Last time we saw RMR's mid-engine Hyundai Genesis Coupe its 4.6-liter V8 was merely mocked up where the rear seats used to reside. Now, only weeks before its debut at the SEMA show, much progress has been made, but there's much work remaining. The four-inch exhaust -- including tiny catalytic converters -- dominates the engine bay. Headers were being fabricated while we were there.
The car will spend this week at the paint shop before returning to RMR for final assembly. Here it's obvious the stock rear suspension remains intact with the exception of the anti-roll bar, which has been relocated higher in the engine bay between the exhaust and transmission. Fabricators insist the car will run for the show, and if it does, it will be the only functional car of its caliber on the show floor.
The firewall is a close fit against the engine but allows the full range of motion from the original seats. Interior bits will include suede seats from Sparco and carbon fiber trim from RMR.
Huge V-band clamps and lots of welding will be needed to complete what's sure to be a gorgeous exhaust. One of the two collectors, above, looks like it means business.
RMR hasn't decided if it will use these scoops, which replace the rear quarter windows, to feed intake air to the V8. The other option is to route air in through holes in the decklid cover. Packaging of other components and, of course, aesthetics will contribute to these decisions.
These mirrors were originally designed for use on a Ducati motorcycle. RMR had them redesigned by building its own housings for use on the Genesis. Carbon fiber will be everywhere from the bellypan to the mirrors to the interior. Even the shark-fin antenna will be made of the stuff.
With luck, we'll be the first to test this beast when it's finished.
Josh Jacquot, Senior road test editor
greenpony says:
10:20 AM, 10/19/09
Already looks like a beast. Can't wait to see the finished product.