The Hennessey Venom F5, specifically the 6.6-liter V8 (1817 hp) Automatic variant, represents a pinnacle of American hypercar engineering. Introduced in December 2020, this model is designed to challenge established speed records and deliver an unparalleled driving experience. It’s positioned as the flagship model of Hennessey Special Vehicles, aiming for a top speed exceeding 300 mph. The Venom F5 is built around a lightweight chassis and powered by a massively powerful, twin-turbocharged V8 engine, paired exclusively with a 7-speed automatic transmission. It is a limited-production vehicle, emphasizing exclusivity and extreme performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hennessey |
| Model | Venom F5 |
| Generation | Venom F5 |
| Type (Engine) | 6.6 V8 (1817 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | December, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 2.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 2.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 2.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 300 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 500 km/h / 310.69 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 0.8 kg/Hp, 1311.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 0.9 kg/Nm, 1167.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 1817 Hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 277.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 1617 Nm @ 5000 rpm / 1192.64 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 8500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 6555 cm3 / 400.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 104.7 mm / 4.12 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 95.3 mm / 3.75 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1385 kg / 3053.4 lbs |
| Length | 4666 mm / 183.7 in. |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1960 mm / 77.17 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 1971 mm / 77.6 in. |
| Height | 1131 mm / 44.53 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm / 110.24 in. |
| Front track | 1574 mm / 61.97 in. |
| Rear track | 1584 mm / 62.36 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.39 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 390×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 390×34 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Front tires | 265/35 ZR19 |
| Rear tires | 345/30 ZR20 |
| Front wheel rims | 9.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 12J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Venom F5 is its bespoke 6.6-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine, internally designated as the “Fury” engine. This engine is not based on any existing production block; it was designed from the ground up by Hennessey’s engineers. It features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a dry-sump lubrication system for optimal oiling during extreme cornering. The twin-turbochargers are strategically positioned to minimize turbo lag and maximize boost pressure. Fuel delivery is managed by a sophisticated direct injection system. The engine produces a staggering 1817 horsepower at 8000 rpm and 1192 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. The 7-speed single-clutch automatic transmission, developed in collaboration with Ricardo, is specifically tuned for rapid shifts and durability. It’s designed to handle the immense power output and deliver seamless acceleration. The transmission features paddle shifters for driver control, although it prioritizes quick, automatic shifts for optimal performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Venom F5 Automatic delivers an incredibly visceral and rapid driving experience. The combination of the powerful engine and the quick-shifting transmission results in breathtaking acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 2.5 seconds, and the car can reach 200 mph in under 5 seconds. The automatic transmission is programmed for aggressive shifts, holding gears longer to keep the engine in its power band. While a manual transmission isn’t offered, the paddle shifters provide a degree of driver engagement. The car’s lightweight construction (around 3053 lbs) and sophisticated aerodynamics contribute to its exceptional handling and stability at high speeds. However, due to its extreme power and limited ground clearance, the Venom F5 is not intended for everyday driving; it’s a focused performance machine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Venom F5 is a highly exclusive and customizable vehicle. While not offered in traditional trim levels, customers can personalize various aspects of the car through Hennessey’s bespoke program. Standard features include a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, fully adjustable suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a minimalist interior focused on driver engagement. The interior is trimmed with high-quality leather and Alcantara. Optional extras include a premium audio system, advanced telemetry data logging, and unique paint finishes. The focus is on lightweighting and functionality, rather than opulent luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Venom F5 utilizes a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, providing exceptional rigidity and minimizing weight. The suspension system consists of double wishbones at both the front and rear, with adjustable dampers and springs. This allows for precise tuning of the car’s handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by carbon-ceramic discs with multi-piston calipers, providing immense stopping power and resistance to fade. The car features an advanced traction control system and electronic stability control to help manage the power and maintain control. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hennessey Venom F5 has garnered significant attention from automotive enthusiasts and the media. Critics have praised its ambitious performance targets, innovative engineering, and striking design. Compared to other hypercars like the Bugatti Chiron and Koenigsegg Jesko, the Venom F5 aims to offer a more raw and visceral driving experience, with a greater emphasis on driver involvement. Its relatively lower weight and powerful engine give it a competitive edge in terms of acceleration and top speed potential. However, its limited production run and high price tag make it an exclusive and unattainable vehicle for most buyers.
Legacy
The Hennessey Venom F5 represents a significant achievement in American hypercar engineering. Its innovative engine design, lightweight construction, and focus on performance have established it as a formidable competitor in the ultra-high-performance car segment. While long-term reliability data is still emerging due to the car’s recent introduction, Hennessey’s commitment to quality and engineering suggests that the Venom F5 will be a highly sought-after collectible in the future. The car’s legacy will likely be defined by its pursuit of speed and its demonstration of American ingenuity in the hypercar realm. The automatic transmission variant, while perhaps not as purist-focused as a manual, offers a unique blend of performance and accessibility for drivers seeking the ultimate in high-speed thrills.
