Brabus 850 S Cabrio: Suit And Tie, Goodbye!
BRABUS 850 S CABRIO
SUIT AND TIE, GOODBYE!
Words by Carlo Brema
It is in cases like these that we really wonder if limits make any sense. No matter moral or purely performance barriers, the German tuner Brabus, historical brand ever-able to enhance the most amazing sports models of the three-pointed star, keeps undaunted to surprise us, evolving the concept of performance and exclusivity of the aforementioned AMG range. In fact, if the double turbocharging of the latest generation of biturbo engines allow to reduce emissions, maintenance costs and at the same time to increase performance, some customers know what they really want and are not here to settle for a model that is just exceptional. They want more and since money are made to be spent, they prove once again to be the ideal means for a further step in the world of special cars.
In the Mercedes range, among the countless letters and variants of each model, the S-Class is undoubtedly the best representation of the combination of luxury and sportiness, especially if we take into consideration the AMG version, available with both the twin-turbo V8 (S63), or with the mammoth naturally aspirated V12 (S65). Leaving aside for a moment the sedan version, also suitable for putting a smile on your private driver’s face, the only two doors version has definitely taken the place of what until a few years ago was known as CL. Whether it’s coupe or convertible, it does not matter, but if you really want to exaggerate, why not leave your hair to the wind, at the mercy of 850 horses?
It’s called Brabus 850 S Convertible and is not a “simple” AMG came out of Muscle Gym. Brabus offers different levels of aesthetic and mechanical upgrades, with the possibility to opt for the engine step that best meets your needs. In the case of the 850, or the even more extreme Rocket 900, the German tuner has even increased the size of the S63 engine, bringing its 5.5cc twin-turbo V8 up to 6.0cc. The beating heart of the star surgically reborn in Bottrop has been literally opened and optimized thanks to new dedicated pistons and rods, a different crankshaft, new air intakes, air filters, two larger compressors, carbon fiber air ducts and a sports exhaust system that also increases the decibel factor, if needed.
Here is how the original 585hp become 850 and how torque reaches 1,450Nm, despite being electronically limited to about 1,150Nm. In profane terms it means that you will boast a 0-100 kph of just 3.5 seconds, while in 9.4 seconds you will reach 200 per hour and then you can whiz up to 350 kph of top speed, even if limited to preserve the life of the tires. Here is an example of how you won’t suffer the 2 tons of weight, while since such power is so explosive it makes essential the intervention of the electronics during acceleration, firing one gear after the other through the automatic/sequential dual-clutch gearbox with 9-speeds.
The Brabus 850 S Convertible is not distorted in the passenger compartment, which remains faithful to the original and confirms itself to be at the forefront in terms of technology and comfort, while concerning the aesthetic aspect we have lowered suspension with stiffer springs, new rims with more generous dimensions and available in half a dozen variants, massive bumpers, a new diffuser at the rear and a sober but discernible spoiler on the trunk. In short, you will not pass unnoticed if you exploit the grand touring side of the 850. At the same time it’ll be impossible to see you if you’ll press the throttle, taking advantage of the dark side of a beast that no longer want to wear the suit and tie of the elegant original counterpart. Approximately € 69,900 are needed for the conversion kit and at least € 4,900 for the assembly, to be added – of course – to some € 210,000 for the donor car. This is a pretty serious final price, but if you want something exclusive and able to check your every minimum request, you have found your best mad evening dress.