Mercedes SLS AMG Final Edition
isn't the most fitting swansong to AMG's first supercar. Bar some new wheels and a carbon bonnet, it's identical to the (admittedly rather brilliant) standard
SLS GT
Because who wants a piffling 591hp?
For such an important car, that doesn't seem quite right. But we'll find out for ourselves next week when Dan drives it. There's always
this
as an alternative though. Brabus has become slightly lost in recent years as the in-house AMG products have become ever wilder and more numerous; it has responded by going, well, even more wild.
With an SLS GT at 591hp and the Black Series at 631, Brabus would have to do something drastic to improve on that. Two turbos has done the trick. Aside from the headline power figure, there's also 627lb ft of torque. That's 159lb ft more than a Black Series. Crikey.
So a surfeit of performance certainly isn't in doubt. But as the AMG products have evolved into more complete sports car and saloons, is simply outrageous speed enough to sell a Brabus? Not so long ago, an AMG was purchased for its crushing straight line speed and Brabus catered for those who weren't quite satisfied. But now the case can easily be made for an AMG over an equivalent BMW M as a driver's car, such is the progress of recent years. Can Brabus really improve on the genius of Affalterbach?
Ah good, no change here then
It has tried, certainly. As well as the engine upgrades, there's a titanium exhaust, forged wheels and new coilover suspension. Oh, and Satin Chrome Valve Caps.
Perhaps just as relevantly to those contemplating spending £250K on an SLS, it's unlikely you'll come across another like this. The 'BRABUS STAR' body kit brings lots of carbon fibre where everyone can see and the quilted leather interior reminds everyone inside this isn't any old SLS. For the driver, a quilted leather mat, race gear paddles and a 400km/h speedo.
Or how about this as an alternative if the burly +VAT pricetag doesn't work for you? A slightly used SLS at £100K and then a raid on the Brabus catalogue for your own mega SLS. Wonder how much the turbos are?
BRABUS SLS AMG 700
Engine: 6,208cc V8 twin-turbo
Transmission: 7-speed twin-clutch auto, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 700@N/A rpm (standard SLS GT 591@6,800rpm)
Torque (lb ft): 627@N/A rpm (standard SLS GT 479@4,750rpm)
MPG: 21.4mpg (NEDC combined, standard SLS GT)
CO2: 308g/km (standard SLS GT)
First registered: 2014
Recorded mileage: Delivery miles
Price new: £249,995 plus VAT
Yours for: See above!
See the original advert here.