Only a day after the official brochure of the 918 Spyder leaked on the web, Porsche confirmed reports that its hybrid supercar posted a 7:14 lap time at the 20.6 km (12.8-mile) Nürburgring track on September 18. Porsche said that the prototype was packing 795HP, which is the first time the automaker is being specific about the 918 Spyder's "770HP-plus" output.
The automaker added that the car was available for only one lap noting that it started from a standstill, was fitted with standard Michelin production tires and was equipped with the optional “Weissach” package that reduces weight by 34 kg (77 pounds) by ditching most amenities such as the air conditioning and the audio system.
Even though it did not set any records the Stuttgart-based company is more than happy with the time set by the 918 Spyder.
“By turning in a fabulous time of 7:14 minutes, the 918 Spyder prototype has already fully confirmed the viability of its future concept after just a few months on the road”, said Dr. Frank Walliser, the project’s overall leader.
With the Nordschleife being its home turf and Porsche already having a history of defending its reputation on this particular track, we bet that this is just the beginning…
After all, future 918 clients who will have the opportunity to own one may not choose to splash out more than US$60K on a paint job, but surely want top bragging rights as far as their hypercar's 'Ring time is concerned.
By Andrew Tsaousis
