The Mercedes-Benz G-class—Germany’s equivalent of the military-grade Hummer
The 500-hp Mercedes G55 AMG with its supercharged V-8 is arguably the baddest factory-built SUV on the market. The roar emitted by its dual side pipes is certain to wake up the entire neighborhood, and the big beast’s acceleration is as fearsome as its appetite for premium fuel. Zero to 100 kph is accomplished in an estimated 5.0 seconds and top speed is governed at 200 kph, which seems a good thing with the G-Wagen’s lofty center of gravity and military-bred suspension.
But the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S and the upcoming M versions of the BMW X5 and X6 are powerful alternatives. And for a higher cylinder count simply turn to the Volkswagen Touareg W12 or Audi’s new Q7 V-12 TDI.
If AMG won’t act, then Brabus has been known to take up the challenge. Say hello to the G V12 S Biturbo, which substitutes a twin-turbocharged V-12 for the supercharged V-8 of the factory-built G55 AMG. The base engine for this Brabus “SV12 S” engine is Benz’s own twin-turbocharged, 5.5-liter V-12 that powers the S600 and CL600 and is enlarged for various AMG models, including the 661-hp, 6.0-liter SL65 AMG Black Series.
Brabus takes this engine to 6.3 liters by boring it out and lengthening the stroke. Power stands at 690 hp at 5100 rpm and maximum torque is a monstrous 811 lb-ft. The torque is in fact electronically limited—the engine is theoretically capable of 974 lb-ft—in order to keep the five-speed automatic transmission and the G’s complex all-wheel-drive system from lunching themselves.
Brabus estimates 100 kph is achieved in a surreal 4.3 seconds, and the G is able to achieve a top speed of 270 kph. The limiter comes in at 240 kph.
For looks, the Brabus G V12 S Biturbo offers wheels of up to 22 inches in diameter, dual stainless-steel exhaust pipes left and right, and a trendy strip of LED daytime running lights.
The front and rear bumpers are modified, and the option list to further individualize this monster G-Wagen is very long indeed.
#ItsyourturnToPlay
