Top Gear|01. Mai
New Donkervoort P24 RS: The Most Extreme Lightweight Supercar! | 4K
Donkervoort P24 RS: The Hyper-Evolved Lotus 7 – A Summary
The Donkervoort P24 RS is a 780 kg (1,720 lb) front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a 600 hp 3.5L twin-turbo V6. It's a radical evolution of the Lotus 7 concept.
Historical Context
- 1978: Donkervoort imported Lotus 7 to the Netherlands, but homologation issues led to in-house development.
- Models: S7, S8, D10 (turbocharged), later Audi engines. The immediate predecessor was the F22 (2022) with a 500 hp Audi 5-cylinder.
Technical Highlights
- Chassis: Tubular high-tensile steel frame with patented X-Core carbon-fiber sandwich panels. Stiffness: 58,000 Nm/deg.
- Engine: Ford 3.5L twin-turbo V6 with custom turbos for improved response. Three power modes: 400, 500, and 600 hp (via rotary dial).
- Transmission: 5-speed manual (manufacturer deems 6th unnecessary).
- Weight: 780 kg, power-to-weight ratio over 770 hp/tonne.
- Suspension: Tractive dampers, no anti-roll bars. Adjustable from 0 (passive) to 5 (maximum stiffness).
- Brakes: Optional carbon-ceramic (smallest ever seen).
- Tires: Bespoke Nankang tires for ultra-lightweight; standard high-performance tires don't heat up.
- Aerodynamics: Optional aero kit with wider front splitter and C-shaped rear wings (40 min fit time) generates 90 kg (198 lb) downforce per axle.
- Performance: 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) in 7.4 s, top speed over 186 mph (300 km/h; tested 174 mph/280 km/h).
Driving Impressions
- Interior: High-quality but minimalist. Seating position reminiscent of a Ferrari 812 Superfast. Physical buttons for climate, seats, drive modes. Optional power steering and ABS.
- Engine & Gearbox: Aggressive, industrial sound. Tall gearing (1st to 62 mph/100 km/h). Short but slightly notchy shifter; rev-matching absent in prototype.
- Handling: Mild understeer transitioning to oversteer. Exceptional traction. Brakes are superb. On the highway at 174 mph (280 km/h), some wandering.
Verdict
The P24 RS combines Lotus 7 agility with supercar luxury. It's extremely fast, beautifully crafted, and engaging. Price: from £312,000 (approx. €298,000 plus taxes and options). Only 150 units built. A standout car that preserves the essence of lightweight driving.
