The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed showcased some exciting highlights this year, including an epic showdown between Ford and Subaru. Former F1 driver Scott Speed drove the Subaru Project Midnight, a 670-hp track car, while Romain Dumas piloted the Ford Performance Supervan 4.2, boasting nearly 2000 horsepower. Speed’s first-time experience at Goodwood was challenging due to the narrow hill-climb course and the all-wheel-drive behavior of the Project Midnight. Despite the obstacles, Speed and the Subie qualified second, setting the stage for an intense shootout with Dumas and the Supervan on Sunday.
Travis Pastrana, known for his daring driving style, showcased the Subaru ‘Huckster,’ an 862-hp race car based on the Subaru GL wagon. Pastrana’s pursuit of a sub-45-second run ended with a crash, but his commitment to pushing the limits and entertaining the crowd was evident throughout the event. The timed shootout at Goodwood featured impressive performances, with the Ford Supervan 4.2 taking the top spot with a time of 43.9 seconds, followed by the Subaru WRX ‘Project Midnight’ at 46.1 seconds.
The Red Bull RB17, a track-only hypercar with 1200 hp, was unveiled at Goodwood, showcasing a hybrid system and a 4.5-liter V-10 engine. Designed by Adrian Newey, the RB17 bears a striking resemblance to an F1 car and promises an exhilarating driving experience. The Formula 1 paddock at Goodwood paid tribute to the legendary driver Niki Lauda, featuring a collection of his iconic Ferrari and McLaren race cars from his illustrious career.
The iconic supercars on display at the Cartier ‘Style et Luxe’ event included the 1975 Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopo,’ highlighting the work of Italian designer Marcello Gandini. The Fiat S76, known as the Beast of Turin, captivated spectators with its roaring engine and flames shooting out of its side-exit headers. The Goodwood sculpture commemorating MG’s 100th birthday showcased classic and modern MG vehicles, celebrating the brand’s rich history in the automotive industry.
Overall, the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed was a thrilling event filled with exciting races, impressive performances, and iconic vehicles, showcasing the passion and innovation present in the world of motorsport. Fans and enthusiasts alike were treated to a spectacle that celebrated the past, present, and future of automotive excellence.