118-709: The Lexus LFA ( Japanese: レクサス・LFA , Rekusasu LFA ) is a two-door sports car produced between 2010 and 2012 by the Japanese carmaker Toyota under its luxury marque , Lexus . Lexus built 500 units over its production span of two years. The development of the LFA, codenamed TXS, began in early 2000. The first prototype was completed in June 2003, with regular testing at the Nürburgring starting in October 2004. Over
236-526: A Gurney flap and deploys at speeds over 80 km/h (50 mph). The LFA develops 237 kg (522 lb) of downforce at maximum speed. With the wing retracted the LFA's body has a drag coefficient of C d =0.31. The LFA body was offered with a choice of 28 standard exterior colours, along with 3 wheel colours and a matte black option. Additional special colours are available to order. The front and rear fenders, doors, roof rails, and rocker panels are made out of blast fiber reinforced sheet panels, while
354-434: A Triumph Spitfire and Ferrari 488 Pista can be considered sports cars, despite vastly different levels of performance. Broader definitions of sports cars include cars "in which performance takes precedence over carrying capacity", or that emphasise the "thrill of driving" or are marketed "using the excitement of speed and the glamour of the (race)track" However, other people have more specific definitions, such as "must be
472-462: A dual-clutch transmission , but decided that the shift feel was too smooth. Instead, they opted for an automated sequential gearbox , a system previously developed for the Toyota MR2 by Norwegian technology company Kongsberg Devotek (now Semcon ). While much of the software and control system was kept, Devotek adapted the mechanics and hydraulics to match the increased performance demands of
590-515: A 0–97 km/h (0–60 mph) in 3.9 seconds without launch control system and achieved the 1/4-mile 11.6 seconds at 200 km/h (124 mph). Lexus LFA circled the skidpad in 1.02 g and achieved one of the highest slalom speeds ever recorded at 121.0 km/h (75.2 mph). Insideline also managed to do 3 dyno runs on a dynojet dyno on the Lexus LFA, which resulted in LFA generating a power output of 383 kW (521 PS; 514 hp) to
708-771: A 14.3:1 gear ratio is used. The front suspension utilises a double-wishbone arrangement and there is a multi-link arrangement at the rear with coil-over dampers at all wheels. The dampers are a monotube design, each with a remote fluid reservoir that includes an expanding and contracting bellows : a purely mechanical system. The LFA further features six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembo monobloc brake calipers with 390 mm (15.4 in) front and 360 mm (14.2 in) rear carbon ceramic discs controlled by Toyota's Electronically Controlled Brake-by-wire system. Forged 20-inch BBS wheels fitted with 265 mm (10.4 in) front and 305 mm (12.0 in) rear Bridgestone next-generation Potenza tyres are standard. The LFA
826-635: A 2011 test of the Lexus LFA Nürburgring package driven by Iida Akira that achieved a record time for production vehicles of 7 minutes 14 seconds. The LFA appeared on Top Gear in January 2010, where its power lap of 1.22.8 was the quickest wet test lap ever recorded on the Top Gear test track located at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey , United Kingdom. Sports car A sports car
944-577: A V10, but as a turbo-diesel . A variant of the Volkswagen Phaeton was the first production sedan to contain a V10 of any kind. Examples of petrol V10 production engines include: One of the first known V10 engines designed for motor racing was a 3.5 L (214 cu in) prototype Formula One engine built by Alfa Romeo in 1986. Originally intended for the Ligier Formula One team, this partnership collapsed without
1062-488: A V8 would produce insufficient power and a V12 would be too complicated or bulky. V10s have been used in select luxury cars, sports cars and commercial vehicles. An early V10 petrol engine was used in the 1987 Lamborghini P140 , however this prototype sports car did not reach production. Dodge developed an early V10, originally designing a version of its LA series small block for use in trucks. The Dodge engine saw its first production use in substantially revised form in
1180-500: A base price of $ 375,000 (£340,000). Each car had to be custom ordered to the customer's specifications. Following the LFA's Introduction at the Tokyo Motor Show , Lexus unveiled a website with an 'LFA configurator', which allowed users to select exterior and interior colours, brake caliper colours, seats, steering wheel leather, and other interior designs. In total, there were over 30 billion possible combinations. Each LFA
1298-483: A competition-focused variant and was available in four exterior colours, namely glossy black, matte black, race yellow, and whitest white. The production totals are to be included in the 500-unit total LFA planned build cycle, and although Lexus stated it would be limited to a 50-unit run, a total of 64 were produced. Buyers received training sessions at the Nordschleife , accompanied by Nürburgring chief instructors,
SECTION 10
#17327985942641416-399: A controversial choice for a "purist" sports car. The Elan sold poorly and was discontinued after three years. The 1996 Lotus Elise , a mid-engined, rear-wheel drive roadster, was much more successful and remained in production until 2021. Roadsters enjoyed a resurgence in the mid-1990s, including the 1989-present Mazda MX-5 , the 1995-2002 BMW Z3 (succeeded by the 2002-2016 BMW Z4 ),
1534-493: A dual-stage variable intake manifold and then into ten individual throttle bodies before finally exiting from a dual-stage titanium muffler. The LFA's engineers selected a V10 engine over an equivalent displacement V8 engine for its ability to rev higher, and over a V12 for its lower reciprocating mass, allowing for more rapid engine response. Lexus claimed their engine could rev from idle to its redline in 0.6 seconds and an analog tachometer needle could not accurately track
1652-423: A fixed roof (which were previously considered grand tourers ). Attributing the definition of 'sports car' to any particular model can be controversial or the subject of debate among enthusiasts. Authors and experts have often contributed their ideas to capture a definition. Insurance companies have also attempted to use mathematical formulae to categorise sports cars, often charging more for insurance due to
1770-535: A front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout, and represented the combination of Japanese technology and design ethics in a sports car. However, no design features on the LF-A were directly derived from the 2000GT. The second LF-A concept and accompanying LF-A Roadster were also equipped with a retractable rear wing for improved handling at speed and a two-seat interior with a two-tone colour scheme. On 5 August 2009, Toyota's new CEO, Akio Toyoda , publicly confirmed production of
1888-573: A further change to the rules, V10s were banned for the 2006 season onwards in favor of 2.4 L V8s. In sports car racing, the first V10 engine was used by the Peugeot 905 in the two final races of the 1990 season . This was followed by the Judd GV10 engine being used by several teams during the 1991 season and the Toyota TS010 that debuted in the last race of the season. The Audi R15 TDI
2006-501: A hot lap around the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours resulting in a lap time of 1:20.6, which was the fastest ever recorded lap time on the race track despite the test having been conducted in 0 degree freezing temperatures. It was one of the very rare track tests where an actual LFA launch control system was used resulting in a very fast 0–260 km/h (162 mph) acceleration time of only 21.2 seconds. Auto Zeitung Germany in
2124-496: A one-night stay at the Lindner Congress and Motorsport Hotel Nürburgring, admission to the ring°werk leisure park, a Nürburgring branded jacket, and a one-year pass to the circuit. The Nürburgring Package LFA was tested at the Nürburgring in June 2011. Driven by Akira Iida , the LFA set a time of 7:22.85 (video confirmed), the 7th-fastest time ever for a road-legal production vehicle. Lexus confirmed that this lap video
2242-399: A pressed-steel chassis, a gated 4-speed transmission, pushrod-actuated overhead inlet valves , a honeycomb radiator, low-tension magneto ignition , a long wheelbase, a low center of mass and a very effective suspension system. The overall result was a "safe and well-balanced machine" with a higher performance than any other contemporary production car. At the 1903 Gordon Bennett Cup ,
2360-427: A production Simplex 60 hp was entered only due to a specially-built 90 hp racing car being destroyed in a fire; the 60 hp famously went on to win the race. The 1910 Austro-Daimler 27/80 is another early sports car which had success in motor racing. The 27/80 was designed by Ferdinand Porsche , who drove the car to victory in the 1910 Prince Henry Tour motor race. The Vauxhall and Austro-Daimler —like
2478-401: A quarter-mile of 11.7 seconds at 201 km/h (125 mph). Motor Trend recorded a stopping distance from 97–0 km/h (60–0 mph) in less than 28.7 m (94 ft), and pulled 1.05 g on their skidpad. Road and Track tested the LFA at 119 km/h (74.2 mph) through the slalom and 1.04 g on the skidpad. Motorsports France conducted a track test on the Lexus LFA and ran
SECTION 20
#17327985942642596-470: A re-calibrated transmission with gear shifts made faster by 0.05 seconds, a front splitter , stiffer and more adjustable suspension, lightweight magnesium wheels by BBS wrapped in high performance street tyres, aerodynamic canards at the sides of the front bumper, and a large fixed rear wing, which increases downforce by 33% over the standard car. The LFA with the Nürburgring Package is
2714-458: A restyled LF-A concept car premiered alongside the first production F marque vehicle, the IS F sports sedan. The second LF-A concept featured a more aerodynamic exterior, a near-production interior, and F marque emblems. Later that year, Lexus Great Britain director Steve Settle indicated plans for a V10 and hybrid version of the LF-A. The hybrid version, combining a petrol engine with electric motors,
2832-620: A two-seater or a 2+2 seater" or a car with two seats only. In the United Kingdom, early recorded usage of the "sports car" was in The Times newspaper in 1919. The first known use of the term in the United States was in 1928. Sports cars started to become popular during the 1920s. The term initially described two-seat roadsters (cars without a fixed roof), however, since the 1970s the term has also been used for cars with
2950-511: A width of 1,859 mm (73.2 in). Some news outlets reported the concept name as referring to Lexus Future-Advance, a claim later dismissed by Chief Engineer Tanahashi. The first LF-A concept featured a glass roof and side cameras mounted in the side mirrors. Twin rear radiators were installed behind the rear wheels, and visible behind large screens. The rear bumper featured a triple exhaust placed in an inverted triangle formation. The wheels were shaped like turbines, and air-scoops were placed on
3068-494: Is a type of car that is designed with an emphasis on dynamic performance, such as handling , acceleration, top speed, the thrill of driving, and racing capability. Sports cars originated in Europe in the early 1910s and are currently produced by many manufacturers around the world. Definitions of sports cars often relate to how the car design is optimised for dynamic performance, without any specific minimum requirements; both
3186-452: Is an iconic sports car of the early 1960s, due to its attractive styling and claimed top speed of 241 km/h (150 mph). The E-type was produced for 14 years and was initially powered by a six-cylinder engine, followed by a V12 engine for the final generation. In 1962, the MG B introduced a new era of affordable lightweight four-cylinder roadsters. The MG B used a unibody construction and
3304-410: Is composed of sixty-five per cent carbon fibre-reinforced polymer , and incorporates various lightweight materials such as aluminium , titanium and magnesium . Lexus ended production of the LFA on 17 December 2012, two years and two days after it commenced. The LFA has received awards including Road & Track ' s "Best of the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show" and Top Gear 's "5 Greatest Supercars of
3422-401: Is equipped with a three-mode Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) stability control system with Sport setting. To maintain a near-ideal weight distribution, a rear transaxle is used, in addition to the mounting of the fuel tank ahead of the rear axle and the radiators at the rear. The windshield washer fluid reservoir is mounted in the center next to the fuel tank to improve further
3540-416: Is installed with a front mid-engine placement. According to Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi a front engine layout was selected instead of a mid engine layout as it is inherently more forgiving dynamically, affording less experienced drivers a wider safety net. The gearbox built by Aisin is a six-speed single-clutch automated manual transmission actuated with paddle-shifters. Lexus initially sought to use
3658-406: Is notable for using a three-seat layout, where the front row consists of a centrally-located driver's seat. The location of the engine and driven wheels significantly influence the handling characteristics of a car and are therefore crucial in the design of a sports car. Traditionally, most sports cars have used rear-wheel drive with the engine either located at the front ( FR layout ) or in
Lexus LFA - Misplaced Pages Continue
3776-479: The 1LR-GUE designation with a maximum output of 412 kW (560 PS; 553 hp) delivered at 8,700 rpm. Its maximum torque output of 480 N⋅m (354 lb⋅ft) arrives at 6,800 rpm, 90 percent of which is available from 3,700 rpm. The engine redlines at 9,000 rpm, but with a fuel cutoff set at 9,500 rpm, and is constructed using forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods , and solid titanium valves. The V-angle of
3894-520: The Audi RS 2 Avant . Ford Europe withdrew from the sports car market at the end of 1986 when the Capri was discontinued after a production run of nearly two decades. There was no direct successor, as Ford was concentrating on higher-performance versions of its hatchback and saloon models at the time. In 1989, a new generation of Lotus Elan roadster was released which used a front-wheel drive layout,
4012-541: The BMW 303 , Citroën Traction Avant and Fiat 508 — offered similar handling and comfort to the more expensive sports cars. Powerful, reliable, and economical (although softly suspended) American saloons began to be imported to Europe in significant numbers. Sports car ownership was increased through models such as the Austin 7 and Wolseley Hornet six , however many of these sports cars did not offer any performance upgrades over
4130-623: The Bentley Speed Six (1928-1930), with the former famously described by Bugatti's founder as "the fastest lorry in the world". Between the Great Depression and the World War II the pre-war era was a period of decline in importance for sports car manufacturers, although the period was not devoid of advances, for example streamlining . Cheap, light-weight family sedans with independent front suspension— such as
4248-586: The Dodge Viper while the truck version of the engine was used starting in 1994 in the Dodge Ram . It discontinued in that application after 2003. However, 2003 also saw the introduction of the Dodge Ram SRT-10 , a performance model meant to rival Ford's successful V8 powered F-150 SVT Lightning . The Viper engine (a 90-degree engine with odd firing order to obviate the need for a balance shaft)
4366-520: The Jensen FF became the first sports car to use all-wheel drive . The Ford Capri is a 2+2 coupe that was produced from 1968 to 1986 and intended to be a smaller European equivalent of the Ford Mustang. A main rival to the Capri was Opel Manta , which was produced from 1970 to 1988. The 1973-1978 Lancia Stratos was a mid-engined two-seat coupe that was powered by a Ferrari V6 engine. This
4484-496: The North American International Auto Show . Initial specifications for the roadster were a V10 engine having a displacement of 5.0 L and rated at over 373 kW (500 hp). The car's top speed was reported to be over 322 km/h (200 mph). Automotive photographers capturing the LF-A in various test guises had photographed a disguised convertible test model, dubbed LF-A Spyder, on
4602-634: The Nürburgring as early as October 2005. After its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, the LF-A Roadster was also shown at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance , the 2008 Geneva Motor Show , the United States Open Championship tournament, and at Lexus exhibits in Japan. A single LF-A racing prototype was also entered into Veranstaltergemeinschaft Langstreckenpokal Nürburgring endurance races at
4720-638: The United States . The 1965–1984 Leopard 1 armored tank was powered by the MTU MB 838 CaM 500 37.4 L (2,282 cu in) V10 diesel engine. Daimler-Benz produced three V10 diesel engine models (OM403, OM423 and OM443) for Mercedes-Benz NG and Neoplan buses in 1970s–1980s. Four Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturers ( Isuzu , Hino , Mitsubishi Fuso and Nissan Diesel ) produced V10 diesel engines for their heavy duty trucks and coaches in 1970s–2000s. The 1983–2023 Tatra 815 truck
4838-491: The "roar of an angel", and a US television spot later used the engine sound to shatter a champagne glass via resonance frequency. The powerplant gives the LFA a weight-to-power ratio of 2.67 kg/hp and enables it to reach a top speed of around 325 km/h (202 mph). Unlike the IS F 's 2UR-GSE engine, Yamaha co-developed the entire engine, and not just the cylinder heads. The engine exceeds Euro V emissions . The engine
Lexus LFA - Misplaced Pages Continue
4956-403: The 1905 Isotta Fraschini Tipo D, the 1906 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost , the 1908 Delage , the 1910 Bugatti Type 13 , and the 1912 DFP 12/15 . Early motor racing events included the 1903 Paris–Madrid race , the 1905-1907 Herkomer Trophy, the 1908-1911 Prince Henry Tour and the 1911–present Monte Carlo Rally . The Prince Henry Tours (which were similar to modern car rallies) were among
5074-495: The 1921 Coppa Florio . Another approach— such as that used by Morris Garages— was to convert touring cars into sports cars. The first 24 Hours of Le Mans race for sports cars was held in 1923, although the two-seat sports cars only competed in the smallest class, with the majority of cars entered being four-seat fast touring cars. "This race, together with the Tourist Trophy Series of Races , organised after
5192-404: The 1948 Ferrari 166 S . A new concept altogether was the modern Gran Turismo class from Italy, which was in effect unknown before the war: sustained high-speed motoring from relatively modest engine size and compact closed or berlinetta coachwork. The 1947 Maserati A6 1500 two-seat berlinetta was the first production model from Maserati. In Germany, the motor industry was devastated by
5310-499: The 1980 Deutsche Rennsport Meisterschaft and Giro d'Italia automobilistico marathon. The Montecarlo was a basis for the silhouette racing car , Lancia Rally 037 . In the 1970s, turbocharging began to be adopted by sports cars, such as the BMW 2002 Turbo in 1973, the first Porsche 911 Turbo in 1975, and the Saab 99 Turbo in 1978. Turbocharging became increasingly popular in the 1980s, from relatively affordable coupes such as
5428-452: The 1980–1986 Renault Fuego and 1992–1996 Rover 220 Coupé Turbo , to expensive supercars such as the 1984-1987 Ferrari 288 GTO and 1987-1992 Ferrari F40 . In the late 1980s and early 1990s, several manufacturers developed supercars that competed for production car top speed records . These cars included the 1986–1993 Porsche 959 , 1991–1995 Bugatti EB 110 , 1992–1994 Jaguar XJ220 and 1993–998 McLaren F1 . The 1980-1995 Audi Quattro
5546-506: The 1990s, all-wheel drive has become more common in sports cars. All-wheel drive offers better acceleration and favorable handling characteristics (especially in slippery conditions), but is often heavier and more mechanically complex than traditional layouts. Examples of all-wheel drive sports cars are the Lamborghini Huracan , Bugatti Veyron , and Nissan GT-R . Rear engine layouts are not typical for sports cars, with
5664-452: The 1995-2002 MG F , the 1996–present Porsche Boxster and the 1998–present Audi TT . V10 engine A V10 engine is a ten- cylinder piston engine where two banks of five cylinders are arranged in a V configuration around a common crankshaft . V10 engines are much less common than V8 and V12 engines . Several V10 diesel engines have been produced since 1965, and V10 petrol engines for road cars were first produced in 1991 with
5782-558: The August 2010 edition conducted a comparison with the Lexus LFA. Around Contidrom race track in Hannover , Germany, the LFA turned a faster lap time by 1.8 seconds of 1:35.66 minutes. Although, the start sector car hit 204–208 km/h (127–129 mph), the LFA continuously hit higher speeds in the high speed sector, dynamic sector where agility and spontaneous reactions are measured eventually turning in faster lap. AutoZeitung raved about
5900-480: The C-pillars. Following enthusiastic public reaction for the LF-A concept on the auto show circuit, development continued with a greater emphasis on a possible production model. Concurrently, Lexus was preparing for the launch of its long-rumored F marque series of performance vehicles, with a production LF-A being a possible future member of this lineup. Reports in 2006 suggested that the LF-A concept car had received
6018-469: The Japanese market showed the pre-production LFA testing at the Fuji Speedway . On 21 October 2009, the production version of the Lexus LFA was unveiled on the first press day of the 41st biennial Tokyo Motor Show . The car was introduced by Akio Toyoda at a press conference, in which it was disclosed that the vehicle would be limited to 500 production copies. The car carried the same designation as
SECTION 50
#17327985942646136-408: The LF-A concepts and the final production model was the work of car stylists led by Lexus Design general manager Kengo Matsumoto. The overall design ethos was based on the principle of form follows function , with aesthetics secondary to aerodynamics and operation. The LFA's body features sharp edges and cutoffs for improved aerodynamic performance, made possible by the carbon fiber body. The body
6254-483: The LF-A in his speech at a conference held at the Center for Automotive Research in the United States. The production vehicles were expected to carry V10 engines. Two LF-A prototypes had also competed at Nürburgring VLN endurance races in mid-2009. In September 2009, reports in Japanese automotive magazines indicated that the 4.8 L V10 engine for the LF-A would carry a 1LR designation. A subsequent television ad for
6372-575: The LFA extended from December 2010 to December 2012. Production ended on 14 December 2012, with the last car finished in white exterior colour and equipped with the Nürburgring package. When production ended, no successor was scheduled. The LFA plant in Motomachi continued making parts with a small team. The Lexus LFA is powered by a 72-degree bank angle 4,805 cc (4.8 L; 293.2 cu in) V10 engine equipped with Dual VVT-i carrying
6490-540: The LFA was intended to serve as a testbed for new car technologies, including carbon-fibre mass-production, and related performance vehicle development. At its debut, a circuit-ready model was also indicated for a 2012 launch. Lexus began taking orders for the LFA on 23 October 2009. Buyers were selectively chosen by Lexus in the second quarter of 2010. Production began in December 2010. Only 500 total cars were made for worldwide markets, with only 20 produced each month with
6608-410: The LFA's V-10 engine is set to 72-degrees, which allows for even firing from the pistons without the use of a split-journal crankshaft, thus improving engine efficiency as well as lowering the overall weight. Dry sump lubrication prevents engine oil starvation through high-speed corners and lowers the engine's center of mass . Air is fed directly from beneath the hood through a visible slit passing into
6726-552: The LFA's changes in engine speeds. This necessitated the use of a digital tachometer which can instantly display engine speed. The engine reportedly weighs less than the manufacturer's own 3.5-litre 2GR-FE V6 engine . Engineers attempted to make the engine sound like that of a Formula One car with high revs, while at the same time maintaining reliability and vibration control. Along with other manufacturers such as Ferrari , Toyota had produced its own F1 engines and chassis designs. The exhaust note has been described by Toyota engineers as
6844-555: The LFA's handling, chassis control and race car-like reflexes and response. In the LFA's Top Gear USA appearance in the third quarter of 2011 in the "Beating Tanner" episode, the American Stig also did a hot lap around the Top Gear USA testing track in 1:22.6, located at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro , which is the third quickest lap time ever on the race track. Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi mentioned during
6962-414: The LFA. The Lexus LFA's frame is made from an in-house designed and manufactured carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) centre monocoque with aluminium front and rear subframes . The subframes, which can be removed and replaced minimising potential repair costs, are joined to the monocoque using a newly developed aluminum flanged collar designed to create a stronger joint. According to the manufacturer,
7080-548: The Lexus LFA Nürburgring Package completed a lap of the Nürburgring in 7:14.64 with a top speed of 298 km/h (185 mph) on the "Döttinger" uphill climb, making it the fastest road-legal production vehicle to lap the racetrack at the time. A few days later, the time was confirmed by Lexus as 7:14.64 and a video was provided. OEM Bridgestone Potenza RE070 street tyres had been used to set the record. Official specifications and performance figures for
7198-403: The Lexus LFA are as follows: Tested performance specifications for the Lexus LFA from Car and Driver , Motor Trend , Road & Track and Insideline are as follows: Edmunds' Insideline managed to acquire an LFA from Lexus for one week and tested the LFA on the track including an impromptu grudge match on the drag strip. Both cars won 2 races each making it a draw. Insideline recorded
SECTION 60
#17327985942647316-468: The Mercedes Simplex 60 hp— were production fast touring cars. The 1912 Hispano-Suiza Alfonso XIII is also considered one of the earliest sports cars, as it was a "purpose built, high performance, two-seater production automobile". The model was named after King Alfonso XIII of Spain , a patron of the car's chief designer and an enthusiast for the marque. Other early sports cars include
7434-481: The Nürburgring Nordschleife. The LFA clocked the Nürburgring in 7:38. The LFA was wearing temporary Bridgestone S001 street tyres since the LFA spec tyres are still under development. Although the LFA lap time is slower than the chief engineer's "better than 7:20" claim, Sport Auto cited LFA ran exactly the same lap time with the same driver as other major competitors. All tests were conducted by
7552-601: The Nürburgring in May 2008, competing in the SP8 class of VLN events. Media reports uncovered an LFA trademark filing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in December 2008, with the concept LF-A name dropping its hyphen to become LFA for a possible production model. The second LF-A concepts had an overall length of 4,460 mm (175.6 in), and a wheelbase of 2,598 mm (102.3 in); height remained
7670-549: The S-Class ESF safety concept car. The steering wheel features a right-mounted start button and alloy paddle-shifters. To start the car, the driver must insert the key beside the steering wheel then press the start button. Two octaves of engine sound are channeled into the cabin via twin ducts which connect the firewall with the intake manifold, with the sound tuned in the manner of an Ovation guitar . A 12-speaker Mark Levinson sound system with compact lightweight components
7788-482: The TFT display shows small digits in automatic mode; larger and bolder numbers in normal mode; inverted colours, moved redline, and stark numbers in sport mode, along with a programmable redline warning colour change. The tachometer display also features an electric movable metal ring with layer acrylic plastic to create a 3D effect. The LFA further features a new driver and passenger seat-belt airbag design increases similar to
7906-642: The Year". The LF-A sports car began development with a codename of TXS, which was intended to showcase the performance capabilities of Toyota Motor Corporation and its Lexus marque. The first prototype was completed during June 2003. Prototypes of the LF-A were spotted regularly undergoing testing at the Nürburgring , the famous motorsport race track in Nürburg, Germany, since October 2004. Numerous test vehicles had been equipped with automatic retractable rear spoilers, and carbon ceramic brake discs. In January 2005,
8024-479: The car appeared during the next year or two, all conforming to the same basic design and earning for themselves a reputation second to none for fast and reliable travel. The 60-h.p. cars were announced late in 1902. The cars were possessed of a very real performance superior to anything else which could be bought at the time... and the model achieved an almost invincible position among the fast cars of its day. The Sports Car: Development and Design The basis for
8142-413: The car's overall top speed. The reshaped exterior featured smoother lines with additional detailing, and more curved surfaces. The aft radiator cooling vents were retained, but integrated into the rear fascia, and the lower side and front air intakes were restyled, along with the forward fascia and headlamps. Designers reportedly drew inspiration from the 1965 2000GT sports coupé, which was also produced in
8260-446: The center of weight. Overall 48% of the LFA's mass is distributed along with the front wheels with 52% at the rear. The 73 L (16 imp gal; 19 US gal) fuel tank straddles the exhaust system keeping weight centered along the left-right axis. The engine is connected to the transaxle via a rigid carbon-fibre torque tube which the exhaust system runs directly below. This stacked driveshaft and exhaust arrangement decreases
8378-532: The circuit-tuned variant of the LFA, plans for which were first disclosed at the LFA official press launch the previous October. The variant is officially known as the LFA Nürburgring Package in reference to the similar setup employed on the LFA race cars at the 24 Hours Nürburgring . The package features an extra 7.4 kW (10 PS; 10 hp) from its V10 engine, bringing the total to 420 kW (571 PS; 563 hp). It also features
8496-521: The concepts, LFA, but without the hyphen. The production designation reportedly stood for Lexus Fuji Apex, another claim dismissed by Chief Engineer Tanahashi. The LFA was shown as the final vehicle of the press conference, following the LF-Ch hybrid concept. The production announcement for the LFA marked the 20th anniversary of the launch of Lexus. Given the high cost of construction and development, analysts did not expect LFA sales to be profitable. However,
8614-520: The decade, numerous concept cars were unveiled at various motor shows. The first concept appeared in January 2005 at the North American International Auto Show as a design study. In January 2007, a more aerodynamic design was introduced, and in January 2008, a roadster version was showcased. The production version of the LFA debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show in October 2009—commemorating Lexus's 20th anniversary—and
8732-411: The development of performance cars such as the 1910 Vauxhall Prince Henry , 1910 Sunbeam 12/16 , 1910 Talbot 25 hp , 1910 Straker-Squire 15 hp and 1913 Star 15.9 hp . Following the halt in sports car production caused by World War I , Europe returned to manufacturing automobiles from around 1920. It was around this time that the term 'Sports Car' began to appear in the motor catalogues, although
8850-400: The early 1920s, the cost to produce a racing car was not significantly higher than a road car, therefore several manufacturers used the design from the current year's racing car for the next year's sports car. For example, the 1921 Ballot 2LS based on the racing car that finished third at the 1921 French Grand Prix. The Benz 28/95PS was also a successful racing car, with victories including
8968-434: The end of 2009, at which time they planned to open discussions about a purchase plan for the lessees. Lexus later changed their stance and allowed outright purchase, but only on the condition that they sign an agreement giving the dealer the first right of refusal to buy back the LFA if the owner wanted to sell it within the first two years. The dealer would have the option to buy back the used LFA for either fair market value or
9086-463: The engine being used in any races. Alfa Romeo fitted the engine to two Alfa Romeo 164 Pro Car prototypes in 1988, however these cars also did not compete in any races. The most widespread use of V10 racing engines has been in Formula One. Following a ban on turbocharged engines after 1988, the first V10 Formula One cars were the 1989 McLaren MP4/5 and Williams FW12 . V10 engines were used by
9204-463: The exact origin of the name is not known. The decade that followed became known as the vintage era and featured rapid technical advances over the preceding Brass Era cars . Engine performance benefited from the abandonment of " tax horsepower " (where vehicles were taxed based on bore and number of cylinders, rather than actual power output) and the introduction of leaded fuel , which increased power by allowing for higher compression ratios . In
9322-472: The first supercars . Other significant European models of the 1960s and 1970s which might be considered supercars today are the Ferrari 250 GTO (1962-1964), Ferrari 250 GT Lusso (1963-1964), Ferrari 275 GTB/4 (1966-1968), Maserati Ghibli (1967-1973), Ferrari Daytona (1968-1973), Dino 246 (1969-1974), De Tomaso Pantera (1971-1993), Ferrari 308 GTB (1975-1980) and BMW M1 (1978-1981). In 1966,
9440-494: The first LF-A concept premiered at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan as a design study with no plans for production. Design was a collaboration between Toyota and Italian designer Leonardo Fioravanti . The first LF-A concept had an overall length of 4,399 mm (173.2 in), while its wheelbase measured 2,581 mm (101.6 in) The concept was nearly 1,219 mm (48 in) in height, with
9558-528: The first World War by the R.A.C. , appealed to the public imagination and offered to the manufacturers of the more sporting cars an excellent opportunity for boosting sales of their products." The classic Italian road races— the Targa Florio , and the Mille Miglia (first held in 1927)— also captured the public's imagination. By 1925, the higher profits available for four-seater cars resulted in
9676-410: The green-light for production, however these reports were not officially confirmed. Following the original LF-A concept, development time was lengthened by the switch from an aluminum frame to a carbon-fibre tub, the result of engineering efforts aimed at improving the LF-A's power-to-weight ratio . The LF-A was reported to draw engineering resources from Toyota's Formula One team . In January 2007,
9794-799: The inherent risk of performance driving. There is no fixed distinction between sports cars and other categories of performance cars, such as muscle cars and grand tourers , with some cars being members of several categories. Traditionally, the most common layout for sports cars was a roadster (a two-seat car without a fixed roof). However, there are also several examples of early sports cars with four seats. Sports cars are not usually intended to transport more than two adult occupants regularly, so most modern sports cars are generally two-seat or 2+2 layout (two smaller rear seats for children or occasional adult use). Larger cars with more spacious rear-seat accommodation are usually considered sports sedans rather than sports cars. The 1993-1998 McLaren F1
9912-573: The late 1920s were AC Cars , Alfa Romeo , Alvis , Amilcar , Bignan and Samson, Chenard-Walcker , Delage , Hispano-Suiza , Hotchkiss , Mercedes-Benz and Nazzaro . Two cars from the Vintage Era that would influence sports cars for many years were the Austin Seven and MG M-type "Midget". Successful sports cars from Bentley during this era were the Bentley 3 Litre (1921-1929) and
10030-424: The majority of teams by the 1996 season , following reduction in displacement from 3.5 to 3.0 L (214 to 183 cu in). The V10 seemed the best compromise between the lower weight of a V8 and the higher power of a V12. Renault F1 used a flatter 110° angle in 2002 and 2003 , but reverted to a more conventional 72° following the change in rules which dictated that an engine must last two race weekends. In
10148-518: The mass-produced cars upon which they were based. The highest selling sports car company of the 1930s was Morris Garages , who produced 'MG Midget' models of the M-Type , J-Type , P-Type and T-Type . The K3 version of the K-Type Magnette was a successful racing car, achieving success in the Mille Miglia , Tourist Trophy and 24 Hours of Le Mans . The Bugatti Type 57 (1934-1940)
10266-478: The middle of the vehicle ( MR layout ). Examples of FR layout sports cars include the Caterham 7 , Mazda MX-5 , and the Dodge Viper . Examples of MR layout sports cars are the Ferrari 488 , Ford GT , and Toyota MR2 . To avoid a front-heavy weight distribution , many FR layout sports cars are designed so that the engine is located further back in the engine bay, as close to the firewall as possible. Since
10384-809: The notable exception of the Porsche 911 . The front-wheel drive layout with the engine at the front ( FF layout ) is generally the most common for cars, but it is not as common among traditional sports cars. Nonetheless, the FF layout is used by sport compacts and hot hatches such as the Mazdaspeed3 . Sports cars with an FF layout include the Fiat Barchetta , Saab Sonett , or Opel Tigra . The ancestor of all high-performance cars had its origin in Germany. The 28-h.p. Cannstatt-Daimler racing car of 1899
10502-558: The official manufacture of the car began on 15 December 2010 at the Motomachi production facility in Toyota, Aichi . The 4.8 L 1LR-GUE V10 engine , as fitted to the LFA, produces a power output of 412 kilowatts (560 PS; 553 hp) and 480 newton-metres (350 lb⋅ft), sufficient to give the car a 0–97 km/h (60 mph) of 3.6 seconds and a maximum speed of 325 kilometres per hour (202 mph). The LFA's body mass
10620-569: The original sticker price, whichever is lower. In the European market, buyers could order their LFA through a single Lexus dealer located in Park Lane , London where it was purchased outright. During the LFA's production, each vehicle received an individually numbered plaque, indicating the unit's place in the production run. Each LFA V10 engine carried the signature of the specialist who assembled it. With 20 units produced monthly, production of
10738-456: The philosophy of achieving performance through minimizing weight and has been rated as one of the top 10 sports cars of the 1960s. The Elan featured fibreglass bodies, a backbone chassis, and overhead camshaft engines. A different style of roadster was the AC Cobra , released in 1962, which was fitted with V8 engines up to 7.0 L (427 cu in) in size by Shelby . The Porsche 911
10856-423: The production of two-seat sports cars being limited to smaller manufacturers such as Aston-Martin (350 Astons built from 1921 to 1939) and Frazer-Nash (323 cars built from 1924 to 1939). Then by the late 1920s, the cost of producing racing cars (especially Grand Prix cars) escalated, causing more manufacturers to produce cars for the growing sports car market instead. Significant manufacturers of sports cars in
10974-455: The quality of the CFRP material matches that of aeronautical grades and is woven by a laser monitored circular loom, one of only two in the world. Overall 65% of the vehicle's total body mass is CFRP material while the remaining 35% is aluminum. Manufacturer data indicates that the use of CFRP saves 100 kg (220 lb) over equivalent aluminum materials. An electric power steering rack with
11092-445: The release of the Dodge Viper . The V10 configuration does not have perfect engine balance , since an unbalanced rocking couple is caused by each cylinder bank functioning as a straight-five engine . Therefore, balance shafts are sometimes used to reduce the vibrations in a V10 engine. One of the first known V10 engines was used in the 1936 Busch-Sulzer ICRR 9201 prototype locomotive, of which three examples were produced in
11210-403: The same as the prior concept, while width grew to 1,895 mm (74.6 in). While the original LF-A had been strictly a concept model, the second concept's design reflected engineering analysis for possible production. The exterior design had been restyled to take advantage of the flexibility offered by carbon-fibre construction, with improved aerodynamics and surface features aimed at improving
11328-562: The same driver, Horst von Saurma . Auto Bild Germany in the September edition of 2010 in part 1 of the comparison conducted a head-to-head Nürburgring Supercomparo (longer 20.8 km version of the track). Lexus LFA turned in the fastest Nurburgring lap time (7:38,85), The Nurburgring 20.8 km test driver Sascha Bert stated "LFA was built for the Nurburgring race track." National Geographic's show, Megafactories , reported
11446-558: The sporting events of the period, bringing renown to successful entrants. The Prince Henry Tours started the evolution of reasonably large and technically advanced production sports cars. In England, the development of sporting cars was inhibited by the Motor Car Act 1903 , which imposed a speed limit of 20 mph (32 km/h) on all public roads. This led to the 1907 opening of the Brooklands motor circuit , which inspired
11564-408: The sports car is traced to the early 20th century touring cars and roadsters , and the term 'sports car' would not be coined until after World War One. A car considered to be "a sports-car years ahead of its time" is the 1903 Mercedes Simplex 60 hp , described at the time as a fast touring car and designed by Wilhelm Maybach and Paul Daimler . The Mercedes included pioneering features such as
11682-476: The sports car, but also the most important and diverse technical developments [and] very rapid and genuine improvement in the qualities of every modern production car; assisted by new design and manufacturing techniques a consistently higher level of handling properties has been achieved." In Italy, a small but wealthy market segment allowed for the manufacture of a limited number of high-performance models directly allied to contemporary Grand Prix machines, such as
11800-462: The tail lamps are light-emitting diode (LED) lights. The LFA interior incorporates carbon fibre, leather, alcantara , and metallic surfaces. There are two bucket seats , and Lexus' Remote Touch controller interface. The interior design uses bespoke materials and colours. The instrument display is a digital thin-film transistor (TFT) speedometer with colour-changing background, size-changing numbers, and side-appearing submenus. In operation,
11918-478: The war, but a small number of manufacturers returned it to prominence. In 1948, the Porsche 356 was released as the debut model from Porsche. The significance of the Porsche 356 and its successors was described in 1957 as "future historians must see them as among the most important of mid-century production cars". The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL is another significant car from this era. The 1961 Jaguar E-Type
12036-565: The wheels, which after factoring in RWD drivetrain loss turned out to be substantially higher than the 412 kW (560 PS; 553 hp) at the crank factory specification. Car and Driver track-tested the LFA in November 2010 while conducting a comparison test. The test was conducted in Wales and returned a 0–97 km/h (0–60 mph) time of 3.6 seconds using the launch control system and
12154-478: The width of the centre tunnel allowing for centrally located seating. The LFA has an overall length of 4,506 mm (177.4 in), while its wheelbase measures 2,606 mm (102.6 in), with a height of 1,219 mm (48 in) and width of 1,895 mm (74.6 in). Compared to the prior 2007–2008 concepts, the production model is nearly 51 mm (2 in) longer, with identical width, height, and nearly same wheelbase dimensions. The exterior design of
12272-534: The world's press at the Nürburgring in Germany that the LFA has lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in "better than 7 minutes 20 seconds", although no further specifics were given to the record lap. Sport Auto in the September 2010 edition conducted an LFA supertest with a red LFA that had been used in several other tests in Europe and Horst Von Saurma conducted a hot lap of the LFA around
12390-415: Was a pioneering all-wheel drive sports car. The 1995 Porsche 911 Turbo (993) saw the 911 Turbo model switch to all-wheel drive, a drivetrain layout that the model uses to this day. The BMW M3 was released in 1986 and has been produced for every generation since. The 1993-1996 Mercedes-Benz W124 E36 AMG was the mass-produced AMG model. Audi's equivalent division, called "RS", was launched in 1994 with
12508-692: Was also developed for the interior. Custom-made Tumi suitcases are designed for the LFA interior, with a two-piece set made from carbon-fibre style materials and inscribed with the VIN ; a smaller "concourse" case is for track days and short trips, while a larger "coastal" case is for longer trips. At the 2011 Tokyo Motor show, a special edition of the LFA was released called the Tokyo Motor Show Edition. This edition has an exposed carbon fibre roof and carbon fibre rear spoiler. A total of 9 units have been produced. On 15 March 2010, Lexus detailed
12626-684: Was an unusual arrangement for a car used to compete in rallying, nonetheless it was very successful and won the World Rally Championship in 1974 , 1975 , and 1976 . The Lancia Montecarlo was produced from 1975 to 1981 and is a mid-engine two-seater, available as a coupé or a targa-top. It was sold as Lancia Scorpion in the USA. Its racing variant, Montecarlo Turbo, won the 1979 World Championship for Makes in its division and overall for 1980 World Championship for Makes and 1981 World Endurance Championship for Makes . Montecarlo also won
12744-627: Was another significant sports car of the pre-war era and is now among the most valuable cars in the world. The T57 was successful in sports car races, including winning the 1937 24 Hours of Le Mans and 1939 24 Hours of Le Mans . Another successful Bugatti sports car was the Bugatti Type 55 (1932-1935), which was based on the Type 51 Grand Prix racing car. The decade following the Second World War saw an "immense growth of interest in
12862-573: Was available with a 15.8 L (964 cu in) V10 engine. The Volkswagen V10 TDI is a turbocharged V10 engine which was produced from 2002 to 2010 for use in the Volkswagen Phaeton luxury sedan and Volkswagen Touareg SUV. V10 engines are less common than V8 and V12 engines, a V12 is only slightly more complicated and runs more smoothly, while a V8 is less complex and more economical. Nevertheless, modern engineering has made it possible to use V10 engines for applications where
12980-449: Was designed with an emphasis on downforce. There are air scoops located over the rear fenders which feed the aft-mounted radiators and help cool the brakes. A horizontal hood gap also feeds air to the engine. Two small aft vents expel air that is collected by an underbody air scoop and used to cool the titanium exhaust pipes. Dual hood ducts serve to move hot air away from the exhaust manifold. The LFA's speed-sensitive rear wing incorporates
13098-612: Was hand-built by a dedicated production team of engineers and specialists at Toyota's Motomatchi plant in Aichi , Japan. In the North American market, 150 cars were initially sold through a two-year lease program. This was to prevent owners from reselling the vehicle for a profit. Racing driver Scott Pruett was hired to give test drives to interested buyers, demonstrating the vehicle's capabilities at Auto Club Speedway . The Lexus division of Toyota Motors USA stopped taking orders at
13216-401: Was improved during its production run, and produced as much as 477 kW (640 hp ; 649 PS ) in a standard state of tune from an 8.4 L version. The Viper engine was also used by Bristol in the two-seat Fighter coupe , and in other low-volume vehicles. Ford also developed a heavy-duty V10 version of their Triton engine to replace the 460 big block in truck applications. It
13334-1056: Was introduced in the E-Series/Econoline full-size van , and also saw duty in the F-Series Super Duty line and the Ford Excursion SUV, and was offered by Ford through the 2019 model year. For the Lexus LFA , the engineers selected a V10 engine over an equivalent displacement V8 because they could not get the V8 to rev as high as a V10, and over a V12 for its lower reciprocating mass, allowing for more rapid engine response. High-revving V10 power-plants were incorporated into supercars from Lamborghini and Porsche . BMW and Audi developed V10s for high performance cars such as BMW M5 , BMW M6 , Audi S6 , Audi RS6 , Audi S8 and Audi R8 , mostly based upon their executive cars . Volkswagen also developed
13452-694: Was produced until 1980. Other successful lightweight roadsters include the Triumph Spitfire (1962-1980) and the Alfa Romeo Spider (1966-1993). The Fiat X1/9 (1972-1989) was unusual for its use of a mid-engine design in an affordable roadster model. A late entrant to the affordable roadster market was the 1975 Triumph TR7 , however by the late 1970s the demand for this style of car was in decline, resulting in production ceasing in 1982. The original Lotus Elan (1962-1975) two-seat coupe and roadster models are an early commercial success for
13570-448: Was recorded as a "warm-up" video for the "ADAC 24-hours" for exhibition purposes. The LFA hit 292 km/h (181 mph) on the last straight uphill climb, which is one of the highest speeds achieved by factory standard sports car on that segment of the track. Standard OEM Bridgestone Potenza RE70 performance street tyres were used. On 2 September 2011 reports came from Lexus via Twitter as well as Chris Harris of Evo Magazine that
13688-675: Was released in 1964 and has remained in production since. The 911 is notable for its use of the uncommon rear-engine design and the use of a flat-six engine . Another successful rear-engine sports car was the original Alpine A110 (1961-1977), which was a successful rally car during the Group 4 era. In 1965, the BMW New Class Coupes were released, leading to the BMW 6 Series which remains in production to this day. The Lamborghini Miura (1966) and Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale (1967) mid-engined high-performance cars are often cited as
13806-486: Was to feature a V8 powertrain similar to that designed for the Lexus LS 600h L . LF-A test mules continued to be spotted at the Nürburgring , including early models with a large, fixed rear wing. In December 2007, Auto Express reported that the LF-A had set an unofficial 7:24 lap at the Nürburgring . In January 2008, Lexus displayed a roadster version of the LF-A concept car designated LF-A Roadster, or LF-AR , at
13924-417: Was without a doubt the first attempt to give real performance to a road car. Many of its features, such as a honeycomb radiator and gate gear change, were continued on the much improved version which Paul Daimler designed in 1899-1900. This was of course the famous Mercedes. It also laid down standards of chassis design which were to be followed, almost unthinkingly, for the next thirty years. Several variants of
#263736