VW has officially sent Honda running when it destroyed the record Honda set for front-wheel drive cars around the famous Nurburgring in Germany. Honda had scored the record with its Civic Type R, and now VW has beaten that record by 1.4 seconds, landing in the top spot. The official time for the fastest FWD car around the Nurburgring is 7:49.21.
The car that VW used to beat the record was the GTI Clubsport S. One thing the Civic Type R has up on the Clubsport S is availability. VW plans to make only 400 GTI Clubsport S cars for the entire world, and not a single one of them will be offered to US fans.
Performance and Engineering
The Clubsport S makes an impressive 310hp and had its weight cut to 2883 pounds. That weight savings comes in part thanks to ditching the rear seat and offering the car with a lighter manual transmission only. The car’s performance is further enhanced by its very sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which provide exceptional grip on the track. The Clubsport S also features a specially tuned suspension and aerodynamic enhancements that contribute to its record-breaking performance.
The engineering behind the Clubsport S is a testament to VW’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a front-wheel-drive car can achieve. The car’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is a marvel of modern engineering, delivering power smoothly and efficiently. The lightweight construction and meticulous attention to detail in the car’s design and assembly ensure that every ounce of power is put to good use.
Comparison with Other Hot Hatches
Europeans are lucky in the vast number of hopped-up FWD hatch cars available to choose from. The GTI Clubsport S is a standout in a crowded field that includes the likes of the Renault Megane RS, Ford Focus ST, and Peugeot 308 GTi. Each of these cars has its own unique strengths and characteristics, but the Clubsport S sets itself apart with its combination of power, handling, and exclusivity.
The Renault Megane RS, for example, is known for its sharp handling and aggressive styling, but it doesn’t quite match the raw power of the Clubsport S. The Ford Focus ST offers a more practical and everyday-friendly package, but it lacks the track-focused edge of the VW. The Peugeot 308 GTi is a well-rounded performer, but it doesn’t have the same level of prestige or performance as the Clubsport S.
The exclusivity of the Clubsport S also adds to its appeal. With only 400 units being produced, owning one is a rare privilege. This limited production run ensures that the Clubsport S will remain a sought-after collector’s item for years to come.
Check out the video of the GTI Clubsport S in action.
The video showcases the car’s incredible performance on the Nurburgring, highlighting its speed, agility, and the skill of the driver. Watching the Clubsport S tackle the challenging corners and long straights of the Nurburgring is a thrilling experience and a testament to the car’s engineering excellence.
The VW GTI Clubsport S has firmly established itself as the king of front-wheel-drive cars at the Nurburgring. Its combination of power, lightweight construction, and advanced engineering make it a formidable competitor on the track. While its limited availability may be a disappointment to some, it only adds to the car’s allure and exclusivity. The Clubsport S is a shining example of what can be achieved when a manufacturer pushes the boundaries of performance and design.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.