Mercedes E 63 AMG by Brabus

The Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG is the go-fast V8 version of the E-Class, and this new creation from Brabus is the go-fast version of the go-fast version. Got that?

Launched at the Essen motor show in Germany, one of the largest 'tuner' auto shows in Europe, the latest high performance Mercedes is a little more restrained than we're used to seeing from Brabus. And it's got some curious similarities with an Australian performance car...

Instead of the usual explosion of force via a big bore engine transplant or the addition of turbochargers, the new Brabus-tuned E 63 AMG gets a relatively sedate (for Brabus) engine update.

Perhaps the effects of the GFC have created demand for less expensive product from one of Germany's most famous tuning houses? Maybe the power wars are over?

Whatever the case, the Brabus E 63 AMG is nevertheless a very potent luxury sports sedan, with its 6.2-litre AMG V8 belting out a very handy 408kW, up from the "standard" 386kW.

Peak torque also rises from 630Nm to 650Nm, enough twist to see the car reach 100km/h from standstill in just 4.3 seconds. Brabus has rated the top speed of its tuned E 63 at 320km/h "depending on the speed rating of the selected tyre/wheel combination" says the company.

The 22 kilowatt power boost arises via a couple of component upgrades -- such as a pair of sport air filters and freer flowing exhaust catalysts -- and a reprogrammed engine ECU. Another addition to the Brabus E 63's performance arsenal is a limited-slip differential, which has a locking rate of 40 per cent for improved cornering grip.

On top of the engine tweaks, Brabus has also made modifications to the vehicle's appearance, delivering a more aggressive look compared to its donor car. On top of a new-look front grille, the German tuner claims it used a wind tunnel to "develop aerodynamic-enhancement components that are as stunning as they are effective".

Made from carbonfibre, the lightweight front lip spoiler, rear diffuser and rear spoiler are designed to improved downforce, and there's even HSV-inspired air vents on the front quarter panels that "improve venting of the wheel houses and add a decidedly sporty note to the car's appearance" according to Brabus. The wheels also seem to have a curious resemblance to HSV-designs used a few years ago on the VY HSV GTS.

As is the norm with any self-respecting European tuning house, Brabus offers a plethora of wheel types, spanning 18-, 19- and 20-inch alloys, with the largest homologated wheel rims being the 'Monoblock' 9Jx20-inches up front and 10.5Jx20-inches at the back. As such, they can be fitted with either Yokohama or Pirelli rubber, sized up to 245/30 ZR20 front and ultra-wide 295/25 ZR 20 for the rear axle.

Brabus even offers a number of interior updates should you want to complement the power increases with comfort upgrades, with items like stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated Brabus logos available. Plush aftermarket upholsteries in Mastik leather and Alcantara and any number of timber or carbonfibre inlays are also offered to personalise the high performance German sedan.

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