Brabus Takes on Merc's SL65 AMG Black Series with New T65 RS

The latest big Benz to come out of the Brabus garage is here - the new SL65 Black Series-based T65 RS, and it's screaming one thing: "That E V12 Coupe in Geneva was a sissy!"

Instead of the standard SL65 AMG Black Series' 670HP biturbo-V12, it gets the same modded 800-horsepower, 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft) twin-turbo Brabus V12 under the hood. Between the engine and that new hood scoop are four intercoolers while the car also gets a new stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts.

With all the modifications, the T65 RS hits 60 in 3.6 seconds (versus the basic Black's 3.9 seconds) and 200km/h (124mph) in 9.8 seconds, while top speed is once again limited to 320km/h or 200mph

Inside, you'll notice the Black's seats (which Clarkson couldn't bear) have been replaced with luxurious, multifunction pieces. Good call by the owner on that one, especially if this is doing any sort of real driving duties.

All that, and it still meets EURO IV emissions standards.

By Phil Alex

SCOOP: 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster with Retractable Hardtop

Our spy photographers have snagged the next generation of Mercedes-Benz's SL roadster, which is due to arrive in 2012. As you can see in the pictures, Mercedes-Benz obviously will continue with the front-engine, rear-drive format, as well as with a retractable metal hardtop.

The prototype model's heavy disguise and body cladding makes it difficult to distinguish any details, but it's safe to assume that the new SL will carry styling hallmarks from the German firm's "artsy" design language previewed in its most recent concept models such as the CLS Shooting Break and the F800 Style.

Underneath the sheetmetal, the 2012 SL will share many hardware and components including the extremely rigid aluminium spaceframe technology with the SLS Gullwing supercar.

Even though details about the engine range remain scarce, buyers should expect a new 3.5-liter V6 with 306HP and the usual lineup of V8 units including the firm's newly developed 5.5-liter bi-turbo V8 for the AMG model, and quite possibly, an upgraded V12.