Brabham improves road-legal version of BT62 with world’s strongest non-turbo

Brabham Automotive has unveiled the BT62 R, a completely street-legal specification of its BT62 racecar fitted with the world’s most efficient naturally aspirated engine. Let us delve into the details.

David Brabham, son of famous ex-Formula 1 pilot Jack Brabham, founded the company a couple years ago. Only one model has been released since: the BT62, initially a purebred mid-engine racecar. In early 2019, the company attempted to make it drivable on common roads, lending it all the necessary lights, an air conditioner, more ground clearance and greater front wheel turn angles. However, it had to admit in the end that the comfort was still not on the level associated with such vehicles.

The new BT62 R boasts additional carbon-fiber body parts that increase downforce to a maximum of 1.2 metric tons (2,500 lbs). Push-rod suspension is used alongside carbon-ceramic brakes, and the drive is on the rear axle. Powering the highway projectile is a custom 5.4-liter V8 rated at 710 PS (700 hp / 522 kW) and 667 Nm (492 lb-ft), the highest specs for an engine lacking any kind of forced induction. The transmission is a six-speed sequential design by Australian engineering firm Holinger.

The R indeed improves upon plenty of the shortcomings of its predecessor. Its new front splitter, roof scoop, rear wing and diffuser cater for much better overall aerodynamics and handling, the exhaust soundtrack subsides a bit, noise insulation is better, and clearance can be adjusted in the 70…130mm (2.73” – 5.07”) range. Comfortable seats wrapped in leather and Alcantara greet the driver on the inside, the dashboard is new, and there is a reversing camera, storage pockets, a sound system and a full-fledged HVAC. The tires used are Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport. Those willing to max out their spec may opt for Celebration Series, which adds golden badges and a racing-style aerodynamic kit.

Pricing and availability remain pending for the road-legal Brabham BT62R (the racer cost around $1,000,000 USD), but the manufacturer pledges to start delivering first copies to any destination worldwide in the coming few weeks. Right- and left-hand drive versions are both available.