Subaru has once again pushed the boundaries of automotive performance with the unveiling of the WRX Project Midnight Concept, a high-powered sequel to the legendary Airslayer rallycross car.
The WRX Project Midnight is designed to dominate tarmac with its blistering speed and advanced engineering. This powerhouse is set to debut at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed, piloted by none other than former F1 driver and rallycross champion Scott Speed.
From Airslayer to Project Midnight:
The Subaru Airslayer, a beastly 862-horsepower rallycross car, set the stage for what Subaru could achieve in terms of raw performance and innovation. The Airslayer wowed enthusiasts with its turbocharged flat-four engine, hood-exiting exhaust, and record-setting lap times at various events. Building on this legacy, Subaru and Vermont SportsCar have created the WRX Project Midnight, a machine that promises to exceed expectations.
Engineering Marvel:
The WRX Project Midnight is based on the current-generation Subaru WRX but has been extensively modified for ultimate performance on paved roads. The heart of this beast is a turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four engine that churns out an impressive 670 horsepower and 680 pound-feet of torque. This engine, with its 9500-rpm redline, is a testament to Subaru's engineering prowess, providing unparalleled power and performance.
To achieve its weight goals, the Project Midnight features a custom wide body made entirely of carbon fiber, a material known for its strength and lightness. This extensive use of carbon fiber, along with other lightweight components, brings the car's curb weight down to just 2469 pounds. That's a remarkable 1000 pounds lighter than a standard WRX and 300 pounds lighter than the Airslayer.
Aerodynamics and Design:
The Project Midnight's design is as functional as it is aggressive. The car boasts a massive rear wing, an exaggerated version of the one found on Subaru's WRX ARA24 gravel rally car. This wing, along with the wide body and other aerodynamic enhancements, ensures maximum downforce and stability at high speeds.
The suspension setup has been optimized for tarmac, further enhancing the car's handling and performance. It rolls on 18-inch magnesium OZ Racing wheels wrapped in Yokohama Advan racing slicks, providing the necessary grip for its high-speed exploits.
A Racing Debut:
Scott Speed, a seasoned motorsport veteran, will drive the WRX Project Midnight as it debuts at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Known for his skill and experience, Speed is the perfect driver to showcase the capabilities of this high-performance machine. The Goodwood hill climb, with its demanding course and rich history, is the ideal stage for Project Midnight's first public appearance.
A Glimpse into the Future:
The WRX Project Midnight is not just a testament to Subaru's engineering capabilities but also a glimpse into the future of high-performance vehicles. It combines cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of motorsport dynamics, resulting in a car that is as thrilling to drive as it is impressive to behold.
In conclusion, the Subaru WRX Project Midnight Concept is a remarkable achievement in automotive engineering. It builds on the legacy of the Airslayer, offering even more power, less weight, and superior performance. As it prepares to take on the Goodwood Festival of Speed, enthusiasts and experts alike are eagerly anticipating what this incredible machine can do. With Scott Speed behind the wheel, the WRX Project Midnight is set to make a memorable debut, further solidifying Subaru's place in the world of high-performance racing.