Formula Ford is the world's premier junior development
category in motor sport.
Currently, over 70% of the 2009 V8 Supercar field, raced in
the Formula Ford category in their early careers, as did
many Australian stars racing overseas, including Formula
One driver Mark Webber.
An open wheeled racing car, Formula Fords comply 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 French Mygale and Australia's Spectrum
chassis.
An all-new Ford Fiesta 1600cc engine was introduced for the
2006 season, replacing the Ford Cortina and Escort
powered Kent engine that has been with the category for
over 30 years.
Each vehicle is powered by this 'control' Ford Fiesta 1600cc,
100ps DOHC, lightweight aluminum, four cylinder engine.
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 dictated by the performance parity rules,
allowing the differing skills of the drivers to determine the
victor.
The relative parity between the vehicles also guarantees the
category's reputation for some of the most exciting and
close racing to be seen on any Australian or
international circuit.
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