This is the Vencer Sarthe, a new mid-engined supercar from a Dutch company you've never heard of, and it's set to make its UK debut at Salon Prive in September.
There's a reason why you've never heard of Vencer -- the company has only been around since 2010 and the Sarthe is the first car the company has ever made. And, what's more, the Sarthe hasn't even gone on sale yet.
The Sarthe, which made its world debut in Monaco in April, will only be produced in limited numbers and will be hand-made. Underneath it's based on a hybrid tubular steel space frame with a chrome-molybdenum safety structure and a rear sub-frame made of aluminium honeycomb. Vencer claims that this makes for a lightweight, super-strong and rigid chassis.
The engine is a 6.2-litre V8 borrowed from General Motors, developing 510bhp and 480lb-ft of torque. The power is channelled to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip diff, and Vencer claims the Sarthe is good for 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 204mph.
Thanks to the mid-engined layout, the Sarthe benefits from 45/55 weight distribution. In fact, Vencer is so confident in the car's handling that it has fitted the bare minimum in terms of driver aids. You do get ABS and EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution) but that's it.
Despite its lightweight body structure, the Sarthe isn't exactly a stripped-out racer when you step inside. You get climate control, electric windows, in-car entertainment, central locking and an alarm as standard. The Sarthe even gets hand-stitched leather seats.
No pricing details have yet to be released for the car but a price tag in the region of £270,000 is predicted. Vencer also predicts it will churn out between 10 and 15 cars annually, making the Sarthe very exclusive.
The Vencer Sarthe will go on show at Salon Prive in London's Syon Park from 4 to 6 September.
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