GROSSENHAIN, Germany — First seen in prototype form at the 1999 Frankfurt Auto Show, the second-generation YES! Roadster 3.2 is coming to North America, including a potent new turbocharged edition.
Hand-built in Germany by Funke & Will, the YES! Roadster 3.2 Turbo is powered by Audi's 3.2-liter V6, boosted to 355 horsepower and 358 pound-feet of torque, driving the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. Built of fiber-reinforced composite on an aluminum space frame and weighing just over 2,000 pounds, the 3.2 Turbo jets from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and hits a top speed of 175 mph. An even more extreme version, rated at 415 hp, can push the Roadster to nearly 200 mph.
Even in normally aspirated form, the YES! Roadster 3.2 is impressive, with 255 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque on tap. The 0-60-mph sprint takes only 4.8 seconds.
The latest versions of the Roadster feature a longer wheelbase with more front and rear overhang। The cars are handmade to customers' specs, right down to seat, pedals and switchgear. Options range from heated seats to satellite navigation. Customers can also select exterior colors and a range of cockpit materials and trim, including leather and chrome.
In preparation for a spring launch, Funke & Will has established YES! North America and expects to name its first U.S. dealers in late February. Prices will likely start at around $75,000.
