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TEXT: TOM LAPOINTE
Apollo, looks to cArve niche in europeAn supercAr mArket
Yet another group of designers, engineers and wealthy financiers feels compelled to bring a car to market in
the financial and performance stratosphere, and based on first impressions, the automobile world is better for
it. Named for the son of Zeus in Greek mythology, the Apollo has been engineered as a racecar and street car
combined in the same package.
Of his many attributes, the
mythological god, Apollo, was also
considered “the ideal of
manly beauty”.
timing help power the Apollo to a 224 MPH top speed and 62 MPH in three
seconds flat—presumably making 0-60 in less than three seconds.
“Engineers have constantly striven to further develop technology to the
boundaries of what is technically feasible. The results are technical masterpieces
that bring mankind one step closer to the thrill of speed and the
dream of flying and driving,” according to Gumpert marketing materials.
Of course if you’re going to go that fast, you want to be able to turn and
stop. Engineers tested the Apollo across Europe on highways and racetracks,
including Hockenheim, Zolder, Imola and Nürbergring to create
the perfect balance of speed and handling. The car’s double-wishbone
pushrod configuration transfers forces to a racecar-style inboard spring
and shock package. Ride height is actually driver-selected from about
an inch and a half to four and three-fourths inches. The standard traction-control
system allows for four different settings, depending on how
aggressive the driver is feeling. A three-level anti-lock brake system powers
six-piston calipers in the front and rear that clamp massive 14.9-inch
rotors. Street tires will be the same 19-inch Pirelli P Zeros found on the
Maserati MC12.
Based on Mr. Gumpert’s all-wheel-drive experience, it’s surprising that
Gumpert opted for a rear-drive configuration, but they must have had
their reasons. Power is transferred to the rear wheels through a 6-speed
sequential-manual gearbox with a twin-clutch configuration—the same
one in the Pagani Zonda and Lamborghini Murciélago. The gearbox is
controlled through a console-mounted gearshift and clutch pedal: there
are no paddle shifters.
“The Apollo’s cockpit reflects the function-oriented atmosphere of a racing
vehicle—without neglecting a certain amount of comfort,” states the
car’s brochure.
There is a Momo racing steering wheel (no airbags), along with a simple,
clear gauge cluster, air conditioning and a DVD infotainment system. The
interior is pretty much custom-built for each individual buyer. The seats
are actually molded into the monocoque tub, using padding and adjustable
pedals to configure the car to each driver. Buyers can configure the
interior to their primary use of the vehicle—spartan for more track use,
or luxury appointments for more street use, including leather seats and
dash.