GT5 Transcripts/Lexus PETRONAS TOM'S SC430 (SUPER GT) '08

2008 was a big year for the Super GT series in Japan, as it was the year in which the Nissan GT-R was making its full comeback, having returned into racing just before its opening round.
Amidst these events, Toyota diligently worked to improve the SC430. It was only Toyota's vast resources that allowed further development on the 2008 model, with no consideration for the changes in next year's regulations. They worked simultaneously on a separate advanced development for a 2009 model.
The engine powering this car is a 4.5-liter V8 based on the commercial model, mounted towards the rear of the engine room. To balance the front to rear weight, a trans-axle layout with the transmission mounted behind the driveshaft has been implemented.
However at first the SC430 had a large handicap compared to other cars. Aerodynamic devices mounted at the underbody of the front and rear overhangs are important in creating downforce efficiently in Super GT machines, but the compact body of the original SC430 meant very short overhangs to the front and rear, insufficient for good aerodynamics.
Because of this the SC430 did not show great speed in the prior season. However for the 2008 season, they were allowed to enlarge the front and rear overhangs, to gain a level of downforce equal to its rivals. With its compact body now proving to be an advantage with its low air resistance, it showed excellent speed in high speed circuits throughout the season.
As a result, though the only win for the SC430 in the season was at the Fuji Circuit by the ZENT CERUMO team, the Petronas TOM'S team won the team championship title for the season. Thus the high development level of the car and its stable speed was successfully recorded in racing history.
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