The Vemac RD350R is a Japanese low‑volume sports car developed by Vemac Car Co., Ltd. for competition in the GT300 class of the Super GT racing series. It is a racing‑oriented evolution of the Vemac RD350 road‑going model, featuring a lightweight chassis, aerodynamically‑focused bodywork, and a mid‑mounted engine.
Manufacturer and development
Vemac Car Co., Ltd., founded in 1999 by Japanese engineer Masahiko Hara and former Mazda engineer Satoshi Iwanaka, produced a limited number of high‑performance vehicles primarily for motorsport. The RD350R was introduced in the early 2000s as Vemac’s first entry into the Super GT championship, built to meet the technical regulations of the GT300 class.
Technical specifications
- Chassis: Steel tubular space‑frame with composite body panels.
- Engine: 3.5‑litre V6, derived from the Nissan VQ series, naturally aspirated, positioned mid‑engine, rear‑wheel drive. Power output was approximately 300 hp, conforming to GT300 balance‑of‑performance limits.
- Transmission: Six‑speed sequential gearbox.
- Weight: Approximately 1 100 kg (dry).
- Aerodynamics: Front splitter, rear diffuser, and a large rear wing provided downforce suitable for circuit racing.
Racing history
The RD350R debuted in the 2003 Super GT season, fielded by the “Team Vemac” outfit. Over subsequent seasons, the car achieved several podium finishes but did not secure a championship title. Its most notable result was a second‑place finish at the 2005 Autopolis round. The model remained active in the GT300 class until Vemac withdrew from Super GT competition in 2009, after which the RD350R was retired from top‑level Japanese racing.
Legacy
Although produced in limited numbers, the Vemac RD350R is recognized among enthusiasts for demonstrating the viability of small manufacturers competing against larger automotive brands in Japan’s premier GT series. The car’s design influenced later low‑volume Japanese sport‑scar projects, and a few examples have been preserved in private collections and automotive museums.
References
- Official Super GT archives (2003–2009) race results.
- Vemac Car Co., Ltd. press releases (2002–2009).
- Automotive publications covering Japanese GT racing, such as Best Motoring and Motor Fan.
