A Detailed Look at the Legendary Tuner Brabus

For over 40 years, Brabus has been synonymous with creating the fastest, most extravagant Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This isn’t just another tuning company. A quick glance at its showroom reveals why Brabus is one of the most respected names in automotive performance and luxury customization. Think of a Build-A-Bear workshop—except instead of stuffed animals, you have Mercedes-Benz cars, and instead of simple accessories, the possibilities for customization are endless.

The Beginning of Brabus

The story of Brabus begins with Bodo Buschmann, a young law student who had recently purchased a Porsche 911. His father, the owner of a Mercedes-Benz dealership, wasn’t pleased with the Porsche parked in front of his business, fearing it sent the wrong message. In response, Bodo sold the Porsche and bought a Mercedes S-Class. However, he found his W116 S-Class lacking in performance. Unable to find a tuning shop that combined Mercedes luxury with Porsche-level performance, he decided to modify the car himself.

Soon, customers at his father’s dealership noticed Bodo’s upgraded S-Class and began asking where they could get similar enhancements. Recognizing the demand, Bodo decided to start his own business.

Brabus Is Born

German law at the time required two people to register a business, so Bodo partnered with his college friend Klaus Brackmann. The pair combined their surnames to form Brabus in 1977. Klaus, uninterested in the car business, later sold his shares back to Bodo for just 100 euros.

Initially, Brabus focused on enhancing the luxury and performance of the Mercedes W126 S-Class, adding features like backseat multimedia systems. As word of these customizations spread, demand grew, and Bodo began modifying smaller Mercedes models.

In 1984, Brabus shifted its attention to the W201 platform, fitting the Mercedes 190E with an S-Class V8 engine. The result was a 276-hp sedan producing 317 lb-ft of torque—outperforming Mercedes’ own Cosworth 190E 2.3-16. That same year, Brabus secured a major contract when rental company Sixt ordered 200 Brabus-tuned 190E models, catapulting the brand to national and international prominence.

Expanding the Fleet

By 1985, Brabus was developing groundbreaking modifications for the W124 E-Class, achieving a world-record drag coefficient of 0.26. In 1986, the company relocated to Kirchhellener Straße near the Autobahn, expanding its operations to meet growing global demand, particularly from China and the Middle East.

Brabus gained further prestige in 1994 when it became Bugatti’s official tuner, contributing to the development of the Bugatti EB110 SS—a supercar capable of reaching 216 mph and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just over 3 seconds.

In addition to Mercedes-Benz vehicles, Brabus has worked on models like the Infiniti FX50 S and even Smart cars. The Brabus Ultimate E Facelift for the Smart Fortwo, for instance, features a 92-hp electric motor, a widebody kit, and custom 18-inch wheels.

Pushing the Limits

What truly sets Brabus apart is its relentless pursuit of record-breaking performance. The company has created the world’s fastest SUV, station wagon, four-door coupe, and ultra-luxury sedan.

A pivotal moment came in 1992 when Brabus began working with V12 engines. The first project, a 6.9L V12 in the Mercedes W124 500E, evolved into a 7.3L engine producing 574 hp. This engine powered the Brabus E V12 7.3S to a top speed of 205 mph, cementing Brabus’ reputation as a leader in high-performance tuning.

In 1999, Daimler’s acquisition of AMG left Brabus as the only independent tuner catering to the extreme demands of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. Brabus gained access to AMG engines, furthering its dominance with models like the immensely popular AMG G63.

The Brabus Experience

Brabus is more than a tuner—it’s a lifestyle. With a presence in over 100 countries, it is the largest independent automotive tuner in the world. A visit to a Brabus dealership feels like stepping into a showroom of rare and exquisitely customized vehicles, including Mercedes, Smart cars, and Land Rover Defenders.

Customization options are virtually limitless, ranging from bulletproof armor to bespoke interiors featuring the finest leathers and exotic materials. As Bodo once explained, “Our customers like what is special and unique in the best quality from the best materials in the world—and we can offer that.”

Brabus Classic

In 2011, Brabus launched Brabus Classic, a division dedicated to restoring vintage and modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles to factory specifications. The showroom features iconic models like the 300 SL Gullwing, with each restoration completed to meticulous standards.

A Legacy of Passion

Every Brabus vehicle comes with a three-year, 62,000-mile warranty and the company’s renowned “Six Stars of Brabus Quality.” Despite Bodo Buschmann’s passing in 2018, his son Constantine continues to uphold his father’s vision. Brabus remains committed to its founding principle: “Never work for money, work for passion.”