Due to the rules set out by the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA), the team could not make major changes to the car’s exterior. However, that wasn’t the case for what was under the hood. The vehicle started its life as a stock R-Line Beetle coupe. The R-Line coupe has a six-speed transmission and an EA888 turbocharged and direct-injection 2.0-liter TSI engine, which lets it go 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, but it needed to go much faster than that to break the record.
Among the modifications were two turbochargers, forged pistons and conrods, a modified powertrain, and a new suspension system. After it was finished, the LSR went from producing 210 hp to 543 hp, in addition to making 421 lb-ft of torque at the wheels. Thus, the fastest Beetle ever was born. Other modifications included a roll cage, racing seat and harness, and a fire suppression system. It also had special Salt Flats tires and a limited-slip differential to give it better traction on the unique surface.
