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Nurburgring is an amazing place to spy on, because there’s always something that gets the eye. Same goes for the new Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster, which is a topless version of the new V12 Vantage that has easily become one of the most charming cars these days. Running on the same 6.0 liter engine as the coupe and sporting 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS) with 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque, the convertible is going to be a BIT slower than its bigger brother because of the extra weight required to stiffen up the chassis. Only limited to 1,000 units (and some saying 500 units) the new Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster is a gem we’d like to own if we’d have the money. [via WCF]
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.
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