The Praga Bohema: A New Contender in the Supercar Arena
When you think of supercars, names like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren probably come to mind. But let’s take a moment to shine a spotlight on a lesser-known player that’s making waves in the automotive world: the Praga Bohema. This remarkable machine has recently set a new lap record for pure combustion-powered cars at the iconic Top Gear test track, outpacing even the formidable Koenigsegg Jesko. So, what’s the secret behind this underdog’s stunning performance?
What Makes the Praga Bohema Stand Out?
At the heart of the Bohema is a modified 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine sourced from the Nissan GT-R, cranked up to deliver an impressive 700 horsepower. That’s right—700 horses ready to roar. This power is funneled directly to the rear wheels, ensuring that every bit of that energy is put to good use. But it’s not just the engine that makes the Bohema special; its lightweight carbon fiber construction keeps the overall weight down to just 2,300 lbs. This combination of power and weight is a recipe for speed.
The design of the Bohema is equally impressive. With its sleek, aerodynamic bodywork, it’s engineered to maximize downforce, allowing it to grip the track like few others. This attention to detail is what sets it apart from many competitors, making it a true race-bred car that’s also road-legal.
How Did It Perform on the Track?
To put the Bohema through its paces, Praga enlisted the help of Ben Collins, the former Stig from Top Gear. Collins is no stranger to high-performance vehicles, and his experience proved invaluable. On his first lap, he clocked a time of 1:12.3, already besting the Ferrari 488 Pista’s 1:12.7. But Collins wasn’t done yet. With each lap, he pushed the Bohema harder, ultimately achieving a blistering 1:09.8. This impressive feat placed the Bohema just two-tenths of a second behind the Aston Martin Valkyrie, a car that’s often hailed as one of the best in its class.
Is It a Fair Comparison?
Now, it’s worth noting that the conditions under which Collins set these times were a bit different from the typical Top Gear format. In the show’s heyday, The Stig usually had just one flying lap to post a time. Collins, however, had the luxury of multiple laps to familiarize himself with the Bohema, which certainly played a role in his impressive performance. While it may not be a direct apples-to-apples comparison, it’s still a remarkable achievement for a relatively unknown brand like Praga.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Supercars?
The success of the Praga Bohema raises some intriguing questions about the future of supercars. It challenges the notion that only the big names can dominate the market. With its innovative design, powerful engine, and impressive track performance, the Bohema proves that there’s room for fresh talent in the supercar arena.
As car enthusiasts, we often gravitate toward the familiar, but the Bohema invites us to explore the exciting possibilities that come from smaller, ambitious manufacturers. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the underdogs can surprise us in the most exhilarating ways.
The big takeaway? The Praga Bohema isn’t just about speed; it’s about redefining what a supercar can be. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of the classics or someone eager to embrace the new, keep an eye on this rising star. You might just find that the future of supercars is more thrilling than you ever imagined.