The Chevron GR8 (Gran Rapida) is a lightweight racing car that debuted in 2010. It was the first GT Chevron race car that was built since the 60s and 70s race cars created by Derek Bennett. The new Chevron GR8 was given the original design, but with a modern twist, as well as new equipment.
The car is powered by a 2.0 liter four cylinder engine that delivers a total of 260 HP and sprints the car to a top speed of 150 mph. The engine is coupled to a Hewland JFR 5 speed sequential transmission and is built to run for 30 hours without needing attention.
German racer and TV presenter, Tim Schrick recently tested the race car and said: "I’ve fallen in love with this car. It’s so beautiful to drive. It’s such a nice car, and right up my street, as a racer. The grip levels are amazing. And the little car is so stable, with a stiff, direct and totally connected steering feeling. It feels very nimble, and it’s so loud and exciting inside, with a very, very nice sound from the Cosworth two-liter engine. You have 260bhp on tap and even here with these great cars on track, you can play with anyone, and not get beaten."
Hit the jump to read more about the Chevron GR8.
Exterior and Interior
The GR8 is designed as a modern interpretation of the classic Chevron B8 competition GT. It is being built in high grade, high strength steel and aluminum, and has a spaceframe, semi monocoque structure.
The interior of the race car doesn’t get too much attention, but does benefit from a Pi Omega LCD electronic dashboard and Cosworth electronics.
Performance
A Cosworth 2.0 liter inline four-cylinder engine benefiting from a Pectel PiRQ4 ECU. This, together with a Hewland JFR 5 speed sequential gearbox, can produce an output of 260 HP and can sprint the car to a top speed of 150 mph. The reworked engine is built to run for 30 hours without any attention.
For a race car, 260 HP isn’t much to work with, but control is still needed to keep the driver safe. For this, Chevron has installed AP Racing brakes, Proflex shock absorbers, a Chevron Racing Cars suspension, and race ready tires with S L Corse Speedline wheels.
Chevron is also preparing a B19 Works car – a brand new, 2011 car, re-built to the same exacting standards and design that Chevron-founder, Derek Bennett had for the original in 1971. This model is powered by a Cosworth FVC 1790cc engine and comes with a Hewland FT200 gearbox and will be finished in a bright orange and black race livery.
Prices
The Chevron GR8 is available in Challenge Car or GT specifications, priced at £55,000 ($88,000) and £70,000 ($112,000) respectively. And, for retro racers, the Chevron B19 Works Car is available from £80,000 ($128,000), plus engine and gearbox costs.
Competition
The Chevron GR8 will be used in many GT series without much modification such as British GT, GT Cup, Britcar, Belcar plus local and European sports car series. In these races, the Chevron GR8 will have to take on models from Ferrari and Porsche.
Looks great
Cheaper than competition
Power output is less than impressive
Posted on
03.9.2012 @ 05:37