February 9th, 2008

Article by Mike La
Photography by Ling Ly
Videography by Craig Lieberman

Newport Beach, CA -- On a calm and chilly Saturday morning in Newport Beach, CA, residents and visitors line up along the driving range at the local golf course to warm up for an early round of 18 holes. I was warming up for my round with a 5-Iron in hand until loud rumbles through the cold air vibrated the ground beneath me. Could that be the reason I shanked my 5-Iron or is it because I suck at golf?

The Southern California group of myMBonline.com had taken over the peaceful parking lot of the Newport Beach Public Golf Course. Members from all over Southern California flocked to gather at this location for a nice but short drive from the golf course to what could be one of the largest Mercedes-Benz gatherings of 2008.

Brabus -- an elite and prestigious automotive tuner company -- opened their doors on, February 9th, 2008, to hold one of the most widely talked about meets of the year. In conjunction with Group5 Motorsports of San Diego, CA, invitations were sent out to members of the online community, myMBonline.com, and others in the automotive enthusiast community.

The morning kicked off with a parade of 50+ highly tuned luxury cars down the boulevard and causing a traffic jam on Campus Drive. Media and press were on hand to cover and participate in the festivities at this very special event.

CEC displayed five complete Brabus vehicles within the showroom of the Brabus complex. Claus Ettensberger of CEC personally delivered a 2008 McLaren SLR 722 and put on a wonderful show towards the end of the event demonstrating the jaw dropping performance of this ultra rare vehicle. The beast sits on a beautiful set of staggered 20" Signature Edition Style C725 with stunning black faces and massive chrome lips. 305-25-20 Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires were called upon to hold down the Brabus-tuned 660hp to the pavement.

We have to admit, Claus's 722 definitely made it difficult for the other Brabus vehicles to be the main topic of discussion amongst those in attendance, but the Brabus ML Widestar was the SUV that will be remembered by everyone in attendance. The Brabus Widestar project is based on a 2008 Mercedes Benz ML63 AMG. Dressed up in over a dozen aero-styling pieces, this factory Mercedes is given a wider stance and a much more aggressive appearance. To complete the look, Brabus mounted and installed a spectacular set of Brabus Monoblock E in a stunning silver finish.

Besides the $2M inventory of vehicles displayed inside the showroom, Brabus and Group5 hosted a tour of the facility and explained the history of Brabus to attendees while showing off some of their current projects in progress. Festivites also included a catered lunch and a raffle with goodies donated by Meguiar's, PermaSealTire, and Brabus / CEC Wheels. Eight lucky winners were selected to receive items such as three Meguiar's Dual Action Polishers and two PermaSealTire flat tire prevention treatments.

From custom interior upholstery work, to external aerodynamic styling, to extensive performance packages -- Brabus offers something for enthusiasts of all levels.

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