Three years ago, Mexican automotive startup VUHL revealed a quick, minimalistic roadster called the 05. At this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed, VUHL takes its car to the next level. The 05RR loses weight, gains 100 bhp, and becomes even quicker, faster and more exciting all around.
Anytime you hear about a car losing weight while simultaneously gaining power, you know good things are to come in the "performance" section of the spec sheet. VUHL has shaved off the pounds, dropping the 05RR down to 1,411 lb (640 kg) dry (from the 05's 1,532 lb/695 kg). Elements like the hybrid aluminum-carbon monocoque, carbon fiber bodywork and carbon fiber wheels contribute to that slim figure.
In terms of power, the 05RR relies on a larger 2.3-liter EcoBoost to develop up to 385 bhp and 369 lb-ft, a full 100 bhp and 59 lb-ft more than the 05. That leaves the 05RR with a highly impressive power-weight ratio just over 600 bhp-per-tonne.
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, a high-speed steering rack, and a revised aero package with full-width rear wing and F1-style diffuser strakes help that power find effective use on the track. The car is capable of hitting 62 mph (100 km/h) from standstill a full second quicker than its less-powerful older brother, achieving the mark in 2.7 seconds. Acceleration tops off at 160 mph (257 km/h).
The Festival of Speed is now underway and runs through Sunday. The 05 went on sale in the UK recently for a base price of £59,995 (about US$89,809). It's available through Bespoke Performance, which is supporting VUHL at Goodwood. VUHL hasn't yet come clean on how much the 05RR treatment will add to that price.
Source: VUHL
