2004 Koenigsegg Review

Specifications

Otherworldly Performance

Bye-bye Ferrari and Lamborghini, the Koenigsegg CCR is devastatingly quick. But whats a Koenigsegg? Consider it the alternative supercar. When that Ferrari Enzo is starting to feel a little sluggish, Koenigsegg makes something a little more exciting to spice up the garage.

The Swedish boutique automakers top model dubbed the CCR (not for Credence Clearwater Revival), features everything from the previous CC8S except for a few styling details and an increase in performance.

The new cars side air intakes have been modified, while a unique headlight treatment sets the CCR apart. Koenigsegg has also added new front splitters for downforce, a revised the rear fascia and taillights, plus larger diameter brakes and a more powerful engine.

How much power? A mere 806-hp at 6,900 rpm should get the job done, supported by an equally impressive 678 lb-ft of torque at 5,700 rpm. The high-revving 4.7-L V8 gets a Swedish Lysholm twin-screw supercharger for immediate response to throttle input, spinning it to a frenetic 7,600 rpm in the process.

The engine is managed by a specially developed Cima 6-speed gearbox incorporating an internal oil pump and oil cooler. The transmission is torque sensitive and makes use of a limited slip differential. The CCR can also be ordered with a sequential gearbox. An all-new titanium exhaust system helps to keep total curb weight down to a minimal 2,600 pounds.

Thats extremely light for a two-seat sports car with a removable hardtop, which is incidentally stowable within the 4.2 cubic feet front storage compartment. Its low mass is due to a body constructed of preimpregnated carbon fiber/Kevlar composite and lightweight hard-foam sandwich reinforcements.

Overwhelming horsepower and torque levels combine with featherweight mass for an otherworldly 3.2 second zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint. The standing quarter mile arrives in a mere 9 seconds at a blistering speed of 146 mph, while top speed is 242+ mph.

This high speed comes courtesy of an extremely slippery body shell and flat underbelly, plus venturi tunnels at the rear of car, resulting in a wind cheating Cd of 0.297.

Bringing things to an immediate halt are power assisted, ABS enhanced 362 by 32 mm vented discs front and rear, featuring 6-piston light alloy calipers. Braking from 62 mph (100 km/h), only 101.7 feet is needed for a complete stop.

The cars massive 255/35 R19 front and 335/30 R20 rear Michelin Pilot Sport 2 unidirectional tires with an asymmetric tread pattern are fitted to gorgeous magnesium alloy rims. They do as much to aid in braking as they grip the asphalt, helping the CCR achieve 1.3Gs on the 300 ft skid pad.

Aiding the tires is a semi monocoque chassis made of preimpregnated carbon fiber and with honeycomb reinforcements for optimal rigidity. The suspension components include double wishbones, pushrod-operated adjustable VPS custom racing shocks, an anti-roll bar and electronically adjustable ride height.

While it sounds like the Koenigsegg CCR is all about speed and agility, one look at the interior tells a different story. Surfaces not swathed in sumptuous leather are trimmed in bright metal or carbon fiber, put together with a fine attention to detail and sophisticated sense of contemporary style.

Some of its additional standard features include automatic climate control, central power locks, power windows, power mirrors, CD equipped audio system, a driver side airbag, hydraulic ride height control, traction control, an alarm with immobilizer, tire pressure monitoring system, a toolkit and a car cover.

Those who want a little more can order the CCR with parking sensors, a GPS navigation/tracking system, cell phone, additional noise insulation to hear the cell phone, a rearview camera, aluminum rear light casings, and 4-point safety belts.

Those who want something different than their neighbors Koenigsegg can specially order custom-made suitcases, a custom color leather interior, and a custom exterior paint color.

Some visual and performance upgrades can also include carbon fiber rear twin fin wing, carbon fiber front splitter and 378 mm brake front discs.

The last item on the list is standard, a distinctive ghost symbol honoring the Swedish Fighter Jet Squadron No. 1 which stored their fighter jets in the same hanger Koenigsegg now uses for a factory. The ghost was the Squadron No. 1s mascot.

The CCR makes a Lamborghini Murciélago seem mainstream, both in its extreme performance capability and ultimate exclusivity. For additional information about this unique automobile, visit the automakers website at www.koenigsegg.com.