German smartcar gets a sports boost
German-tuner Brabus marked a milestone in 2017, hitting 15 years of modifying Daimier AG smart cars called the “fortwo.” To celebrate, it made one club sports version, developed only to run on the racetrack. The little two-seater was a big hit while being put through its paces by pro drivers, as well as a few media journalists, too.
Now, the company is making that little wheeled wonder into a limited-edition street-going cruiser, promising the very same spirited driving dynamics.
The foundation is the current smart fortwo cabrito, whose three-cylinder turbocharged engine is pumped up to produce 125 horsepower (up from the stock 89) and 148 foot-pounds of torque (up from the stock 100). That gain is good for zero-to-62 mph (100 kilometers per hour) runs in just 9.2 seconds while the top speed is electronically limited to 109 mph.
To squeeze that performance out, Brabus engineers developed a modified intake system, an even more efficient intercooler and a recalibrated engine control unit. Fumes are dumped out by a stainless steel Brabus sport exhaust system with actively controlled flaps. In the rear, there's three exhaust tips, matching the micro machine's three engine cylinders.
Suspension modifications include Brabus sport springs, lowering the car's ride height 1.2 inches, and larger, black wheels. The vehicle's stance is raked, achieved by mounting 16-inch wheels and high-performance tires up front and 17s in the rear.
The 125R is available in only two colors: glossy black or matte titanium. For customers who select the former, the special lower bodywork components (front spoiler, side skirts and exhaust trim) come in bright red while the latter is paired to a more subdued black finish.
Other exterior touches include carbon-design covers for the side mirrors, a tinted third brake light, a rear exterior skirt and unique badging.
Inside the airy, but compact, cabin, there's Brabus Mastik black leather upholstery on the sport seats, which feature special diamond quilting and contrasting red double stitching. That matches the steering wheel, which also gets the same treatment. Brabus and 125R logos are embroidered on the headrest and seatbacks, while tailor-made scuff plates and foot rest plate illuminate and color change from white to red.
There's also custom floor mats and a logo-bearing shift knob and handbrake lever, plus in the middle of the dash a special numbered plate. The cars also get creature comforts like a JBL sound system, a backup camera and heated seats.
The little pocket rocket will be limited to just 125 examples and each will cost around $46,000.
Share your car's story with Matt at auto@dailyherald.com.