2006 Gumpert Apollo

The Apollo is a new supercar built by Gumpert Sportwagenmanufaktur GmbH and based on Audi components. It's powered by a twin-turbocharged Audi V8 that has been placed mid-ship and is estimated to go from zero-to-sixty in just 3.0 seconds. The frame is a combination of chrome molybdenum alloy and steel while the body is constructed of carbon fiber. A sequential six-speed transmission with a dual-clutch system helps transfer the 650 horsepower to the wheels. The top speed of the 1100kg car is estimated at 360 km/h.

ABS, Eight-piston calipers, and fifteen-inch disc brakes on all four corners of the vehicle provide excellent stopping power.

Marco Vanetta is credited with creating the first designs of the vehicle. The goal was to create a street-legal car that was suitable for the track but also economical. By 2002 a 1:4 scale model had been created.

The company is located in Altenburg-Thuringia, near the city of Leipzig. The location was chosen due to its skilled craftsman, a large number of automotive suppliers, and economical surroundings. It is also located near the Sachsenring race track.

The Gumpert Sportwagenmanufaktur GmbH selected the mythological creature 'griffin' as their corporate symbol. This creature had a body of a lion, a head of an eagle, and symbolizes strength and velocity. It is the symbol that rules the earth and the sky, an appropriate icon to wage battle with the rest of the supercar market.

In mythological arenas, Apollo is the son of Zeus and the god of light. He helps in battle and nominates the winner.

Gumpert Sportwagenmanufaktur's goal is to homologate the vehicles for various races. In March, the Apollo achieved homologation status for the French-GT Series where it placed third out of forty competitors at Hockenheimring.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2005

Once the son of the god of war Zeus, responsible for the victory and the template for masculine beauty, he is now the namesake of the breathtakingly uncompromising super sports car that combines aesthetics and function like no other.

The Gumpert Apollo is the perfect synthesis of a road vehicle and track car. It evokes passion and driving pleasure beyond all expectations. With 650 bhp, 224 mph top speed and acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3 seconds, you would have to go a long way to find an alternative to Apollo. The complete package is available in a cost-benefit ratio that cannot be matched in this exclusive vehicle class. As a pure high-performance sports car with racing qualities that is also approved for use on the road, the Gumpert Apollo sets new standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com)

Roland Gumpert, managing director and the driving force behind the company that builds the car, has created a manufacturing environment that combines engineering excellence with wideranging automotive and racing competence. Experts within the industry are all familliar with the name Gumpert. In the mid 1970s, the long-standing Audi manager was the driving force behind the development of the vehicle 'Iltis', the original predecessor of today's 'Quattro'. In the years undere his management, Audi won a total of 25 World Rally Championship races and was the 4-time winner of the World Rally Championship.

An Exceptional Design
The silhouette of the Gumpert Apollo, which has been optimized upon numerous times after tests in the wind tunnel, reflects its above-average performance capability. In its profile, the Apollo's dynamic appearance is further enhanced by its dimensions and its streamlined, long and wide shoulder lines. The mid-engine layout is emphasized by the cockpit, which is clearly situated toward the front of the vehicle, and the long wheel base; both factors ensuring optimum driving qualities. Massive air inlets and outlets in the front, and on the side in front of and behind the doors, leave no doubt about its potency. They supply the two turbochargers and the high-performance braking system with enough fresh air to ensure that the car maintains optimum operation for the duration of the race.

Driving Dynamics Redefined


Proven Performance in a New Dimension


The impressive power of the high-performance eight cylinder engine is based on the proven V8 aggregates from Audi. This engine in standard configuration is optimized for use in racing and road vehicles and produces 650 bhp as a biturbo engine. With a weight of only 430 lbs, it plays a major role in ensuring the Apollo has an ideal weight and its fascinating driving dynamics.

Via the two exhaust gas turbochargers, the combustion chambers are force-fed fresh air that has previously been cooled to the ideal temperature in large intercoolers.

The sequential six-speed transmission, that incorporates Formula 1 know-how, guarantees the efficient implementation of the energy generated.

Purism and Luxury in the Interior

Low weight was the top priority and has been achieved by using high-tech materials. For instance both the monocoque and the integrated instrument panel are made of carbon-fiber.

The seat position is individually set for every customer with padding, upholstery, adjustable pedals, and the steering column. The Gumpert Apollo is a made-to-measure sports car and in line with this principle, customers can design the interior to meet their preferences, be it pure performance or somewhat more luxurious.

The air conditioning system guarantees the perfect interior temperature while traveling. The high-end navigation system with DVD-player and sound system helps you get from A to B and delivers in-car-entertainment. The backward facing camera integral to the system helps the driver when reversing or, as Gumpert says, simply shows him how quickly the overtaken cars disappear from view.

Source - Gumpert