Thanks to a
recorded speed run of 338.15 km/h, the 2019 Bonneville Jetta
officially broke the Southern California Timing Association’s (SCTA) Blown Gas
Coupe (G/BGC) class record, which previously stood at 335.49 km/h.
Built by THR Manufacturing, the Bonneville Jetta’s accomplishment showcases
what its EA888 engine can do when heavily modified. The car’s drag coefficient
of just 0.27 also played a huge role.
Still, it was
mostly the 2.0-liter TSI engine that put in the work, featuring new connecting
rods, pistons, valves, camshafts, turbocharger and exhaust. On the dyno, the
engine put down an output of 600 horsepower at 8,500 rpm.
In order to make it
all the way to its record-breaking speed, the Jetta’s suspension had to be
lowered, while special Salt Flat wheels and tires were fitted. Furthermore, a
limited-slip differential was added to aid traction and the interior was
stripped and outfitted with full track safety equipment – like a roll cage,
racing seat and harness, plus the mandatory fire suppression system.
