RML P39: A Revolutionary Take on the Porsche 911 Turbo S
The automotive world is abuzz with the introduction of the RML P39, a remarkable reinterpretation of the Porsche 911 Turbo S. This British supercar not only pays homage to the legendary GT1 race cars of the 1990s but also aims to redefine performance benchmarks on the track. With a staggering 900bhp and a host of innovative features, the P39 is poised to make waves in both the racing and luxury car markets.
What Makes the RML P39 Stand Out?
The RML P39 is not just another high-performance vehicle; it represents a significant leap in automotive engineering. The modifications made to the original 911 Turbo S are extensive, resulting in a car that is both faster and more agile. The most notable change is the complete overhaul of the body, which is now constructed from lightweight carbon fiber. This not only reduces weight but also enhances aerodynamics, allowing for improved speed and handling.
The P39 features an extended wheelbase of 25mm and an overall length increase of 170mm. These changes contribute to greater stability at high speeds, a crucial factor for any track-focused vehicle. Additionally, the front and rear tracks have been widened by 100mm, which further enhances handling capabilities. The car is equipped with 20mm wider tires, ensuring that the increased power can be effectively transferred to the road.
How Does the Aerodynamics of the P39 Enhance Performance?
Aerodynamics plays a pivotal role in the performance of any supercar, and the RML P39 excels in this area. The vehicle boasts bespoke active aerodynamics systems, including a front splitter that can extend by up to 75mm. This feature alone increases downforce by 13% at high speeds. The rear spoiler is equally impressive, capable of generating up to 60% more downforce when positioned at its most aggressive angle.
The combined effect of these aerodynamic enhancements results in a staggering total downforce of 923kg at 177mph, a significant increase from the 204kg produced by the standard 911 Turbo S. This downforce not only improves cornering stability but also enhances braking performance, allowing the P39 to navigate tight turns with ease.
What Are the Performance Specifications of the RML P39?
Under the hood, the P39 features a heavily modified version of the 911 Turbo S’s twin-turbocharged 3.7-liter flat-six engine. With new turbochargers and extensive revisions to the intercoolers, manifolds, and engine management system, the P39 produces an impressive 900bhp and 738lb-ft of torque. This represents a substantial increase of 259bhp and 148lb-ft over the standard model, propelling the P39 to extraordinary speeds.
RML’s simulations suggest that the P39 is capable of completing a lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife in just 6 minutes and 45 seconds, outpacing the official time set by the Porsche 911 GT3 RS by 4.3 seconds. This remarkable performance is a testament to RML’s engineering prowess and commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive performance.
Is the RML P39 Suitable for Everyday Driving?
Despite its track-focused design, RML has ensured that the P39 remains practical for everyday use. The car features a special Tour drive mode that raises the ride height and softens the dampers, making it more manageable on public roads. This thoughtful design decision allows drivers to enjoy the thrill of a supercar without sacrificing comfort or usability.
RML’s chief, Michael Mallock, emphasizes that the P39 is designed to be phenomenally quick on the track while still feeling like a refined road car. This balance between performance and drivability sets the P39 apart from many other high-performance vehicles that often compromise comfort for speed.
What Is the Availability and Pricing of the RML P39?
RML plans to produce only 10 examples of the P39 40th Special Edition, celebrating the company’s four decades in the automotive industry. Each vehicle will be priced at £495,000, excluding VAT and the donor car. The first unit is expected to be completed by March, with plans for it to set a lap time at the Nürburgring later in the summer.
Each P39 will feature a distinctive ruby-red finish and bespoke forged alloy wheels, ensuring that these limited-edition models stand out on both the track and the road. Following the initial run, RML will offer slightly less extreme versions of the P39, maintaining the same chassis and aerodynamic enhancements.
In summary, the RML P39 is not just a supercar; it is a bold statement in automotive innovation. With its combination of cutting-edge technology, impressive performance, and everyday usability, the P39 is set to redefine what enthusiasts can expect from a high-performance vehicle. Whether on the track or the open road, the RML P39 promises an exhilarating driving experience that few can match.