Tuner Special: Brabus D3 S

BOTTROP, Germany

Mercedes tuner Brabus has applied its D3 S power kit to the Mercedes-Benz C220 CDI.

Brabus starts with the basic Mercedes 2.1-liter four-cylinder common-rail turbodiesel engine, adding an auxiliary control unit with integrated injector drive module. The result is an impressive surge in output, from 170 to 220 horsepower, and in torque, from 295 to 354 pound-feet. The horsepower figures compare with those of a gasoline V6, with the torque of a big-displacement gasoline V8.

The Brabus-modified C220 CDI sprints from zero to 60 mph in less than 7.8 seconds, shaving nearly a second off the standard car's acceleration time. Top speed climbs to 140 mph.

Brabus provides a stainless-steel exhaust system with quad pipes, high-performance brakes and a choice of suspension upgrades including a sport pack with lower ride height. A modest aero body kit is also offered, along with a selection of interior upgrades.