser replaces the production centerpiece of the rear fascia. Its two cutouts at the left and right perfectly frame the tailpipes of the BRABUS sport exhaust system. As a special feature, they are fitted with carbon titanium exhaust tips to complete the sporty design.
To give the BRABUS 900 an even more homogeneous appearance, all chrome and plastic elements on the bodywork of the vehicle pictured here were painted in black.
Another characteristic feature of the German automotive refinement specialist are exclusive wheels that make perfect use of the available space under the wheel arches. As the top-of-the-line variant, BRABUS offers 21-inch forged wheels for the E 63. The BRABUS 900 pictured here runs on BRABUS Monoblock “PLATINUM EDITION” Z forged rims painted in SIGNATURE BLACK. Their delicate ten-spoke design combines low weight with maximum strength. The front axle is fitted with 9Jx21 wheels with 265/30 ZR 21 ContiSportContact 6 tires. The 10.5Jx21 rims at the rear are mounted with 305/25 ZR 21 tires.
This tire/wheel combination benefits not only the thrilling looks of the BRABUS 900, but makes the handling even more agile to boot. The BRABUS suspension module for the standard air suspension lowers the ride height of the sedan by about 20 millimeters (0.8 in) and makes the vehicle even sportier.
Exclusive interior appointments are another specialty of BRABUS. Under the “BRABUS fine leather” label, the company upholstery shop transforms the finest leather and Alcantara into interiors that fulfill even the most extravagant customer wishes. The choice of colors and upholstery designs is virtually endless, plus there are precious wood and genuine carbon inlays to choose from, whose variety of colors and designs allows them to be custom-tailored to personal preferences.
On top of that, there are further individual accessories for the cockpit. They include the BRABUS RACE paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Like the door lock pins and pedals, they are made from aluminum. BRABUS also offers stainless scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo matching the ambient lighting of the interior.
The BRABUS 900 can be ordered as a complete car. Alternatively, BRABUS will convert any current Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+ to this performance level all at once or in stages.