Brabus has done the unthinkable and made AMG’s G-Class even more capable.
The German automotive fabrication and engineering specialist has applied its substantial skills to the latest generation G-Glass, in particular AMG’s G63 version, and the results are astounding
Most striking is the configuration. Unlike the standard G63, this Brabus 800 Adventure XLP is a double-cab bakkie, instead of a station wagon.
To achieve the change in body style, Brabus added substantially to the wheelbase and overall length of G-Class. The ladder-frame chassis is stretched, which results in a 500 mm longer wheelbase and 680 mm gain in overall length, compared to a conventional G63.
Brabus says the modifications all fall within the factory specification for G63’s torsional rigidity and the bakkie’s loadbox features a steel base and tailgate, with carbon sides, to keep overall weight gain within acceptable parameters.
Beyond the new rear-section, Brabus has also added its own bonnet (with obligatory scoops), bumper (with an integrated winch), oversized fenders, roof-rack (with LEDs) and roll bar.
The 800 Adventure XLP bakkie’s radical appearance is underpinned by someserious capability. Brabus has boosted the 4-litre twin-turbo V8 to 588 kW and 1 000 Nm, which gives this massive double-cab bakkie remarkable performance credentials: 0-100 kph in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 210 kph.
That top speed might sound a touch low, considering the V8 engine’s power, Brabus has wisely limited the 800 Adventure XLP’s velocity, due to the off-road biased 22-inch tyres that it rolls on. Supplied by Pirelli, these Scorpion ATR all-terrain tyres measure 325/55.
Perhaps the most novel aspect of this G63 double-cab conversion, are its axles. Drawing inspiration from the Mercedes-Benz Unimog range of all-terrain trucks, the 800 Adventurer XLP features portal axles. With the dual-gear drive system at each wheel, portal axles allow for huge gains in ground clearance and the 800 Adventure XLP has 490 mm of obstacle crossing ability.
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