The extreme Brabus Rocket is back for the fifth time since its 2006 inception, this time, based on Mercedes-AMG’s GT 63 S saloon. Boasting a complete design overhaul and a healthy increase in performance, the new Rocket 900 is limited to just ten units worldwide and will cost you from €435,800 (around £395,000).
Under the bonnet is a 4.5-litre variant of AMG’s M177 V8, increased in capacity by 500cc over standard; reinforced billet piston roads and larger forged pistons are also included. A pair of more capable turbochargers are fitted to provide the modified unit with more air, the larger compressor units and reinforced axial bearings allowing for over 20PSI of peak boost. An uprated fuel pump also comes as part of the package, with mapping for injection, ignition and boost pressure fettled for both power delivery and emissions.
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The result is an output of 888bhp at 6200rpm and a staggering 922lb ft of torque at only 2900rpm – the latter, however, is capped at a ‘mere’ 774lb ft in an effort to keep other componentry in one piece. Sent to the ground through the standard nine-speed automatic gearbox and 4Matic all-wheel drive system, all that thrust means that 0-62mph comes in only 2.8sec, with top speed limited to 205mph. Those are better numbers even than Affalterbach’s range-topping GT Black Series.
This being a Brabus Rocket, the exterior design hasn’t remained untouched. With a brand new carbonfibre widebody kit increasing width by 78mm, this family saloon is wider than a Lamborghini Aventador. A ram-air intake system also makes an appearance at the front for improved cooling, with elements such as the new front splitter and carbonfibre rear wing tested in a wind tunnel to ensure an increase in downforce.
Nestled within the redesigned rear diffuser are exits to the new stainless steel exhaust system, now with freer-flowing metal catalytic converters for reduced back pressure and improved sound. The system also comes equipped with valves to allow the driver to alter volume through the drive mode selection.
Sitting within the widened arches are a set of staggered 21-22” ‘Brabus Monoblock Z’ forged wheels, complete with eccentric carbonfibre aero covers and wrapped in chunky 295 front and 335 rear Pirelli P Zero rubber. Modification to the air suspension drops ride height by 25mm to help lift those new wheels into the arches, with AMG’s standard, but highly effective, carbon ceramic brakes at each corner.
Modifications don’t stop there, with each buyer given the opportunity to completely customise the cabin to their liking. Virtually any colour of leather and/or Alcantara is on the options list, with the example pictured sporting bold leather quilting and buckets of Brabus branding throughout. The tuner will include new aluminium paddle shifters on all models, alongside a new stainless steel sill plate with a backlit Brabus logo that corresponds with the interior ambient lighting.
Just ten examples of the Brabus Rocket 900 will be produced, with prices starting at an eye-watering €435,800 (c£395,000).
