700HP Brabham BT62
Priced at £1 million before taxes and options, the BT62 is the first car from Brabham Automotive, which is run by former Formula 1 racer and Le Mans 24 Hours winner David Brabham, the son of triple world champion Sir Jack. The company claims it has a long-term phased product development plan and will manufacture “high-performance vehicles which challenge and reward the driver in equal measures”, with an “ultimate goal” to compete in Le Mans 24 Hours.
The limited-run BT62 is a track-only, rear-wheel-drive two-seater powered by a 5.4-litre naturally aspirated mid-mounted V8 quad-cam engine that produces 492lb ft of torque. The car features carbonfibre body panels and weighs 972kg, giving a power-to-weight ratio of 720bhp per tonne.
Brabham Automotive says the BT62 has been “specifically designed, developed and tested to reward like no other”. The car’s name comes from the convention established by Sir Jack Brabham’s team – officially known as Motor Racing Developments, which won four F1 drivers’ and two makes’ championships during its 30-year history.
David Brabham said the BT62 started “the next chapter in the evolving Brabham story” and that it is “a car truly worthy of carrying the iconic Brabham name”.
The BT62 is 4460mm long and 1950mm wide, with a wheelbase of 2695mm. It features substantial aerodynamics including an adjustable rear wing, which the firm claims produces more than 1200kg of downforce, and has a 41/59 front-to-rear weight distribution. The power is delivered through a six-speed Holinger sequential gearbox, with steering wheel-mounted paddles.
The car has 18in wheels front and rear, with Michelin competition tyres and six-piston carbon-on-carbon Brembo brakes. In keeping with its motorsport heritage, the BT62 features a six-point racing harness, removable carbonfibre steering wheel, a 125-litre fuel tank with quick-fill connectors and a built-in air jack system.
The car will be sold in left-hand drive as standard, with right-hand drive available “on request”. Owners will become members of a Brabham driver development programme designed to develop their “physical ability and determination” to the point where they can “fully exploit” the BT62’s performance.