Lexus RC F GT3 - Big Expectations vs Misty Racing Abilities
Lexus has returned to the GT3 races with an RC F GT3 model, based on the RC F Coupe, but it is wider, lower and lightened to 1250 kg, with additional aerodynamic work done to the body.
Lexus RC F GT3 at Nurburgring
New car for the new beginning
The RC F GT3 is Lexus’ first project since it shelved the GTE program for the discontinued LFA. The model was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in 2014it has a 5.0-liter V8 engine with a maximum output exceeding 540 horsepower. With those characteristics, the Lexus RC-F GT3 is well equipped to hit the road and compete with the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3, Aston Martin Vantage GT3 and Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.R, depending on the series.
Rear view of Lexus RC F GT3
Ambitions are high
The main aim of the manufacturer was to take part in the European GT3 Championship, and after that in some of the US series. Once the car passed the homologation requirements, Lexus developed the car with its key partners before private teams took their own RC-F GT3s to the races.
Lexus RC F GT3 interior
Aggressive look for aggressive racer
The Lexus RC-F GT3 is 4705 mm long, 2000 mm wide and 1270 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2730 mm, while the interior is adjusted to the racing specifications. This car has quite an aggressive look with huge grills, a massive rear wing and all the necessary racing equipment clearly visible.
Lexus RC F GT3
Lexus RC F GT 3 – From Japan to Nurburgring
Lexus RC-F GT3 made its racing debut in Japan while first European outing had at Nurburgring during the fifth round of the VLN series and stood out with its amazing sound. The season of 2015 could be described as a testing season for the Lexus RC-F GT3 as it is obviously not yet ready to go on sale as a GT3-spec car. Lexus also plans to join the Pirelli World Challenge with a North American factory team in 2016, but at the moment Japanese Super GT still stands as the most important racing championship. Another plan is entering the IMSA Series in 2017, a year later than it was planned originally.
Lexus RC F GT3 at Nurburgring
Divided opinions about Lexus RC F GT3
So, it is still too early to made a final assessment of Lexus RC-F GT3’s future and success but the first impression is that this car could hardly go side by side with the other GT3 specification cars and many think that this car does not offer something exceptional in terms of racing, but the results on the track can’t hurt the Japanese luxury brand’s image.
Video – Lexus RC-F GT3 at Nurburgring
Photo: hdimagelib.com imagetrust.de/Robert Kah &Christian Hahn
