The German Nurburgring
is the place that many of the
best cars do their thing to see
how they stack up with the
best in the world. As it takes
over six minutes to complete
a lap that involves many curves
and some long straights, a car’s
engine, transmission, brakes, and
handling prowess are extensively
tested.
So, what does the new young
gun bring to the Nurburgring?
Well, with the key in the ignition and then the ignition button pressed, the 2.9-liter
V8 comes to life. Its engine was designed by Powertec Engineering. It was actually
created by superbike technology as it uses the head, barrels, and pistons of the Suzuki
Hayabusa’s engine.
It produces 460 hp at a high flying 10,500 rpms. Although this is not great ‘supercar’
horsepower, the car weights only about 1,500 lbs. Thus, the power to weight ratio
is 687 hp per ton.
The ride quality of the car is very reasonable considering its performance.
After all, this is a street legal production car that can be driven to the track.
As a matter of fact, this car has not been modified since its IVA approval test.
As a result of this approval, there will be less for the European critics to dispute
and discount.
On approaching the German Nurburgring, EVO Magazine says, “The best
part of the journey is saved for last. On the roads close to the Ring we finally
get a chance to attack the countryside, and here, on smooth German asphalt,
the SR8 really comes alive, its cornering speeds simply obscene. I have
never been on so fast on a B-road before and, to be honest, I’m not sure I want
to experience it again. It’s deeply impressive, yes, but also utterly terrifying,
and it strikes me that taking on the most difficult, dangerous and unforgiving
circuit, in the world in a car as fast as this requires not only nerve but also an
incredible level of confidence in both the car and your own ability.”
Upon getting to the track, the car is driven for a tune up run and the car’s Intrax
dampers are adjusted to improve the car’s balance. Many people are assembled
with video cameras in anticipation of the run.
After two laps at Nurburgring, it is confirmed that the car has in fact achieved
a record for a street legal production car. And the record is 6 minutes and 48
seconds.
And what car has broken the record? It is a British Radical SR8LM driven by
Michael Vergers!
Specification of the car as provided by EVO Magazine include:
Engine: V8 2.9-liter
Location: Mid, longitudinal
Cylinder block: Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder head: Aluminium alloy, DOHC per bank, 4-valves per cylinder
Maximum power: 460 hp at 10,500 rpm
Maximum torque: 260 lb.-ft. at 8,000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed sequential gearbox with paddle-shift, rear-wheel drive
Front and rear suspension: Double wishbone, coil springs, dampers, anti-roll bars
Tires: 225/45 R16 front, 255/40 R17 rear, Dunlop Direzza DZ03
Weight: 680kg
0-60: 3.2 seconds (est.)
Top speed: 168 mph
Price as tested: About $170,000
Kyle Busch is the author of “Drive the Best for the Price…” He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site:
www.DriveTheBestBook.com.
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