I drove the original SPR1 in the South of Spain where you can take liberties with speeding within reason. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Sportec's Swiss homeland, where the police are as lacking in humor as Toblerone chocolate is too sweet for my palette. Because of this, I could only use the SPR1M's full power in short bursts when I was sure no one in uniform was looking. However, the rate at which the car rocketed to double the speed limit was clearly indicative of its potential.
As a total package, the Sportec SPR1M does what it says on the tin. It looks different enough to attract knowing glances from Porsche enthusiasts, and its combination of low weight and big power put it right up there with the top-ranking supercars from big name manufacturers.
The important thing for those willing to put their names down on the waiting list is that this car is beautifully crafted in all respects as befits the product of a company with official recognition as a manufacturer. In late 2006, the Swiss transport authority granted Sportec manufacturer status, so the company can now put its own chassis and engine numbers on some of the more radically modified cars like the SPR1M.
That official accolade at last gives this small, but very experienced team of designers and engineers the recognition they deserve.
Sportec SPR1M
Layout
Longitudinal rear engine, all-wheel drive
Engine
3.6-liter flat six, dohc, 24-valve. Lightweight pistons and titanium connecting rods, custom turbochargers and intercoolers, intake manifold, ECU and fuel system
Transmission
Six-speed manual, steel synchros, modified sixth gear ratio, dual-plate clutch, 60/40 limited-slip differential
Suspension
Bilstein active damping, Sportec damping control unit
Brakes
Six-piston calipers with 380mm rotors (f), four-piston calipers with 350mm rotors (r)
Wheels And Tires
Sportec alloy, 9.0x20 (f), 12.5x20 (r)Michelin Pilot Sport 2, 245/30 (f), 325/25 (r)
Exterior
Flared rear fenders, Sportec bumpers, rear wing
Interior
Custom Alcantara and leather upholstery, Sportec instruments
Performance*
Peak Power: 858 hp @ 8020 rpm
Peak Torque: 649 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
0-62 mph: 3.0 sec.
Top Speed: 245 mph
*Sportec data