The U.S. division of Volkswagen seem resolute to set a new international speed record with a gasoline-powered Jetta sedan. The vehicle is going to have to accelerate past 330 km/h on the dried-out bottom of the Lake Bonneville.
We aren’t talking about the ultimate new high score, though, but rather the top score in the BGC/G competition category as specified by the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA).
The race is set to coincide with the U.S. release of the top-of-the-line Volkswagen Jetta GLI.
The contender vehicle packs a 4.0-liter turbocharged engine capable of at least 500 hp / 370 kW (the company refuses to be more specific here at the moment). It also features lowered suspension and a purpose-built body kit that provides it with additional downforce.
The interior of the car has been stripped of all equipment and elements not strictly necessary for the race. All that remains is the driver’s seat, the controls and a new roll cage with braking parachutes, as required by the regulations.
The current worldwide acceleration record of 330 km/h in the BGC/G category belongs to the Volkswagen Beetle LSR. VW Jetta will attempt to best it later this week.
Photo: motor1.com