Brabus has been building the world's fastest street-legal sedans for several years running. This 'tradition' started in 1996 with the 205-mph Brabus E V12 and reached the next level in 2003 in the guise of the 217-mph E V12 Biturbo. In 2006 the Brabus Rocket, built in small-series production and based on the Mercedes CLS series, improved the world record to 225 mph.

But the Brabus R&D team wouldn't be the top-notch engineers they are if they were satisfied with that achievement. That's why in mid-October of 2006 they once more made the trek to the world-famous high-speed circular track in Nardo, Southern Italy. Under the keen eyes of the German Technical Inspection Agency (TÜV Süd) the $435,000 ultra-performance automobile improved the world record for street-legal sedans to 227.4 mph (365.7 km/h).

The Brabus Rocket is powered by a twin-turbo Brabus SV12 S engine, fitted into the tight confines of the four-door's engine bay with almost surgical precision. It produces a maximum power output of 730 bhp at 5,100 rpm. Peak torque is 973 lb-ft, limited electronically to 812 lb-ft, available from a low 2,100 rpm.

A special crankshaft, larger cylinder bore and larger forged pistons increase displacement from 5.5 to 6.3 liters. Airflow in both intake and outlet manifolds of both cylinder heads is optimized and sport camshafts are installed.

The engine peripherals also underwent numerous modifications: Larger turbochargers, a more efficient intercooling system and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with four exhaust pipes and low back-pressure metal catalysts are all part of the Brabus Rocket engine concept. Newly programmed engine electronics orchestrate the perfect interaction of all new components and contribute not only to maximum power yield but also to meeting the latest EURO IV emission limits.

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a modified five-speed automatic transmission and the Brabus locking differential.

To keep the enormous performance potential of the world's fastest sedan safely in check at all times the vehicle's aerodynamics, suspension and brakes were modified extensively.

The Brabus ROCKET also meets the expectations of the most discriminating customers when it comes to the interior: The cockpit is upholstered with soft and breathable Brabus Mastik leather and Alcantara. Genuine-carbon-fiber applications are part of the sporty Brabus interior as are an ergonomically shaped Brabus sport steering wheel and the speedometer with 400-km/h (250 mph) dial.