MONDAY MATINEE // 50 YEARS SIDEWAYS

Produced by Helmut Deimel, enjoy more than 90 minutes of classic race footage highlighting the evolution of the power slide as it relates to rally racing. Just what we needed start the work week // [comment]

VIDEO // ROGER CLARK & THE 1972 RAC RALLY

In 1972, British rally racer, Roger Clark, at the wheel of his Ford Escort RS1600, collected a famous victory at the RAC Rally, ending a 12 year reign of Scandinavian dominance. Driving through the night, Clark bested a handful of WRC greats to include Stig Blomqvist, Simo Lampinen, Shekhar Mehta and Ove Andersson. The video featured above is a tribute to Clark's victory // [comment]

VIDEO // BLOCK ROLLS FOCUS RS AHEAD OF RALLY GB

In the video featured above, watch as Ken Block and co-driver Alex Gelsomino roll the MWRT Ford Focus RS WRC at M-Sport's proving grounds before their final race at Rally GB. According to the Monster World Rally Team, extreme conditions such as slush and standing water caused Ken to hydroplane, and sent he and Gelsomino into the trees // [comment]

NEWS // FORD RELEASES R2 FIESTA RALLY KIT

Ford has just announced a rally-spec tuning kit for their new Fiesta, turing the little hatchback into a legitimate rally racer. The kit, what Ford is calling the Fiesta R2, will include a five-speed sequential gearbox, Reiger adjustable dampers, Eibach springs, ventilated disc brakes with four-piston calipers and a steel roll cage. Additionally, the Fiesta's 1.6-liter inline-four will get a handful of new parts, to include pistons, camshafts, injectors, and a high flow air filter, all of which will give the Fiesta R2 a respectable 168 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of torque... [read more]

The R2 package was designed by M-Sport (Ford's World Rally Championship partner since 1997), while New Hampshire based team O'Neil Motorsports is the official reseller and authorized installer for the kit. Additionally, Ford Racing will offer a Stage 1 kit that includes performance upgrades, dampers, a limited-slip differential and roll cage for those who don't want the full meal deal.

So, you've bought a Fiesta, upgraded it with the R2 package, now what? Well, those who add the R2 package to their Fiestas will be eligible to compete in the new Fiesta Sport Trophy Championship division of RallyCar's Rally America National Championship 2WD class. Only cars assembled by Team O'Neil can qualify for this series, with the class winner going on to Great Britain to compete in the Fiesta Sport Trophy International Shootout. From there, the win of the worldwide competition will land themselves a one-year residential placement at M-Sport, where you'll work with the BP Ford World Rally team.

Official press release featured below...

FORD RACING OFFERS RALLY PACKAGE FOR FIESTA, ANNOUNCES FIESTA CLASS FOR RALLY AMERICA SERIES

- Ford Racing Performance Group is bringing the Fiesta R2 rally kit to the U.S., developed by M-Sport, a move expected to thrill rally enthusiasts across the country

- The R2 package offers several performance upgrades to give competitors a turnkey, rally-ready Fiesta, including powertrain enhancements that pump out 168 horsepower and 134 lb.-ft. of torque

- New Fiesta Sport Trophy Championship will debut in RallyCar's Rally America Series 2WD class for 2011, designed specifically for competitors who have the Fiesta R2 package installed by Team O'Neil

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 2, 2010 – For rally fans looking to imitate what successful Ford rally drivers Mikko Hirvonen, Jari-Matti Latlava and Ken Block have accomplished, a new Fiesta R2 rally package is the place to start.

Currently available throughout Europe, Ford Racing Performance Group is bringing the competition-ready package stateside to let enthusiasts turn their five-door Fiesta into a Fiesta R2 that's ready to compete on the roads of RallyCar's Rally America National Championship. The package is now available for order through Team O'Neil Motorsports, a division of Team O'Neil Rally School in New Hampshire (info@teamoneil.com).

"The spirit of One Ford is making it possible for us to bring the best of European rally racing to competitors in the U.S.," said Jamie Allison, director, Ford North America Motorsport. "The Fiesta R2 has already proven itself in Europe as a great platform for aspiring rally drivers."

The winner of the 2011 U.S. Fiesta Sport Trophy Championship will also have the opportunity to compete in the R2 class during next year's Wales Rally GB.

Developed by M-Sport, Ford's WRC partner since 1997, the kit will convert a production Fiesta to rally specification. Included in the package are engine parts that will increase the performance of the 1.6-liter Ti-VCT four-cylinder engine: pistons, conrods, camshafts, valve springs, injectors, airbox, air filter and a sump baffle kit. The performance enhancements deliver 168 horsepower and 134 lb.-ft. of torque, a 40 percent increase in horsepower over the production Fiesta.

Other upgrades include:

- Five-speed Sadev sequential gearbox with flat shift gear cut
- Reiger adjustable dampers with Eibach springs
- Ventilated disc brakes with AP four-piston competition calipers
- T45 steel multipoint roll cage

Team O'Neil Motorsports is the official reseller and authorized installer for the R2 kits. Only cars prepared by Team O'Neil will be eligible for the U.S. Fiesta Sport Trophy Championship.

"The R2 kit provides a fantastic performance and dynamic upgrade for the already strong and light Fiesta platform, transforming it into an instantly competitive and durable rally car," said Tim O'Neil, founder and president. "We're really excited to be able to offer this to North American rally drivers."

In addition to the full R2 kit, Ford Racing will also offer a Stage 1 kit based on the R2 package.

The Stage 1 kit will include parts designed for the rigors of rallying, including a roll cage, ball joints, engine performance upgrades, dampers and a limited-slip differential. The package will offer competitors a lower-cost entry point to take a Fiesta rallying.

New Fiesta Sport Trophy class

Enthusiasts who add the R2 package to their Fiesta will have the ability to compete in the Fiesta Sport Trophy Championship in RallyCar's Rally America National Championship 2WD class in 2011. The winner of the Fiesta Sport Trophy Championship will be awarded a ride in the R2 class in a Fiesta at Wales Rally GB. Additionally, the winner from the class will have the opportunity to compete in the Fiesta SportTrophy International Shootout in Great Britain for a chance to win a year's residential placement at M-Sport, working with the BP Ford World Rally team.

"Over the last two years, Ford Racing and the Fiesta have made a significant impact in the AWD Open class of RallyCar's Rally America, at X Games and in the debut of RallyCross," said JB Niday, managing director of RallyCar. "To see that emphasis expand into the 2WD class with an opportunity like the Fiesta Sport Trophy Championship is a tremendous indicator of the value placed on the Fiesta program and the commitment to growing Fiesta through rally by Ford."

The rally kit also is the perfect way for enthusiasts to appreciate all that the Fiesta offers.

"Not only are we offering rally enthusiasts a way to experience the full capabilities of Fiesta, but we're also giving them an amazing opportunity to test their skills in Europe on their way to perhaps realizing a dream of competing in the WRC," said Allison.

Images and Info: Ford
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey

NEWS // CASWELL TO BUILD BAJA BIMMER @ SEMA

DIY enthusiast turned WRC racer, Bill Caswell, will join the Miller Electric Mfg. Co. at this years SEMA show in Las Vegas, Nevada, to completely overhaul his E30 BMW, transforming it into a Baja vehicle. Caswell will complete the transformation from Miller booth #23913 in the Racing and Performance pavilion, performing all of the necessary welds in just four days to prepare his car for the upcoming SCORE Baja 1000, which will take place November 17–21... [read more]

“Bill’s passion for racing combined with his desire to create fits nicely with our vision of empowering auto enthusiasts through the Power of Blue,” said Tim Swanson, vice president of marketing for Miller Electric. “Rally and Baja racing requires a diverse skill set, from detailed fabrication and welding to high-speed driving. We’re looking forward to watching Bill build and race the Miller car.”

Formerly a finance banker from Chicago, Caswell left his job in 2009 to focus on rally racing. Caswell made a name for himself in March of this year by placing third in the Rally America class of Rally Mexico, an FIA-sanctioned event run concurrently with the World Rally Championship in Corona, Mexico.

Racing alongside professional cars valued at more than $400,000, Caswell (and co-driver Ben Slocum) competed in a 1991 BMW 318i that he bought off Craigslist for $500.

In November, Caswell will take his BMW to the Baja Peninsula to compete in the Sportsman class of SCORE Baja 1000.

“I grew up watching the Baja 1000 race, and actually running it has been a lifelong dream of mine,” said Caswell. “Welding is probably the most critical part of prepping the car for a Baja race, and I’m excited to finish the car and get underway.”

As part of the Baja 1000 BMW build, Caswell will fabricate the following components during the course of the SEMA trade show.

Day One: Main Roll Cage
Day Two: Front Cage and Suspension
Day Three: Rear Cage and Suspension
Day Four: Accessories including complete main cage structure, front brush guard, fuel cell, light bar, safety gear and exhaust.

To see more of Caswell’s story, and to catch live reports and updates from the show, click here.

Images and Info: Caswell Motorsport
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey

VIDEO // MOUTON PREPARES FOR THE RALLY DU MAROC

Michele Mouton, the only woman to win the World Rally Championship, recently got back behind the wheel in preparation for the Rallye International du Maroc (October 9-16). In the video featured above, watch as Michele pilots her vintage Porsche 911 and discusses her storied career, at speed // [comment]

VIDEO // COLIN McRAE @ 1997 RALLY DE PORTUGAL

Having spent the better part of today learning to drive a rally car at the DirtFish Rally School, I had to post this video of Colin McRae negotiating the 80,000+ fans that were in attendance for the 1997 Rally de Portugal. And I thought avoiding pylons was a pain! My hat is off to you, Mr.McRae // [comment]

NEWS // SEBASTIEN LOEB COLLECTS 2010 WRC TITLE

Sebastien Loeb secured his seventh World Rally Championship title last weekend following an impressive win at the Rallye de France. This was Loeb's 60th career win and gave the Frenchman 226 championship points with just two rallies left on the schedule. Additionally, the Citroën team pulled off a one-two win at the French rally with Loeb's teammate Dani Sordo finishing second overall. Taking the third and final step on the podium was was Peter Solberg, who is currently fourth place in points.

Follow the link for a bit of onboard footage with Loeb... [read more]




Image and Info: Autoblog
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey

NEWS // 2011 PRODRIVE MINI WRC OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED

The new Mini WRC, which will contest the FIA World Rally Championship from 2011, made its world premiere today (Sept 30th) at the Paris Motor Show. In addition, Kris Meeke (GB) has been confirmed as one of the drivers who will contest the championship with this brand new rally car... [read more]

The MINI WRC, powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder Di turbo-charged engine, recently received a baptism of fire, acquitting itself well during initial testing at Prodrive’s rally track. The company commenced development of the car in 2009, and a concept of the MINI WRC is being displayed in Paris.

“The Paris Motor Show is the perfect stage, on which to launch our MINI WRC,” said Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Marketing. “The response to our announcement that MINI will return to the world of rallying next year was very positive. The FIA World Rally Championship is the pinnacle of rallying, making it the ideal platform for demonstrating the competitive spirit of our brand. The development of the car is running on schedule, and the preparations for the world championship are in full swing. The MINI Countryman production model provided the ideal basis for our new world championship challenger.”

The 2011 World Rally Championship will see the new MINI WRC contesting in six of 13 scheduled rounds, with MINI competing in the full 2012 season. In addition, Prodrive plans to make available customer versions to independent teams for use in the championship.

Rallying is hardly unchartered territory for MINI. In the past this popular motor sporting genre decisively shaped the image of the brand. The MINI Cooper S became a true legend through its numerous victories on Rally Monte Carlo. The European Rally Championship, too, saw MINI notch up serial successes.

“MINI can look back on a successful tradition in rallying,” said Dr Wolfgang Armbrecht, Senior Vice President Brand Management MINI. “The interest in motorsport among the present generation of MINI customers is massive. The WRC provides an excellent communications platform for the MINI Countryman, upon which the MINI WRC is based.”

Prodrive, an experienced motorsport operation, was chosen as the partner in the quest to continue MINI’s success story. The company, founded by David Richards, is viewed as one of the most respected and successful in rallying.

“This project is a truly passionate opportunity,” believes Richards. “MINI is a cult brand which left a lasting impression during its previous motorsport campaigns. We are both extremely happy and proud to be on board as a partner when MINI returns to rallying. We aim to use 2011 as a preparatory year, amassing experience in order to ensure we are fully competitive from the start of the following season. But let's not underestimate the task ahead of us nor the stiff competition we will face on the way, however our target is firmly set on winning the World Championship title again with MINI.”

Prodrive was founded in 1984, and has established itself as one of motorsport’s leading independent teams. Currently employing over 500 staff, the company is based in Banbury (GB). Among other successes, Prodrive has to date won six World Rally Championships, five British Touring Car titles, and scored three class victories in France’s classic Le Mans 24 Hours.

Kris Meeke has been confirmed as the first driver to compete for Prodrive in the MINI WRC. The rally ace from Dungannon (GB) first came to prominence when he won the British Junior Rally Championship in 2002. Numerous victories and titles were to follow. With support from his long-term mentor and former rally world champion, the late Colin McRae (GB), Meeke has been able to successfully establish himself on the rally scene. The Northern Irishman celebrated his most recent success last year, when he won the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC).

The heart of the MINI WRC is the BMW Motorsport-developed 1.6 litre, four-cylinder Di turbo-charged engine which can be deployed not only in the WRC, but also in other championships running to the FIA’s Super2000 regulations. The power transmission takes place via an Xtrac 6-speed, sequential gearbox.

Images and info: Prodrive
Editorial: Neil Tozer

VIDEO // 2011 CITROEN DS3 WRC REVEALED

During this weeks Paris Motor Show, Citroën officially launched the car they hope will continue their dominance in the World Rally Championship next year when new regulations come into force. Dubbed the Citroën DS3 WRC, the new car is powered by a 300hp 1.6-liter direct-injection turbocharged engine, while a four-wheel-drive transmission incorporates a six-gear sequential gearbox and front and rear mechanical differentials. We'll provide additional information when it becomes available, in the mean time check out Citroën Racing's official promo video featured above // [comment]

NEWS // MILLEN TO PILOT WRC HYUNDAI IN U.S. RALLYCROSS

It appears Rhys Millen is taking his relationship with Korean car manufacturer, Hyundai, to the next level. Rumor has it, Millen will pilot a 500hp Hyundai in two rounds of the 2010 U.S. Rallycross championship. The car, a WRC prepped, 2,805 lb, turbocharged four-cylinder, will feature a six-speed sequential gearbox, Xtrac four-wheel drive, large Brembo brakes and a Proflex coilover suspension. The races will take place at New Jersey Motorsports Park on October 2-3 and November 6-7. According to our sources, Hyundai hopes to use these two events as testing for what they hope will be a full fledged effort come 2011 // [comment]

EYE CANDY // OVER THE TOP WITH RICHARD BURNS

Following news of Kimi Raikkonen's first rally win, I thought we'd post a bit of off-road Eye Candy. And in this case, when I say off-road, I literally mean off the road! Shot at the 2000 Tour de Corse, also known as the Rallye de France, check out this incredible shot of the late Richard Burns and his Subaru Impreza WRC. Photo comes courtesy of Foro Competicion // [comment]

NEWS // RAIKKONEN WINS A RALLY RACE?!

Okay, so it wasn't a round of the World Rally Championship, but the former F1 champ did collect his first rally win this past weekend. The event, known as the Rallye Vosgien, is a part of the French national series and was contested by Raikkonen's Citroën Junior Team ahead of the WRC Rally of France. Raikkonen and his co-pilot, Kaj Lindstrom, drove their Citroën C4 across the finish line some three minutes ahead of the next competitor, Quentin Gilbert. Now, we'll just have to wait and see if Raikkonen can have similar success when the WRC heads to France next month // [comment]

VIDEO // MINI COUNTRYMAN WRC TESTING IN PORTUGAL

Earlier this week we posted a photo of the new MINI Countryman WRC. Developed by Prodrive, a British engineering firm based in Oxfordshire, England, the MINI Countryman WRC will compete in the World Rally Championship next season, assuming all goes as planned. In the mean time, the guys at Prodrive took their Countryman out for a bit of gravel testing. With Markko Märtin at the wheel and Ott Tänak riding shotgun, follow the link for video from their test session... [read more]



Image and Info: MotoringFile
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey

VIDEO // KEN BLOCK'S GYMKHANA 3 - PART 2

l'Autodrome de Linas-Montlhéry, a 1.58 mile oval track built in 1924 that features banks as steep as 51 degrees, is where Ken Block chose to shoot the third installment of his Gymkhana video series. At the wheel of his 650hp 2011 Ford Fiesta rally car, watch as Block shows us why this former French race track is the ultimate playground for hoons and hooligans alike // [comment]

NEWS // MINI COUNTRYMAN TO RACE IN WRC!?

Yes, that's a Mini Countryman rally car. According to our sources, the British automaker intends to race their new four door in the World Rally Championship and has just completed testing at Prodrive's private test facility. The test was nothing more than a precursor to a forthcoming trip to Portugal, where the team intends to put the Mini through a full week of gravel testing. Click here for additional information // [comment]

VIDEO // THE FORD SIERRA RS COSWORTH (W/PURE ENGINE SOUNDS)

Featured above is yet another stellar video from our friends at The Rally Channel, this time highlighting the ever popular RWD Ford Sierra RS Cosworth that competed in the World Rally Championship throughout the 1980s and 1990s. No nonsense, just engine noise! // [comment]

VIDEO // GROUP B THUNDER: AUDI SPORT QUATTRO

Courtesy of our friends at The Group B Channel, check out this video montage of the infamous Audi Sport Quattro featuring "original engine sounds." Watch as Walter Rohrl and Stig Blomqvist pilot the 500hp Audi on such rallys as the Monte Carlo, Portugal, New Zealand, San Remo and Acropolis // [comment]

VIDEO // ADAC DEUTSCHLAND RALLYE 2010

Last weekend, the World Rally Championship held its ninth round of competition, the ADAC Deutschland Rallye 2010. What is both a gravel and tarmac rally, this years event saw Sebastian Loeb collect his fifth victory of 2010, finishing some 51.3 seconds ahead of his Citroen teammate Dani Sordo. In the video featured above, which comes to us courtesy of JM-Video, watch as the field of 55 cars navigate the narrow back roads of rural Germany. For complete results from the ADAC Deutschland Rallye 2010, click here // [comment]

VIDEO // KEN BLOCK PREPARES FOR FIRST WRC TARMAC RALLY

Ken Block and Alex Gelsomino are preparing for their first WRC tarmac rally, the 2010 ADAC Rally Deutschland. In the video featured above, (which comes to us courtesy of 0-60 Magazine), watch as Block and Gelsomino test their Focus RS ahead of this weekends rally and listen as Block answers a few questions about his experience (or lack thereof) on tarmac // [comment]