9/14/2009   

Brabus is well known taking already high performance Mercedes-Benz cars and giving them ridiculous horsepower and price tags. In that sense, they don’t disappoint with the new E V12 Black Baron, although the styling result is questionable. The Black Baron is based on the new 2010 Mercedes E Class W212, and features a 6.0 liter twin-turbo V12 bored out to 6.3 liters and capable of 800 horsepower and 1047 lb-ft of torque (engine is electronically limited to 811 lb-ft).

In order to keep this much power on the road and out of the ditch, Brabus fits the Black Baron with improved aerodynamics, new stabilizers, a fully adjustable sports suspension, high performance brakes, and black 19 inch alloy wheels wrapped in large 255/35 tires up front and 285/35 in the back.

Brabus made obvious compromises when it comes to styling to keep aerodynamics in check. A revised front bumper, new front quarter panels and side sills, and rear wheel covers improve aerodynamics, engine ventilation, and brake cooling, while making it possible for the Black Baron to cruise comfortably and safely above 200 mph.

The rear-wheel covers may not look sexy, but they help the Black Baron top out at an electronically limited 350 km/h (217 mph). The sedan will launch to 62 mph (100 km/h) in a scant 3.7 seconds and hit 125 mph (200 km/h) in just 9.9 seconds. Remove the electronic nannies and Brabus claims you can rocket your Black Baron on the Autobahn to a scary 230 mph, if so desired. Fuel consumption is a very respectable 15 mph, considering how much power is available. Just don’t expect that at 200 mph.

Thankfully, there were no compromises made for speed when designing the interior, and the car features a beautiful Alcantara headliner, carbon fiber trim all around, and a speedometer that reaches 250 mph.

Only ten exclusive units will be made, starting at 600,000 euros, or $878,000 at today’s miserable exchange rate.

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