Ultima isn’t a well-known brand in South Africa. To our knowledge, there is just one on local soil. You can see that car in this bespoke gallery of images shot at the recent Knysna Hillclimb. The British automaker has been building Le Mans-inspired road cars for over two decades. This weekend the all-new Ultima RS broke cover.

Racecar looks

The Ultima RS is a new range-topping model from this small-scale manufacturer. As per its predecessors, the newcomer draws its design inspiration from Group C racers of the 1980s. Like those cars, the RS has a raft of aero addenda like a fugitive from the racetrack. The dramatic appearance includes a massive front splitter, F1-style vortex generators, a roof-mounted air scoop, a large rear diffuser, and fixed rear wing with a goose-neck mount.

High performance

The Ultima RS has a GM-sourced V8 under that rear engine cover. Buyers can choose between three output levels. The base model RS has a 6,2-litre V8 with 358 kW. A step up is a supercharged 6,2-litre V8 with 485 kW. Order the full-fat version and the Ultima RS will come fitted with a supercharged 6,2-litre V8 that has 597 kW. If you are brave Ultima will turn that up to 895 kW. Ultima says the RS tips the scales at 930 kg, which should translate to performance that is more than a little brisk.

Click here to read about another British lightweight supercar, the T.50.

All engine options are mated exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels. From the company’s press blurb: “The Ultima RS is a real driver’s car and therefore is only available with a six-speed manual shift gearbox and a clutch pedal.”

The bespoke Ultima designed 19-inch lightweight forged wheels are suspended by double wishbones at each corner. If you need, Ultima can fit a front ride height hydraulic lift kit. AP Racing 362 mm grooved brake discs are clamped by 6-pot brake calipers.

Bare bones

The Ultima RS interior isn’t luxurious but it does have air conditioning, navigation, a rearview camera, parking sensors, and leather- or Alcantara-upholstered seats. The RS is available in left- or right-hand drive. Let us know when you take delivery of yours.

You can learn more about the Ultima RS from its official site.