Vector W2

The Vector W2 was a fully functional concept car intended for production constructed by Vector Motors in 1978. It had a Bosch fuel injected twin-turbocharged 350 cid (5.7 L) aluminum Chevrolet V8 engine that produced over 600 hp (450 kW) and over 600 ft·lbf (800 N·m) of torque.[1] The top speed was a claimed 242 mph (389 km/h).[2]

Vector W2
Overview
ManufacturerVector Motors
Production1978
Body and chassis
Classconcept car
Body style2-door coupé
LayoutRear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive
DoorsScissor
Powertrain
Engine5.7 L (350 cu in) twin-turbocharged Chevrolet V8
Transmission3-speed THM425 automatic
Chronology
SuccessorVector W8

The name comes from the "W" for Jerry Wiegert (designer and founder of Vector Motors) and "2" for the number of turbochargers. Over the time prior to production the car went through a number of improvements in performance, technology, updated styling exercises, as well as color changes. The car was displayed at international auto shows worldwide, and featured in many automotive publications. Between 1978 and 1987, Wiegert attempted to raise the money to start series of the car. In its lifetime, the car covered over 100,000 mi (160,934 km) in testing, more than any other concept car. In 1989, the final version of the W2 went into production as the Vector W8.

Currently, the Vector W2 prototype is inoperable, but is slated for restoration.

Notes

Only 17 Vector W2's were ever made, seven of which went to Asia, six went to Europe, two went to Australia, two went to the USA, and only one to South America.

The Vector W2 was used in the Remington Steele episode "License to Steele"; portrayed as the product of a fictional car company, it was called the Hunter Jet Star 6000.

The Vector W8 was featured in the 1993 movie Rising Sun starring Sean Connery and Wesley Snipes.

In early October 2023, two Vector W2's were auctioned off in the USA. Being sold to two Manhattan (NYC) based businessmen for 1.4 million and 1.2 million USD respectively.

The Vector was also featured as a vehicle in the Nintendo game Formula One: Built to Win.


References
  1. Griffin, Larry (December 1980). "Essence of Omnipotence: Vector W2". Car and Driver. Ziff-Davis. 26 (6): 36–40. Retrieved 8 July 2015.
  2. Linde, Arvids (15 April 2011). Preston Tucker & Others: Tales of Brilliant Automotive Innovators & Innovations. Veloce Publishing. p. 77. ISBN 978-1-845840-17-4. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
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