Introduction
The Ultima GTR is a legendary British sports car celebrated for its raw performance, lightweight design, and customizable features. Designed primarily as a track-focused yet road-legal vehicle, the Ultima GTR has carved a niche for itself among car enthusiasts and racers. The Ultima GTR is a high-performance supercar renowned for its breathtaking speed, cutting-edge
engineering, and customizability. Developed by Ultima Sports Ltd., the GTR embodies raw power and precision, earning its place among the most iconic supercars ever built. Below, we’ll dive into the features, specifications, and performance of the Ultima GTR, supported by detailed tables for better understanding.
Key Features of the Ultima GTR
1. Engine and Powertrain
The Ultima GTR supports a variety of V8 engines, allowing buyers to configure their car’s performance to suit their preferences. It is often fitted with Chevrolet small-block V8 engines, capable of producing astounding power.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | Chevrolet V8 (small-block) |
| Displacement | 6.2L, 6.8L, or 7.0L configurations |
| Horsepower | Up to 1,020 hp (depending on engine choice) |
| Transmission | 5-speed or 6-speed manual (transaxle) |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
2. Performance
The Ultima GTR holds multiple performance records, including for acceleration and braking. It’s a supercar that delivers pure, unfiltered speed.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| 0–60 mph | 2.6 seconds |
| 0–100 mph | 5.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | Over 230 mph |
| Braking (60–0 mph) | Under 100 feet |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 500 hp per ton (approx.) |
3. Design and Aerodynamics
The Ultima GTR’s design prioritizes aerodynamics and lightweight construction, ensuring maximum efficiency at high speeds.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Chassis | Spaceframe tubular steel chassis |
| Body Material | Fiberglass with optional carbon fiber upgrades |
| Aerodynamics | Front splitter and rear wing for increased downforce |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4,010 x 1,850 x 1,070 mm |
| Weight | Approximately 990 kg (dry weight) |
4. Suspension and Brakes
The suspension and braking systems are engineered for racing precision, ensuring that the GTR handles like a dream both on and off the track.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Double wishbone with coil-over dampers |
| Rear Suspension | Double wishbone with coil-over dampers |
| Braking System | High-performance AP Racing vented disc brakes |
| Wheels | 18-inch alloy wheels |
| Tires | High-performance Michelin or Pirelli tires |
5. Interior and Customization
While performance is its primary focus, the Ultima GTR also provides room for comfort and luxury through custom options.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Seating | Two-seat configuration with bucket seats |
| Upholstery | Customizable materials (leather, Alcantara, etc.) |
| Dashboard | Race-focused instrument cluster |
| Infotainment | Optional touchscreen display and audio system |
| Air Conditioning | Optional |
6. Customizability
One of the most notable aspects of the Ultima GTR is its modular design, allowing buyers to build their car to their exact specifications.
| Customizable Aspect | Options |
|---|---|
| Engine Configuration | Multiple V8 engine choices |
| Paint and Finish | Custom colors, metallic, and matte finishes available |
| Performance Upgrades | Turbochargers, nitrous systems, and racing tires |
| Interior Design | Materials, colors, and configurations |
| Wheels and Brakes | Custom alloy wheels and enhanced braking systems |
7. Driving Experience
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Handling | Precise steering and exceptional agility make it a joy to drive on both the road and track. |
| Road Performance | Despite being track-focused, it’s street-legal and delivers an exhilarating driving experience. |
| Driver Reviews | Owners often praise its raw, unfiltered driving dynamics, comparing it favorably to supercars costing several times more. |
8. Racing Capabilities
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Track Events | Regularly used in amateur and professional racing events worldwide. |
| Performance | Exceptional lap times rivaling cars like the McLaren P1 and Porsche 918 Spyder. |
| Endurance | Built to withstand high-performance racing conditions without significant wear or failure. |
Why Choose the Ultima GTR?
1. Record-Breaking Performance
The GTR holds records in acceleration and lap times, outperforming many hypercars at a fraction of the price. Its incredible power-to-weight ratio ensures thrilling speed and precision.
2. Track and Road Capability
While the Ultima GTR is track-ready, it is also road-legal in many regions, making it a versatile choice for enthusiasts who want a dual-purpose car.
3. DIY Enthusiast Appeal
The Ultima GTR is sold as a kit car, giving buyers the satisfaction of building their own supercar. This also allows for endless personalization, from engine tuning to interior design.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to traditional supercars and hypercars, the GTR offers world-class performance at a significantly lower price, making it accessible to a wider audience of car enthusiasts.
Price of Ultima GTR
| Configuration | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Base Kit (DIY) | $20,000 – $30,000 (excluding engine and drivetrain). |
| Fully Built Model | $95,000 – $150,000, depending on the chosen engine and options. |
| Custom Builds | Prices may exceed $200,000 for bespoke builds with top-tier specifications. |
Variants of Ultima GTR Over Time
| Variant | Launch Year | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ultima GTR 720 | 2005 | Featured a 720 hp engine, setting several performance records. |
| Ultima GTR 800 | 2008 | Introduced an 800 hp engine with improved aerodynamics. |
| Ultima GTR EVO | 2015 | The evolution of the GTR series, offering up to 1020 hp with advanced customization options. |
Competition for Ultima GTR
| Competitor | Key Strengths | Key Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Ariel Atom | Lightweight, open-top design; excellent handling. | Less powerful; lacks the enclosed cabin. |
| Caterham Seven | Affordable and easy to build; exceptional agility. | Not as powerful or fast as the Ultima GTR. |
| Radical SR3 | High downforce and track performance. | More track-focused, less road usability. |
| BAC Mono | Advanced engineering, lightweight. | Limited practicality and higher cost. |
| Noble M600 | Luxurious interior with raw performance. | Significantly more expensive. |
Comparison: Ultima GTR vs Competitors
| Aspect | Ultima GTR | Ariel Atom | Radical SR3 | BAC Mono |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $95,000 – $150,000 | $75,000 – $100,000 | $100,000+ | $200,000+ |
| Top Speed | Up to 240 mph | 150 mph | 180 mph | 170 mph |
| Acceleration (0-60) | 2.6 seconds | 2.9 seconds | 3.1 seconds | 2.8 seconds |
| Track Performance | Excellent | Very good | Superior | Good |
| Customization | Highly customizable | Limited | Moderate | Limited |
Applications of Ultima GTR
| Application | Details |
|---|---|
| Track Racing | Primarily designed for track use, offering exceptional lap times and driving dynamics. |
| Road Driving | Road-legal status makes it a unique option for high-performance enthusiasts. |
| Kit Car Enthusiasts | Appeals to DIY builders who enjoy assembling their vehicles. |
| Automotive Events | Frequently showcased at car meets, racing events, and exhibitions. |
| Performance Testing | Used as a benchmark car in performance comparisons due to its raw power and lightweight design. |
Advantages of Ultima GTR
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Unmatched Performance | Exceptional acceleration, speed, and handling. |
| Customization | Allows buyers to tailor the car to their preferences. |
| Lightweight Design | High power-to-weight ratio ensures thrilling driving experiences. |
| Affordable Kit Option | DIY kits make it a budget-friendly choice for performance enthusiasts. |
| Road-Legal | Combines track capability with road usability. |
Disadvantages of Ultima GTR
| Disadvantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Limited Comfort | Minimalistic interior and lack of luxury features. |
| DIY Complexity | Assembling the kit requires mechanical expertise and time. |
| Not for Beginners | High performance and raw handling make it challenging for inexperienced drivers. |
| Track Focus | Primarily designed for the track, which may not appeal to casual drivers. |
| Maintenance Costs | Requires regular upkeep, especially for high-performance builds. |
Future of the Ultima GTR
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Innovation | Ultima continues to innovate, with possible hybrid or electric models in development. |
| Challenges | Competing with brands that have larger R&D budgets remains a challenge. |
| Legacy | The Ultima GTR’s influence on the kit car and supercar industry is undeniable. |
Conclusion
The Ultima GTR is a symbol of raw performance, engineering ingenuity, and unparalleled customization in the world of sports cars. Its unique blend of affordability (as a kit car), extreme performance, and track readiness make it a sought-after choice among automotive enthusiasts. However, it remains a niche vehicle, best suited for experienced drivers and racers who value performance over comfort. If you’re looking for a vehicle that delivers sheer thrill and unparalleled speed, the Ultima GTR is hard to beat. Despite its drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh the challenges, ensuring its place as one of the most exciting performance cars ever made.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Ultima GTR road legal?
Yes, the Ultima GTR is road-legal in many countries, though specific regulations may vary depending on local laws.
2. Can I build the Ultima GTR myself?
Yes, the Ultima GTR is available as a kit car, allowing owners to assemble it themselves or hire professional builders.
3. How much does the Ultima GTR cost?
The cost varies based on customization, but the base kit typically starts at around $50,000, with complete builds ranging upwards of $100,000.
4. What engines are compatible with the Ultima GTR?
The Ultima GTR is designed for small-block Chevrolet V8 engines, but other V8 options may also be compatible.
5. How fast can the Ultima GTR go?
The top speed of the Ultima GTR exceeds 230 mph, depending on the engine and setup.
6. Does Ultima Sports Ltd. offer a warranty?
Warranty options depend on whether the car is purchased as a kit or a complete build. Buyers should check with Ultima Sports Ltd. for details.
