Subaru has become well known for setting time attack records with its WRX STI Type RA. Last year it claimed the unofficial Nurburgring record for sedans with a 6:57.5 lap. The Type RA also holds the car lap record on the Isle of Man TT course.
Now Subaru can add another record to its books: the Transfagarasan Highway. Officially known as National Road 7C in Romania, the Transfagarasan is considered to be one of the best driving roads in the world.
Stretching for 84 kilometers (52.2 miles), and containing 688 corners, the Transfagarasan presents many challenges even when tackling the road at normal speeds. Subaru had the road closed to attempt the record run, with the car piloted by British rally champion Mark Higgins and co-driver Darren Garrod.
Constantly changing weather forced Higgins to abandon his record attempt three times. Once the weather cleared, Higgins had a window to go for one last attempt of the day.
Overcoming the tight hairpin bends, fast straights and sheer drops, Higgins took the 600 horsepower STI to a record 40 minutes 58.08 seconds. That makes it the fastest time ever set on the Transfagarsan.
We will watch with curiosity as to where Subaru will set its next record. For those wanting to experience the Type RA for themselves, the Isle of Man record car is available in Gran Turismo Sport.
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