The Toyota GT One was presented at the test sessions for Le Mans in May 1998. Shocking for its absolutely unique aesthetic, it accompanied expectations with good results. The three Toyota GT1 marked excellent times, placing themselves in 2nd, 5th and 10th in the trials. They were ahead of the top category prototypes.
Toyota's goal was modest, hoping to place their cars in good positions and continue technical development. The rankings proved a pleasant experience for the Japanese, as all three cars placed very well in second, seventh and eighth place in the starting grid. The pole was left for the Mercedes Benz CLK GTR.
During the 1998 race, Toyota's expectations were fading away. After half the race, one of the cars had a major accident. Subsequently, the GT One #29, which led the competition, had technical flaws that forced him to retire. The only Toyota to complete the race finished in ninth position. The competition was won by the Porsche 911 GT1, followed by a Nissan R390 GT1.
Since the GT1 category had been above the LMP (supposedly higher), both ACO and FIA agreed to amend the regulations for next year. This category changed to LMGTP. Mercedes and Toyota adapted their vehicles to these changes, while Porsche chose to retire. Nissan instead moved to the LMP category of homeless prototypes.
For 1999 Toyota dominated the tests and rankings for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Three GT One were introduced, qualifying 1st, 2nd and 8th for the race.
The process of the race was alarming for the Toyota team, the remains of asphalt raised on the track were too abrasive for their Michelin tires. Two cars suffered tire punctures that ended in heavy accidents. Cars could not be repaired.
With the abandonment of Mercedes Benz and Audi, plus the problems suffered by the other teams, Toyota still maintained the leadership of the race. Again, a problem with tires forced the last Toyota to enter pits and change tires. This waste of time allowed the BMW of the LMP category to overcome it and win the competition.
The Toyota GT One driven by Ukyo Katayama, Keiichi Tsuchiya and Toshio Suzuki finished the race in second place. His consolation prize was to have been the winner of his category (LMGTP).
Reality indicates that the technology and design criteria used by Toyota engineers were excellent. The car was highly competitive and many of the design solutions used can still be applied in current racing prototypes .
Rear wheel drive
Power: 600 hp at 6,000 rpm
Top speed: 380 km/h
Carbon fiber monocoque chassis with aluminum honeycomb
© Adrián Blanco 2007 - No full or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —
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