Radical
SR8 RSX
Radical
Sports Cars make nothing but track cars. Some of them might be road legal, but
all of them are at their best when used on a circuit. The latest car to joing
Radical’s pretty extensive lineup is the Radical SR8 RSX, a high-spec model
based on the company’s flagship vehicle, the SR8 SX.
The
new top-dog SR8 RSX was recently unveiled at the Circuit de Barcelona in Spain.
The car looks more like an LMP class racer than something you can just buy
off-the-shelf as it were. It’s a high-tech machine powered by a 3.0 litre V8
which will rev through to a screaming 10,500 rpm. In doing so it develops 440
horsepower and 280 ft-lbs of torque. The downside is that it needs to be
rebuilt after 40 hours of racing. Although Radical say that should be enough to
get you through a season. The transmission is a Quaife seven-speed transverse
unit with paddle shift and autoblip.
The
chassis of the Radical SR8 RSX is FIA-compliant and features inboard pushrod
suspension. The powerful braking system consists of six-piston calipers and
ventilated discs. The wheels can be specified in either 17 or 18-inch sizes.
The SR8 RSX is also the first open-cockpit Radical to feature electrically
power-assisted steering.
The
car’s styling was inspired by previous and current Radical models, including
the RXC closed-cockpit model and the SR9 LMP2. The composite bodywork is
modular in order to reduce maintenance times and repair costs.
The
cockpit of the Radical SR8 RSX features an AIM MXG data logger with a
high-contrast 7-inch TFT display, digital tachometer, LED shift lights and WiFi
connectivity for easier data downloads. The HANS-compatible weather-proof seats
are FIA-compliant and feature six-point safety harnesses.
The
first deliveries of the Radical SR8 RSX are expected in the first quarter of
2015. The price starts at £ 109,950 + taxes (US$ 175,000). The wide range of
performance and racing options which Radical say will be available for the car
from launch will only increase the already hefty price tag.
