Is This VÄTH Tuned Merc An Alternative To AMG Models?

AMG models are kind of overdone these days; so how about a modified E500?

As a rule of thumb, most of the AMG-badged Benzes are attention grabbing, performance-hungry, excessive automobiles and sometimes a low-profile, classy Merc seems way cooler. Now, I’m not saying this VÄTH V50RS E500 Cabrio is “classy”, but it’s a turn in the right direction.

As a matter of fact, few will like its tamed looks even if it comes bearing a set of 20 inch rims and carbon-fiber bits and pieces, including a subtle front splitter, a rear diffuser and a bootlid lip spoiler. But that’s the beauty of it, because its incognito appeal makes it the perfect sleeper, as it hides a 4.7-litre twin-turbo V8 which boasts 541 horses and 830 Nm (612 lb-ft) of torque.

Extensive modifications costing about $11,911 consisting of a bespoke in-house created “charge-air” cooling system and ECU tuning, make the car almost as powerful as a W212 E63S AMG model. Moreover, with a de-limited top-speed, the car is now capable of reaching 300 Km/h (186 mph).

Mind you, the list of mods doesn’t stop here, as VÄTH is willing to “help” you boost the pack’s value a little more – in exchange for lots of money – if you want a stainless-steel exhaust system with flap control and two oval tailpipes ($5,205), the above-mentioned carbon rear diffuser with fins and larger underbody ($2261), lower suspension front and back ($696) and “super-class” braking system with 6-piston brake calipers with high efficiency coating with 390mm rotors ($6021).

On second thought, I think I’ll stick to AMG’s line-up…