It’s no secret that racing is an expensive sport. In addition to buying a car racers can spend a significant amount of time and money upgrading the engine, suspension and brakes all in the hopes of making it around the track a second or two faster than their competitors.   To lessen the burden of both time and money some racers will partner with each other and split both the costs and driving time. While this team approach offers a financial benefit it also requires compromise on the part of both drivers, especially when it comes to the set up of the car as each driver may have very different racing styles.

Concerned that the rising costs of racing was forcing racers out of the sport Honda and Mazda jointly proposed a new low cost race series with the goal of making the enjoyment of motorsports attainable, to as many racers as possible. Governed by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) this new  “B-Spec  series”  incorporates  specific rules  that prohibit  expensive modifications to a car’s engine, transmission, and drive train. The focus is making stock cars like the Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta  and the Mazda 2 suitable  for racing. Mandatory safety provisions like the installation of a roll cage and a fire suppression system are a requirement.  This resulted is a “race car” that deviates very little from their stock configuration with the greater emphasis on a driver’s skill and strategy, as opposed to who can afford the best race car.

 In addition to the cost of the car itself the average investment to be fully outfitted is around $10,000. With this in mind B-Spec racing still requires a significant investment but when compared to other classes of racing the economics of B-Spec racing become more evident.  The adoption of B-Spec racing with clubs throughout North America has been encouraging, but time will tell if racers will be content giving up horsepower in exchange for a lower racing budget. Ideally it will contribute to the longevity of the sport with more racers finding fun competition on the track. 

Tread Talk

Toyo Tires Canada
1 year 5 days
Which car would you choose to conquer the winter climate❄️? https://t.co/XGpx2nkr5B

Tire of the Week

Delivers dependable traction and predictable handling in all...