Cadillac LMP 02

As Cadillac celebrates its 100th birthday in 2002, one of the first presents to be unwrapped is the all-new Cadillac Northstar Le Mans Prototype (LMP). With an aerodynamic new body design, an updated engine package and a performance-driven team, the second-generation Cadillac LMP 02 represents a bold break from the past for young Team Cadillac. Designed under the direction of GM Racing by Nigel Stroud, the Cadillac LMP's carbon fiber monocoque chassis and suspension components were fabricated in Brackley, England, and assembled at the team's headquarters near Atlanta. An extensive testing program is planned leading up the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 15-16, 2002. The Cadillac LMP 02 will also compete in selected American Le Mans Series events in North America.

The design team utilized the full range of sophisticated tools that are now available to race car constructors: computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), finite element analysis (FEA), and three-dimensional solid modeling. Wind tunnel and seven-post tests then validated the Cadillac's performance under carefully controlled conditions.

The Cadillac LMP 02's high nose directs airflow under the car while respecting the LMP rules that require a flat bottom between the front and rear wheels. This flat surface can, however, generate significant downforce through ground effect - the interaction between the moving vehicle and the fixed track surface. By shortening the wheelbase, undesirable changes in the vehicle's attitude are minimized, allowing the flat bottom to maintain a positive rake angle and produce consistent aero loads. Wind tunnel tests have demonstrated substantial improvements in both lift and drag over the first-generation LMP 01.

Safety considerations also figured prominently in the design of the Cadillac LMP 02. A Formula 1-style cockpit surrounds the driver while head restraints molded from shock-absorbing foam cradle the helmet's back and sides. An innovative pedal box assembly provides an extra measure of protection for the driver's lower extremities.

The double wishbone suspension employs F1-style cast stainless steel uprights that mount six-piston monoblock brake calipers and carbon fiber discs. The power steering is electronically assisted.

General specifications
Country of origin United States
Produced in 2002
Numbers built N/A
Body design N/A
Weight 900 kilo / 1984.2 lbs

Drivetrain
Engine Northstar 90º V 8
Engine Location Mid , longitudinally mounted
Displacement 4.000 liter / 244.1 cu in
Valvetrain 4 valves / cylinder, DOHC
Fuel feed Bosch Fuel injection
Aspiration Twin Garrett turbos
Gearbox XTrac 6 speed Sequential
Drive Rear wheel drive

Performance figures
Power 600 bhp / 448 KW @ 7500 rpm
Torque N/A
BHP/Liter 150 bhp / liter
Power to weight ratio 0.67 bhp / kg
Top Speed 322 km/h / 200 mph
0-60 mph Acceleration N/A