The Brabham name is synonymous with the world of Formula 1 from its highly influential racing machines to its double constructors' championship title from 1966 to 1967. With the name revived for a new no-holds-barred track toy, it means big business.
This is the Brabham BT62, which is part of Forza Horizon 5's Hot Wheels Expansion. In this expansion, the BT62 is yours to keep if you complete the Double Triple mission of the Elite Rank. Simple as that.
Before getting a little joyride with the newest Brabham masterpiece, let's have a quick tidbit about the BT62.
Founded by the son of Sir Jack Brabham, David Brabham, the new Brabham Automotive unveiled its first machine; the BT62. Built to take on the McLaren Senna GTR and the Aston Martin Vulcan, the BT62 is a track-only supercar that follows the formula of Brabham's legendary racing machines. It is limited to 70 units, a reference to Sir Jack Brabham's seven-decade racing career, and each costs 1 million GBP plus additional costs. Clients who gained control of the BT62 will have access to a driver development program that allows them to fully understand the BT62's true form.
Along with its unique aerodynamics that generates over 1,200kg of downforce and its low-slung carbon fiber bodywork that weighs less than a ton, the BT62 is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.4L V8 engine that produces 710PS of power and 667Nm of torque while mated to a rear-mounted race-spec transmission. It even comes with Michelin slick tires and six-piston brake calipers all around clamping carbon-carbon discs, a Brabham trademark.
This is unlike everything I've ever driven in my Horizon Mexico adventure. The Brabham BT62 showcases its unlimited capabilities as a track-only superweapon that can snake through corners until it makes it. From its raw V8 soundcheck to its vicious dynamics, rest assured that the BT62 is reserved only for the masterful of drivers looking to unleash its true form when needed.
Speaking of which, it's time to give the Brabham BT62 a quick drive that will demonstrate its true grit. Too bad I can't take it to the streets of Mexico because it's a track-only supercar but because this is part of the Hot Wheels expansion, playing with the life-sized Hot Wheels track is the only way to go for the BT62. Dealing against tougher opponents, the BT62 is ready to showcase its Brabham DNA on a life-sized Hot Wheels playset. Let's rock and roll, kids.
That was a close call. I thought I was going to be dead meat but a late surge by the BT62 saved the day. Well done, Brabham.
Although not suitable for road and sanctioned racing use, the BT62 is a no-holds-barred supercar that defies the rules of speed and power. Thanks to its Brabham DNA, the BT62 is truly a modern take on a motorsport legend orchestrated by Brabham. If Sir Jack Brabham is still around, he would have enjoyed this until the very end.
If you want a track-only monster that drives like there's no tomorrow, the BT62 is for you. Case closed.