Unveiling the Speed Demons: The 10 Fastest Cars at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed
July 15, 2024, at 3:30 PM ET
The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed wrapped up yesterday, leaving a trail of adrenaline and awe in its wake. Over five spectacular days, car enthusiasts witnessed an impressive lineup of vehicles conquering the iconic 1.16-mile hill climb. This gathering, which featured autos ranging from vintage machines to the latest hypercars, highlighted the essence of automotive history and innovation.
As the dust settles on this year's event, we’re excited to share the top 10 fastest cars that graced the hill climb. These vehicles not only demonstrated incredible speed but also showcased the evolution of automotive engineering. Here’s a breakdown of the standout performers that challenged the hill this year.
10. Lotus-Cosworth 77 - 49.86 Seconds
Taking the tenth spot is the stunning Lotus-Cosworth 77, a Formula 1 car with a legacy dating back to 1976. Developed by the legendary Colin Chapman and his talented team, this beauty features a mid-mounted Cosworth V-8 engine, producing 465 horsepower. Driven by racing ace Nicholas Padmore, it raced up the hill in a remarkable time of 49.86 seconds, blending nostalgia with modern-day thrills.
9. Ford Puma Rally1 - 49.82 Seconds
While Goodwood hosts a dedicated rally stage, the Ford Puma Rally1 decided to join the hill climb festivities instead. Having debuted in the World Rally Championship in 2022, this rally beast is bolstered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine generating 380 horsepower. Piloted by Adrian Formaux, it clocked in at 49.82 seconds, turning heads with its versatility.
8. Nissan Skyline GTR Calsonic - 48.91 Seconds
No automotive gathering would be complete without acknowledging the iconic Nissan Skyline GTR Calsonic. Making its debut in 1993, this powerhouse not only conquered the track in Japan but also emerged victorious in various championships. Once rated at 550 horsepower, it now roars closer to 1,000 hp, and at Goodwood, it blitzed the hill in an astonishing 48.91 seconds.
7. Czinger 21C - 48.83 Seconds
Making headlines this year was the impressive Czinger 21C, a California-built supercar that shattered the production road car record for the hill climb with a time of 48.83 seconds. Equipped with a formidable twin-turbocharged 2.88-liter flat-crank V-8 engine, this marvel can produce up to 1,250 horsepower. Its debut at Goodwood showcased its engineering excellence and design prowess.
6. Alpine A110R Pikes Peak - 48.19 Seconds
The Alpine A110R Pikes Peak, crafted for hill climbs, was another standout during the festival. Previously competing in the challenging Colorado event, it brought its skill set to Goodwood, where rally driver Raphael Astier expertly navigated it to a time of 48.19 seconds. This car exemplifies the spirit of motorsports focused on performance and craftsmanship.
5. Porsche 911 GT3 Cup - 48.05 Seconds
Comprising a rich history in racing, the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup took its place in the spotlight. With a 4.0-liter flat-six engine that delivers 485 horsepower and a weight of just 2,778 pounds, this track-ready beast was driven by British racer James Wallis to a time of 48.05 seconds, showcasing its superior engineering directly from the racetracks.
4. Subaru GL Family Huckster - 47.50 Seconds
In a delightful turn of events, Subaru introduced the GL Family Huckster specifically for Goodwood, establishing a record as the fastest wagon to take on the hill. Despite a dramatic crash into hay barrels, Travis Pastrana still managed a time of 47.50 seconds before the mishap, demonstrating not just speed but also the vehicle's rugged charm.
3. Gurney Eagle-Chevrolet FA74 - 47.34 Seconds
The Gurney Eagle-Chevrolet FA74, a beauty from 1974, proved that age is just a number. This Formula 5000 race car, boasting a powerful 5.0-liter V-8 engine with 600 horsepower, was driven by the talented Michael Lyons, securing a breathtaking time of 47.34 seconds. It remains a testament to the golden era of racing.
2. Subaru WRX: Project Midnight - 45.15 Seconds
Following closely behind was another masterpiece from Subaru, the WRX: Project Midnight, making its festival debut with a thunderous 670 horsepower from its 2.0-liter flat-four engine. Controlled by Scott Speed, it clocked an impressive 45.15 seconds, showcasing the brand's ongoing commitment to speed and performance.
1. Ford SuperVan 4.2 - 43.99 Seconds
And finally, taking the crown for the fastest time at this year's event was the astonishing Ford SuperVan 4.2. With professional driver Romain Dumas behind the wheel, this electric wonder lapped the hill in an unbelievable 43.99 seconds. Powered by a staggering 1,400 horsepower, seeing such a massive vehicle achieve that speed is a jaw-dropping sight.
Conclusion
The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed offered unforgettable moments and exemplified what drives automotive excellence. From timeless classics to cutting-edge technology, the vehicles that conquered the hill display the endless possibilities of engineering and performance. As we look ahead to next year, one can only wonder what future masterpieces will take their place on this iconic stage.