2010 Peugeot 908 HDi FAP Pilots: F. Montagny, N. Minassian, S. Sarrazin Team: 2010 Peugeot 908 HDi FAP #2 Race: DNF (LMP1 class) at Le Mans in 2010 Ixo - LMM 188 (diecast)
Published 05/23/18
The 908 project started development in 2005, but the car was only ready to race at Monza in 2007, finishing in first place. And just two months later, at La Sarthe, the 908 managed a 2nd place overall. Encouraged by ACO, like Audi, Peugeot was also investing in non-gasoline powered cars, so the 908 drank diesel. Powering the car was a 5496 cm³ V12 diesel turbo-charged by two Garrett turbines with 700 hp of output. To keep things light and rigid, the body was a carbon fiber monocoque. Peugeot felt that it was the best option for a closed-cockpit car. Öhlins provided front and rear (linked) suspension, steering was electrically powered, brakes were carbon fiber disks by Brembo and the wheels were BBS magnesium alloy.
At 2010’s edition of the 24 Heures du Mans, there were four 908 in the race, three racing for Team Peugeot Total and one for Team Oreca-Matmut. The four cars qualified in the 1st four positions, however, all four had to abandon – the first time no 908 finished the race. Car #2 (chassis #908-07) had to abandon on the 264th lap because of engine troubles. And I bet it was not exactly what Peugeot wanted for their 200th anniversary…
This is my third 908, and all in all a great model. Compared to my 2007 Spark car this Ixo truly holds its own. On the shelf, because of the MUCH cooler livery, it in fact looks quite better. But as expected, up close you can see it’s not as refined as the Spark. As always, Spark has the better wheels and a much nicer exhaust (a true hole, not just a black depression). Still, it’s good enough for my standards. I’m really happy with this 908 HDi FAP #2.
And I have to mention that it was a PITA to get my new car off the plinth. Because, as always, Ixo used one of those stupid TA screws 🙄. But this time a smaller one than the ones they regularly use. And of course that I didn’t have a suitable driver for that size. Stupid Ixo 😤.