ultimateimp – Each year, a wave of ambitious automakers promises groundbreaking supercars, claiming unparalleled speed, power, or customization. At first glance, the Praga Bohema might seem like just another addition to this list. However, Praga stands apart, backed by over a century of expertise spanning vehicle production, from trucks and airplanes to championship-winning karts. With more than a decade of experience building track-focused race cars, Praga is no newcomer. Most impressively, the street-legal Praga Bohema isn’t just a concept—it’s now a reality, as the company delivered the first production unit to a customer in the Netherlands.
The Bohema first debuted as a prototype two years ago, but since then, Praga has intentionally operated under the radar. “We’ve quietly focused on perfecting the car before discussing it extensively,” shared Mark Harrison, Praga’s sales and marketing director. This deliberate approach ensured that the Bohema would be ready for serious customers rather than existing as a mere concept.
After seven years of rigorous development, Praga is unveiling the Bohema as a street-legal marvel that effortlessly bridges track performance and road usability. Designed with precision engineering, the Bohema promises an exhilarating driving experience. Its creators spent years perfecting every element, ensuring it delivers not only on performance but also on quality and reliability.
Praga Bohema: The Road Car That Rivals GT3 Performance
The Praga Bohema is powered by a re-engineered twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-6 engine, originally found in the legendary R35 Nissan GT-R. The engine has been meticulously modified by UK-based performance specialists Litchfield Motors. Founder Iain Litchfield facilitated the collaboration between Praga and Nissan, resulting in an engine supply deal tailored to the Bohema’s needs.
The modifications include a dry-sump conversion that reduces the engine’s overall height by 5.5 inches, improving weight distribution and allowing a lower center of gravity. Litchfield also fitted new turbos, enabling the engine to produce 700 horsepower and 535 pound-feet of torque. While these figures may seem modest compared to the hypercars of today, Praga isn’t competing in the “horsepower wars.” As chief engineer Jan Martinek explained, the Bohema is designed for driving engagement and track supremacy rather than sheer speed or brute force. With a top speed of 197 mph—perfectly suited for most racetracks—the Bohema prioritizes precision and purity in driving experience.
Praga achieves this focus through an ultra-lightweight design and advanced aerodynamics. Thanks to its full carbon-fiber body and monocoque chassis, the Bohema tips the scales at a mere 2300 pounds. Unlike many modern supercars that rely on active aerodynamics, Praga opted for a simpler, lighter solution. The fixed aerodynamics, refined in a Formula 1 team’s wind tunnel, generate nearly 2000 pounds of downforce at 155 mph. This efficiency eliminates the need for heavy hydraulics or an air brake system, keeping the car nimble and responsive.
The car’s braking is equally impressive, featuring 15.0-inch carbon-ceramic discs and six-piston calipers, which provide robust stopping power without additional aerodynamic drag. Combining lightweight construction, efficient aerodynamics, and elegant styling, the Bohema exemplifies Praga’s commitment to creating a road-legal car that rivals GT3 performance on the track.
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Reviving Legacy: How Praga Draws Inspiration from Its Rich History
Praga has ventured into uncharted territory with the Bohema, its first roadgoing supercar. However, the company is no stranger to speed and precision engineering. For over a decade, Praga has built high-performance vehicles, including the track-only R1, which debuted in 2013. This lightweight, carbon-fiber race car has competed in various championships globally, including Praga’s one-make series in the UK. Since 2023, approximately 30 R1s have been sold in the U.S., primarily for track-day enthusiasts rather than competitive racing.
“The R1 provided us with invaluable experience in creating a fast, track-focused car with advanced aerodynamics and carbon-based design,” explained Mark Harrison, Praga’s sales and marketing director. This expertise laid the groundwork for the Bohema, which balances the fine line between a race car and a roadgoing supercar.
While Praga remains relatively unknown compared to automotive giants like Ferrari or Porsche, the Bohema aims to carve its niche. Unlike traditional race cars, it features creature comforts like air conditioning and an Alcantara-lined cabin. Yet, it aspires to deliver GT3-level lap times, even on street-legal tires. This duality makes it a standout in the world of high-performance vehicles.
Praga has avoided traditional motor show circuits, choosing instead to showcase the Bohema in environments where potential buyers are likely to use it. This strategic approach highlights the company’s commitment to connecting with its target audience.
Interestingly, Praga considered alternative powertrains for the Bohema, including the Audi R8’s V-10 engine. Ultimately, the Nissan GT-R’s twin-turbocharged V-6 was selected for its reliability, emissions compliance, and the robust support from Nissan and Litchfield Motors. Unlike hypercars like the Aston Martin Valkyrie. Which demands ear protection due to its roaring V-12. The Bohema offers a more approachable and livable supercar experience while still delivering track-worthy performance.
Praga Bohema Makes Its Mark in the U.S. Market
Praga’s Bohema is setting its sights on the U.S. market, though navigating the regulatory landscape remains a challenge. The Bohema isn’t fully homologated for the U.S., but Praga is working on approval under the “Show and Display” exemption. This exemption allows limited registration for vehicles that meet specific criteria. Meaning owners could enjoy the thrill of driving the Bohema to the track, pushing it to its limits, and then heading home—all while complying with U.S. laws. The design even includes practical touches like luggage space, accommodating overnight trips.
Production of the Bohema is just beginning, with a careful ramp-up planned to maintain exceptional build quality and customer support. Praga plans to deliver the first Bohema units in the U.S. by spring. With a target of 24 units allocated to American customers over the next few years. Praga aims to build one to two cars monthly from 2026 to 2028. Producing fewer than 20 cars annually to ensure exclusivity. To support its clientele, Praga and Litchfield Motors offer a “flying doctor” service for maintenance and repair. They’re open to collaborating with local technicians preferred by owners.
Priced at over $1 million, the Bohema stands out in a competitive supercar market. Its focus on lightweight construction and aerodynamics sets it apart from heavier, hybrid-powered rivals. With its roots in motorsport and an emphasis on track performance, the Bohema provides a unique proposition for enthusiasts seeking raw driving engagement.
