Metaphore MagazineFor years, BRABUS has built a reputation as a premier tuner of high-performance luxury vehicles, celebrated for its boldness and creativity. Its work reimagines iconic Mercedes-Benz models, but with its latest creation, the Rocket GTS, BRABUS has surpassed all prior expectations. This automotive gem is a Mercedes-AMG SL 63 transformed into an impressive “shooting brake” that combines elegance with brute power. Beneath its sculpted carbon fiber body, the Rocket GTS houses an engine capable of reaching 985 hp, pushing the limits of automotive design and engineering.
BRABUS, founded in 1977 in Bottrop, Germany, has become synonymous with luxury, power, and exclusivity. The brand has worked on countless Mercedes-Benz models, enhancing performance and aesthetics in daring ways, creating one-of-a-kind vehicles that embody the pinnacle of customization and performance. Yet, with the Rocket GTS, the brand has crafted something truly exceptional, using the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 platform, a sporty convertible that, through BRABUS’s vision, has evolved into a Shooting Brake of striking proportions and remarkable performance.
The Rocket GTS redefines the “shooting brake” concept—a body style that combines the sporty nature of a coupé with the practicality of an extended roofline. Mercedes-Benz has never produced a “shooting brake” version of the SL 63, and it’s precisely this rarity that inspired BRABUS to undertake this innovative project. The exterior design features a body entirely crafted from carbon fiber, a lightweight, robust material that not only enhances the sporty aesthetic but also reduces vehicle weight, thereby improving performance on track and road.
The front end of the Rocket GTS is a spectacle in itself. Its prominent front spoiler not only adds character but also optimizes aerodynamics, minimizing lift at high speeds. This piece harmoniously integrates with the widened wheel arches, adding robustness to the design and creating a visually powerful ensemble. As the eye travels along the side, the side skirts extend to a formidable rear section, widening to 1.98 meters, emphasizing stability and the unique presence of this SL.
The true transformation lies in the removal of the SL’s traditional retractable roof, an iconic feature of the model. In its place, BRABUS has designed a fixed, arched rear section, thereby crafting the definitive shooting brake. This alteration not only reduces weight but also provides a cleaner, more streamlined design that enhances the vehicle’s aerodynamic profile. The rear includes a specially designed bumper featuring a large diffuser and four carbon fiber exhaust outlets, achieving a perfect balance of elegance and aggression. A small ducktail spoiler adds the final touch to a design tailored for those seeking exclusivity and performance.
As for the engine, the Rocket GTS does not compromise on power. BRABUS has modified the original Mercedes-Benz V8 biturbo engine, increasing its displacement to 4.4 liters and tuning it to reach 785 hp. This engine is paired with a hybrid system, which adds another 201 hp, bringing the total power output to 986 hp. This hybrid system not only maximizes the vehicle’s efficiency but also allows it to go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds, a figure rivaling the fastest cars in the world. Its top speed is 317 km/h, though BRABUS claims that under ideal conditions, it could surpass this figure.
The Rocket GTS rides on BRABUS wheels: 21 inches in the front and 22 inches in the rear, paired with a high-performance suspension and braking system designed specifically to maintain control and stability at high speeds. This combination of power, control, and design makes the Rocket GTS a true masterpiece of engineering and luxury on wheels.
The interior, as expected, reflects BRABUS’s renowned attention to detail and sophistication. Unlike some other projects where interior design is overdone, here the aesthetic is more refined and understated, employing high-quality materials such as carbon fiber and Alcantara. The meticulously cushioned seats offer exceptional comfort and exclusive style, while white stitching elegantly contrasts with the dark interior. Blue ambient lighting adds a touch of modernity and calm, turning the cabin into a luxurious and welcoming space.
The Rocket GTS is an extraordinary creation, and as such, BRABUS has not disclosed specific pricing or production volume. However, given the exclusivity of its components and the artisanal process involved, it’s reasonable to assume that it will be limited to a few collectors and luxury car enthusiasts. This SL Shooting Brake is a statement of what it means to own a vehicle of unparalleled performance and style, designed for those who seek much more than just a car; they seek a unique experience of power, luxury, and distinction.
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Metaphore Magazine
Carlos Mundy
Charles Markeaton-Mundy
