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The Gumpert Apollo is an uncompromising high-performance sports car, known for its raw engineering and track-focused design. This road test explores its unique driving dynamics and owner experiences.
The Gumpert Apollo impresses immediately with its distinctive design, featuring vast grilled ventilation openings and a prominent roof-mounted air intake that add to its imposing presence. The owner's manual hints at Roland Gumpert's perfectionism, describing a high-performance machine where every component must be meticulously adjusted for optimal performance.
Getting into the Apollo over the high sill of its carbonfibre tub is challenging, but the supportive seat, fixed in place, is set to the owner's specifications at the factory, with adjustable pedal racks, steering columns, and seat padding. The cabin is a blend of bare carbon and Alcantara, feeling both tight and purposeful. Notably, the steering wheel is removable and can only be fitted one way, and four-point harnesses add to the race-ready feel.
The dashboard features gauges for water temperature, oil pressure, and speed up to 400km/h, with Audi-sourced switchgear and a digital gear indicator. Controls for boost, fuel, oil temperature, and the start button occupy the center console. A Racelogic display allows the driver to select traction control settings with a rotary switch, best left alone by the passenger. There is even air conditioning, again using Audi components.
The sequential gearbox requires a firm hand, its lever set high and slightly rearward. Up- and downshifts are pull and push moves, with reverse selected through a button on the steering wheel and the lever. Gumpert recommends using the clutch for every shift, though it's possible to skip at high rpm. Starting the car is a deliberate process with a robust twin-plate clutch requiring careful handling to avoid stalling.
On the move, the Apollo reveals extremely precise steering with an electro-hydraulic rack, keeping low-speed turns manageable even with wide Michelin Pilot tires. The ride is comfortable yet firmly planted, comparable to classic rally cars, and the absence of understeer or body roll inspires confidence. Some background noise from gearboxes and brakes adds to the focused character, while the cooling system hums in the background.
Driving involvement is high, with downshifts managed the traditional way with throttle blips. Peak torque of 626lb ft arrives at 3500rpm, sending the car forward with explosive force once the turbos kick in. Traction control is highly adjustable, ranging from moderate to fully off for the brave. Launch control is available but discouraged for regular road use to protect the powertrain.
The Apollo's braking system, featuring large iron discs with AP calipers, is up to the challenge. A Torsen differential maintains rear-end stability. While not tested at the limit during this drive, the Apollo's Nürburgring Nordschleife achievements underline its potential.
Insights from an owner with over 8,000km of experience reveal a raw yet reliable machine, unfazed by urban traffic or mountain passes. The car is said to remain stable and glued to the road at high speeds, with impressive downforce and predictable handling even when pushed near top speed. Despite its capability and character, total production numbers were limited, with around 150 units built before Gumpert filed for bankruptcy in 2013.
Ultimately, the Gumpert Apollo stands as a singular achievement, a hypercar that balances extreme performance with day-to-day usability for those who can master its unique demands.
