Hennessey Blackbird: a naturally aspirated, manual-transmission hypercar

Hennessey has unveiled its third hypercar: the Blackbird. This new hypercar deliberately distances itself from the power records set by the Hennessey Venom GT and Venom F5, as well as those of other manufacturers and instead focuses on analogue driving pleasure. The car is fitted with a naturally aspirated V8 engine paired with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Inspired by the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance aircraft, the car is highly streamlined with a sharp edge running along the side of the bodywork. It also features active vertical stabilisers that automatically deploy at 71 mph (115 km/h). 

The all-new 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine was developed in collaboration with Ilmor Engineering and is estimated to deliver 800-850 hp, whilst capable of revving to over 9,000 rpm. According to Hennessey, acceleration from 0-60 mph takes 2.5 seconds and the top speed is 220 mph (354 km/h). The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox with a gear lever that sends all the power to the rear wheels.

The Blackbird has no infotainment display or digital dashboard. Instead, a large central rev counter and physical buttons dominate the interior. Designed for touring, the car weighs less than 1,360 kg and has boot space for two small suitcases.

Production is limited to just 71 units worldwide, with prices starting at 2.5 million dollars excluding taxes. Deliveries to customers are expected to begin between 2029 and 2030. Although the Blackbird has been approved for the major global markets, the chances of us seeing it here in Europe are not particularly high. But for those looking for a hypercar that prioritises the connection with the driver over pure performance figures, the Blackbird offers a fine analogue alternative.