Europeans have fallen head over heels for the two-seater exotic sports coupe, the new Lexus LF-A, as the commuter is in high demand on the old continent. The V10-engine powered beast capable of churning 522 hp and going 0 to 62mph in 3.7 seconds, is a limited edition model with only 500 units being produced and production beginning later this year. With orders being received from over 56 countries, each unit will come with an estimated base price of $350,000 to $375,000; a price that Europeans are seemingly not bothered with. So we wonder, what financial crisis?
Lexus is all set to enter their LF-A two-seat sports car prototype, for this year’s Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race on 23-24 May (in the Division 2 SP8 class). Packed with a 4.8 liter V10 engine paired to a sequential manual gearbox made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (the body that is) this little monster puts out nothing less than 500 hp. But the good news that puts a smile on our faces is that this LF-A prototype is actually “REALLY” close to the one that will go in production in the near future. We can only imagine spinning a Lexus LF-A on public roads. Ohh, the adrenaline rush …
Press release
Lexus will enter two LF-A sportscar prototypes in the Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race on 23-24 May, 2009. The entry of the two-seater sportscar, which is powered by a 5,0-litre V10 producing more than 370kW, forms part of an on-going Research and Development process.
As in 2008, Lexus engineers will use the gruelling race at the infamous German track to gather technical data that will be applied to future mass-production of vehicles. The company will also use the event as an opportunity to develop human resources by giving young mechanics the chance to work as support staff.
The cars are prototypes of the LF-A, which is currently being developed with an eye on commercialisation. Modifications for the race include safety equipment (roll cage, fuel tank, safety harnesses and seat among others), as well as a spoiler and other aerodynamic features. The development team has improved the LF-A’s performance with fine-tuning based on experience gained in last year’s race, while specifications for the engine, powertrain, and body structure remain largely unchanged.
Lexus has a strong track record in endurance racing in the US and Japan. Past successes include powering the winners of the legendary Daytona 24 Hours in 2006, 2007 and 2008 and winning the GrandAm championship (Grand American Rolex Series) with a record number of wins; and claiming the Super GT title in 2006 with the Lexus SC 430.
Lexus LF-A is a much awaited goody on wheels that the auto enthusiasts have been waiting for. And rumors have it that it could make its grand debut at the Tokyo Auto Show slated for this November. Powered by a 600hp Lexus V10 engine and an acceleration that will help you race from 0-100km/h in under 5 seconds, the LF-A should surely steal the show in an event from which top makers like Mercedes-Benz, General Motors, BMW, Nissan, Lamborghini and Volkswagen have pulled out due to the prevalent economic showdown. Luxury redefined? [via WCF]
