Brabus Boosts Output of New V8 BiTurbo in Mercedes S500 and CL500 and S63 and CL63 AMG Models

Longtime Mercedes-Benz tuner has released a performance package for the latest S500 and CL500 as well as the S63 and CL63 AMG models, which are fitted with Stuttgart’s new V8 bi-turbocharged engines. In addition to the powerplant enhancements, the German tuning firm has also developed a range of cosmetic and handling upgrades.

Starting with the S500 and CL500 models, Brabus offers two different engine tunes for the 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8. The first kit includes a new ECU priced at €4,900 (~US$7,160), which bumps output from 435HP and 700Nm to 482HP and 780 Nm (575 lb-ft).

In addition to the software optimization, the second kit (priced at €5,900 or about US$8,630) adds a supplementary intercooler lifting power to 520-horses and 820 Nm (604 lb-ft). When equipped with this package, both the S500 and CL500 reach a top speed of 300 km/h (188 mph) in combination with the Brabus Vmax Unit.

Moving on to the S63 and CL63 AMG models, Brabus’ tuners developed a package that includes an ECU optimization and a water-to-air intercooler powered by an electric auxiliary pump, priced at €5,900 (~ US$8,630). After the conversion, the 5.5-liter BiTurbo V8 produces 584HP (+40HP) in standard form and 620HP (+49HP) and 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of peak torque when equipped with the optional AMG performance package.

The most powerful variants with the 620HP tune complete the 0-100km/h (62mph) in 4.3 seconds and in combination with the Brabus V/max Unit, reach a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph).

Other available components for the S63 and CL63 AMG include a sport exhaust system with a flap control that allows the driver to adjust the sound of the exhaust, a limited-slip differential with a locking rate of up to 40 percent, and an aero kit with a front spoiler, rear diffuser and carbon trims.

Both the standard and AMG models can also be equipped with Brabus’ alloy wheels ranging in size from 19-to 21-inches, as well as numerous interior refinements.

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2011 VW Jetta Recalled in the States Over Wiring Glitch

Volkswagen has announced a voluntary recall for its 2011 model year Jetta sedan in the USA due to a defect in the wiring system controlling the anti-theft alarm system and horn. The German company said that in some instances an electric short in the horn could, which in turn could cause the engine to stall, adding that no injuries or accidents have been reported as a result of this problem.

The recall affects sixth generation Jetta sedan vehicles built between March of 2010 and March of 2011. According to the company, a total of 71,043 cars are affected by the recall. VW will notify owners by mail.

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That's Why It Rains So Much

3D stereo photography | 150 Years Old 3D Photos of the Civil War

Although 3D appears to be a new technology, it is not quite. 3D stereo photography first became popular around the time of the Civil War in 1861. In fact, many Civil War photographs were made specifically to be viewed in 3-D.
The Library of Congress recently released thousands of stereographic photos of the Civil War to the public, offering people a fascinating glimpse into the period of Civil War in three dimension. The original images were available as two 2D images which the Library of Congress is in the process of digitally converting them into anaglyphs. Once converted, the images will require special red-blue 3D glasses to see them in its full glory.


At the Library’s own Web site you can see more than 2,000 original Civil War glass plate and vintage card stereos. According to this Flickr page, there are more than 50,000 stereographs, spanning the 1850s to the 1930s and covering an encyclopedic array of subjects.
At the Library of Congress website you can currently view some 350 stereographs pertaining to the Civil War. The Congress will be adding more stereograph images each week until the whole collection is online. That would be some treasure.

Stone church in Centreville, Va. during the Civil War.

General Ulysses S. Grant leaning over a bench to examine a map held by General George G. Meade at a council of war in 1864.

Petersburg railroad depot in Richmond, Va., during the Civil War.

A group of nine men pose in front of a tent with a surveying instrument at left. The two men seated center and right are most likely Frederick W. Door and John W. Donn. The officer seated to the left is William H. Paine who invented the steel tape reel worn by the man standing on the right. Standing second from right appears to be Allan Pinkerton. Photograph from the main eastern theater of war, the Peninsular Campaign, May-August 1862.

Photo shows ordinance in a Union artillery park near Petersburg, Va.
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