The Ginetta Akula is a car that stands out, not just for its performance but also for its polarizing design. Unveiled as a concept in 2019, the Akula has drawn mixed reactions for its unconventional aesthetics, with some considering it one of the less visually appealing cars on the market. However, despite its looks, it's hard not to appreciate the engineering and power behind this track-focused machine. Weighing in at just 1,190 kg, the Akula is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V8 that produces an impressive 600 hp, sending all that power to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. This combination promises an exhilarating driving experience, making it a car that not only dominates the track but can also be driven to and from it with ease.
Ginetta has designed the Akula to be practical enough for both track use and regular road driving. Unlike some supercars that require transportation to the track on a trailer, the Akula is built for convenience and performance, ensuring you won’t regret driving it yourself. This is thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber construction, steel roll cage, and advanced aerodynamic package. Derived from Ginetta's G61-LT-P1 LMP1 race car, the aero setup includes a flat floor, turning vanes, a large rear wing, and a diffuser, all designed to increase downforce and enhance handling. Though Ginetta hasn't released specific downforce figures, the setup is undoubtedly effective in keeping the car planted at high speeds.
At the heart of the Akula lies the 6.4-liter V8 engine, which is mounted in front of the driver but positioned behind the front axle for optimal weight distribution. This setup is similar to that used in some front-engine, rear-wheel-drive supercars like Ferrari’s V12-powered models. The engine itself is a bespoke creation by Ginetta, featuring a billet aluminum block and a titanium valve train. It delivers its peak power at 7,200 rpm and generates 670 Nm of torque at 5,100 rpm. With these specs, the Akula can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 290 km/h. While these figures may not make it the fastest supercar on the market, the availability of a six-speed manual transmission sets it apart from many of its automatic-only competitors. For those who prefer a more modern driving experience, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is also offered, driving power to the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential.
The Akula’s suspension system is track-ready, featuring double wishbones, billet uprights, and pushrod-operated dampers that can be electronically adjusted from the cockpit. The front and rear anti-roll bars are manually adjustable, adding to the car's motorsport credentials. For those seeking even more braking power, a carbon brake upgrade is available in place of the standard steel rotors.
In addition to its high-performance capabilities, the Akula offers a surprising level of practicality for a supercar. It features a 100-liter fuel tank, giving it a range of 724 km, and a 473-liter trunk for added convenience. Inside, the Akula boasts modern amenities like wireless phone charging and an infotainment system with Apple iOS integration, though the interior remains focused on performance with a race-inspired steering wheel.
Ginetta is limiting production of the Akula to just 20 units, and the company's chairman, Lawrence Tomlinson, has already claimed the first one. This leaves only 19 cars for buyers who can see past the car’s unusual looks and appreciate the raw driving experience it offers. For those seeking a manual transmission in a market increasingly dominated by automatics, the Akula could be a compelling option.