Driver Survives Gunther Werks Porsche 911 Turbo Prototype Rollover at Laguna Seca
Overview
A prototype of the Gunther Werks Turbo, a modified Porsche 911 Turbo by Gunther Werks, met a tragic fate in a rollover accident at Laguna Seca. The driver miraculously emerged without injuries despite the severe damage to the car.
Testing of the Gunther Werks Turbo
Gunther Werks’ latest creation boasts a 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 700 horsepower in track mode. With a mere weight of 2,700 pounds, it offers a power-to-weight ratio similar to that of a Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, making it a formidable machine on any track.
The Rollover Incident
During testing last week at Laguna Seca, the car veered off the track, eventually flipping onto its roof, causing significant damage. Though the exact circumstances remain unclear, the driver, speculated to be Porsche factory racing driver Patrick Long, remarkably escaped unscathed.
Safety Measures and Protocols
Gunther Werks confirmed that the driver was promptly checked by medical personnel and cleared of any injuries. The prototype, lacking some safety features, serves as a reminder of the importance of robust safety measures in high-performance vehicles.
Conclusion
Despite the harrowing crash, the driver’s survival underscores the significance of safety preparations in extreme driving scenarios. This incident also serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges associated with pushing the boundaries of automotive performance.
FAQs
What caused the Gunther Werks Porsche 911 Turbo prototype to rollover at Laguna Seca?
The exact cause of the rollover is unknown. The car veered off the track during testing and landed on its roof, sustaining significant damage.
Who was the driver involved in the rollover accident?
While the driver’s identity has not been officially confirmed, there are speculations that it might have been Porsche factory racing driver Patrick Long.
Did the driver sustain any injuries in the rollover?
Remarkably, the driver was reported to have walked away from the rollover without any injuries, despite the severity of the crash. He was thoroughly checked by medical professionals as a precaution.
What safety measures were in place during the testing of the Gunther Werks Turbo prototype?
The driver was reported to be in full race gear and seated in an FIA-homologated race seat. However, the prototype lacked some safety features that would be present in the final production models.
Are there any updates on the condition of the Gunther Werks prototype after the rollover?
Gunther Werks has not provided detailed updates on the condition of the prototype post-rollover. However, it’s likely that the incident will prompt a thorough review of safety protocols for future testing endeavors.
