2011 Lexus LFA

The new Lexus LFA marks an important moment in both the history of Lexus and the development of the supercar. A accurate "clean-sheet" design, the Lexus LFA was created by a small, amorous and committed aggregation of engineers whose accomplishment has been to advance the boundaries of technologies abstracts and engineering at every date to aftermath a car like no added to accept agitated the Lexus badge.

Constructed application avant-garde carbon fibre technology, the rear-wheel drive Lexus LFA is powered by a bespoke, high-revving 552bhp 4.8-litre artlessly aspirated V10 engine, akin to a rear-mounted six-speed consecutive automated transmission, giving 200mph-plus performance.

In the words of Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi: "The Lexus LFA is a blood supercar, a apparatus engineered to accomplish a distinct ambition - to bear a absolute active experience. Over the accomplished decade we accept pushed every abuttals in following of this ambition and I accept we accept created the best driver-orientated car we possibly could."

ENGINE

The heart of the Lexus LFA is a bespoke, naturally aspirated V10 engine that sets new standards for compact dimensions, lightweight architecture and scintillating performance. From the outset it was determined the engine should have a 4,805cc capacity, develop 552bhp and rev to a wailing 9,000rpm red line. A 72-degree angle between the cylinder heads is ideal for achieving balance in the engine for exceptionally smooth running, while providing individual, electronically controlled throttle bodies for each cylinder gives excellent throttle response.

Using a dry sump lubrication system allows the block to be positioned deep in the engine bay, lowering the car's centre of gravity and moment of inertia, and enabling the engine to handle sustained, high-speed cornering.

The V10 produces 480Nm of torque at 6,800rpm, 90 per cent of which is available from 3,700rpm all the way to the 9,000rpm red line, thanks to Dual VVT-i technology, equal length exhaust manifolds and high-volume, 12-hole fuel injectors. This gives searing in-hear acceleration at all engine speeds and in any gear: nought to 62mph takes just 3.7 seconds and maximum speed is 202mph.

With a kerb weight of 1,480kg, the Lexus LFA has a power to weight ratio of 373bhp per tonne, while specific output of 115bhp per litre is among the highest of any current supercar, aided by a high, 12:1 compression ratio, low friction internals and optimised intake and exhaust flow.

In spite of its potency, the V10 is an object lesson in compact and lightweight packaging, being about the same size as a regular V8 engine and weighing about as much as conventional V6. It is also as reliable and refined as any other Lexus power plan and exceeds Euro 5 emissions standards.

The engine was developed in conjunction with Yamaha through the established collaborative partnership between Toyota Motor Corporation and the Japanese specialist engineering company.