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| What is Formula Ford |
Formula Ford is the world's premier junior development category in motor sport and in 2006 will undergo its most significant change ever.
An all-new Ford Fiesta 1600cc engine has been introduced for the 2006 season, replacing the Ford Cortina and Escort powered Kent engine that has been with the category for over 30 years.
With Ford extending their official support to the category for the next five years, the new Fiesta powered Formula Ford's will continue to be the major source for future Australian motor racing champions.
Currently, over 70% of V8 Supercar drivers, raced in Formula Ford category in their early careers, plus many Australian stars racing overseas, including Formula One driver Mark Webber.
An open wheeled racing car, a Formula Ford complies with stringent rules designed to reduce costs for newcomers to the sport, and to allow every driver to compete on his or her own merits.
Every Formula Ford is constructed from a light-weight tubular space frame designed to maintain the highest levels of driver safety. Aerodynamic modifications, such as wings and spoilers, are prohibited.
 A number of manufacturers, both local and international, build the basic Formula Ford body and chassis; the most common being the U.K-built Van Diemen, the French Mygale and Australia's Spectrum chassis, while the English Spirit chassis will make it's debut in Australia this season.
Each vehicle is powered by the 'control' Ford Fiesta 1600cc, 100ps DOHC, lightweight aluminium, four cylinder engine for Australian competition.
Tuned to develop more than 125 horsepower, Formula Fords reach speeds in excess of 250 km/h.
The key to the category's long-term success is the uniquely level playing field of the equipment and chassis, allowing differences in skill to become the sole victory between drivers.
The relative parity between the vehicles also serves to guarantee the category's reputation for some of the most exciting and nail-bitingly close racing to be seen on any Australian or international circuit. |
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