Gumpert Apollo production starts

Is 650bhp and 0-60mph in 3 secs enough?

By PH Staff / Monday, 14 November 2005 / Loading comments

The Audi-based German supercar, the Gumpert Apollo, is just starting production.

Twelve cars have reportedly already been ordered, and the company plans to produce some 50 to 60 cars next year. The Apollo uses Audi's 4.2-litre V8 as found in the previous generation S8, with two huge KKK turbochargers, generating 650bhp and 597lb-ft of torque at 5,000rpm. Performance is 0-60mph in just three seconds with a top speed of 232mph. These big numbers have yet to be independently verified but the diminutive car -- it's about the size of a Lamborghini Gallardo -- is said to weigh just under 1,000Kg. This gives it a power-to-weight ratio that's said to be better than most supercars, including the Enzo, Carrera GT and McLaren F1.

Transmission to the rear wheels is via a DSG, with power on the road delivered by 19-inch wheels shod with 255/35 Pirelli P-Zeros at the front and 345/35s at the rear.

It's got huge aerodynamic downforce, according to some reports -- about 1,000Kg at 224mph -- from venturis and diffusers. Bodywork can be made from GRP or carbon-fibre, depending on the owner's preference.

The car will costs some €198,000 (about £133,000) which is not bad for that level of performance.