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[[File:Lexus LFA 009a.JPG|thumb|The production Lexus LFA at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show]]
[[File:Lexus LFA 009a.JPG|thumb|The production Lexus LFA at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show]]
On October 21, 2009, the production Lexus LFA was unveiled on the first press day of the 41st biennial [[Tokyo Motor Show]].<ref name=bwlaunch>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/autobeat/archives/2009/10/introducing_the_1.html|title=Lexus launches $375k LFA|work= BusinessWeek|accessdate=2009-10-21}}</ref> The vehicle was introduced by Akio Toyoda at a press conference, in which it was disclosed that the vehicle would be limited to 500 production copies. The vehicle carried the same designation as the concepts, LFA, but without the hyphen. The production designation reportedly stood for Lexus F-Series Apex.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.projo.com/projocars/content/ca_nissanleafname_11-01-09_E0G990J_v7.15792f4.html|title=Choosing a name for a new model is tricky business |work=Bloomberg|accessdate=2009-11-05|last=Inoue|first=Kae|date=2009-11-01}}</ref> The LFA was shown as the final vehicle of the press conference, following the [[Lexus LF#LF-Ch|LF-Ch]] hybrid concept. Pricing details at the show was estimated at {{USD|375,000}}.<ref name=bwlaunch/>
On October 21, 2009, the production Lexus LFA was unveiled on the first press day of the 41st biennial [[Tokyo Motor Show]].<ref name=bwlaunch>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/autobeat/archives/2009/10/introducing_the_1.html|title=Lexus launches $375k LFA|work= BusinessWeek|accessdate=2009-10-21}}</ref> The vehicle was introduced by Akio Toyoda at a press conference, in which it was disclosed that the vehicle would be limited to 500 production copies. The vehicle carried the same designation as the concepts, LFA, but without the hyphen. The production designation reportedly stood for Lexus F-Series Apex.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.projo.com/projocars/content/ca_nissanleafname_11-01-09_E0G990J_v7.15792f4.html|title=Choosing a name for a new model is tricky business |work=Bloomberg|accessdate=2009-11-05|last=Inoue|first=Kae|date=2009-11-01}}</ref> The LFA was shown as the final vehicle of the press conference, following the [[Lexus LF#LF-Ch|LF-Ch]] hybrid concept. Pricing details at the show was estimated at {{USD|85,000}}.<ref name=bwlaunch/>


The production announcement for the LFA supercar marked the 20th anniversary of the launch of Lexus.<ref name=lfaus/> Given the high cost of construction and limited production, analysts do not expect LFA sales to be profitable.<ref name=bwlaunch/> However, the coupe is intended to serve as a testbed for new car technologies, including carbon fiber mass-production, and related performance vehicle development.<ref name=ab1>{{cite web|last=Lavrinc |first=Damon |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/2011-lexus-lfa-first-drive/ |title=First Drive: 2011 Lexus LFA es malvado y de esta manera se — Autoblog |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=2009-10-26 |accessdate=2010-02-22}}</ref> At its debut, a circuit-ready model was also indicated for 2012 release.<ref name=lfar>{{cite web|url=http://www.themotorreport.com.au/44916/lexus-lfa-officially-debuts-special-model-due-in2012-video/|title=Lexus LFA Officially Debuts, “Special Model” Due In 2012|work=The Motor Report|accessdate=2009-10-22}}</ref>
The production announcement for the LFA supercar marked the 20th anniversary of the launch of Lexus.<ref name=lfaus/> Given the high cost of construction and limited production, analysts do not expect LFA sales to be profitable.<ref name=bwlaunch/> However, the coupe is intended to serve as a testbed for new car technologies, including carbon fiber mass-production, and related performance vehicle development.<ref name=ab1>{{cite web|last=Lavrinc |first=Damon |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/2011-lexus-lfa-first-drive/ |title=First Drive: 2011 Lexus LFA es malvado y de esta manera se — Autoblog |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=2009-10-26 |accessdate=2010-02-22}}</ref> At its debut, a circuit-ready model was also indicated for 2012 release.<ref name=lfar>{{cite web|url=http://www.themotorreport.com.au/44916/lexus-lfa-officially-debuts-special-model-due-in2012-video/|title=Lexus LFA Officially Debuts, “Special Model” Due In 2012|work=The Motor Report|accessdate=2009-10-22}}</ref>

Revision as of 17:50, 14 July 2010

Lexus LFA
The production Lexus LFA at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show
The production Lexus LFA at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show
Overview
ManufacturerLexus
Also calledLexus LF-A (concept)
ProductionDec 2010 – Dec 2012
(planned, 500 total, 20 monthly)
AssemblyMotomachi, Toyota City, Japan
DesignerHaruhiko Tanahashi
Body and chassis
ClassSports car
Grand tourer
Racing car
Body style2-door coupé
2-door roadster
LayoutFront-mid-engine, rear-mid-transaxle, rear-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine4.8 L 1LR-GUE V10
Transmission6-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,605 mm (102.6 in)
Length4,505 mm (177.4 in)
Width1,895 mm (74.6 in)
Height1,220 mm (48 in)
Curb weight1,480–1,580 kg (3,263–3,483 lb)

The Lexus LFA is a two-seat exotic sports coupe produced by Lexus as a concept car, "halo" vehicle, racing prototype, and production model.[1] It is the second model in the F marque line of performance vehicles from Lexus, following the IS F. Three concept versions have been shown, each debuting at the North American International Auto Show with the LF-A designation as part of the LF Series concept line. The first LF-A concept premiered in 2005, followed in 2007 by a second LF-A with a more completely furnished interior and exterior. The third version of the LF-A, a roadster model, premiered in 2008. The production model, trademarked LFA,[2] was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in October 2009.[3]

The production Lexus LFA features a new V10 engine and a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) body. CFRP materials account for 65 percent of the LFA's body composition by mass.[4] The LFA is scheduled to go into production in late 2010, with a projected run of 500 vehicles at the base price of US$85,000.[5][6] A circuit-tuned variant is scheduled for 2012.[7]

Development

2000–2004

In February 2000 the LF-A began development as a supercar project codenamed P280, which was intended to showcase the performance capabilities of Toyota Motor Corporation and its Lexus marque.[8][9] The first prototype was completed during June 2003. Prototypes of the LF-A were spotted regularly undergoing testing at Nürburgring since October 2004,[10] the famous motorsport race track in Nürburg, Germany.[11] Numerous test vehicles had been equipped with automatic retractable rear wings, and carbon ceramic brake discs.[12]

The first Lexus LF-A concept

2005–2006

In January 2005, the first LF-A concept premiered at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan as a design study with no plans for production. The first LF-A concept had an overall length of 173.2 inches (4,400 mm), five inches shorter than the Porsche 911 Turbo (996) while its wheelbase measured 101.6 inches (2,580 mm), or about nine inches longer.[13] The concept was nearly 48 inches (1,200 mm) in height about equal to the Ferrari F430 with a width of 73.2 in (1,859 mm).[13] The concept name referred to Lexus Future-Advance.[14] The first LF-A concept featured a glass roof and side cameras mounted in the side mirrors. Twin rear radiators were installed behind the rear wheels, and visible behind large screens. The rear bumper featured a triple exhaust placed in an inverted triangle formation. The wheels were shaped like turbines, and air-scoops were placed on the C-pilllars.[13] Following enthusiastic public reaction for the LF-A concept on the autoshow circuit, development continued with a greater emphasis on a possible production model.[15] Concurrently, Lexus was preparing for the launch of its long-rumored F marque series of performance vehicles, with a production LF-A being a possible future member of this lineup. Reports in 2006 suggested that the LF-A concept car had received the green-light for production,[16] however these reports were not officially confirmed.[17]

The second Lexus LF-A concept

2007–2008

Following the original LF-A concept, development time was lengthened by the switch from an aluminum frame to a carbon fibre tub, the result of engineering efforts aimed at improving the LF-A's power-to-weight ratio.[8] The LF-A was reported to draw engineering resources from Toyota's Formula One team.[9] In January 2007, a restyled LF-A concept car premiered alongside the first production F marque vehicle, the IS F sports sedan. The second LF-A concept featured a more aerodynamic exterior, a near-production interior, and F marque emblems. Later that year, Lexus GB director Steve Settle indicated plans for a V10 and hybrid version of the LF-A.[18] The hybrid version, combining a petrol engine with electric motors, would likely feature a V8 powertrain similar to that designed for the Lexus LS 600h L. LF-A test mules continued to be spotted at the Nürburgring, including early models with a large, fixed rear wing.[15] In December 2007, Auto Express reported that the LF-A had set an unofficial 7:24 lap record at the Nürburgring.[19][20]

The Lexus LF-A Roadster concept

In January 2008, Lexus displayed a roadster version of the LF-A concept car designated LF-A Roadster or LF-AR at the North American International Auto Show. Initial specifications for the roadster were a V10 engine under 5.0 L with over 500 hp (373 kW) and a top speed of over 200 mph (320 km/h).[21] Automotive photographers capturing the LF-A in various test guises had photographed a disguised drop-top test model, dubbed LF-A Spyder, on the Nürburgring as early as October 2005.[22] After its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, the LF-A Roadster was also shown at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, the United States Open Championship tournament, and at Lexus exhibits in Japan. A single LF-A racing prototype was also entered into Veranstaltergemeinschaft Langstreckenpokal Nürburgring endurance races at the Nürburgring in May 2008, competing in the SP8 class of VLN events.[23] Media reports uncovered a LFA trademark filing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in December 2008, with the concept LF-A name dropping its hyphen to become LFA for a possible production model.[2]

The LF-A concept at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show

The second LF-A concepts had an overall length of 175.6 inches (4,460 mm), and a wheelbase of 102.3 inches (2,600 mm); height remained the same as the prior concept, while width grew to 74.6 inches (1,890 mm).[24] While the original LF-A had been strictly a concept model, the second concept's design reflecting engineering analysis for possible production.[25] The exterior design had been restyled to take advantage of the flexibility offered by carbon fiber construction,[26] with improved aerodynamics and surface features aimed at improving the coupe's overall top speed.[25] The reshaped exterior featured smoother lines with additional detailing, and more curved surfaces. The aft radiator cooling vents were retained, but integrated into the rear fascia, and the lower side and front air intakes were restyled, along with the forward fascia and headlamps.[15] Designers reportedly drew inspiration from the 1965 Toyota 2000GT sports coupe, which was also produced in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout, and represented the combination of Japanese technology and design ethics in an supercar.[26] However, no design features on the LF-A were directly derived from the 2000GT.[26] The second LF-A concept and accompanying LF-A Roadster were also equipped with a retractable rear wing for improved handling at speed and a two-seat interior with a two-tone color scheme.

Aft view of the LF-A Roadster concept

2009

On August 5, 2009, Toyota's new CEO, Akio Toyoda, publicly confirmed production of the LF-A in his speech at a conference held at the Center for Automotive Research in the United States.[27] The production vehicles were expected to carry V10 engines,[28][29] putting the car in market competition with the Lamborghini Gallardo, Ferrari F430, the Porsche 911 (997), and the Chevrolet Corvette C6 ZR1. Pricing was estimated at over US$225,000,[30] and close to US$400,000.[31] In the same month, reports surfaced that coupe would be released as the LF-L to signify its appearances at Le Mans and to draw on its pre-production racing development.[32] Two LF-A prototypes had also competed at Nürburgring VLN endurance races in mid 2009. Other possible names floated in the automotive press included the Lexus GT-F,[33] and Lexus SS550.[34] In September 2009, reports in Japanese automotive magazines indicated that the 4.8 L V10 engine for the LF-A would carry a 1LR designation.[35] A report in Evo in 2009 also indicated that the LF-A V10 engine was being considered for use in the upcoming Lotus Esprit.[36] A subsequent television ad for the Japanese market showed the pre-production LFA testing at the F marque's namesake Fuji Speedway.[37]

The production Lexus LFA at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show

On October 21, 2009, the production Lexus LFA was unveiled on the first press day of the 41st biennial Tokyo Motor Show.[6] The vehicle was introduced by Akio Toyoda at a press conference, in which it was disclosed that the vehicle would be limited to 500 production copies. The vehicle carried the same designation as the concepts, LFA, but without the hyphen. The production designation reportedly stood for Lexus F-Series Apex.[38] The LFA was shown as the final vehicle of the press conference, following the LF-Ch hybrid concept. Pricing details at the show was estimated at US$85,000.[6]

The production announcement for the LFA supercar marked the 20th anniversary of the launch of Lexus.[39] Given the high cost of construction and limited production, analysts do not expect LFA sales to be profitable.[6] However, the coupe is intended to serve as a testbed for new car technologies, including carbon fiber mass-production, and related performance vehicle development.[40] At its debut, a circuit-ready model was also indicated for 2012 release.[41]

Production

Lexus began taking orders for the LFA supercar on October 23, 2009. Buyers will be selectively chosen by Lexus in the second quarter of 2010.[42] Production will begin in December 2010 as a 2011 model. Only 500 total LFA models will be made worldwide, with only 20 produced each month. Each car will be custom ordered to the customer's specifications, and will cost an estimated US$375,000, depending on options and customization.

The LFA, to be built in 500 units, at Park Lane Lexus in London's Mayfair

Following the LFA's release at the Tokyo Motor Show, Lexus unveiled a website with a 'LFA configurator' which allowed users to select exterior and interior colors, brake caliper colors, seats, steering wheel leather, and other interior designs.[43][44] In total, there are over 30 billion possible configurations.[44] Each LFA will be hand-built by a dedicated production team of engineers and specialists at Toyota's Motomatchi plant in Aichi, Japan.[45]

In the North American market 150 LFAs will be sold through a two year lease program much like the Ferrari F50. This is to prevent owners from reselling the vehicle for a profit.[46] Racing driver Scott Pruett was hired to give test drives to interested buyers, demonstrating the vehicle's capabilities at Auto Club Speedway. The Lexus division of Toyota Motor USA will stop taking orders at the end of 2009. In the European market buyers order their LFA through a single Lexus dealer located in Park Lane, London where it is purchased outright.[47]

During LFA production, each vehicle will receive a plaque which is individually numbered, indicating the unit's place in the production run. Each LFA V10 engine will also bear the signature of the specialist who assembled it.[45] With 20 units produced monthly, production of the entire LFA run will last from December 2010 to December 2012.

Overview

Engine

LFA 1LR-GUE V10 display model

The Lexus LFA is powered by a 72° 4.8-liter V10 engine equipped with dual VVT-i carrying the 1LR-GUE designation with a maximum output of 560 PS (412 kW) delivered at 8,700 rpm. Its maximum torque output of 354 lb⋅ft (480 N⋅m) arrives at 6,800 rpm, 90 percent of which is available from 3,700 rpm. The engine redlines at 9,000 rpm, but with a fuel cutoff set at 9,500 rpm,[48] and is constructed using forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods, and solid titanium valves. Dry sump lubrication prevents engine oil starvation through high speed corners and lowers the engine's center of mass. Air is fed directly from beneath the hood through a visible slit passing into a dual stage variable intake manifold and then into ten individual throttle bodies before finally exiting from a dual stage titanium muffler.

Lexus LFA engine bay

The LFA's engineers selected a V10 engine over an equivalent displacement V8 engine for its higher revs,[42] and over a V12 for its lower reciprocating mass,[42][11] allowing for more rapid engine response. Lexus claims their engine can rev from idle to its redline in 0.6 seconds and an analog tachometer needle could not accurately track the LFA's changes in engine speeds. This necessitated the use of digital tachometer which can instantly display engine speed.[49] The engine reportedly weighs less than the manufacturer's own 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 engine. Engineers attempted to make the engine sound like that of a Formula One car with high revs, while at the same time maintaining reliability and vibration control. Along with other manufacturers such as Ferrari, Toyota had produced their own F1 engines and chassis designs.[9] The exhaust note was meant to sound like the "roar of an angel",[50] and a US television spot later used the engine sound to shatter a champagne glass via resonance frequency.[51]

Lexus LFA 1LR-GUE V10
LFA engine revving
Problems playing this file? See media help.

The powerplant gives the LFA a power-to-weight ratio of 5.9 lb/hp and enables it to reach a top speed of around 202 mph (325 km/h).[52] Like the IS F Yamaha co-developed the engine cylinder heads. The engine exceeds Euro V emissions. The engine is installed with a front mid-engine placement.[53] According to Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi a front engine layout was selected instead of a mid engine layout as it is inherently more forgiving dynamically, affording less experienced drivers a wider safety net.[54]

The LFA front counter gearbox, torque tube and transaxle

Transmission

The gearbox itself is a six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (electrohydraulic transmission) operated with paddle-shifters developed and constructed in-house by Toyota. The driver can select from four settings: auto, normal, sport, and wet. The manufacturer quotes minimum up-shift times of 200 ms in the sport mode. According to Tanahashi a dual-clutch transmission was tested but the design team felt gear changes were overly smooth, resembling that of a traditional automatic and they preferred more abrupt and mechanically engaging shifts. The auto mode and low speed performance suffer as a result.[55] A Torsen limited slip differential is also applied on the LFA,[3] and a launch control system is available.[44] An offset gear mounted to the crank (a world first [40]) sends power via a torque tube to the transmission. The carbon-fiber torque tube system was developed because of the rear placement of the transmission and low engine layout.[40] The transmission gear ratios are as follows:[56]

LFA speedometer TFT
Rev indicator menu
Gear 1 2 3 4 5 6 Reverse Final Drive
Ratio 3.231 2.188 1.609 1.233 0.970 0.795 3.587 3.417

Chassis

The Lexus LFA's frame is made from an in-house designed and manufactured carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) center monocoque with aluminum front and rear subframes. The subframes, which can be removed and replaced minimizing potential repair costs, are joined to the monocoque using a newly developed aluminum flanged collar designed to create a stronger joint.[3] According to the manufacturer, the quality of the CRFP material matches that of aeronautical grades and is weaved by a laser monitored circular loom, one of only two in the world.[40] Overall 65% of the vehicle's total body mass is CFRP material while the remaining 35% is aluminum.[4] Manufacturer data indicates that the use of CFRP saves 100 kg (220 lbs) over equivalent aluminum materials.

LFA chassis cutaway display

An electric power steering rack with a 14.3:1 gear ratio is used. The front suspension utilizes a double-wishbone arrangement and there is a multi-link arrangement at the rear with coil-over dampers at all wheels. The dampers are a monotube design, each with a remote fluid reservoir that includes an expanding and contracting bellows, this is a purely mechanical system. The LFA further features six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembo monobloc brake calipers with 390 mm (15.4 in) front and 360 mm (14.2 in) rear carbon ceramic discs controlled by Toyota's Electronically Controlled Brake brake-by-wire system. Forged 20-inch BBS wheels fitted with 265 mm (10.4 in) front and 305 mm (12.0 in) rear Bridgestone next-generation Pontenza tires are standard.[53] The LFA is equipped with a 3-mode Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) stability control system with Sport setting.[44]

Side view of matte black Lexus LFA, showing carbon ceramic brakes

To maintain a near ideal weight distribution, a rear transaxle is used, in addition to the mounting of the fuel tank ahead of the rear axle and the radiators at the rear. The windshield washer fluid reservoir is mounted in the center next to the fuel tank to improve further the center of weight. Overall 48% of the LFA's mass is distributed along the front wheels with 52% at the rear.[57] The 73 liter fuel tank itself saddles the exhaust system keeping weight centered along the left-right axis. The engine is connected to the transaxle via a rigid carbon-fiber torque tube which the exhaust system runs directly below.[3] This stacked driveshaft and exhaust arrangement decreases the width of the center tunnel allowing for centrally located seating.

Exterior

The production Lexus LFA has an overall length of 177.4 inches (4,510 mm), while its wheelbase measures 102.6 inches (2,610 mm), with a height of 48 inches (1,200 mm) and width of 74.6 in (1,895 mm).[56] Compared to the prior 2007–2008 concepts, the production model is nearly 2 inches (51 mm) longer, with identical width, height, and nearly same wheelbase dimensions.[24][56] The exterior design of the LF-A concepts and the final production model was the work of car stylists led by Lexus Design general manager Kengo Matsumoto.[9][26]

Overhead view of the Lexus LFA with carbon fiber roof

The LFA body features sharp edges and cutoffs for improved aerodynamic performance, made possible by the carbon fiber body.[42] The body was designed with an emphasis on downforce. There are air scoops located over the rear fenders which feed the aft-mounted radiators and help cool the brakes.[40] A horizontal hood gap also feeds air to the engine.[40] Two small aft vents expel air that is collected by an underbody air scoop and used to cool the titanium exhaust pipes.[40] Dual hood ducts serve to move hot air away from the exhaust manifold.[40]

The LFA's speed-sensitive rear wing incorporates a Gurney flap and deploys at speeds over 50 mph.[42] With the wing retracted the LFA's body has a drag coefficient of Cd 0.31.[42] The LFA body is offered with a choice of 28 standard exterior colors,[40] along with 3 wheel colors and a matte black option. Additional "special colors" are available to order.[43] The front and rear fenders, doors, roof rails, and rocker panels are made out of blast fiber reinforced sheet panels, while the tail lamps are light-emitting diode (LED) lights.[40]

The two-seat LFA cockpit

Interior

The LFA interior incorporates carbon fiber, leather, alcantara, and metallic surfaces. There are two bucket seats, and Lexus' Remote Touch controller interface. The interior design uses bespoke materials and colors.[44] The instrument display is a digital thin-film transistor (TFT) speedometer with color-changing background, size-changing numbers, and side-appearing submenus.[42]

The production LFA interior, customizable to owner specification

In operation the TFT display shows small digits in automatic mode; larger and bolder numbers in normal mode; inverted colors, moved redline, and stark numbers in sport mode, along with a programmable redline warning color change.[44] The tachometer display also features an electric movable metal ring. The LFA further features a new driver and passenger seat-belt airbag design[42] increases similar to the S-Class ESF safety concept car.

The steering wheel features a right-mounted start button and alloy paddle-shifters.[42] To activate the vehicle the driver must insert the key beside the steering wheel then press the start button.[58] Two octaves of engine sound are channeled into the cabin via twin ducts which connect the firewall with intake manifold, with the sound tuned in the manner of an Ovation guitar.[44] A 12-speaker Mark Levinson sound system with compact lightweight components was also developed for the interior.[59]

Specifications

Official specifications and performance figures for the Lexus LFA are as follows:[56]

Engine type 1LR-GUE 72° V10 Valvetrain DOHC 4-valves/cylinder, dual VVT-i
Displacement 4,805 cc (293.2 cu in) Bore x Stroke 88 mm × 79 mm (3.5 in × 3.1 in)
Compression Ratio 12.0:1 Redline 9000 rpm (rev limiter 9500 rpm)
Transmission 6-speed ASG Minimum shift times 200 ms or 150 ms
Power 560 PS (411.9 kW; 552.3 hp) @ 8700 rpm Torque 480 N⋅m (354.0 ft⋅lbf) @ 6800 rpm
Curb weight 1,480 kg (3,263 lb) Power-to-weight 5.9 lb/hp
Weight distribution 49.8:50.2 (front:rear) Top speed 326 km/h (203 mph)
0-60 mph (97 km/h) 3.6 sec.[39] (official, w/o launch control)[44] 0-100 km/h (62 mph) 3.7 sec.

Performance

Tested performance specifications for the Lexus LFA from Car and Driver†, Motor Trend‡, and Road & Track†† are as follows:

0-100 mph (160 km/h) 7.8 sec.[58]† Braking (60 mph (97 km/h)-0) <94 ft (29 m)[60]‡
0-130 mph (210 km/h) 12.9 sec.[58]† Braking (70 mph (110 km/h)-0) 156 ft (48 m)[58]†
0-150 mph (240 km/h) 18.3 sec.[58]† Slalom 74.2 mph (119.4 km/h)[61]††
1⁄4 mi (400 m) 11.8 sec.[58] (@ 124 mph (200 km/h))† Lateral acceleration 1.00 G[58] (200 feet (61 m) skidpad)†; 1.05 G [60]‡

Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi mentioned during the world's press at the Nürburgring in Germany that the LFA has lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in "better than 7 minutes 20 seconds", although no further specifics were given to the record lap.[62] The LFA appeared on Top Gear in January 2010, when Richard Hammond drove the car and had rave reviews of it. The LFA's power lap of 1.22.8[63] was the quickest wet test lap ever recorded on the Top Gear test track; it was 3 seconds faster than the nearest wet lap which was the all-wheel-drive Lamborghini Gallardo.[63] However, it was noted that the LFA cost 3 times more than the Gallardo, and is £130,000 more than the Ferrari 599 but not faster than it; Jeremy Clarkson also noted that the 202mph LFA costs 6 times more than the 193mph Nissan GTR but is not 6 times faster. In response, Evo's review of the LFA pointed out that the performance of "a Bugatti Veyron is not 12 times more than the GT-R",[64] with reviewer Chris Harris observing that no cars are 6 times more than a GT-R either.[64][65]

Car and Driver also concluded in its review of the LFA and its performance that the carbon-fiber supercar rated as a "bargain" compared to the more expensive Ferrari Enzo and Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.[42] The magazine track-tested the LFA in March 2010, finding the car quickest in manual sport mode, and recording a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of 3.7 seconds and a quarter mile of 11.8 seconds at 124 mph.[58] Motor Trend recorded a stopping distance from 60-0 mph in less than 94 ft (28.7 m), and pulled 1.05 g on their skidpad.[66] Road and Track tested the LFA at 74.2 mph through the slalom and 1.04 g on the skidpad.[61]

Nürburgring Edition

On March 15, 2010, Lexus detailed the circuit-tuned variant of the LFA, plans for which were first disclosed at the LFA official press launch the previous October.[7] The variant is officially known as the LFA Special Edition or LFA Nürburgring Edition, the latter in reference to the similar setup employed on the LFA race vehicles at the 24 Hours Nürburgring.[67][68]

The Nürburgring Edition Lexus LFA is based on the VLN racing model, shown here at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show

The model features an extra 10 horsepower from its V10 engine, bringing total horsepower to 562, a re-calibrated transmission with gear shifts made faster by 0.05 seconds, a front splitter, stiffer and more adjustable suspension, lightweight alloy wheels coated in track rubber, aerodynamic canards at the sides of the front bumper, and a large fixed rear wing.[69][67]

The special edition is a competition-focused variant, and will be available in four exterior colors, namely glossy black, matte black, orange, and whitest white.[69] The production totals are to be included in the 500-unit total LFA planned build cycle,[7] and will be limited to a 50-unit run.[68] At a base price of US$445,000, buyers will receive training sessions at the Nordschleife, accompanied by Nürburgring chief instructors, a one-night stay at the Lindner Congress and Motorsport Hotel Nürburgring, admission to the ring°werk leisure park, a Nürburgring branded jacket, and a one-year pass to the circuit.[68][70]

Hiromu Naruse died in a traffic accident on June 23, 2010, when his LFA Nürburgring Edition test prototype veered into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on[71] with a BMW 3 series near the Nürburgring, at Boos.[72] The BMW was also a test vehicle,[73] both occupants were injured, one severely; both are expected to survive.[74] All three test drivers wore helmets.[75]

Motorsport

2008

A Lexus LF-A prototype was entered on 10 May 2008 on the Nürburgring 4 hour VLN endurance race. Despite being lapped 5 times and finishing 77th[76] overall among over 200 teams, it surprisingly won the over 4000cc class SP8 [23], as all other five class entrants, including a Porsche 997 Turbo and Aston Martin Vantage, failed to finish. The best lap time of the Lexus, on the 24.4 km version used in VLN, was 9:06[23] in 3rd[77] of 23 laps, on par with old Porsche 996 GT3 Cup (class Cup3A), while the fastest SP8 cars managed 8:20s.

The Lexus LF-A prototype at the Nürburgring in 2008

Lexus also took part in the 24 Hours Nürburgring[78] on 24/25 May 2008, with four Japanese drivers including Akira Iida leading the team. The LF-A was involved in a crash just prior to the race and was hurriedly repaired in two hours to make the race.[79] As car #14, [80] it qualified 27th[81] among 223 cars, and finished 7th in the SP8 class of 11 entrants, and 121st overall, with a best lap average speed of 163 km/h (101 mph), compared to 175 km/h (109 mph) of the fastest cars.

2009

On 4 April 2009, a LF-A and a Lexus IS F entered by Gazoo Racing (which had already raced smaller cars in 2007 and 2008) finished 1st and 2nd in the SP8 class[82] in the ADAC-Westfalenfahrt VLN 4h endurance race, as all three other class entrants, a Gallardo, a Corvette and an Audi R8, failed to complete the race. In winning its second VLN 4h event, the LF-A improved its fastest lap time, with one driver completing 8:41 laps both in practice and in the race;[83] by comparison, the fastest overall race laps were 8:27 by a Dodge Viper and a Porsche 997 Cup S, both of the new SP9 class, which is close to FIA-GT3.

The 2009 24h Nürburgring race car #15 in Goodwood

The LF-A was subsequently entered into the 24 Hours Nürburgring race for the manufacturer stated purpose of obtaining feedback for fine-tuning production versions[84] along with training of support technicians.[85] Gazoo registered two LF-As and a single IS F in the SP8 class (4000cc to 6200cc), as the LF-A racecars were powered by a 4.8-liter (4805cc) V10 engine with a 9000 rpm redline.[86][87] At the 2009 24 Hours of Nürburgring endurance race held on May 23/24, the #15 LF-A[88] driven by Jochen Krumbach, Armin Hahne, Andre Lotterer, and Hiromu Naruse achieved sub-9min laps and a best time of 8:50.458, which was the fastest time in the SP8 class,[89] with a best lap speed of 172 km/h (107 mph);[89]. The fastest times by the race leaders (SP9 class) were in the 8:40 range with a best lap speed of 176 km/h (109 mph).[89] About 90 minutes from race completion, the #15 LF-A experienced a separated driveshaft and a fire which poured white smoke from the vehicle's rear section.[90] The #14 LF-A completed the race and was ranked 4th in its class and 87th overall,[89][91] behind the 3rd ranked #16 IS F[92] During the early portions of the race the #14 LF-A recorded its peak position of 14th overall.[93][94] One of the drivers of the #14 car was Toyota's new CEO Akio Toyoda, who also met Aston Martin's President and fellow race entrant Ulrich Bez at the race before deciding to build the Aston Martin Cygnet together.[95]

2010

Lexus/Gazoo again entered two cars in the 2010 24 Hours of Nürburgring, in the SP8 class over 4000cc. The “Balance of Performance” [96] required a minimum weight of 1500kg, a restrictor diameter of 34.2 mm, and a fuel tank size of 120 liter. The #50 car won its class, and finished 18th[97] overall with 142 laps, 12 laps down. The #50 car, with 4 Japanese drivers, did a fastest lap of 8:55.934 (average of 170.470 km/h [98]), which was over 20 seconds slower than the top 10 challengers, and slower than last year's performance.

The Chief Test Driver/Engineer Hiromu Naruse has died in a tragic accident testing the Nurburgring Edition of the Lexus LFA on the roads local to the Nordschleife in Germany. [99]

Sculpture models

Lexus LFA Crystallised Wind at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show

In April 2009, Lexus presented an acrylic glass sculpture LFA model, called 'Crystallised Wind', at that year's Milan Design Week exhibition at the Museo della Permanente art gallery in Milan. Commissioned in partnership with architect Sou Fujimoto, the full-sized LFA crystal sculpture had a transparent appearance, allowing viewers to see the engine, chassis, interior, and other internal components.[100] Although closely resembling the 2007 coupe concept, design elements on the LFA Crystallised Wind model differed from previous iterations of the coupe, with five-spoke wheels, different headlamp shapes, and other separate details. The vehicle was presented along with a collection of accessories, gadgets, and styling products all produced from the same acrylic materials used in the Crystallised Wind model.[101]

Lexus LF-A Salone Milano 2005 concept model at the Teatro dell'Arte in Milan

In April 2005, Lexus presented a sculptural model of the original LF-A concept at that year's Milan Design Week exhibition in Milan, Italy. Part of the marque's introductory display of its L-finesse design theme, the full-size LF-A model was presented next to a production Lexus GS model, in a design space produced by painter Hiroshi Senju, designer Junya Ishigami, and architect Kazuyo Sejima.[102] The sculpted LF-A model followed the first introduction of the LF-A concept at the North American International Auto Show in January of that year. In contrast with the production GS sedan it shared the display space with, the LF-A model did not have interior access.

Awards

In October 2009, the debut of the Lexus LFA was named among Road & Track's Best of the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show.[103] For his role in leading its development project, Top Gear awarded Lexus LFA chief engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi as one of its Men of the Year for 2009 along with Sébastien Loeb, Jenson Button, Barack Obama, and others.[104] In April 2010, the LFA topped the Stiff Magazine list of the Top 5 V10 Road Cars,[105] and in a May 2010 Motor Trend comparison won several track tests and was found to be "dynamically superior to the GT-R in nearly every category".[60] In its 2010 test of the LFA, Car gave the vehicle the magazine's maximum rating of five stars.[106] The LF-A Roadster concept received an iF product design award from the International Forum Design organization in 2008,[107] and the first LF-A concept was a recipient of an IDEA award from the Industrial Designers Society of America in the Design Explorations category of 2005's International Design Excellence Awards.[108][109] The LFA was also a finalist in the 2009 Car Design of the Year[110] and the Festival Automobile International's "most beautiful supercar of the year” awards.[111]

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