When we say all, we mean all of the Volkswagen Auto Group’s resources, wealth and know how. Normally, a story like this reads like David takes on Goliath or the underdog wins all. In this case, although Koenigsegg builds as many cars in a year as VW does in a few seconds, no one considers the Swedish manufacturer to be a potential loser even when taking on one of the world’s largest car makers.
In mid-September, VW’s Bugatti set a new world record when the Chiron completed the 0-400-0 km/h sprint in 41.96 seconds. Barely a few weeks later, Koenigsegg attempted the same run in considerably less time. How much less? About 5.5 seconds with a time of 36.44 seconds. That difference is the equivalent of a lifetime.
The Agera RS is powered by a 5.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces up to 1,341 horsepower and 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque. The Chiron sports an 8.0-litre quad-turbocharged W16 engine that belches out 1,479 horsepower and 1,180 lb.-ft. of torque. Both have a 7-speed dual clutch transmission but the Bug is AWD while the Egg is RWD. So how is it that the Agera is so much quicker?
Weight is the enemy. At 1,400 kg, the Koenigsegg is 600 kg (more than 1,300 lbs.!!) lighter than the Chiron and that makes a world of a difference. Just recently, the Swedes further demonstrated how fast their car is when they established a new production car speed record.
On a stretch of Nevadan highway, the Agera RS averaged 277.9 mph (444.64 km/h) and hit a top speed of 284.3 mph (454.88 km/h) on one pass, more than good enough to set a new bar. The runs were completed on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and they clearly survived the ordeal. For fun, while doing this test, the Agera once again endeavored the 0-400-0 sprint and ended up with a time of 33.87 seconds…
As it stands, the Agera RS is undoubtedly the fastest production car in automotive history. Question is: For how long? Will VW return with a 1,500++ horsepower Super Sport Chiron and crush all the infidels? Only time will tell.
