Honda announced a record time for the Civic Type R at the Nurburgring, thus dethroning the Renault Megane RS 275 Trophy-R, so far the fastest front wheel drive on the legendary German circuit. But the story is not as simple as it seems...
The Nurburgring has been, throughout its existence, a privileged stage for many battles. Also known as "Green Hell", Nurburgring is the place par excellence where drivers and brands bet their reputation, technical ability and courage.
One of the most acute battles in recent years has been between those who depend solely and exclusively on the frontal axle to transmit the horses to the asphalt. Seat, Renault and now Honda have been trying to claim the title of "fastest front-wheel drive car at the Nurburgring". And the last 365 days have been effervescent…
Times less than 8 minutes are being achieved by these mundane vitamin machines – which is impressive to say the least. The Seat Leon Cupra 280 was the first to achieve such a feat, but it didn't take long for Renault, until then the record holder, to establish with the radical Megane RS 275 Trophy-R, the time of 7 minutes and 54.36 seconds – 4 seconds less than Leon – and reclaiming the crown.
During this duel, a third suitor announced the attack on the throne. Honda infiltrated the battle, and the Civic Type R was the chosen warrior to take the record. The result? Honda recently announced for the Civic Type R a cannon time of 7 minutes and 50.63 seconds!
This steroid-fueled little family manages times that leave behind brand legends like the Honda NSX Type R, let alone its direct rivals Renault and Seat. Even recent supersports like the Lamborghini Gallardo or the Ferrari 430 get to see the rear of the Civic Type R at this circuit. It is proof of the constant and unstoppable technological evolution, especially in terms of chassis and tyres, which allows a well-prepared all ahead, even with “only” 310hp, to present results capable of matching the finest automotive aristocracy.
End of story?
Of course not! Nurburgring and its times are always a matter of debate. There is no organism that regulates the way times are obtained, so it opens the door to theories and speculations. With the Civic Type R the story is no different. Honda itself assumes that the time obtained, during May 2014, was in charge of one of its development prototypes. Engine, brakes and suspension are presented, according to Honda, identical to the Civic Type R that we may soon find on the market.
But the video reveals a “roll-cage” – a safety device, that's true… but capable of increasing the vehicle's structural rigidity (and the ability to turn), and it is known that the AC was not installed. And the point that generates most speculation concerns used tires, with Honda not revealing anything about their specification.
Not that Leon and Megane are innocent. The Leon managed less than 8 minutes thanks to an oversized braking system and super grip Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2. Options that can currently be purchased through an equipment package called Sub8, of course. And the limited Megane RS 275 Trophy-R is closer to a racing car than a road car. Not even the back seats survived to set the record. Where is the versatility of the classic hot-hatch?
The Megane RS 275 Trophy-R is to the Megane RS what a Porsche 911 GT3 RS is to a 911 GT3. A real circuit animal!
In the midst of this ruckus, Honda promises to return this year to the German circuit to dispel all doubts, with a 100% production version. The discussion around the times can even be ridiculous – something men will say… -, but an unavoidable fact is the performance potential that these machines have. And the Civic Type R reveals itself to be one of the most serious actors in the category. Ridiculous or not, it is common ground that we have a topic of conversation here for many outdoor conversations between friends.
