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2002 Brabus K8

At the Geneva Motor Show 2002 the latest super sports car from Bottrop, the BRABUS K8 celebrated its world debut.: Based on the SL 55 the roadster features a performance-tuned supercharged V8 engine with 530 hp / 390 kW, a maximum torque of 775 Nm, and an electronically limited top speed of 300 km/h.

The BRABUS K8 performance kit for the top-of-the-line SL model comprises modifications 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.

Brabus aerodynamic enhancement parts for the new SL combine form and function. The Brabus front apron with integrated front spoiler was designed to be fastened to the original mounting points, making the exchange for the production bumpers of the SL 500 or SL 55 fast and easy. Customers can choose between two and four auxiliary headlights for better roadway illumination. Even more important though is its aerodynamic effect: At high speeds the apron reduces lift on the front axle thus further improving directional stability.

The BRABUS side skirts create an aerodynamic transition between the wheelhouses and come with an exciting and useful feature: Activated by the keyless-entry system or by pulling on the inside door handle three LED lights on the underside of each side sill illuminate the ground next to the car, and thus help to avoid many unfortunate steps into an unseen hole or puddle. The BRABUS designer suit for the new SL is rounded out by the BRABUS rear apron with integrated diffusor. The rear apron is also designed to replace the original part.

To further improve the incredible handling of the new SL BRABUS developed an electronic module for the ABC suspension, which lowers the body by about 15 millimeters.

Exclusive, customized luxurious interiors for the SL roadster are a yet another BRABUS specialty. The list of available options includes stainless-steel doorsills with illuminated BRABUS logo, an ergonomically shaped BRABUS sport steering wheel with airbag and heated rim, a speedometer with 360-km/h scale and a genuine carbon interior.

In Detail

type Professionally Tuned Car
built at Germany
engine V8
position Front Longitudinal
aspiration Supercharged
valvetrain SOHC 3 Valves per Cyl
displacement 5439 cc / 331.9 in³
power 395.2 kw / 530.0 bhp @ 6200 rpm
specific output 97.44 bhp per litre
torque 775 nm / 571.6 ft lbs @ 3000 rpm
body / frame Unit Steel
driven wheels RWD
front tires 245/35 ZR 20
rear tires 285/30 ZR 20
front brakes Vented Discs w/12-Pot Calipers
rear brakes Vented Discs w/6-Pot Calipers
front wheels F 50.8 x 22.9 cm / 20.0 x 9.0 in
rear wheels R 50.8 x 25.4 cm / 20.0 x 10.0 in
steering Recirculating Ball w/Power Assist
f suspension 4-Link Strut Suspension w/Coil Springs, Shock Absorber, Stabiliz
r suspension Multi-Link w/Coil Springs, Shock Absorber, Stabilizer
transmission 5-Speed Auto
gear ratios 3.59:1, 2.19:1, 1.41:1, 1.00:1, 0.83:1
final drive 2.82:1
top speed ~300 kph / 186.4 mph
0 – 60 mph ~4.4 seconds