| Outrageous New Performance Model | Frankfurt Motor Show | Brabus Bullit |
This new Bullit is one serious car; not only does it look incredible but the latest Brabus will undoubtedly supply ferocious performance, too. We're not going to question Brabus' heady performance claims either - who would argue with 720bhp?
Most cars with this kind of horse power are going to attract attention at a motorshow; the Brabus Bullit was no exception of course, but the mix of power and practicality makes for quite an astounding package. Four doors and 811lb.ft of torque (and that's limited to protect the gearbox) - brilliant we say!
Providing the under bonnet drama in this case is a Mercedes-Benz 6.3-litre V12 bi-turbo unit; however, it is built in-house in the state-of-the-art Brabus engine build shop. Uprated pistons and con-rods help to take the extra strain while all the performance upgrades, including special camshafts, a modified turbocharging system, more efficient intercoolers and high-flow catalysts, raise the power to startling levels.
Custom mapping with on-board diagnostics results in relatively low emissions - it meets stringent Euro lV limits - for a car of this performance. Stability control systems such as ABS, ASR and ESP help to find enough traction for the Bullit to shoot to 62mph from standstill in just 3.9 seconds, and on to a scarcely believable 224mph. Perhaps the most impressive performance statistic is the zero to 124mph sprint, which is despatched in less than 10.5 seconds.
Bespoke modifications have been included in almost every area of the car due to the significant additional stress caused by the Brabus-tuned engine; the brakes, suspension and the five-speed automatic transmission (with rear locking-differential) all get special treatment. Brabus claims a high degree of ride comfort is retained, most likely due to the custom adjustable suspension built to cope with the additional weight.
The bad news is that the Bullit will cost about £230,000.
Richard Tanner - 21 Sep 2007