Blackbird combines a naturally aspirated V8 engine with a six-speed gated manual.
Hennessey targets 800-850 horsepower and a curb weight below 3,000 pounds.
The new Blackbird will accelerate to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 220 mph.

Hennessey has moved well beyond its tuner roots to become a dedicated supercar manufacturer. Years have passed since the Venom GT debuted, and the F5 that came after is nearing its sixth year on the market.

The Texas firm now introduces its third original model: the Blackbird. Named after the famed Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance aircraft, the car returns to classic performance principles.

2029 Hennessey Blackbird

Photo by: Hennessey Special Vehicles

High-Revving V8, Not Much Weight

Hennessey collaborated with Ilmor Engineering on the new engine. The 6.2-liter unit is expected to produce 800 to 850 horsepower and rev beyond 9,000 rpm. Power reaches the rear wheels in a car lighter than a Nissan Sentra. The goal is a dry weight under 3,000 pounds.

Achieving that target requires carbon-fiber bodywork throughout. Hennessey created a dedicated full-carbon structure for the Blackbird, so it shares no major components with the Venom F5. Two unique 20-inch wheel styles will be offered, fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires.

If the power and weight figures are met, the manual supercar should sprint to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. Top speed is projected at 220 mph, still short of the McLaren F1 record of 240.1 mph set in 1998.

Photo by: Hennessey Special Vehicles

Like the legendary British car, the Blackbird offers rear-quarter storage in the form of luggage pods. Additional space under the hood holds two full-size carry-on bags, adding rare practicality.

The design follows modern supercar lines with flowing curves and crisp edges. A roof scoop, flying buttresses, large rear diffuser, and side intakes create a dramatic profile. Active flaps above the diamond-shaped quad exhausts deploy at 71 mph at a 71-degree angle for a striking rear view.

Some observers may note front-end similarities to a Koenigsegg Jesko, side profiles reminiscent of a Pagani Huayra Codalunga, or rear styling echoes of an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, yet the Blackbird presents a cohesive and striking appearance from every angle. High-mounted wing mirrors on the A-pillars reinforce its exotic character.

Photo by: Hennessey Special Vehicles

When Old Is New Again

While the exterior is contemporary, the interior deliberately recalls earlier eras by 2026 standards. Hennessey placed the gated shifter at the center of attention, and the cabin avoids digital screens entirely.

Five analog gauges sit directly ahead of the driver, with the 10,000-rpm tachometer given pride of place. Physical switches and a rotary dial between the seats handle drive-mode selection. Four cup holders serve the two-seat cabin, a welcome detail.

The starter button sits in the overhead console alongside additional switches that continue the aviation motif. The phrase turn and burn appears as a nod to aircraft procedures, and the rear flaps can be operated manually if desired.

Compared with the outgoing Venom F5, the Blackbird is said to offer lower noise, vibration, and harshness levels for improved comfort. A larger glass area enhances visibility, while adaptive suspension better absorbs road imperfections.

Venom F5 production ends in 2028, so the Blackbird arrives in 2029. Only 71 examples will be built at 2.5 million dollars each before taxes. The car meets regulations for worldwide markets, including full airbag equipment.

Motor1 Analysis: It is notable that Hennessey has created a naturally aspirated supercar with a manual gearbox while larger manufacturers have moved toward turbocharging, hybridization, and automatic transmissions.

Although low-volume makers often receive emissions exemptions, the Blackbird remains uncommon even among supercars. With this new flagship, Hennessey could secure recognition among established players.

Meanwhile, the long-awaited top-speed attempt with the Venom F5 is still pending.