Out to show who's boss in the 'Ring

It looks like it’s just the Japanese who are out to beat the Corvette ZR1’s record in the Nurburgring. News has it that Bertone Mantide owner Dan Watkins is looking to fund a run in the ‘Ring to best the Vette’s time. The 2009 ZR1 was able to set the record, lapping in at 7 minutes and 26.4 seconds to be the fastest ever production car to run around the dreaded ‘Ring. This does not qualify against times set by track-tuned cars such as the Viper ACR and the Radical SR8.

As for the Japanese, there has been only one contender for beating the ZR1, and that’s none other than Nissan’s R35 Skyline. But it may fall short of victory once the Mantide starts its run. Watkins is rumored to be planning a three-day rental of the ‘Ring to prepare for the record-breaking challenge. And mind you, his two million dollar Mantide is not just for show. It’s got an engine based on the ZR1 and is 80 kilograms lighter than the Vette. And as far as speed goes, a lighter car is faster in any situation.

So keep your eyes out for this one folks, because it’s the European Mantide against the American Corvette.

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/bertone-mantide-owner-eyeing-corvette-zr1s-nurburgring-record-r/