John Hennessey and his team have brought a dream to reality in the form of a lightweight, mid-engine, V8-powered serpent named ‘Venom GT’. Just recently they took the 2011 Hennessey Venom GT to the studio to properly introduce the latest iteration of a no-compromise 1,200 horsepower supercar.
2011 Hennessey Venom GT Press Release
The Venom GT simply expresses the supercar that John Hennessey has always dreamed of building for himself. He wanted a nimble, lightweight, mid-engine chassis with a powerful American V-8 engine. Maximum power-to-weight ratio is critical for a performance vehicle, and it is the cornerstone to this car.
His dedicated staff of former Bonneville, Formula One and Le Mans race engineers have teamed to design the Venom GT— incorporating many of the best technologies and advanced materials available today. The goal? The best overall performing and best looking road-legal supercar that they could build.
John thanks you for this opportunity to introduce you to the all-new Hennessey Venom GT.
Powering the Venom GT is a 6.2L supercharged LS9 V-8 engine producing 725 bhp at 7,200 rpm. An available twin-turbocharged V-8 (shown) offers the ultimate power trip delivering up to 1,200 bhp.
Weight is kept to a minimum thanks to the extensive use of aluminum for the construction of items such as the engine block, cylinder heads and intercoolers. Airflow ducting is a mix of lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum components. Exhaust gasses flow thru a lightweight Titanium exhaust system. Twin ballbearing turbochargers provide instant throttle response with a never ending mountain of power.
Inside, the Venom GT merges high-tech materials with supple luxury. Machined metal meets carbon fiber—all surrounded by sumptuous leather—to produce an unforgettable cockpit.
Hold on tight to the sport steering wheel as the available 1,000 bhp twin-turbo powerplant will generate an estimated 0-to-60 mph time of 2.7 seconds. Should you choose the available 1,200 bhp twin-turbocharged engine, you will have the esteemed privilege to use the entire range of the speedometer.
Combined with a super-light curb weight of under 2,685 lbs (1,220 kilos), the Venom GT offers an unmatched power-to-weight ratio.
The Venom GT incorporates an active aerodynamic system that allows for real-time down force adjustments based on actual driving conditions. “The Venom GT is a purpose built thrill ride designed to dominate the competition” says John Hennessey. “This car is for a very select client who demands ultimate performance, but with absolute exclusivity.”
F1 meets road car. To maximize the power-to-weight ratio, the Venom GT utilizes some of the most hightech racing components available today. This includes the use of carbon fiber body panels and hybrid wheels constructed of both carbon fiber and forged-aluminum. Massive Brembo 6-piston alloy brake calipers combine with lightweight carbon-ceramic rotors to give the Venom GT world-class stopping power while simultaneously minimizing curb weight and rotational mass.
The Venom GT has an active suspension system that adjusts ride height according to varying conditions. The system allows a range of adjustment up to 2.4 inches (6 cm), enabling the driver to raise the Venom GT in order to navigate items such as a driveway or a parking garage.
All components aboard the Venom GT are built for purpose, not flash. Lightweight carbon fiber surrounds an alloy shifter that actuates a Ricardo 6-speed manual gearbox. An AP Racing multi-disc clutch transfers the engine’s copious power while remaining easy to modulate.
With lateral acceleration well exceeding 1 g-Force, body support for occupants comes in the form of race-spec, deep-side bucket seats that are constructed of carbon fiber and covered in fine leather.
[sources: LuxuryAutoDirect via Hennessey Performance]
