August 2023 Motorsports Archive: LMP1 vs IndyCar

Welcome to the August 2023 archive of British Motorsports Hub. This month we tackled a question that pops up every time fans compare endurance racing with open‑wheel action: is an LMP1 car faster than an IndyCar? Below you’ll find the full rundown, broken down by straight‑line power and corner‑handling ability.

Straight‑Line Speed: Who Wins the Drag?

When you line up an LMP1 prototype and an IndyCar on a long straight, the LMP1 usually takes the lead. These cars are built for endurance, with hybrid power units that can push well over 1,000 horsepower for short bursts. The turbo‑charged V6 plus electric motor in a modern LMP1 can launch the car past 320 km/h (200 mph) in seconds. IndyCars, while quick, top out around 360 km/h (225 mph) but rely on a naturally aspirated V6 that delivers a more consistent power curve. In a pure drag scenario, the LMP1’s extra torque and hybrid boost give it a clear edge.

That said, the advantage isn’t limitless. IndyCars are lighter, so they accelerate hard from a standstill, and on a short straight they can sometimes close the gap. The real kicker is track length: on a 2‑kilometre straight, the LMP1’s higher top speed will dominate, but on a 500‑metre sprint the IndyCar’s lower weight can keep it competitive.

Cornering and Handling: The Nimble Contender

Take the race to a circuit with tight turns, and the picture flips. IndyCars are designed for high‑downforce and agility. Their aerodynamic packages focus on generating grip in corners, letting drivers slice through hairpins at impressive speeds. The chassis is narrower and the overall weight is about 700 kg, compared to roughly 900 kg for an LMP1. This lower mass means less inertia to fight when braking and changing direction.

LMP1s, on the other hand, are built for stability over long stints. Their heavier hybrid systems and larger fuel tanks add weight, which can make them feel bulky in slow corners. Even with sophisticated aerodynamics, the extra mass means they can’t match the IndyCar’s quick direction changes. On a twisty track like Brands Hatch or Monaco, an IndyCar will typically post faster lap times.

So which car is truly faster? The answer depends on the circuit. On a power‑focused, straight‑line track like the Le Mans Mulsanne Straight, the LMP1 will leave the IndyCar in the dust. On a technical, twist‑heavy venue, the IndyCar’s lighter, more responsive design gives it the edge. It’s a bit like comparing a heavyweight boxer to a lightweight feather‑flicker – each has a realm where they dominate.

Bottom line: there’s no single winner. Speed in motorsport is a mix of power, weight, aerodynamics, and the track layout. The LMP1 shines on raw power and endurance, while the IndyCar excels at agility and cornering speed. Fans get to enjoy both worlds, and that’s what makes racing so exciting.