The racing world is fascinating for almost every motor enthusiast, who would give anything to be behind the wheel of a single-seater. Aston Martin has already tried to attempt a similar operation with its extraordinary Valkyrie. And now, Tour-de-Force introduces the TDF-1, which is not heading into any of the current racing series but will allow its owners to experience the feeling experienced by Formula 1 pilots.
Basically, the British company has managed to put old Formula 1 cars within everyone’s reach, transforming them into cars that private customers can use completely independently.
The TDF-1 is based on the acquisition of the 2011 and 2012 Marussia, and Sauber racing cars by Tour De Force and retrofitted with more durable and easier-to-drive engines. The original 2.4-liter V8 racing engines are replaced by a 1.7-liter turbo-four-cylinder that delivers 600 horsepower (447-kilowatt) at 9,000 rpm, which is half as fast as the original engines. The transmission is also replaced with a six-speed, sequential semi-automatic magnesium housing.
Although this engine does not sound much like the original, designers say it still has accelerations of up to 100km in less than 2 seconds and a maximum speed of over 320km (200mph). The TDF-1 with a wheelbase of 3400 mm has a total length of 5200 mm, a width of 1800 mm, a height of 950 mm, and a dry weight of 600 kg. 13-inch wheels fitted with Pirelli P-Zero Formula 1 tires maintain contact with the earth’s surface.
Tour-de-Force states that compared to the actual Formula 1 single-seater, the TDF-1 has been slightly simplified to allow its pilot to concentrate on driving pleasure without having to deal with adjustments to a number of systems while driving. At the same time, the car settings were adjusted to increase its reliability and durability.
The TDF-1 intends to deliver Tour-de-Force as part of a “package” that includes, in addition to the single-seater, complete support from maintenance to driving instructors with professional instructors to securing rides on selected European racing circuits where real Formula 1 races take place.
