Not noted for its subtle approach to tuning, Brabus has gone the whole hog with its new 800 E V12 Cabriolet to create the world's most powerful and fastest four-seater convertible.

With a top speed of 231mph, 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds and 788bhp, the 800 E's figures dwarf anything that could be remotely considered a rival.

The engine is a considerable mass of figures too, using an enlarged version of Mercedes' 5.5-litre V12 Biturbo engine increased to 6.3-litres. Reworking the cylinder heads and adding new camshafts and exhausts releases the incredible power. Larger turbochargers and four intercoolers also do their bit to summon the total 788bhp.

Peak torque is actually 1,047lb.ft at 5,500rpm, but Brabus has had to electronically limit this to a mere 811lb.ft to preserve the mechanical life of the car.

A five-speed automatic gearbox does its best to cope with the power and torque, while a limited slip differential doles it out to the wheels. In full flow, the 800 E will see off 0-124mph in 9.9 seconds.

There's a unique bonnet with a new grille to force feed cool air into the engine, while a new front bumper includes larger air inlets and a front apron to reduce aerodynamic lift at higher speeds. Side air outlets help duct hot air away from the engine and brakes.

The brakes themselves are steel discs increased in size from the standard Mercedes' to 380mm front discs and 360mm items at the rear. Wheels are 19-inch alloy items from Brabus that sit 60mm further apart due to the car's wider track.

Brabus has redesigned the suspension to give the 800 E a wider footprint for greater handling and stability at high speeds. It also features ten adjustable settings for firmness, while the ride height can be varied by 35mm depending on the driver's preferences and how rough the road happens to be.

Inside, Brabus has come up with its own upholstery and the speedo dial now features a 250mph clock.

The final massive number to come with the Brabus 800 E V12 Cabriolet is its price. It will set you back from €478,000 (£423,000).