The Wolf GB08 Tornado: A Champion in the CN Category

Reviews 11-27 17:14

The Wolf GB08 Tornado is a high-performance sports car designed to dominate the CN racing category. It's the successor to the highly successful Wolf GB08 Honda, which boasts an impressive racing pedigree with over 80 competition wins and multiple championship titles across Europe and Asia. The GB08 Tornado builds upon this legacy, incorporating seven years of racing experience to become a new benchmark in its class.

Engine Options and Performance

The GB08 Tornado is available in three distinct versions, each tailored for specific performance goals:

  • CN Version: This FIA-approved variant features a PSA 1.6 Turbo engine, delivering 280 hp. This version is designed to meet the regulations of the CN racing category.

  • S Version: Also equipped with the PSA 1.6 Turbo engine, the S Version boasts a more powerful output of 400 hp. This version offers enhanced performance for those seeking more power.

  • Extreme Version: The most powerful of the three, the Extreme Version features a Ford 5.2 V8 engine, generating a massive 650 hp. This version is designed for ultimate performance and pushes the limits of the GB08 Tornado platform.

All engine options share common features such as dyno development, a dry-sump lubrication system, an electric water pump managed by the ECU, a stainless steel manifold, and an oil-water heat exchanger. These features contribute to the engine's performance and reliability.

Transmission and Chassis

The GB08 Tornado is equipped with sophisticated transmission and chassis components:

Transmission:

  • CN & S Versions: These versions use a Sadev SLR82 gearbox.
  • Extreme Version: This version uses a Wolf Power RC184 gearbox.

All versions feature a paddle-activated, auto-blip, electronic gear-shift system for quick and seamless gear changes. The 6-speed gear drive system includes a torque-biasing limited-slip differential with changeable gear ratios, along with a lightweight steel flywheel and multi-plate clutch.

Chassis:

  • Carbon Fiber Monocoque: The GB08 Tornado features a lightweight and strong carbon fiber monocoque chassis that meets FIA Art.259 safety standards.
  • Aerodynamics: The car is equipped with an adjustable triplane rear wing for optimized downforce.
  • Safety: The GB08 Tornado incorporates a rear crash box that meets both FIA Art.259 and F1-2005 safety standards.

Suspension and Braking

The GB08 Tornado's suspension and braking systems are designed for high-performance handling and stopping power:

Suspension:

  • Front and Rear: The car utilizes a push-rod suspension system with a third element for enhanced stability and control.
  • Dampers: Wolf Power 2-way adjustable dampers are used for precise tuning.
  • Anti-Roll Bar: Both front and rear anti-roll bars are 5-position adjustable for fine-tuning the car's handling characteristics.

Brakes:

  • Front and Rear: The braking system features large disc brakes with monobloc calipers for strong stopping power.
  • ABS and Power Steering: Bosch Motorsport ABS and Wolf Power power steering are available as options.

Electronics and Features

The GB08 Tornado is packed with advanced electronics and features for driver control and data analysis:

  • Multifunction Steering Wheel: The Wolf Power multifunction steering wheel features paddle shifters, a backlit LCD display with 12 function pages, 12 engine maps, a fuel consumption display, shift light LEDs, and a predicted lap time function.
  • Data Acquisition: The car includes a data acquisition system with 10 analog outputs, GPS, internal accelerometer and gyro, brake pressure sensors, suspension travel logging, and steering wheel angle recording.
  • Additional Features: Other notable features include double LED headlights, traction control as an option, and a 100-liter fuel tank.

Exclusivity and Success

Beyond its performance capabilities, the Wolf GB08 Tornado offers a level of exclusivity:

  • Limited Edition Items: Owners can opt for a men's leather jacket with exclusive handcrafted finishes and an automatic chronograph watch, limited edition and matched to the chassis number.

The Wolf GB08 Tornado has already achieved significant success on the track, winning the 2017 Italian Sport Prototypes Championship in its debut season, along with several endurance races. Its performance was so impressive that it even outpaced cars in the LMP3 class. In 2019, the GB08 Tornado continued its winning streak, securing victories in multiple endurance championships across France, the United Arab Emirates, and Italy, as well as individual races in Australia and the United States.