Lexus to build GT racing version

Lexus LFA race edition – Click above for high-res image gallery

Motor Trend is reporting that Toyota's may be getting back into motorsports big-time with a GT entry based on the Lexus LFA. According to the report, Lexus would enter the FIA GT1 championship to take on the Nissan GT-R. This seems like a move downmarket for the $375,000 Lexus sports car from a marketing standpoint. GT1 is also a faltering race class that's being eliminated under the new 2011 Le Mans rules.

If Toyota wants to race the LFA, it would make more sense to head to Le Mans where it can take on Ferraris, Aston Martins and Porsches in the GT2 class. The LFA race edition (above) that's already been developed and run in the last two 24 hour races at the Nürburgring would already be close to GT2 specification and could be ready for the 2011 race season.

The Exotic Lexus

Lexus LF-A

Lexus unveiled the LF-A sports car concept at a press conference at the 2005 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The two-seat concept blends the performance of an exotic sports car with the luxury refinements of a Lexus.

Engine : V8 cylinder configuration
Safety : 2 front headrests
Front Seats : 2 person total seating capacity
In Car Entertainment : AM/FM stereo

Exterior

length: 173.2 in.
height: 48.0 in.
width: 73.2 in.
wheel base: 101.6 in.

Interior :
maximum seating: 2

Performance :
Drive type: NA
Base number of cylinders: 8
Horsepower: 500 hp

Official Lexus Site

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Lexus LS 460L

With its limousine-like rear seats, the LS 460L strives to dominate the luxury sedan market. Its hybrid version is also available, the LS 600h L.




Engine :
4.6L32-valveV8

Horsepower :
380 hp @ 6,400 rpm

Torque :
367lb-ft@4,100rpm

Transmission : 8-speed
automatic

Performance 0-100km/h :
5.4s

Length :
5.151 m

Width :
1.875 m

Height :
1.476 m

Wheelbase :
3.091 m

Base price : US$71,500

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