LMP2 cars put in impressive performance

**LA Boy** · #1 (**permalink**) 07-19-2006, 03:46 AM

If you are not already aware, the Porsche LMP2 cars put in an impressive performance at the ALMS race in Utah recently. Not only did they chalk up thier third straight class win, but one of the two cars almost caught the LMP1 800hp diesal Audi for the overallwin, being beat by only 3/10ths of a second. I think they may be serious about competition again! It must strike utter fear in the hearts of competitors in various racing categories tohear that Porsche is coming to town, especially when the name Penske is also included. They probablyhave terrifying flash backs to the early 1970's Can Am and the all conquering 917/30.

**K-Man S** · #2 (**permalink**) 07-19-2006, 11:52 AM

This was discussed briefly in another thread, but I did get a chance to see the race on Sunday via a tape delay showing (I don't get that but oh well). To me the battle between the Spyder and the Audi was classic Porsche. The Audi had gobs more HP, even more in the higher altitude because the Spyders suffer more of a drop off and there was the Spyder carving up the corners only to lose ground in the straights. If the Audi had run into some traffic on the last lap as the Spyder had, then the Spyder would have won, as it was I still think it could have one but Lucas backed off at one opportunity on the final lap playing it safe so as not to damage either car. Whether it was superior driving skill (Lucas is quite good), or better handling/engineering, Audi must have breathed a sigh of relief that they eeked out a win over the Porsche.

You toss more HP into the Porsche and it isn't even a contest at that point. [img]/fckeditor/editor/images/smiley/MWPX/teeth_smile.gif[/img]

R_Willis · #3 (**permalink**) 07-19-2006, 03:53 PM

Yep, great race out in Utah between the Penske Spyders and the Audi R10s.

The Spyders were at somewhat of a disadvantage with their naturally aspirated engines, versus the turbo diesels of Audi in that high altitude.

I can't wait to see the RS Spyder @ La Sarthe!! (24hrs of Le Mans)

<------------------ HUGE ALMS/LeMans/LMESfan!