Homemade V12 Engine Propels Land Speed Car to Jaw-Dropping 244 MPH
The thrill of completing a brake job might bring a sense of accomplishment to many gearheads, but imagine the jubilation felt by Pete Aardema, Kevin Braun, and Cal Rothe as they shattered an El Mirage Dry Lake Bed record with a blistering speed of 244 mph. This wasn't just any car; it was powered by a 6.0-liter, naturally aspirated V12 engine, meticulously crafted by Aardema and Braun. The engine is the result of years of dedication, engineering wizardry, and some creative tinkering with old NASCAR and IndyCar engines.
A Masterpiece of Engineering
Creating this beast of an engine required an intricate understanding of high-performance automotive engineering. Braun spent countless hours studying and dismantling engines to design the V12's block and cylinder head. The result? A powerplant that produces a staggering 920 horsepower and revs to an ear-piercing 9,500 rpm. The duo's efforts culminated in Rothe's astonishing land speed run, an achievement that stands as a monument to their relentless pursuit of automotive excellence.
The Symphony of Speed
One of the most captivating aspects of this V12 engine is its sound. At full throttle, it roars with a raw, raspy tone that's evocative of the world's most exotic supercars. Think McLaren F1, but with an added depth and richness that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. This symphony of speed isn't just a product of the engine's design but also of its performance. Even at half throttle, the engine leaps through its rev range, making it thrilling to witness and hear.
A Record-Breaking Run
Rothe's 244-mph blast across the El Mirage Dry Lake Bed wasn't without its challenges. As he pushed the pedal, the car squiggled and squirmed, struggling for traction past 100 mph. It wasn't until he reached around 150 mph that the car found its footing, allowing Rothe to fully unleash the V12's fury. The sight of the land speed racer tearing across the lake bed is nothing short of awe-inspiring, a testament to the team's hard work and unyielding spirit.
More Records to Break
But the story doesn't end here. Team Aardema Braun has their sights set on even greater heights. They're already working on adding a nitrous system to the V12, aiming to push their land speed car past the 259 mph mark. With their track record and absolute determination, there's little doubt they will soon break their own record, tantalizing us with another chapter in this epic saga of speed.
For those intrigued by the blend of engineering prowess and relentless ambition, the journey of Aardema, Braun, and Rothe serves as an inspiring tale. It’s a reminder of what’s possible when passion meets innovation and a touch of daring.
