The Brabus Rocket 900 Won’t Fly You To The Moon, But Will Get You To 300kph In 23.9 seconds

Previously, the Rocket 900 nameplate was based on the W222 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, which had a mighty 6.3-litre twin-turbo V12. This new one, on the other hand, is based on the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4Matic. While the standard GT 63 S has an already impressive 639hp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, Brabus wasn’t satisfied with that and fettled with the engine.

Brabus enlarged the displacement to 4.5 litres, replaced the crankshaft and pistons, fitted larger turbochargers with an integrated carbon ram-air intake system and installed a bespoke full stainless-steel quad performance exhaust for the Rocket 900. The result is an insane 900hp. And although the engine is capable of punching a peak torque of 1,250Nm, Brabus has limited the engine to produce a ‘paltry’ 1,050Nm.

Sending power to all four wheels via SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed sports transmission, Brabus claims that new Rocket 900 can hit 100kph from a standstill in 2.8 seconds, and reach 300kph in just 23.9 seconds. Top speed is once again limited to 330kph as the Pirelli P Zero tyres fitted as standard couldn’t cope with sheer force this 2.1-tonne behemoth exerted at those speeds.

Visually, the Rocket 900 looks just as aggressive as it is fast. With the prominent ‘B’ emblem replacing the Mercedes’ Tri-Star’ on the grille and the myriad of Brabus badges, the sheer number of aerodynamic upgrades over the donor GT 63 S leaves little room for doubt of the potential that lies under the hood. The grille now houses the integrated carbon ram-air intakes, and the gapping lower air intakes provide the cooling air needed for the engine and massive front brakes.

The custom made flared wide-body fenders are made entirely from Kevlar. It adds 3.1 inches to the width of the already wide GT 63 S, providing a smoother aerodynamic surface while housing the 295 section front tires and massive 335 section rear tires.

The forged Monoblock ‘Z’ wheels are especially unique, combining lightweight construction while maximising structural strength. Brabus engineers have also integrated carbon aero discs to the wheels for smoother airflow over the wheels, and to add a sporty touch.

The rear of the Rocket 900 further emphasises the aero-craziness, with a large fixed rear wing favoured over the variable wing on the GT 63 S. The rear wheel arches feature functional air outlets. At the same time, the rear bumper integrates a deeper diffuser that is flanked by the colossal quad exhaust outlets.

While visually appealing, these upgrades have been carefully designed by Brabus engineers after rigorous wind-tunnel testing to ensure real downforce gains are achieved to extract most out of the Rocket 900’s performance.

Brabus isn’t just all about out-and-out performance, they can do interiors as well. The Rocket 900’s Masterpiece interior is infinitely customisable, tailored to the owner’s specific whims and fancies. The overall design is carried over from the donor GT 63 S, with some additional touches that distinguish this as a Brabus. The grey piping contrast with the black leather and Alcantara, while the perforated seat surfaces and inner sections of the door panels feature a quilted ‘Crest’ coat of arms pattern.

Carbon elements with high-gloss sealer add sporty accents in the interior as well. At the same time, the stainless scuff plates light up the Brabus logo in sync with the ambient lighting selected by the occupants. The ‘ONE OF TEN’ plaque in the cockpit just adds to the premium feel and serves as a constant reminder that this is one exceptional work of art indeed.

While the exclusivity and performance of the Rocket 900 is undeniable and is quite frankly one of the craziest 4-door sedans out there, the performance of the donor Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S is plenty for most people on public roads. Moreover, with a price tag that is almost three times that of the GT 63 S, most people may wonder if this premium even worth it? However, for the affluent few who dare to be different, the Brabus Rocket 900 is the perfect one-of-a-kind ride that slays supercars in luxurious comfort.