We previously detailed Volvo’s new V-8 developed for its V8 Supercars campaign, but now you can hear the beast roar. It was developed with Volvo’s performance partner Polestar and can actually trace its roots back to the old 4.4-liter unit originally sourced from Yamaha and used in the XC90 SUV.
MUST WATCH: 7,000 Horsepower Top Fuel Dragster On Dirt: Yes, It's Crazy
Of course, it’s been comprehensively adapted and modified for the stresses and strains of top-level motorsport. The engine also needed to be modified to meet the regulations for V8 Supercars, which call for engines with a maximum displacement of 5.0 liters, maximum revs of 7,500 rpm, and peak output of 650 horsepower.
Thanks to its compact size and narrow 60-degree V configuration, the B8444S is a truly unique engine on today’s racing grid. In fact, Volvo says fans should be able to recognize its sound, which has a higher pitch than that of rival units.
The first race of the 2014 V8 Supercars season is the Clipsal 500, taking place in the Australian city of Adelaide from February 27 to March 2. This means that we should see Volvo’s latest S60-based race car revealed in the next couple of weeks.
________________________________
See more videos on our YouTube sites: The Car Connection, Motor Authority, and Green Car Reports.