Donkervoort’s P24 RS: Trading Audi Precision for Ford Muscle

For decades, Donkervoort has been synonymous with lightweight, uncompromising sports cars powered by Audi’s legendary 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder. That engine became a defining characteristic of the brand, celebrated for its distinctive sound and punchy performance. But with the arrival of the P24 RS, Donkervoort has taken a radical turn. The company has swapped German precision for American muscle, installing Ford’s twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6—the same engine found in the Ford GT and F-150 Raptor.

A Radical Departure

• Audi Legacy Ends: The P24 RS follows the farewell “Final Five” edition of the F22, which marked the end of Audi-powered Donkervoorts.
• Ford EcoBoost V6: Offered in three power outputs—400 hp, 500 hp, and 600 hp—this engine delivers up to 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque.
• Performance Leap: The car rockets from 0–100 km/h in under 2.5 seconds, thanks to its lightweight construction and immense torque.

Engineering Marvel

Donkervoort’s philosophy has always been about extreme lightness and raw driving feel. The P24 RS continues this tradition:

• Carbon Fiber Construction: Most of the body is made from carbon fiber, keeping weight to just 780 kg (1,719 lbs).
• Aerodynamics: Removable wings and side-exit exhausts enhance downforce and airflow.
• Adjustability: Drivers can fine-tune power output, Tractive dampers, and traction control settings to suit their style.
• Cornering Ability: The P24 RS boasts up to 2.3G of cornering force, rivaling track-focused hypercars.

Design and Character

Visually, the P24 RS retains Donkervoort’s trademark madness:

• Aggressive Styling: Vented hood, exposed wheels, and side-exit exhausts give it a raw, mechanical look.
• Driver-Centric Cabin: Minimal assists, lightweight materials, and bespoke detailing emphasize purity over luxury.
• Optional Downforce Package: For track enthusiasts, additional aerodynamic elements can be fitted.

Limited Production and Pricing

• Exclusivity: Only 150 units will be built globally.
• Pricing: Starts at €298,500 (approx. $353,900).
• Target Audience: Hardcore enthusiasts who value visceral driving experiences over digital conveniences.

The Philosophy Behind the Shift

Why abandon Audi’s beloved five-cylinder?

• Performance Ceiling: The Ford EcoBoost V6 offers more scalability in terms of power and torque.
• Identity Statement: Donkervoort wants to position itself as a counterpunch to “computerized, homogenous automotive worlds,” emphasizing raw, analog thrills.
• Future-Proofing: With stricter emissions regulations, the EcoBoost V6 provides a balance of performance and compliance.

Comparison: Audi vs. Ford Power

Feature	Audi 2.5L Turbo I5	Ford 3.5L EcoBoost V6
Power Output	~400 hp	400–600 hp
Torque	~480 Nm	Up to 800 Nm
Weight (Car)	~800 kg	780 kg
0–100 km/h	~3.0 sec
Sound Profile	Distinctive growl	Deep twin-turbo roar
Production Models	F22, Final Five	P24 RS

Risks and Challenges

• Purist Concerns: Some fans may lament the loss of Audi’s five-cylinder character.
• Competition: At its price point, the P24 RS competes with established supercars from Ferrari, McLaren, and Porsche.
• Limited Appeal: Its raw, analog nature may deter buyers accustomed to modern driver aids.

Conclusion

The Donkervoort P24 RS is more than just a car—it’s a statement. By trading Audi’s refined five-cylinder for Ford’s brute-force EcoBoost V6, Donkervoort has redefined its identity. Lightweight, ferocious, and unapologetically analog, the P24 RS is aimed squarely at enthusiasts who crave unfiltered driving experiences. With only 150 units available, it’s destined to become a cult classic—a rebellious outlier in a world increasingly dominated by electrification and digitalization.