Dream Car | Porsche 918 RSR

Combining what it has learned from the GT3 R Hybrid racecar with the 918 Spyder concept, Porsche has unveiled the 918 RSR Coupe at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show.

The 918 RSR is a racecar designed to compete in the 24 Hours of LeMans that makes use of a KERS (kinetic energy recovery system) for additional motivation and/or efficiency. Like the 911 GT3 R Hybrid, it obtains its additional power from an electrical motor whose batteries are re-supplied through the braking system.

The car is based around a light and stiff carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque shell. The 918 RSR uses a V8 from the RS Spyder racer, tuned for 555 hp at 10,300rpm. There are two electric motors for the front wheels - they're independently powered to give torque vectoring to improve cornering - and max power is 757 hp when the driver pushes a button to activate the electric motors. It's a six-speed paddleshift transmission for the V8.

Porsche 918 RSR Specifications

Manufacturer: Porsche (Germany)
Model: 918 RSR
Production: Limited production series (only for racing purpose)
Price: USD 600,000 (estimated)
Engine: 3.4 litre V8 engine
Top speed: 200-plus mph (estimated)
Power output: 555 hp at 10,300 rpm, 757 hp combined
Torque: 273 lb-ft at 7,500 rpm (estimated)
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) 3.0 seconds (estimated)
Transmission: 6-speed SMG
Body style: 2-door roadster
Special features: The 918 can run on gas, electric power, or a combination, with the electric-only mode lasting for about 16 miles. Instead of a second seat, (sitting like a flux capacitor with exposed mechanicals) a flywheel accumulator right of the center console.

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