All Black everything

April 14, 2010

There’s an epic history to all-powerful, super-fast Mercedes. Recent highlights have included the SLR McLaren, the new SLS AMG, and this, the SL65 AMG Black Series. With a solid carbon-fiber roof and a 670-horsepower turbocharged V12 engine, the SL Black is one of the fastest cars ever to wear the three-pointed star. But one discerning client in Dubai wasn’t satisfied, so he turned to eminent Benz tuner Brabus for an answer.

What they came back with is what you see here: the Brabus Vanish. Upgrading the turbochargers, gearbox, brakes and exhaust has yielded 800 horsepower, looking menacing in its matte black paint scheme. Try not to like it too much, though, as this was a one-of-a-kind creation.

Hit the jump for more pics of this BEAST! >>

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JetLev Flyer

December 17, 2009

“Our first production model JETLEV-FLYER is undergoing final testing by MS Watersports GmbH, our German licensee, and results will be available soon. There will be two versions, one with a 155 HP engine and the other with 215 HP. Top speed of the 215 HP model is expected to easily exceed 40 mph (64 km/h), and flight ceiling will still be restricted to 28 feet (8.5 m) for safety reasons. Specifications are subject to change and will be announced after final testing has been completed. For performance and duration records and other special applications, future versions of JETLEV-FLYER could reach speeds in excess of 50 mph (80 km/h), altitudes of 50 feet (15 m), cruise duration of 5 hours, range exceeding 180 miles (300 km), and carry payloads in excess of 1000 lbs (454 kg). Ultimately, it is largely safety considerations, not technical limitations that will dictate the limits of design. “