The Ultima RS Packs Up to 1200 Supercar-Killing Horsepower

Ultima, the small British firm known for building lightweight, low-production mid-engine track cars, has just revealed its latest creation. Meet the Ultima RS, the company’s newest flagship model, available with a variety of Chevrolet V-8 powerplants with up to 1200 horsepower.

The Ultima RS has similar styling to the outgoing GTR, though there are some significant changes. The new model has some serious aero upgrades in the form of fender vents, dive planes, new ducting, a carbon fiber diffuser, and an even bigger rear wing. The Group C-inspired nose is sharper than before, while the rear features twin exhausts flanked by C-shaped taillights.

The real news lies in the engine bay. Customers can choose from six (!) different Chevrolet V-8 crate engines: LS3, LS7, LSA, LT1, LT4 or LT5. The specs for the latter three engines are staggering. The top-level supercharged LT5 is available in two trims: A “base” 800-horsepower version or a tuned 1200-horsepower variant. The company claims a 0-60 mph time of 2.3 seconds, a quarter-mile time of 9.2 seconds, and a top speed north of 250 mph with the 1200-hp engine. These are hypercar numbers. Even the lesser models are impressive: The LT4 car can do the 0-60 mph run in 2.5 seconds, and hit a top speed of 210 mph. Pick the LT1, and 0-60 comes in 3.0 seconds flat, with a top speed of 180 mph.

Backing up that immense power is an H-pattern six-speed Porsche transaxle sending power to the rear wheels. That’s right: Every Ultima variant is manual-only. The suspension uses wishbones all around and coil-spring dampers with adjustable bump, rebound, and ride height. Four-piston AP Racing brakes sit behind 19-inch forged alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot 4S tires. Six-piston brakes and Sport Cup 2 tires are optional. Curb weight comes in at 2030 pounds, though Ultima says that can change depending on what options you choose.

Ultima has yet to reveal pricing for the RS, or confirm US availability. Considering its previous cars could be brought to the US in kit form, we’re hopeful that Ultima’s latest wild machine will be available to committed US buyers looking for extreme performance in a rare, race-inspired package.

Source: Read Full Article