In the world of high-performance vehicles, Subaru has always held a special place with its iconic WRX models, renowned for their rally-bred heritage and all-wheel-drive prowess. However, Subaru has now taken a significant leap forward with Project Midnight, a WRX unlike any other. This race car, built by Subaru Motorsports USA in collaboration with Vermont SportsCar, is not just a mere iteration of the beloved WRX—it is the quickest and fastest WRX ever built. Here's a deep dive into what makes this car a marvel of engineering and performance.
At the core of Project Midnight is a 2.0-liter flat-four engine, a powerhouse derived from Subaru's rallycross team. However, this is no ordinary engine. It boasts a staggering 670 horsepower and 680 pound-feet of torque, thanks to a turbocharged and intercooled setup that allows it to rev up to 9,500 rpm. This remarkable powerplant drives all four wheels, maintaining the traditional WRX all-wheel-drive configuration but with performance figures that push the boundaries of what a WRX can achieve.
Project Midnight is a visual and aerodynamic masterpiece. The car's fascia is adorned with winglets and a massive front spoiler, seamlessly integrated into aggressively flared wheel arches that give it a widebody look. The rear wing, a significantly modified version of the one used on Subaru USA's rally car, provides the necessary downforce to keep the car planted at high speeds. These aerodynamic enhancements are not just for show—they play a crucial role in the car's stability and performance, especially on tarmac surfaces. To complement its powerful engine and lightweight design, Project Midnight features a custom suspension setup specifically tuned for tarmac racing. The car rides on 18-inch wheels shod with slick tires, providing the grip necessary to harness the engine's immense power. This setup, combined with the car's wider tires and track, offers a unique driving experience that blends the raw performance of a rallycross car with the precision of a sports car.
Project Midnight is a testament to Subaru's commitment to innovation and performance. It represents the pinnacle of WRX development, blending cutting-edge technology with the brand's rich motorsport heritage. As Subaru Motorsports USA continues to push the boundaries with this extraordinary machine, enthusiasts and fans alike eagerly await the records and achievements it will undoubtedly garner. Project Midnight is not just a car; it's a bold statement in the world of high-performance racing.
Wael is an automotive content writer specializes in creating written content for Motor 283. Producing a wide range of content, including blog posts, articles, product descriptions, reviews, and technical guides related to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles, with an unprecedented passion for cars, and motorcycles.