Mercedes Brabus SL

Jeremy test drives the insanely-tuned Mercedes Brabus SL Bi-Turbo Roadster before handing it over to the Stig.

It may have a volcano under the bonnet but can it power its way up the fabled Top Gear power lap board?

The BRABUS K8 performance kit for the top-of-the-line SL model (SL55) comprises modifications to the supercharger drive in the form of 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.

The power developed by the modified supercharged engine is increased from a standard 476 hp (355 kW) to 550 hp (410 kW) at 6,200 rpm.

The maximum torque is 780 N·m (580 lb·ft) torque at 3,000 rpm.

After the power treatment the roadster races to 60 mph (97 km/h) just 4.1 seconds, passes 120 mph (190 km/h) after exactly 13.6 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed 186 mph (299 km/h) with the limiter removed top speed would be well over 200 mph (320 km/h).

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