Description
Mercedes-Benz SL55AMG Brabus K8 1 of 6 UK Cars
Cost of £165K in 2004
BRABUS GmbH is a German high-performance automotive aftermarket tuning company founded in 1977 in Bottrop. Their ‘K8’ was launched at the Geneva Salon and marketed as a ‘performance kit’ but in truth it’s considerably more than that. The engine modifications require that each Brabus dealer has a dedicated engine builder and similarly the suspension, electronic and cosmetic changes all require experienced specialists. The engine modifications were primarily to the supercharger drive with a custom vibration damper and a new pulley for improved belt-drive geometry, high-performance metal catalysts, and an auxiliary circulation pump with opposing radiator. This raised output to a minimum of 530bhp and a tree stump-pulling torque of 572 lbs. ft, however, in this case we understand it might be nearer 550bhp. When he was fully happy, the engine builder signed a small gold plaque and attached it to the top of the engine.
Mercedes’ Performance Division, AMG, who in 2003 introduced their SL55AMG. Seriously powerful and impressively fast, the supercharged 5. 4-litre V8 was rated at 493bhp and the AMG was fitted with larger wheels, bigger brakes, uprated electronics and some subtle cosmetic changes. The SL55AMG was expensive, exclusive and rather special but, as always, they were one or two customers for whom it wasn’t special enough and, for those discerning individuals, the Holy Grail was the Brabus K8.
Brabus also tweak the car’s aerodynamics to enhance high speed stability with a new front spoiler, while a more prominent diffuser works the air harder at the back to increase downforce. Underneath, the car’s active body control suspension was recalibrated using an electronic module for the ABC, lowering ride height by 15mm, and the braking system was uprated by the Brabus engineers. Whilst the additional 40 odd bhp produce a small increase in performance, we understand that it’s the K8’s amazing handling that takes the SL55 to another level.
The redesigned side skirts create an aerodynamic transition between the wheel arches and feature automatic illumination of the ground whenever the door is opened and the new rear apron incorporates a subtly altered diffuser. Externally, these modifications are not immediately noticeable which cannot be said about the striking polished 20” Brabus ‘Monoblock’ wheels
Excellent Service history
Date of first registration 01/ 05/ 2004
Engine Number. the details below
Chassis Number. WDB2304742F039903
Video available on Request
Excellent rates of finance available
Part Exchange welcome
Worldwide Delivery Service
Please contact a member of our team for further details
