Brabus, the renowned German tuner famous for transforming Mercedes-Benz vehicles into high-performance marvels, is broadening its horizons. The company has now set its sights on Bentley, marking a significant expansion of its portfolio. To kick off this new venture, Brabus has unveiled two enhanced versions of the fourth-generation Bentley Continental, both of which promise a substantial boost in power and performance.
The latest additions to Brabus’s self-proclaimed supercar lineup are the 900 Superblack and 900 models, based on the Continental GT Speed coupe and Continental GTC Speed convertible, respectively. Both high-performance variants are powered by Bentley’s hybrid 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine, introduced last year as a successor to the venerable V-12.
Engineering Excellence: Under the Hood
While Brabus has left the electric motor untouched, it has significantly upgraded the internal combustion engine. The modifications include bespoke turbochargers, a new carbon-fiber airbox, and reprogrammed ECU mapping. These enhancements elevate the total output to an impressive 888 horsepower and 811 ft-lbs of torque, a notable increase from the factory versions’ 771 horsepower and 738 ft-lbs of torque.
The coupe can sprint from zero to 62 mph in just 3.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 208 mph, while the convertible achieves the same in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 177 mph.
Additionally, both models feature a new exhaust system and a lowered ride height by nearly an inch, further enhancing their performance capabilities.
Aesthetic Overhaul: Exterior and Interior Design
True to Brabus’s style, both cars have undergone a striking visual transformation. The vehicles boast a carbon-fiber aero kit and 22-inch forged Monoblock ZM Platinum Edition wheels, significantly altering their exterior character. The usual understated Bentley badging has been replaced with Brabus’s more assertive logos and fonts, giving the cars a distinctly sportier appearance.
The 900 Superblack, as its name suggests, is predominantly black, exuding a sleek and stealthy allure. Meanwhile, the 900 model is available in a variety of colors, catering to different aesthetic preferences.
Market Impact and Consumer Appeal
The introduction of these high-powered Bentleys by Brabus comes at a time when the demand for luxury performance vehicles is on the rise. According to industry experts, the blend of German engineering with British luxury is likely to attract a niche market of car enthusiasts eager for unique, high-performance vehicles.
Brabus is taking orders for the 900 Superblack and 900, with the coupe starting at €489,200 (approximately $574,300) and the convertible at €538,800 (about $632,500).
This move represents a strategic expansion for Brabus, tapping into the luxury sports car segment with a distinctive offering that combines cutting-edge performance with opulent design.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Brabus and Bentley Collaborations
The collaboration between Brabus and Bentley could pave the way for future projects, potentially leading to more innovative and powerful models. As the automotive industry continues to evolve with a focus on hybrid and electric technologies, such partnerships may become increasingly common.
For now, Brabus’s foray into Bentley territory marks an exciting chapter for both brands, promising to deliver exhilarating driving experiences to a discerning clientele. Car enthusiasts and collectors alike will be keenly watching to see how this collaboration unfolds and what it might mean for the future of luxury performance vehicles.
