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Brabus displays its classic Mercedes restorations

Started by Harv, 25 April 2016, 10:50 PM

Harv

The 29th edition of Essen's Techno Classica has ended, and here's what you've missed from Brabus.

When not modifying modern-day Mercedes Benz vehicles to the point of "no return", the German company transforms old-timers into brand new automobiles. How? Through hard work, dedication, and passion, of course.

Basically, Brabus performs thorough restorations – carrying both the company's own "Brabus Classic 6-Star Certified High Quality Restoration" label, and Classic Data's "A" grade distinction for their flawless condition.

In order to qualify for this kind of appraisal, the vehicles are always disassembled to the last nut and bolt, with all parts being inspected and cataloged. Naturally, the components are completely reconditioned, while unserviceable components are being discarded and replaced with mint condition alternatives.

Experienced master bodywork specialists remove the entire paint from the body shell, in order to apply a perfect paint-job in the original color – but not before making sure the vehicles receive perfect corrosion protection using cutting-edge technology to protect the paint.

The engines are completely disassembled – in Brabus' high tech engine shop – and all the parts are measured before the classic engine is reconstructed with "utmost" care. The rebuilding process includes grinding and honing the cylinders as well as overhauling the cylinder head. The BRABUS powertrain technicians use the same precision in overhauling the drivetrain including the automatic transmission, driveshaft and differential.

When it comes to suspension, brakes and tires, all components are replaced with new parts, thus offering optimal safety.

The cabin goes through a full overhaul as well, with the German tuning company creating cloth, leather interiors and carpeting, in any color, perfectly and fully authentically finished to the smallest detail. Naturally, the master upholsters use the same color and quality as used in series production.

As Brabus says, the work doesn't end with the purchase or the restoration, as the company offers a two-year warranty, as well as an entire range of services: from oil changes and professional inspections to complete conditioning.

The automobiles presented at Essen are three 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolets, two 280 SL "Pagode" models, a 300 SL Roadster paired with its hard-top sibling, the 300 SL Gullwing, and a 600 Pullman.

http://www.carscoops.com/2016/04/brabus-displayed-its-classic.html

























1980 300SD
1983 240D
2000 E55 AMG
2002 G500

daantjie

Wow very impressive. Now if I can only win that Lotto...
Daniel
1977 450 SEL 6.9 - Astralsilber

ptashek

Classic Data uses a note system (1-5), not a grade system (A-E). But other than that, seems accurate.

Funny they don't mention how much it costs to have your car done by Brabus. Rumor has it 100k EUR won't even get you past the doorman ;)
1993 "Pearl Blue" W124 280TE
1988 "Arctic White" W124 200T
1979 "Icon Gold" W116 450SE

nathan

fantastic.
that light blue 116 iOS a 6.9 by the look of the hydro canister. mint...
1979 116 6.9 #6436
2018 213 e63
2011 212 e63
2011 463 g55
2007 211 e500 wagen
1995 124 e320 cabriolet
1983 460 300gd
1981 123 280te

Harv

1980 300SD
1983 240D
2000 E55 AMG
2002 G500

daantjie

A thing of beauty for sure. But really who would ever want to drive such a show piece? A bit of a waste IMHO. Rather give me a well sorted driver which you can drive hard and not worry about dings and such.
Daniel
1977 450 SEL 6.9 - Astralsilber

UTn_boy

For the prices they apparently charge, I'm rather disappointed.  In the picture that Harv posted, there are many things that are incorrect.  For example, the bolts that hold the two axle halve together are supposed to be black.  They are grade 10 fasteners, and came black from KAMAX, the manufacturer of these particular pieces of hardware, when new.  On top of that, when the axle was painted at the factory, these same bolts were painted over.  Also, look at the brake line going from the pressure regulator to the right rear rubber brake hose.  The spring clip that is between the rubber hose and the hard metal line is supposed to be black zinc anodized, not yellow zinc.....and the metal brake line itself is supposed to be clear zinc plated, not yellow.  I could go on, but I'm trying to make a point here. 

I can see that many hours and thousands of dollars were spent on this SL, and I have much respect for the effort put forth, but they've either "over restored" the car, or they don't know what's correct and what isn't.  If I were a paying customer and this was the end result, I'd be furious.  It's ok to charge a premium for good work, but charging a premium for "less than stellar" or incorrect work is so wrong..... in my opinion, that is. 

DAANTJIE, you would be surprised how many people pay for this level of a restoration that drive them regularly.  That's part of the fun of it for them, I suppose. 
1966 250se coupe`,black/dark green leather
1970 600 midnight blue/parchment leather
1971 300sel 6.3,papyrus white/dark red leather
1975 450se, pine green metallic/green leather
1973 300sel 4.5,silver blue metallic/blue leather
1979 450sel 516 red/bamboo

midnitesunmerc

Quote from: daantjie on 26 April 2016, 08:54 PM
A thing of beauty for sure. But really who would ever want to drive such a show piece? A bit of a waste IMHO. Rather give me a well sorted driver which you can drive hard and not worry about dings and such.

Yeah, this is basically my philosophy as well...mind you, if I was filthy rich I suppose I wouldn't give a damn but I'm just an old pensioner, lol....
1977 280SE Colorado Gold
1979 280SE Euro model (parts only)