Because Texas.
Hennessey Performance has announced plans for a second generation of its Venom GT supercar, aptly called the Venom GT2.
Unlike the million or so dollar original's 1,244 hp turbocharged 7.0-liter V8, the engine in the new $1.25 million Venom GT2 will put out 1,500 hp, which company owner John Hennessey says computer models predict will be good for a top speed of 287 mph.
Other changes to the car include more aerodynamic bodywork, new headlights, a double bubble roof for added headroom, swing up doors and the addition of a traction control system, which might come in handy with 1,500 HP.
A 7-speed automatic transmission will also be available for the first time for the low price of $165,000.
Sealy, Texas-based Hennessey Performance has sold 10 of the original Venoms so far, which are available in coupe and convertible versions, and plans to continue offering them alongside the Venom GT2 starting next year.
The Venom has been driven as fast as 220 mph during a demonstration run on Texas’ 85 mph speed limited SH-130 highway, but Hennessey thinks it can hit 275 mph with enough room.
If anyone has a couple of miles of smooth, straight pavement, we can't think of anything better to do with it than to let them take one of these cars for a spin.