Brabus 600: Beating Mercedes-Maybach at its Own Game

2022-10-02 15:56:46 By : Mr. Barton Zhang

With 600 horsepower and a new look, what's not to like about the Brabus-tuned Mercedes Maybach S 580?

Italian supercars and high-end luxury limousines are, arguably, the least-likely models in need of next-level tuning, but that doesn't mean they don't deserve some aftermarket love, too. Brabus, for example, does some pretty crazy work to high-end models, with upgrade kits for models like the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4Matic, and even the Rolls-Royce Ghost. Now, the German tuner has focused its attention on the Mercedes-Maybach S 580 4MATIC and decided that its 500 horsepower just isn't enough.

From the factory, the Maybach S 580 is powered by a twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V-8 engine combined with an integrated second-generation starter-alternator (ISG). The V-8 delivers a total of 503 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, while the ISG adds an electric boost of 20 horsepower and 147 pound-feet of torque. In order to increase the V-8's output even further, Brabus equipped the engine with its PowerXtra B40S-600 performance upgrade. The upgrade includes two high-performance turbochargers with larger compressor units and a special core assembly with reinforced axial bearings. There is also a modified ECU to precisely control everything. After all the changes, the V-8 delivers a total of 600 horsepower at 5,700 RPM and 590 pound-feet of torque available between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm.

Thanks to the extra 97 horsepower, the 0 to 60 mph sprint time went from the standard 4.8 seconds down to 4.5 seconds. Top speed, however, remains electronically limited to 155 mph. Like usual, Brabus is offering a stainless high-performance exhaust system with actively controlled butterfly valves that will significantly improve the sound of the V-8.

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In true Brabus tradition, the exterior look was also updated with a new body kit made from carbon fiber. It will be offered with a choice of glossy or matt surface finishes, and will not only make the S580 look better but will also improve its aerodynamic features. Changes will include a new front lip spoiler and new attachments for the front bumper, and for the rear, a new, exposed-carbon diffuser with custom-tailored cutouts for the two rectangular end pipes and a subtle spoiler.

The car shown here rides on M "Platinum Edition" 22-inch forged wheels in a distinctive, large disc design with ten openings and finished in a Shadow Chrome glazing. They are wrapped in high-performance Pirelli P Zero tires sized 265/35 ZR 22 and 305/30 ZR 22. Of course, Brabus is offering various other wheel options, in different sizes, colors, and designs. The car is also equipped with a special air suspension module that will lower the car's ride by about 20 millimeters.

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For the interior, you can choose between an endless variety of leathers and microfiber materials in any desired color. For example, there's an exquisite Turquoise Blue interior, with the steering wheel, seats, dashboard, center console, door panels, floor, and headliner wrapped in a combination of skin-friendly leather and Dinamica microfiber. Various carbon fiber elements placed on the dashboard and center console will give an extra sporty touch. Brabus is also offering a wide range of precious wood and carbon inlays in any desired color. This way, each car is individually tailored and largely unique.

Alina has been enthusiastic about vehicles her entire life, and even from an early age found herself itching to get behind the wheel. Through high school and college, she could be found reading through whatever car magazines she could get her hands on, and her love for anything with four wheels has grown with each and every passing day. Over the years, Alina has Alina has accumulated so much knowledge about common and obscure cars that she’s always able to surprise people with interesting facts and information. These days she spends her time working for Topspeed.com, reading up on the latest news and information, and occasionally hunting down hard-to-find information – something that she enjoys and is passionate about.