Radical launches 'radical' new SR8
Featherweight track day car with 325 bhp
Known for its extreme track day cars, Radical has pushed the boundaries even further with the new SR8, powered by the all-new RPA 2.6 litre V8 motor manufactured in-house by Radical’s engine company Powertec Engineering. The new car ran on the dyno for the first time last week and turned in an impressive performance. The RPA – Radical Powertec Series A -- generated 325 bhp at 9,000 rpm, with 190 ft/lb of torque at 7,000 rpm. Powertec boss Ted Hurrell said he was very confident that his target of 350 bhp at 10,000 rpm will be easily surpassed.
The SR8, which weighs under 600Kg, is based on the hugely successful SR3 Turbo spaceframe chassis and suspension, but with an all new aerodynamic package.
A new integral front undertray venturi, crashbox and side vents give increased downforce at the front of the car, while a revised airbox layout at the rear gives improved air flow to the new, high downforce bi-plane rear wing.
A new six-speed sequential transaxle has been jointly developed by Powertec Engineering and Quaife. The transverse gearbox incorporates a reverse gear and the Quaife, torque-biased limited-slip differential.
Many of the car’s new features such as 280mm floating discs, 8.5-inch wide front and 10.5-inch wide rear BBS wheels fitted with specially developed Dunlop tyres, have been proven on the SR3 Turbo.
Radical is also announcing a six round, 12 race series for SR8 cars, to be called the Powertec Cup. Each round will comprise two 50-minute races for two driver teams. Four rounds will be held overseas, provisionally at Spa, Nürburgring, Dijon and Anderstorp, with two in the UK at Silverstone GP and the Radical Cadwell Park festival.
History
In 1997 the 1100cc Clubsport was launched, two years later the 1300cc Prosport, then the 1500cc SR3 and the SR3 Turbo, and finally this year the SR4.
Contact Radical here for more.
Download an MP3 of the engine starting here.
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