Good to hear from you Philip
The series I ran in over the 18 years was ‘ERC’ (Europeans Racing Classics). This was the most popular classic series and due to numbers was split into two speed groups so as not to exceed grid limits. All cars were basically to Motorsport NZ T&C regs (Thoroughbred and Classic) groups 1 & 2. This is for classics prior to 1978, although run over models past this date were allowed. Certain T&C group 3 & 4 cars, ’78 onwards but over 20 years old, were accepted on a case by case basis.
Modifications were limited to those used in period, both in the car model in question, or to others produced in that period. Engines were restricted to those used by the specific manufacturer in that model and timeframe. Therefore I couldn’t put a Rover V8 in the Sprint, but could be used in a TR7. Wheels could only be 1” bigger and tyres had to be road legal. Neither could I widen the track with wheel arches, nor modify suspension type nor mounting points. Shocks and springs could be changed. I was allowed to use other brake components for safety reasons, but I found bigger vented rotors on a 77 BMW that could be modified, along with period type Willwood calipers. Cars were also expected to look like the original road version, hence chrome bumpers, lights and interiors (excepting roll cages and race front seats).
No-one really seemed to mind these limitations as at each meeting, after the practice and a scratch race, the main parts of the event were the following two handicapped races with staggered starts, aiming to get all cars to the finish line together! Handicaps were worked out on the basis of, for each car, at each circuit, the fastest time previously set. There were also a number of series rules around driving standards, such as not deliberately blocking overtaking cars, especially on corners.
This ‘formula’ produced very close exciting racing, both for drivers and spectators. Incidents were relatives rare. While points were awarded, this was very much second to having fun. So much so that in the latter years cumulative results during the season were no longer even published!
Geoff
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