The tiny diesel‑powered Ligier JS50 smashed the Nürburgring slowest lap record at 28:25.8, proving fun doesn’t need horsepower. Discover the full story now!
When most manufacturers chase the fastest lap at Germany’s famed Nürburgring, French niche‑car maker Ligier decided to go the opposite direction. The company entered its compact diesel‑powered JS50 and set a new benchmark for the longest official circuit time.
The Record‑Breaking Run
On a crisp morning, French journalists Nicolas Meunier and Martin Coulomb took the wheel of the Ligier JS50 and completed a full Nordschleife lap in 28 minutes 25.8 seconds. The figure shatters the previous record for the slowest lap, which belonged to the East‑German Trabant P50 from 1960 (16 minutes per second slower). For perspective, a high‑performance Mercedes‑AMG One flies around the same circuit in just 6 minutes 29 seconds.
Why the JS50 Is So Slow
The JS50 occupies the same segment as ultra‑small city cars like the Citroën Ami. Its most powerful version delivers a modest 8 hp and tops out at roughly 45 km/h (28 mph). With such limited output, the car is deliberately designed for low‑speed urban use, not track domination.
Fuel Efficiency Meets Endurance
Beyond bragging rights, Ligier highlighted the realistic challenge of covering the 20‑kilometre Nürburgring circuit on a single tank. Meunier and Coulomb managed an impressive fuel consumption of only 0.89 litre per 100 km, proving the microcar’s efficiency even on a demanding track.
Optional ‘Race‑Ready’ Kit
To turn the modest JS50 into a “track‑experience” machine, Ligier offered an accessory pack that includes a performance‑styled decal and an aerodynamic body kit. The French automaker is even considering making the kit available for purchase after the successful test run.
What the Record Means
Motor1 notes that the JS50’s achievement demonstrates that driving pleasure isn’t reserved for high‑horsepower beasts. Even a vehicle producing just 8 hp can deliver a unique and enjoyable experience – especially when you’re deliberately keeping the speed low.
In the end, mastering a slow lap around the Nürburgring may be more fun than trying to tame an outright speed monster. The Ligier JS50 reminds us that sometimes, less power leads to more character.