The Jetta, a 600-horsepower car, is now the fastest in the Blown Gas Coupe category.
The Bonneville Speed Week was scheduled for August when the Volkswagen Jetta was introduced. The team that attempted to break the record encountered a problem when the Jetta’s speed caused a “silly transmission problem” on the dyno. Volkswagen had to delay the run for a month. The team could have worked 18 hours to get it done on time but decided to wait until September.
The second time everything went as planned. The specially modified Jetta reached a speed of 210.16 miles (338.15 km/h) near Wendover, Nevada, at the famous Bonneville Salt Flats. The Utah Salt Flats Racing Association’s World of Speed event saw the custom Jetta smash the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) Blown Gas Coupe class record of 208.472mph (335.50 km/h). Scott Goetz was behind the wheel, a Salt Flats veteran racer.
THR Manufacturing customized the VW Jetta 2019 to show the potential of its EA888 engine. The engine’s standard configuration will be found under the hood of the Jetta, where it will likely generate more than 200 horsepower. The Bonneville Jetta’s modified turbocharged four cylinder engine produced 600 horsepower at 8,500 rpm, according to the Dyno.
Engineers were able to get three times more power from a new turbocharger and exhaust, camshafts and valves, as well as connecting rods and connecting rods. They also kept the basic block and the crankshaft.
Other than the engine, Bonneville Jetta had to undergo other modifications in order to break the land speed record for its class. To increase traction, bespoke wheels and tires were fitted, as well as a lower suspension and a limited slip differential. To save weight, the many niceties found in the 2019 Jetta were stripped. A roll cage and a racing seat with harness were added to increase safety. To help slow the vehicle down after a high-speed run, the cabin was equipped with a fire suppression system. Two parachutes were also attached to the trunk lid.