It's been a couple of years since Lexus unveiled their supercar concept. It was in 2005 that the world learned of the existence of the Lexus LF-A. Now, after almost 4 years, the then concept car has now reached production. The production version recently debuted at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show.
Even though there were a couple of changes done on the production model, it still retained and at some point enhanced most of the features, most especially the power of the car. It's most priced feature is its use of the new 4.8L V10 that boasts of 9,000rpm.
It runs on a 552 horsepower and pumps a total of 354 lb-ft torque. To achieve total performance aside from good engines, Lexus thought of using an all aluminum body but ultimately decided on using Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic. The new body, according to Toyota engineers, is four times stronger than aluminum and still achieve a 100kg weight savings.
The Lexus LF-A supercar totaled about 3,000 pounds, thanks to the Carbon Ceramic Material brakes, which are both lighter than steel and more fade-resistant.
All of Toyota's efforts resulted in a car that can go from 0-60 in just under 3.7 seconds, with a claimedder top-speed of 202mph. To achieve exclusivity like other supercars, production will be limited to only 500 units with less than 20 units produced every month.
The only thing that hinders me from claiming the Lexus LF-A will be a great success compared to the achievements of the supercars of Ferrari, Lamborghini and the likes is its price. It will be first available in the UK for £336,000 or around $557,000 when shipped to the US. That's more than the price of the already popular supercars from the automakers mentioned.
Automobile Blog November Archive
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