Joining the Scirocco on the track will be the new Lexus LF-A concept car

Manufacturers often choose the track to fine-tune their hottest sports car models but they usually do it on private test days.

Bu this weekend Lexus and Volkswagen will use the Nürburgring 24 Hours race to show off two of their hottest pre-production cars. Keith Collantine explains.

This weekend 200,000 fans will line the border of the 25km track as 220 cars tackle the gruelling annual 24 hour race.

Among the usual mix of hard-tuned Porsche 911s and BMW M3s will be two new models not currently on sale.

Volkswagen’s Scirocco will make its first appearance in racing form. Three examples of the new coupe will hit the track, boasting 300bhp 2-litre engines and Volkswagen’s fast-shift DSG transmission.

Among the drivers will be two-times Le Mans 24 Hours winner Hans Stuck.

He said: “The Scirocco is one of the most uncomplicated racing cars I have ever driven. It’s really fun, and I am looking forward to the 24 Hours on the Nordschleife with even greater anticipation.”

Twice World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz will also drive and Volkswagen’s board member for technical development, Dr Ulrich Hackenberg will also join in the fun. Each will be sharing one car with other racers as drivers cannot tackle the enormous 24 hour race single-handedly.

Joining the Scirocco on the track will be the new Lexus LF-A concept car. Lexus has been honing its supercar since 2005 and unlike Volkswagen will be bringing a road-going example rather than a racing version.

The LF-A will only feature the safety equipment necessary to meet racing regulations such as a roll cage and special fuel tank.

The concept LF-A has a mid-mounted V10 engine good for 500bhp. Lexus expects a top speed or up to 200mph.

Keeping any car running for 24 hours of solid racing is a challenge, particularly at a track as punishing as the Nürburgring.

And the track isn’t the only challenge – the weather provides obstacles of its own. Last year’s race was interrupted for six hours due to thick fog. And with the circuit being so long it is not uncommon for some parts to be wet and the others dry.

It’s a bumper weekend for motorsport with the Nürburgring 24 Hours, Monaco Grand Prix and Indianapolis 500 all taking place.

What do you think of the Lexus LF-A? Have your say on the Auto Trader Blog.