At the heart of the Ginetta Akula lies a mid-mounted, naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V-8 engine. This marks a slight displacement increase from the prototype’s original 6.0-liter engine. The V-8 churns out an impressive 600 horsepower and 494 pound-feet of torque, slightly down from the original design but still more than enough to pack a punch. While these numbers may seem modest in an era of turbocharged and hybrid hypercars, the Akula stands apart due to its ultra-lightweight design, which tips the scales at just 2,624 pounds. To put that in perspective, it weighs only 172 pounds more than a Mazda Miata RF, a much smaller and less powerful sports car. One of the most appealing aspects of the Akula for driving purists is its six-speed manual gearbox, a rarity in today’s supercar market. In an age where dual-clutch automatics and paddle shifters dominate, Ginetta’s decision to offer a traditional manual transmission is a breath of fresh air. For those less inclined to row their own gears, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is available, though one might wonder why anyone would choose it given the visceral thrill of the manual.

Power is routed exclusively to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential developed in-house. For those seeking the ultimate stopping power, carbon-ceramic brakes are an optional extra, ensuring the Akula’s performance can be matched by its ability to come to a halt quickly.

Though the Akula was designed with performance as its priority, Ginetta hasn’t neglected practicality. Uniquely, the Akula features a generous 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space, making it surprisingly accommodating for long road trips. An electronically adjustable steering column, a customizable pedal box, and a massive 26.4-gallon fuel tank further enhance the Akula's grand touring credentials. In comparison, a Chevrolet Corvette C8 only boasts an 18.5-gallon tank, giving the Akula a longer driving range—up to 450 miles under conservative driving conditions.

The Akula's performance isn't just about power; it’s about how that power is delivered. Ginetta has engineered the Akula to be ultra-light, employing a carbon fiber monocoque chassis and floor to shed unnecessary weight. This dedication to weight savings contributes to its thrilling performance, allowing the Akula to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of over 180 mph.

In terms of aerodynamics, the Akula’s sharp, shark-like design (aptly named after the Russian word for “shark”) was fine-tuned in a wind tunnel. The car’s aerodynamic elements are inspired by Ginetta’s own LMP1 race car, the G61-LT-P1, giving it a competitive edge in terms of both performance and stability.

For enthusiasts willing to part with a hefty sum, the Akula is priced at £275,000 (roughly $362,300), excluding taxes and shipping. While this figure is eye-watering, it’s worth noting that the original price was significantly higher at £340,000 ($448,000). Despite the premium price tag, Ginetta reports that many of the 20 build slots have already been claimed, though a limited number are still available.

In a world increasingly dominated by hybrid and electric powertrains, the Ginetta Akula is a bold statement. It champions an old-school philosophy: naturally aspirated V-8 power, a manual gearbox, and ultra-light construction. For those who crave an unfiltered driving experience, the Akula offers a rare opportunity to own a supercar that prioritizes driver engagement over tech-laden wizardry. With only 20 units being made, the Akula is as exclusive as it is exhilarating—a true enthusiast’s machine.