Radical SR8

In 1997 the 1100cc Clubsport was launched, two years later the 1300cc Prosport, then the 1500cc SR3 and the SR3 Turbo, and finally this year the SR4.

But just when you thought that Radical couldn’t get any more extreme; we go and do it. Enter the SR8, powered by the all-new RPA 2.6-litre V8 motor manufactured in-house by Radical’s engine company Powertec Engineering.

Run on the dyno for the first time this week, the RPA – Radical Powertec Series A - put out an impressive 363bhp at 10,300rpm, with 196 ft lbs of torque at 7,000rpm. Powertec boss, Ted Hurrell, is very confident that his target of 350bhp at 10,000rpm will easily be surpassed.

The SR8, which weighs in at under 600kgms, is based on the hugely successful SR3 Turbo spaceframe chassis and suspension, but with an all new aerodynamic package.

A new integral front undertray venturi, crashbox and side vents gives increased downforce at the front of the car, while a revised airbox layout at the rear gives improved air flow to the new high downforce bi-plane rear wing.

A new six-speed sequential transaxle has been jointly developed by Powertec Engineering and Quaife. The transverse gearbox incorporates a reverse gear and the Quaife, torque based limited slip differential.

Many of the car’s new features such as 280mm floating discs, 8½” wide front and 10½” wide rear BBS wheels fitted with specially developed Dunlop tyres, have been proven on the SR3 Turbo.

Radical are also announcing a six round, 12 race series for SR8 cars, to be called the Powertec Cup. Each round will comprise two 50-minute races for two driver teams. Four rounds will be held overseas, provisionally at Spa, Nürburgring, Dijon and Anderstorp, with two in the UK at Silverstone GP and the Radical Cadwell Park festival.