Saturday, December 20, 2008

Radical Sports Cars updates range


Low-volume British carmaker Radical is known for its potent track machines, such as the SR8 roadster, which can lap the Nurburgring in under seven minutes. Despite the current global economic crisis, business has been booming because of the high-performance but low-budget nature of their cars, and now the British company is updating its model range following record sales and a long order list.

The Radical SR8 gets a number of safety and handling updates, including a stiffer chassis and an upgraded steering system. While the standard SR8 uses a 380hp engine, a new 455hp 2.8L Powertec RPB engine will also be available. The complete powerplant weighs just 88kg, and includes a four-pump dry sump system with two oil pressure pumps and integral rotary vane water pump.

Meanwhile, Radical's volume car, the SR3 Supersport, also receives an improved chassis that has been designed to meet FIA standards for sports cars. There has also been a complete aerodynamic re-style for the SR3 Supersport, as well as major safety upgrades and new specification Powertec engines. Based on Radical’s SR9 Le Mans Prototype, the SR3’s new high nose increases downforce, reduces drag and improves cooling for hot climates. The standard SR3 uses a 205hp engine, but a new optional 260hp Powertec Suzuki motor is now available with an improved paddle shift option and low-friction dampers.

The SR5 Endurosport, meanwhile, gets an upgraded Powertec-prepared Honda VTEC engine that is available in three states of tune, from 245bhp up to 295bhp, as well as chassis upgrades, while the SR4 gets a new 150hp option.

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