Meet the Donkervoort F22 Final Five: A 500 HP Farewell to the Iconic Audi Turbo
The automotive world is no stranger to innovation, but when a legendary brand like Donkervoort combines performance with the farewell of an iconic engine, it certainly raises eyebrows. Enter the F22 Final Five, a mesmerizing fusion of engineering excellence and racing spirit, tipping the scales at a featherlight supercar-review">1,578 lbs. This final edition doesn’t just mark the end of a chapter for Donkervoort; it also pays homage to the beloved 2.5-liter turbocharged Audi five-cylinder engine that has powered generations of thrilling rides.
Set to be produced in a limited run of just five units, the F22 Final Five is a celebration of the past and a thrill for enthusiasts. With 492 hp or 500 PS on tap, this vehicle might not wield the power of electric hypercars that now dominate the performance landscape, but its sheer weight-to-power ratio elevates it to a distinctly competitive realm. The staggering 698 hp/tonne ratio contributes to its blistering performance, boasting a mere 2.5 seconds to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) and achieving a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph).
An Engineering Masterpiece
What sets the F22 Final Five apart is not just its power, but its meticulously crafted structure. This supercar sheds excess weight through the use of an all-new bespoke carbon fiber body that comes in 75 lbs (34 kg) lighter than its standard counterpart. By implementing cutting-edge carbon ceramic brakes—each saving 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) per corner—along with carbon fiber wheels, this special edition is designed for those who crave a pure driving experience while reveling in the thrill of acceleration.
Underneath its striking exterior, the F22 Final Five houses a five-speed manual transmission paired with a Torsen limited-slip differential, driving the rear wheels. This configuration is perfectly suited for drivers wanting to connect with their vehicle, enhancing that visceral connection that many modern cars fail to provide. With electronically adjustable TracTive shocks and a double-wishbone suspension system at both ends, the car is capable of pulling an impressive 2.3G while cornering.
Luxurious Yet Functional Interiors
The interior of the F22 Final Five is a testament to Donkervoort’s commitment to both luxury and performance. Owners can expect top-notch features including bespoke carbon fiber Recaro seats, upgraded air conditioning systems, and advanced safety features like front and rear cameras. Optional enhancements such as a lift system and heated seats ensure comfort during spirited drives.
These elements combine to create an environment that feels every bit as upscale as it is functional, elevating the driving experience from mere transportation to an exhilarating event. Although buyers may expect to fork out an exorbitant sum for such opulence, all five have already found homes, starting at a jaw-dropping price of €315,000 (approximately $332,000 at current rates).
An End and a New Beginning
As the last of its kind to feature the Audi turbo five-cylinder engine, the F22 Final Five stands as a remarkable tribute to a powerful legacy. While electric vehicles may dominate the future, the fiery spirit of the combustion engine remains an alluring facet of the driving experience. To own one of these remarkable machines is to hold a piece of automotive history—a connection to the thrill of driving that resonates deeply with enthusiasts worldwide.
For the few fortunate buyers who have secured an F22 Final Five, this vehicle offers a blend of high performance, exquisite design, and a palpable connection to the storied past of Donkervoort. Each example symbolizes an exhilarating farewell to a beloved engine, etched into the minds of car lovers for years to come, and leaves us pondering: what does the future hold for Donkervoort as they embark on a new era?
Final Thoughts
As we bid adieu to the beloved Audi turbo 5-cylinder, the Donkervoort F22 Final Five stands alone, a limited edition celebrating the thrill of speed, lightweight engineering, and pure driving pleasure. It embodies not just a car, but a commitment to excellence and a genuine love for performance that will always resonate in the hearts of car enthusiasts.