Clash of Titans: New Range Rover Sport SV vs. Old SVR in a Thrilling Drag Showdown
In an epic battle of brute force and cutting-edge technology, the latest Range Rover Sport SV faces off against its formidable predecessor, the Range Rover Sport SVR, in a drag race that promises to redefine the limits of luxury SUV performance. This clash is not just about speed; it’s a testament to the evolution of Range Rover’s engineering prowess.
Introducing the Contenders
The new Range Rover Sport SV emerges as Land Rover's most potent beast yet, eschewing the traditional 5.0-liter supercharged V8 for a cutting-edge BMW-sourced turbo V8. This 4.4-liter powerhouse is set to dazzle not just in the Range Rover lineup but also in the Land Rover Discovery OCTA, signaling a shift towards electrification as the venerable AJ-V8 Gen III prepares for its swan song by the end of 2024.
Boasting a formidable 626 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, the new SV variant out-muscles its predecessor with ease. In contrast, the older SVR, though no slouch with its 567 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, starts to show its age. Yet, a noteworthy revelation awaits on the quarter-mile strip.
The Quarter Mile Clash
With the expertise of Mat Watson from carwow behind the wheel, the latest Range Rover Sport SV flexes its muscles, completing the quarter mile in an astonishing 12.0 seconds. The previous-generation SVR, piloted by Sam Maher-Loughnan, gives a valiant effort but trails slightly with a time of 12.9 seconds. Considering their hefty curb weights, these figures are nothing short of remarkable.
From a Roll: A Twist in the Tale
The drama intensifies when the race begins from a rolling start. At 50 mph, the older SVR model demonstrates a surprising prowess, managing to edge out the newer SV over a half-mile distance. This unexpected turn of events highlights the SVR's optimal torque delivery within the 3,500 to 5,000 rpm range, versus the SV’s broader range of 1,800 to 5,855 rpm.
Braking and Handling
When the rubber meets the road, the 2024 Range Rover Sport SV shows its technological dominance with superior braking performance from 100 mph, undoubtedly aided by its carbon-ceramic brakes and stickier tires. This critical advantage underscores the importance of not just straight-line speed, but also the agility and safety enhancements endowed by modern automotive innovations.
The Road Ahead
As Land Rover forges ahead with its vision of electrification, both the Range Rover Sport and its more stately sibling are poised for all-electric incarnations. Despite a recent pullback in the number of planned electric models, the journey towards sustainability remains a key priority for the British automaker. Meanwhile, over in the sleek halls of Jaguar, an exciting future with new electric models awaits, marking a new chapter in the storied legacy of these iconic brands.
Final Thoughts
This exhilarating drag race not only showcases the breathtaking capabilities of these luxury SUVs but also highlights the relentless pursuit of performance and innovation at Land Rover. As the new Range Rover Sport SV sets new benchmarks, it proudly carries forward a legacy of excellence, ready to face whatever challenges the future holds.