500 Horsepower Nissan Skyline GT-R to Make Speed World Challenge Debut

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500 Horsepower Nissan Skyline GT-R to Make Speed World Challenge Debut

igor@af

03-08-2005, 05:21 PM

<center>UPDATE: <a href="http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/AutomotiveForumscom2004-2005/video/gtrn1streetsofwillow.wmv.html">Video of the GT-R N1 on the track</a> is now available for download!</center>

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We have been anxious to make this announcement for a few months now, and finally here it is!

<img align="left" border="1" src="http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/d/1742-4/FirstLook.jpg" alt="Detailed Photographs of the 2001 Nissan Skyline GT-R N1"> (http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/AutomotiveForumscom2004-2005/FirstLook/)
The AF 350Z Project had in its initial plans participation in the SCCA Speed World Challenge GT Class, and everything was progressing by the schedule. However, back in December of 2004, we spotted and quickly acquired a 2001 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 N1 Super Taikyu Race Car (Visit the Gallery of the Car (http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/AutomotiveForumscom2004-2005/FirstLook/)). It has an extensive winning history, which comes from its technology and quality - as the car was built by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) in Japan. In 2001, our car, then #23, ran by Totomu Fujitsubo racing team, missed overall series championship by 1 mere point to the Falken GT-R (Visit the Gallery of the #23 (pronounced Ni-San in Japanese) Fujitsubo GT-R (http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/TotomuFujitsubo232001/))
<img align="right" src="http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/d/1343-2/PB040298.jpg" border="1" alt="AutomotiveForums.com's Skyline GT-R history includes a successful racing career under the Fujistsubo banner in Japan"> (http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/TotomuFujitsubo232001/)

We like to see this as a continuation of the AF 350Z Project in spirit, as we are remaining loyal to Nissan and our fans around the world.

The reason for such drastic change in plans?
As incredible as the 350Z would have been as a race car, we do not believe that it could have ever matched the performance of this factory-built GT-R endurance race car. Of course anything is possible with money, but injecting that much capital into the 350Z would have been simply inappropriate and irresponsible, considering an opportunity of acquiring this GT-R arose.

Why SCCA Speed World Challenge?
We believe that this series provides incredible excitement for the audience, featuring amazing and diverse race cars. The series consists of 10 50-minute sprint races around the best tracks in the nation. Our competition will include Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Saleen Cobra, Pontiac GTO, Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Porshce 911 Turbo, Cadillac CTS-V, Audi RS6, and Volvo S60R.

The Nissan Skyline GT-R has NEVER competed in a full season of professional road racing series in North America!
AutomotiveForums.com will be the first to pass this milestone, with many future opportunities arising with the next-generation R35 (or R36) Nissan Skyline GT-R introduction in 2007.

The GT-R has an incredible racing history - some of its accomplishements include:
In Group A racing series, the GT-R won every single race, winning 29 races in 4 years of the series' life.
In JGTC, the R32 GT-R dominated the series until the regulations were modified prohibiting all-wheel-drive systems (when the GT-R was the only 4wd competitior in the series), forcing NISMO to convert the JGTC GT-R race cars to rear-wheel-drive only. Even then, the GT-R continued to collect victories, with the last one being the overall series champion in JGTC GT500 2004 - the last year of its competition. In the same year, in GT300, the 350Z took home the victory, showing just how dedicated Nissan is to racing in Japan. The GT-R and the Z have always been and always will be sister cars, especially with the next GT-R featuring a VQ engine.<img align="left" border="1" alt="Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 N1 at the Streets of Willow" src="http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/d/2528-2/IMG_0196.jpg"> (http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/AutomotiveForumscom2004-2005/StreetsofWillowTest/)

The uniqueness of the present situation cannot be overstated - this is the opportunity for the GT-R to shine in a series where not a single Japanese vehicle has recently succeeded and the manufacturers (namely Cadillac, Audi, and Volvo) dump countless millions of dollars into the development of their race program.

We have assembled a race team and have already concluded our first shakedown test of the car, which went beyond expectations. (Testing of the '01 Nissan Skyline GT-R N1 Race Car at Streets of Willow) (http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/AutomotiveForumscom2004-2005/StreetsofWillowTest/)

<img align="right" border="1" alt="Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 N1 at Hot Import Nights" src="http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/d/2893-2/IMGA0274.jpg"> (http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/AutomotiveForumscom2004-2005/HotImportNights-LosAngeles_CA-March5th_2005/)We made the public debut at the Hot Import Nights in Los Angeles, California, on March 5th. There is a large gap between the automotive enthusiast culture and the racing world, and one of our goals in this motorsport endeavor is to close this gap by the intoroduction of the Skyline GT-R, an icon and a legend, in racing, where it will shine more than at any car show. (View Pictures of the GT-R N1 stealing the show at Hot Import Nights (http://files.automotiveforums.com/media/main.php/v/AFGT-RN1/AutomotiveForumscom2004-2005/HotImportNights-LosAngeles_CA-March5th_2005/))

We will need your support every step of the way. Please spread the word about our plans at your local car club meets, your friends in general, and where ever else you feel appropriate.

We are currently throwing around some ideas of an official AutomotiveForums.com Event that would feature this car and provide some of the members rides on a race track.

As with the 350Z Project, we will soon launch a website dedicated to the coverage of this motorsports effort, ensuring that the AF members are always informed and the first to know of any developments.

Thank you all!

<table border="0" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" width="100%"><tr><td valign="top"> <img src="http://www.automotiveforums.com/inc/img/logo.gif"> <img src="http://www.automotiveforums.com/img/logo.gif"> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 1, 2005 </td><td> CONTACT: Igor Sushko Automotive Network <a href="http://www.automotiveforums.com/corporate/contact.php">Contact</a> <a href="http://www.automotiveforums.com">http:www.automotiveforums.com</a> OR Dan Gardner Gardner Automotive Communications 310-489-3094 </td></tr></table>
<center>Automotive Network to Embark Upon World-Class Racing Effort 500 Horsepower 2001 Nissan Skyline GT-R N1 to Make Speed World Challenge Debut</center> GEORGETOWN, Kentucky - Automotive Network, Inc. (ANI) today announced plans to enter an extremely rare Nissan Skyline GT-R in SCCA's Speed World Challenge series. Built by Nissan Motorsports Japan, and formerly raced by a championship-winning Japanese race team in the Super Taikyu series, the car boasts:<li>An inline six cylinder 2.6-liter twin-turbo engine producing 500 horsepower <li>Mono-block Brembo brakes <li>ATTESA E-TS Pro 4 wheel drive system <li>Volk TE-37 Racing Wheels 18x9.5 <li>Ohlins shocks <li>ARC oil cooler The extremely rare, one-of-a-kind car has already taken home the following victories: <li>2001 CP Mine 500 km endurance race <li>2001 Suzuka 300 mile endurance race <li>2001 Fuji 4-hour endurance race <li>2003 Suzuka 1000 km endurance race The car will be extensively tested during 2005 in preparation for the 2006 race season. This introduction marks the first-ever entry of a Skyline GT-R racecar in a road-racing series on this side of the globe. <center>-more-</center> Automotive Network, Inc./ Company to Enter First-Ever Skyline GT-R 2-2-2-2 "The entry of this extremely special car in the Speed World Challenge series will help leverage what Automotive Network accomplishes online, and help us make a non-Internet world connection," said Igor Sushko, founder and president. "We're excited at the potential that such a car competing for the first time ever in this series brings." Automotive Network, Inc is the leader in connecting the auto enthusiasts via the Internet. ANI operates AutomotiveForums.com, which was launched in November of 2000. The site has seen tremendous growth since then. Currently, more than 308,000 members enjoy AutomotiveForums, with 500 new users signing up daily. <center><img src="http://www.automotiveforums.com/img/gtr-pr.jpg" border="1" alt="2001 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 N1 Super Taikyu Race Car">
</center><img src="http://v1.extreme-dm.com/i.gif" height=1 border=0 width=1></a><script language="javascript1.2">
</script><script language="javascript">
</script><noscript><img height=1 width=1 alt=""
src="http://t0.extreme-dm.com/c.g?tag=af350z&j=n"></noscript>

taranaki

03-09-2005, 03:59 PM

Congratulations.

Skyline_R32_Canada

03-09-2005, 05:29 PM

awesome news

Hiroboy

03-09-2005, 06:29 PM

Congratulations :)

crazy_canuck

03-09-2005, 06:43 PM

Whoa, that's cool. Good luck at the races.

BLU CIVIC

03-09-2005, 07:23 PM

WTF...we got a skyline???? and i do mean WE

igor@af

03-09-2005, 07:26 PM

Yes, we do. :iceslolan

According to Falken GT-R team's crew chief, only 8 R34 N1 Super Taikyu GT-Rs were built. Today, only 4 remain, and ours is the only one outside Japan.

AutomotiveForums.com is in one darn exclusive club now :naughty:

Soyo

03-09-2005, 07:26 PM

sad to see the 350 go but you can't complain about a skyline!

twospirits

03-09-2005, 07:40 PM

Thats strange, I could swear I posted in here yesterday when the thread started, oh well.

Woo Hoo, congrats to all those that made it possible. So what happens to the 350?

TS out

igor@af

03-09-2005, 07:42 PM

The plan for the 350Z is to put it back together now that the cage is in.... street car with a cage?

ImolaEK

03-09-2005, 08:01 PM

WoW! That is awesome news! Congratulations! :smile:

SkylineMan32

03-09-2005, 08:28 PM

I think i'm gonna build a model to commorate this epic moment if AF history!

DinanM3_S2

03-09-2005, 10:51 PM

we should change the Blue AF logo Skyline to this cars colors

-Davo

03-10-2005, 01:47 AM

man those babes are hot. If you're planning to come to Australia let me know I'll be your official AF photographer.

03-10-2005, 05:47 AM

omgnekkidsekspicnoworbannage

RB25DETZ

03-10-2005, 06:44 AM

whats that thing in pic Dash 5? and where can i get one?

Ran

03-10-2005, 09:18 AM

Congratulations! Now us AF members have things to be proud of. Good luck on the races, hope everything goes smooth and safe.

Sencirly,
Ran

jcsaleen

03-10-2005, 09:30 AM

Wow amazing news congrats!

Dreamspawn

03-10-2005, 02:12 PM

Speed World Challenge isn't the one on speed channel. HEHEH i'll get to see this thing in action. Should be a killer season good luck. Yay we have a skyline :evillol: :ylsuper:

SkylineUSA

03-10-2005, 03:04 PM

Igor,

I am still gonna beat you when I get back:D

Nice ride.

Where are the cars specs? 500hp, what cams, turbos, ecu management, etc.

igor@af

03-10-2005, 03:17 PM

Igor,

I am still gonna beat you when I get back:D

Nice ride.

Where are the cars specs? 500hp, what cams, turbos, ecu management, etc.

You'd be surprised if I told you, but at this point we're making it our policy not to divulge the technical specs.

driftmaster200

03-10-2005, 03:55 PM

I can't belive that a Nissan Skyline has never completed a full racing season in north america. I wish your crew the best of luck and can't wait to see the car in action.

SkylineUSA

03-10-2005, 04:41 PM

You'd be surprised if I told you, but at this point we're making it our policy not to divulge the technical specs.

Igor,

PM me the specs. I can keep a secret. :)

igor@af

03-10-2005, 06:02 PM

whats that thing in pic Dash 5? and where can i get one?

The dash is Pi System 2, available at Pi Research (http://www.automotiveforums.com/sponsors.cgi?http://www.piresearch.com).

Ridenour

03-10-2005, 06:11 PM

Damn, is that skyline paid for? :)

BLU CIVIC

03-10-2005, 06:40 PM

so who's gonna be driving....you Igor?? have u driven it??

Gafoto

03-10-2005, 09:55 PM

So is this car the exact same model as the Falken GT-R?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v97/Gafoto/falken.jpg

It looks identical and the horsepower figures are the same. Course I got my information and picture from Gran Turismo 4... The Falken is a blast to drive!(virtually).

tyndago

03-10-2005, 10:42 PM

So is this car the exact same model as the Falken GT-R?It looks identical and the horsepower figures are the same. Course I got my information and picture from Gran Turismo 4... The Falken is a blast to drive!(virtually).

That Falken car pictured is the Nurburgring 24 hour car. The 24 hour car had a little different motor, and a widebody.

The AF car is a stock N1 motor and normal width fenders. In 2001 the AF car came in 2nd overall to the Falken car by 1 point.

Tetsuo Suzuki from Shift that came over for the test at Willow Springs, actually built and prepared both the Falken Super Taikyu car and the 24 hour Nurburgring car.

tyndago

03-10-2005, 10:45 PM

so who's gonna be driving....you Igor?? have u driven it??

Igor drove it for the first time at the test at Willow Springs with better than expected results.

Dreamspawn

03-11-2005, 01:44 AM

hey igor u live in Lexington i just realized this i live like a hour away can i some see the car PLEASE. i don't even have to touch it just let me stand in like a 10ft aera of it or take a picture from far away idc just want to see it. If did i'd cry i know i would. One of the finest automobiles in the world and a guy a hour away from me gets to drive it.

SkylineUSA

03-11-2005, 07:48 AM

You'd be surprised if I told you, but at this point we're making it our policy not to divulge the technical specs.

R34 N1 turbos, 264 cams. In the ball park?

Anyway, Good Luck with it Igor, nice to see you finally got one:D

tyndago

03-11-2005, 11:44 AM

tyndago

03-11-2005, 11:45 AM

R34 N1 turbos, 264 cams. In the ball park?

Anyway, Good Luck with it Igor, nice to see you finally got one:D

Stock cams. Its pretty much all stock.

SkylineUSA

03-11-2005, 12:03 PM

Gotcha.

Thanks, that is all I wanted to know.

Way to go TEAM AF?!?

Sean,

Do you do this for the love of the cars? I am just wondering?

Tiger Racing

03-11-2005, 01:41 PM

Why SCCA Speed World Challenge?
We believe that this series provides incredible excitement for the audience, featuring amazing and diverse race cars. The series consists of 10 50-minute sprint races around the best tracks in the nation. Our competition will include Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Saleen Cobra, Pontiac GTO, Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Porshce 911 Turbo, Cadillac CTS-V, Audi RS6, and Volvo S60R.

Congratulations on your race program. Just for the sake of accuracy though, there haven't been any Saleen Cobras in World Challenge in a couple of years, but there are currently a couple of Ford Mustangs and Saleen SR351 Widebodies running. Audi won't be running the RS6 anymore either. Other than that, I completely agree with your assessment of World Challenge. It's a blast. :smile:

Have you guys already submitted your VTS to SCCA? What kind of times were you seeing at Willow?

C.

Dreamspawn

03-11-2005, 02:05 PM

No audio RS6 are they running a differnt car or not running at all?

r35forums.com

03-11-2005, 03:55 PM

SkylineUSA

03-11-2005, 04:34 PM

I think that if it is stock bottom and internals, its closer to 400hp@wheels, and rather 500 at crank. I knew about this for a few months, was just waiting for Igor to say something about it. :)
It has mild motor modifications, but nonetheless awesome

It would be more like 375awhp, gtrs have a more than 20% drive line loss.

GTmike400

03-11-2005, 04:42 PM

Awesome! Now when is AF going to build a hot rod?

Tiger Racing

03-11-2005, 05:01 PM

No audio RS6 are they running a differnt car or not running at all?

Champion Audi will not field a team this year. They are talking about putting something together for 2006.

Randy Pobst will be driving a Mazda Touring Car in World Challenge and there is no official word on whether Michael Galati has a ride. We've been told that things are in the works, but nothing definite yet.

STaSIS Engineering will field a team in Touring Car.

http://www.speedvisionwc.com/news/05press25.html

C.

tyndago

03-11-2005, 10:32 PM

Saleen Cobras in World Challenge in a couple of years, but there are currently a couple of Ford Mustangs and Saleen SR351 Widebodies running. Audi won't be running the RS6 anymore either.
Have you guys already submitted your VTS to SCCA? What kind of times were you seeing at Willow?
.

The VTS- we are working on now.

As far as times at Willow - we are not releasing any of that information.

We are a little disapointed that the Audis are not going to run this year. Hopefully they will be back for 2006.

tyndago

03-11-2005, 10:35 PM

I think that if it is stock bottom and internals, its closer to 400hp@wheels, and rather 500 at crank. I knew about this for a few months, was just waiting for Igor to say something about it. :)
It has mild motor modifications, but nonetheless awesome

It has no real modifications. Its just a Nismo built N1 motor for Super Taikyu. It actually rated at 490 hp at the engine.

tyndago

03-11-2005, 10:36 PM

It would be more like 375awhp, gtrs have a more than 20% drive line loss.

We have not dynoed the car yet. But that information will only be for us anyway.

Dreamspawn

03-11-2005, 10:43 PM

Michael Galati without a ride that is suprising. So it looke like the bmw will be the guys to beat this year.

tyndago

03-11-2005, 10:45 PM

Sean,

Do you do this for the love of the cars? I am just wondering?

Yes I just do this for the love of cars.

Just need a few people to convince my wife that its the thing to do. Rent and bills suck when I spend too much time playing with cars.

The things that I am supposed to be doing back up. Get me in some trouble.

Oh well, its not everyday you get a chance to play with a real race car.

Tiger Racing

03-12-2005, 01:13 AM

The VTS- we are working on now.

That should be interesting.

As far as times at Willow - we are not releasing any of that information.

K. Not like that kind of info is hard to find anyway. :smile:

We are a little disapointed that the Audis are not going to run this year. Hopefully they will be back for 2006.

There will be plenty of competition in 2005 without Audi. With the rules changes, this should be a good year.

C.

malibugtp

03-12-2005, 01:23 AM

where in the west coast is it i wanna see it !!!!!!!!!!!!

Tiger Racing

03-12-2005, 01:25 AM

Michael Galati without a ride that is suprising. So it looke like the bmw will be the guys to beat this year.

Which team? There weren't any BMWs in GT last year and it doesn't look like anybody will run one in '05 either. I would bet that Cadillac will dig in and get the win this year that they fully expected to walk away with last year.

C.

Dreamspawn

03-12-2005, 01:40 AM

McMillin Motorsports, LTD raced 2 BMW Team PTG prepared car last year didn't they? Also which series was it the Turner motorsports cars ran? I thought that team PTG was going to race this year or is that just a rumor?

igor@af

03-12-2005, 03:57 AM

Turner only raced in Touring if I am not mistaking.

Zwrangler

03-12-2005, 08:37 AM

maaaaaaaaan, all i can say is wow that is one gorgeous piece of mahinery. congrats.

Layla's Keeper

03-12-2005, 05:07 PM

The uniqueness of the present situation cannot be overstated - this is the opportunity for the GT-R to shine in a series where not a single Japanese vehicle has succeeded and the manufacturers (namely Cadillac, Audi, and Volvo) dump countless millions of dollars into the development of their race program.

Well, I do want to point out this one mistake in the article. Speed World Challenge GT has had a championship winning Japanese car that's currently retired to Honda's Museum. May I present the Realtime Acura NSX as driven by Petey Cunningham. Speed World Challenge GT champion of 1997, second in championship standings in 2000, five wins in 2001 - also second in championship,

http://www.speedarena.com/artman/publish/sportscar_news/article_3727.shtml

http://www.speedarena.com/artman/uploads/gt/600_400_temp_006.jpg

igor@af

03-12-2005, 05:27 PM

Thanks for that - appropriately corrected.

Automobile Maniac

03-12-2005, 08:24 PM

Excellant. Now more of my fellow Americans will finally learn about the Skyline GT-R. The best car ever F**k**g made.

03-12-2005, 11:39 PM

You call that a race car? It doesn't have 20" spinnaz or superlow springs (suitably modified further with pruning shears) or enough stickers or ANYTHING. Pfft.

Tiger Racing

03-13-2005, 01:19 AM

McMillin Motorsports, LTD raced 2 BMW Team PTG prepared car last year didn't they?

Oh, yeah. They came and went so quickly, with so little buzz, that I forgot all about them. Although that's no excuse because I had a few encounters with them at Sebring that should qualify as memorable. Mostly involving them passing me like I was standing still or not hitting me when I had spun and actually was standing still.

Also which series was it the Turner motorsports cars ran?

Turner runs multiple BMWs in World Challenge Touring Car. They don't run World Challenge GT, but they do run some cars in the Grand Am Cup series, GS class.

I thought that team PTG was going to race this year or is that just a rumor?

I certainly haven't heard any rumours to that effect. Care to pass yours along?

C.

SkylineUSA

03-13-2005, 02:53 AM

Excellant. Now more of my fellow Americans will finally learn about the Skyline GT-R. The best car ever F**k**g made.

Not for the 1/4 :grinno:

But, yes I agree the best car ever e'ffin made for the money.

icE_x

03-13-2005, 11:00 AM

very sweet :)

Colov99

03-13-2005, 02:41 PM

Looks really good. I hope to see it in action some time. Are any of the races at Limerock this year? or ever?

Layla's Keeper

03-13-2005, 03:51 PM

Better question, can moderators get special pit passes or something for their home races? After all, Speed World Challenge is going to be at Burke Lakefront Airport and Mid-Ohio this year and I was planning on being there for both. :naughty:

In all seriousness, though. I respect you guys for taking on what's going to be a near insurmountable challenge. Except for Realtime's Acura NSX(which was a 1990 pre-production NSX that, in its later life, needed Vortech supercharging to be competitive with the Vettes, Audis, Vipers, and Porsches), there hasn't been a competitive import in the series. Heck, Goldin Racing Bros., the East Coast's brightest rotary gurus, barely got their FD into the field and were complete non-factors.

igor@af

03-13-2005, 04:00 PM

Once we're actually competing in the series beginning in '06, I imagine the pit passes would not be difficult to get ahold of.

igor@af

03-13-2005, 07:58 PM

Automobile Maniac

03-13-2005, 09:37 PM

Thought I was watching a GT4 replay for a second :biggrin:. But then I remembered, hey this is real! Very cool.

Zachp911

03-13-2005, 10:06 PM

Congrats, awesome car!

jcsaleen

03-13-2005, 10:06 PM

amazing and thats simply stateing it.....

Layla's Keeper

03-13-2005, 11:39 PM

Looks to be fighting a push, but certainly good form. No roll, clean in corner transitions, and obviously able to pick up in the throttle after the apex.

Top 15's maybe?

jcsaleen

03-14-2005, 03:31 PM

Top 15's maybe?

out of?

My guess top 10 outa 30.

blackcomet

03-14-2005, 04:24 PM

good luck with that skyline project..thast really sick, its not everyday u find a skyline like that, or one at all lol

#98

03-14-2005, 05:40 PM

driftmaster200

03-14-2005, 06:14 PM

How did you aquire the GTR? With only a handfull left im sure it was a bit of luck.

Tiger Racing

03-14-2005, 07:54 PM

My guess top 10 outa 30.

Based on what? What kind of times are you assuming the GT cars are going to do this year? What do you think the Skyline can do?

I think it's great that a new team is coming to World Challenge and admit that I don't have a clue what it's capable of, but then, I'm not at all sure what to expect from the usual suspects this year. There has been a rules shake up and we haven't seen the results yet. Sebring is going to be an interesting race.

Who was the test driver on the Streets? Who is slated to race it next year?

C.

jcsaleen

03-14-2005, 10:59 PM

The GTR is a great car and is very very deadly in the rain (with attesa on) and would knock half of the comp off immediatly.

Based on normal Scca cars like audi's etc. My neighbor Does scca and lmp as well as many other types of racing.

Layla's Keeper

03-14-2005, 11:11 PM

#98

03-14-2005, 11:28 PM

Top tens seem a little overly optimistic to me, too.

Think about the competition.

Stu Hayner and the GMAC Pontiac GTO.
Tommy Archer and Bob Woodhouse in Viper Competition Coupes.
Leighton Reese in a C6 Corvette.
Andy Pilgrim, Max Angelelli, and Mad Max Papis in Cadillac CTS-V's.
Phil McClure and David Farmer in Z06 Vettes.
Derek Bell and the factory Volvo S60-R.

That's ten cars right there and that's not including the plethora of Porsche 911's, Vettes, BMW M3's, and so on that will undoubtedly contest this season. GT is ridiculously competitive and there are several more cars on deck for this season that'll be showing up; the new generation of 911's, new Mustangs, more C6 Corvettes, and so on down the list.

If AF can get the R34 into striking distance of the top tier (hence, top fifteen), then it'll be a major accomplishment as a first-year team.

Exactly, especially considering you have about 10 world-class drivers and about 20 other professional drivers who are frightingly fast. In the opening SCCA SoCal region race a fast driver in an E36 325i car is that relatively stock was out-pacing an EVO MR and a 350Z by 7 seconds, which is simply a laughable amount. If you're running 2 seconds slower than pole you're considered slow. And that gap increased when it rained because driver skill was at a premium...so you had some 325i out-pacing an AWD Evo by nearly 10 seconds. People have to realize that you need more than a great car to win. Almost everyone will have a great. You also need a fast driver and someone who is an expert at setting up a car. Changing the sway-bar settings alone on my low-powered race car can make it a totally different car. When you get to Speed-GT level you have to be changing gear ratio, springs, shock setting, etc. for every different track.

SkylineUSA

03-15-2005, 02:04 AM

Igor,

Do you guys need anything?

drvngstorm05

03-15-2005, 02:14 AM

placing in the upper tier is very optimistic... those CTS-V's are beasts, not to mention all the other GM cars out there (GTO and Z06).

anyone know if there is going to be a c6 vette competing?

jcsaleen

03-15-2005, 07:33 AM

Stu Hayner and the GMAC Pontiac GTO.
Tommy Archer and Bob Woodhouse in Viper Competition Coupes.
Leighton Reese in a C6 Corvette.
Andy Pilgrim, Max Angelelli, and Mad Max Papis in Cadillac CTS-V's.
Phil McClure and David Farmer in Z06 Vettes.
Derek Bell and the factory Volvo S60-R.

The S60R wont be a problem and the GTo doesnt impress me a holden with a tid bit more power.

Tiger Racing

03-15-2005, 03:10 PM

anyone know if there is going to be a c6 vette competing?

Lou Giglotti is running a few C6s and some teams are running ZO6s. Here's the season entry list:

http://www.world-challenge.com/2005/entrylist-gt.html

C.

Tiger Racing

03-15-2005, 03:50 PM

The S60R wont be a problem and the GTo doesnt impress me a holden with a tid bit more power.

Does Tommy Archer in the Viper impress you? McClure or the McCann brothers? How' bout Leighton Reese or Lou Giglotti in Corvettes? Robin Liddell or Wolf Henzler in the Porches? Max Papis or Andy Pilgrim in Cadillacs? Pobst and Galati taking a break from GT open up a couple of spots in the top 15, but we can assume that Cadillac will again bring in drivers like Fellows, Heinricy and O'Connell throughout the season.

The GTR is a great car and is very very deadly in the rain (with attesa on) and would knock half of the comp off immediatly.

The Skyline VTS is a blank mystery and I haven't heard a whisper about who might be driving it next season. However, you weren't saying that the GTR could run mid-pack. You claimed top 10 and I'm still wondering what specific evidence you are basing that on.

Based on normal Scca cars like audi's etc.

Audi isn't racing this season and, again, we still don't have a clue how World Challenge cars are going to perform in 2005 (let alone 2006), but are you really saying that you are certain the Skyline can pull off 2:16s at Road America in World Challenge trim? You couldn't possibly be claiming that they can do 2:14s like the Audis did last year. Could you?

C.

Layla's Keeper

03-15-2005, 05:35 PM

The Pontiac GTO doesn't impress you because "It's a Holden with a little bit more power."? Well, the Skyline GTR is a Nissan Skyline coupe with two turbos and AWD. Guess it's not too much of a car either.

But, let's actually consider the #5 Autosport Development GMAC Pontiac GTO. It's campaigned by Stu Hayner - multi-winner in Trans Am and considered one of the top privateer road racers in America. The team is Hayner's personal team that campaigned his Trans-Am cars and is merged with Chili Pepper Racing for '05 (the BMW team that top Touring contenders Jim Osborn and Ken Dobson). Jim Osborn will be driving a second GTO for the team.

This is a powerful team, and they only scored three 15th's (Mid-Ohio, Mosport, and Laguna Seca), a 13th (Road America), and an 11th (Portland).

The S60R you said "won't be a problem" is a factory car driven by DEREK FREAKIN BELL. You know, 6 time Le Mans winner, 3 time Daytona 24 hour winner, 1983 AND 1985 World Endurance Champion Derek Bell. There are only two sports car/touring car aces you could put in that GTR that would hold a candle to Bell (who aren't already under someone's contract) and they're Boris Said and Hans Stuck.

Jeez, I want the AF GTR to succeed as much as the next guy, but as Hollfelder up there will tell you (Tiger Racing campaigns two Ford Mustangs in Speed World Challenge GT, they know exactly how tough the competition is) it's an uphill battle without factory support or backing and without the SCCA's blessing.

And, speaking as someone who's been around the SCCA since early childhood, it's hard to get the SCCA's blessing on anything Japanese, turbocharged, or all-wheel drive. The only Japanese cars SCCA fans like are BRE Datsuns (JMA baby!), the SCCA folks have hated turbos in the 917/30, and AWD since Audi walked over Trans-Am and IMSA GTO in the 80's.

SkylineUSA

03-15-2005, 06:17 PM

And, speaking as someone who's been around the SCCA since early childhood, it's hard to get the SCCA's blessing on anything Japanese, turbocharged, or all-wheel drive. The only Japanese cars SCCA fans like are BRE Datsuns (JMA baby!), the SCCA folks have hated turbos in the 917/30, and AWD since Audi walked over Trans-Am and IMSA GTO in the 80's.

Screw technology, lets make sure all cars run the same chassis, engine, gears, suspension, body, etc...That will make a forms of racing fun.....Not

If they can't beat them, ban them. Godzilla.

Dreamspawn

03-15-2005, 06:23 PM

Here are some decent goals i think.

AF guys go out there and promote the car pick up some good sponsers and make a decent showing. Top 20-15.

Some guys may look at the car and go hey that has potential and pick up a driver that has a name for himslef like boris said or possibly somebody that has expiernce with these cars a Japanese driver?

Then from there just take it little by little. Maybe cathing the eye of Nissian/Ifinite pick up a factory back ride in 2007/2008 when the new gtr hits. Think bout it b4 u blast me just saying hypothetically. They go out and make a good show for the next year or 2 on a car that is over 4years old now. Nissian/Ifinite knows the GTR has a name in america but not many have seen it in racing action wouldn't it be a nice way to promote the new car. In a competative series that gets plenty of air coverage.

Ne how Good luck and lets go kick some A**

Layla's Keeper

03-15-2005, 06:27 PM

Screw technology, lets make sure all cars run the same chassis, engine, gears, suspension, body, etc...

You mean like CART Champ Cars?

The SCCA is allowing forced induction into Touring this year for the first year because three manufacturers have stepped forwards with contingency or proposed factory efforts (Mini Cooper S, Subaru WRX, SRT-4). The only reason the SCCA said yes was because they've discovered a way to monitor and seal the boost levels on each car in a failproof way.

The SCCA has never hid its distaste for anything that wasn't a small British roadster (after all, the organization was founded by primarily MG TC owners). They also pride themselves on the close competition of the Speed World Challenge. Between the VTS, the mid-season spec adjustments, the spec rear wing and tires, and the penalty weight, they've created a series where any well prepared, well driven car can win. They won't allow anyone to tromp in and dominate without paying their dues, especially not (and I'm not accusing Igor of this since he hasn't shown this attitude) a bunch of cocky wiseass tuners who think that a 4wd sport tuned luxury coupe from Japan is the hottest shit this side of a Mexican restaraunt.

You want the GTR to win. Good, great place to start. But don't think for a second it's going to be easy. Japan MAKES it easy for the Skyline GTR to win (the car hasn't had an honest win in honest competition since 1973) and now that a good team is taking the car outside Japan to take on the WORLD'S BEST SPORTS CARS it's put up or shut up time.

Dreamspawn

03-15-2005, 06:36 PM

What are they using to monitor/seal boost going with a restrictor thing kinda like the FIA with WRC?

Layla's Keeper

03-15-2005, 06:42 PM

http://www.speedvisionwc.com/news/04press93.html

That's the Speed World Challenge press release regarding forced induction in Touring. I'd believe the same system is used in GT.

#98

03-15-2005, 07:10 PM

I'm sorry, but Derek Bell is no longer one of the top road-racing drivers in the world. He was at one time, but no longer is. You can see it by the sliding quality of his rides and his performance. However, people should take the point that unless they hire a pro to race their car probably won't go beyond the first turn let alone be competitive.

Anyway, since it costs about 300-500k minimum to run a full season of GT I think placing in the top 20 is the least of their worries.

jcsaleen

03-15-2005, 10:22 PM

Does Tommy Archer in the Viper impress you? McClure or the McCann brothers? How' bout Leighton Reese or Lou Giglotti in Corvettes? Robin Liddell or Wolf Henzler in the Porches? Max Papis or Andy Pilgrim in Cadillacs? Pobst and Galati taking a break from GT open up a couple of spots in the top 15, but we can assume that Cadillac will again bring in drivers like Fellows, Heinricy and O'Connell throughout the season.

The Skyline VTS is a blank mystery and I haven't heard a whisper about who might be driving it next season. However, you weren't saying that the GTR could run mid-pack. You claimed top 10 and I'm still wondering what specific evidence you are basing that on.

Ha the vipers and the vettes lol everytime I flip on speed I always see one of em getting into an accident or overshooting a turn. lol The vipers are the only comp besides the bmw's.

Layla's Keeper

03-15-2005, 10:45 PM

Ha the vipers and the vettes lol everytime I flip on speed I always see one of em getting into an accident or overshooting a turn. lol The vipers are the only comp besides the bmw's.

:screwy: :screwy: :screwy: :screwy:

Okay, here's the GT races from last year with their winners and the cars.

Sebring - Max Angelelli/Cadillac CTS-V
Lime Rock - Randy Pobst/Audi RS6
Mid Ohio - Michael Galati/Audi RS6
Sears Point - Wolf Henzler/Porsche 911GT3 Cup
Portland - Tommy Archer/Dodge Viper Competition Coupe
Mosport Race 1 - Michael Galati/Audi RS6
Mosport Race 2 - Ron Fellows/Cadillac CTS-V
Road America - Michael Galati/Audi RS6
Road Atlanta - Max Angelelli/Cadillac CTS-V
Laguna Seca - Wolf Henzler/Porsche 911GT3 Cup

GT Series champion 2004 - Tommy Archer/Viper Competition Coupe
GT Series Manufacturer's Champion - Audi

Final points standings

1 Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper
2 Michael Galati, Audi RS 6
3 Max Angelelli, Cadillac CTS-V
4 Randy Pobst, Audi RS 6
5 Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V
6 Phil McClure, Corvette Z06
7 Mike McCann(R), Dodge Viper
8 Leighton Reese, Corvette Z06
9 Tim Wiens, Dodge Viper
10 Lou Gigliotti, Corvette Z06

There isn't a BMW in the points until Jeff McMillin in the 27th spot. Save for the Autosport GTO and John Young's Saleen SR, everything from 1 to 26 in the points is either an Audi, a Porsche, a Viper, a Vette, or a Caddy.

Now, tell me again. Who's the threat?

Tiger Racing

03-16-2005, 12:39 AM

Ha the vipers and the vettes lol everytime I flip on speed I always see one of em getting into an accident or overshooting a turn. lol The vipers are the only comp besides the bmw's.

Um... when was the last time you actually watched a World Challenge race? As has been posted, Tommy Archer won the Championship in 2004 in a Viper. I believe he finished every race. As for any of the other cars having off track excursions and incidents, well considering the fact that Vettes and Vipers made up half the field at every race, it would be quite a mystery if you didn't see at least one or two of them misplace a wheel at each event.

And when did you see any competitive BMWs run last year? While you were watching the non-existent Bimmers racing around, did you happen to catch a glimpse of any of those guys that I mentioned driving Porches and Caddies? I notice that you didn't comment on them in your dismissive post. You also didn't have much to say about how you can be so certain of a car's performance when it doesn't even have a VTS to compare against any of the known quantities of recent years.

I do applaud your loyalty though.

C.

#98

03-16-2005, 01:46 AM

:screwy: :screwy: :screwy: :screwy:

Okay, here's the GT races from last year with their winners and the cars.

Sebring - Max Angelelli/Cadillac CTS-V
Lime Rock - Randy Pobst/Audi RS6
Mid Ohio - Michael Galati/Audi RS6
Sears Point - Wolf Henzler/Porsche 911GT3 Cup
Portland - Tommy Archer/Dodge Viper Competition Coupe
Mosport Race 1 - Michael Galati/Audi RS6
Mosport Race 2 - Ron Fellows/Cadillac CTS-V
Road America - Michael Galati/Audi RS6
Road Atlanta - Max Angelelli/Cadillac CTS-V
Laguna Seca - Wolf Henzler/Porsche 911GT3 Cup

GT Series champion 2004 - Tommy Archer/Viper Competition Coupe
GT Series Manufacturer's Champion - Audi

Final points standings

1 Tommy Archer, Dodge Viper
2 Michael Galati, Audi RS 6
3 Max Angelelli, Cadillac CTS-V
4 Randy Pobst, Audi RS 6
5 Andy Pilgrim, Cadillac CTS-V
6 Phil McClure, Corvette Z06
7 Mike McCann(R), Dodge Viper
8 Leighton Reese, Corvette Z06
9 Tim Wiens, Dodge Viper
10 Lou Gigliotti, Corvette Z06

There isn't a BMW in the points until Jeff McMillin in the 27th spot. Save for the Autosport GTO and John Young's Saleen SR, everything from 1 to 26 in the points is either an Audi, a Porsche, a Viper, a Vette, or a Caddy.

Now, tell me again. Who's the threat?

lol, jcsaleen is fairly clueless...I've seen him post on another board. No response is necessary. jcsaleen isn't even a bimmer fan so his comments are a mystery.

The PTG M3s have been dominant in Grand Am, but with all the big bore cars in Speed GT, which is more like GTS, the car isn't suited for the class, especially without factory support. The glory days of the M3 GTR are behind us. It's funny that they banned the M3 GTR, but then they let Caddy produce a CTS racecar with almost zero resemblance at all to the stock car. Actually, it's not, SCCA will always bend the rules for whomever is bribing them the most. The 3-series has been dominant in TC too. So, while GT has been dry for them for a couple years they're still having great success.

Someone said something about Derek Bell regaining his competitiveness in the Volvo. lol, lets get a grip, he's not getting any younger and Volvos have been notoriously weak platforms even with factory support.

Laylas Keeper-your solution is nice for anyone who doesn't get physically nauseous from watching oval let alone open-wheel winged oval. Hopefully both series will ultimately survive and prosper.

SkylineUSA

03-16-2005, 02:10 AM

Tiger Racing,

You guys are running this?
Tiger Racing

The Ford Mustang by Tiger Racing is geared towards people who may have disabilities, but certainly have no limitations. With features based on the hot-rod theme of ‘60s-style muscle cars, this all-new Mustang combines a retro appearance with modern day technologies.

Base Vehicle
2005 Ford Mustang GT Coupe Deluxe

Engine
4.6-liter 3-valve V-8
Powertrain
5-speed automatic transmission
Vortech V2S supercharger
Bassani Xhaust
Baumann Electronic Controls Baumannator transmission control system
Tractech differential

Chassis
Stoptech brakes
HPM chassis and suspension upgrade
Koni coil over shocks
Eibach springs

Wheels & Tires
MOMO wheels
Toyo Performance tires

Exterior
Classic Design Concepts Glassback roof
Classic Design Concepts front chin spoiler
Classic Design Concepts hood scoop and quarter scoops
BASF Paint applied by Auto Kraft

Interior
Ford Intelligent Vehicle Technologies cameras, custom gauge cluster and viewing screen
Nartron Invisible Shield window safety package
Cobra seats by Sube Sport with Katzkin covers
Schroth harnesses provided by HMS Motorsport
Brake/throttle hand controls by Mobility Products & Design

Created By
Tiger Racing
Covina, CA
www.Tiger-Racing.com

Very nice, I am in the process of getting a 2005, good luck to you guys.

Tiger Racing

03-16-2005, 12:51 PM

SkylineUSA

03-16-2005, 03:49 PM

I've been outed again! Yup, that's our 2005 Mustang show car. It's been touring with Ford Mobility Motoring and has been in Ford's booth at a number of the auto shows this year and was at SEMA last year. The car will be in New York next week. Our World Challenge GT car is a 2003 Mustang

Thank you, thank you and have fun with yours! They're beautiful cars.

C.

That car is sharp!

http://www.tiger-racing.com/images/05_rt_decals.jpg

I am a Ford Guy, you can tell by my signature :D

blackcomet

03-16-2005, 06:54 PM

that is one hell of a nice mustang!!lol

tyndago

03-16-2005, 08:51 PM

Looks to be fighting a push, but certainly good form. No roll, clean in corner transitions, and obviously able to pick up in the throttle after the apex.

Top 15's maybe?

You can tell that a car is fighting a push from 60 seconds of spliced together footage ?

Most vehicles inheriently understeer, the GT-R is not most vehicles

Any spectulation of finishing positions is pointless. We dont have any expected results, but are looking forward to the possibilities.

tyndago

03-16-2005, 09:01 PM

I
edit: I watched your video...you were on the streets of willow...thing is not really a real track. More like an auto-x course w/out cones. Go on the real track and feel the terror as you go through 8 and 9 with a 500hp car..

We could have run the car on the big track at Willow, but I wanted the first test to be low and slow.

New car, new driver, right hand drive, new track, new team.

Just a first test. First we must walk before we can run.

We brought over Tetsuo Suzuki from Shift Japan. He has ran R34 GT-R's for Falken in Super Taikyu and 24 hour Nurburgring. He has helped us out extensively with the setup of the car ,and will continue to help us with the setup of the car.

Dreamspawn

03-16-2005, 09:08 PM

tyndago

03-16-2005, 09:11 PM

those CTS-V's are beasts, not to mention all the other GM cars out there (GTO and Z06).

anyone know if there is going to be a c6 vette competing?

The CTS-V's are beasts. The SCCA tries their best to regulate the cars so that the racing is close.

So far today in practice the quick car was Wolf Henzler followed by Tommy Archer and then I think the Caddies. We didnt hear all the times.

Henzler did a 2:11.xx. Archer was at 2:12.xx. Tommorow is qualifying so we will see really how the times go.

C6's. Yes there are a couple of C6's. Couple of C5's. Speaking of which. I thought that the Caddy and Vette were running the same motor this year. They sound very, very different. The Vette screams, the Caddy is thumpy.

tyndago

03-16-2005, 09:17 PM

Audi isn't racing this season and, again, we still don't have a clue how World Challenge cars are going to perform in 2005 (let alone 2006), but are you really saying that you are certain the Skyline can pull off 2:16s at Road America in World Challenge trim? You couldn't possibly be claiming that they can do 2:14s like the Audis did last year. Could you?

No Road America this year. Scheduling conflicts.

As far as times the car runs. We are currently working with the SCCA on the VTS. We came out to Sebring to get a feel for the races and see how the event is run. We have had a little bit of time to talk to SCCA about what the car is.

2005 is for testing. We will see what happens in 2006.

tyndago

03-16-2005, 09:21 PM

How are the guys going along with shifting with the left hand? Or is just somthing that naturally take to? Do u know if they are considering on running a japnese driver sombody that has expiernence with teh car or a simular car? thanks Sean

It was Igors first time driving a right hand drive car.

Personally - I have been driving GT-Rs in the US since 1999. I worked at Motorex 1999-2002. Its really not hard to shift with either hand. If you can pick things up with either hand- you have enough coordination.

igor@af

03-16-2005, 09:21 PM

I applaud you for getting into real motorsport. It is nice to see one of these large forum members do something other than these pointless and ridiculous show cars and "street racers." In fact it is the reason I just registered.

Anyway, I've been racing in the SCCA for almost 5 years myself and have driven a decent variety of racecars. My question is what experience have you had racing that you think you will be able to handle a 500hp racecar on some of the most demanding tracks in the world? Testing at Willow on a free test-day is one thing (I've had many races there myself), but being able to safely stay on pace with walls all around you at Infineon or Road Atlanta in the midst of a raging pack of Speed-GT cars with many highly-experienced drivers is another thing. It's very easy to put your car into a wall at places like those and a hard impact in a state-of-the-art Skyline will costs tens-of-thousands to repair. It may have been a better idea to start in a slower racing level...even Speed Touring Car is an extremely fast place for a novice to start. Don't mean to be negative, but I thought I might offer some alternate perspectives.

edit: I watched your video...you were on the streets of willow...thing is not really a real track. More like an auto-x course w/out cones. Go on the real track and feel the terror as you go through 8 and 9 with a 500hp car.

Again, congratulations and best of luck on your new venture.

I am very happy to see race drivers participate in this public debate and I appreciate your time and interest.

Concerning my experience -

First, I want to point out that the primary reason for the entry into World Challenge in '06 rather than this season is for driver development. I will have a full time program in place to ensure my success as the driver including a full season of Endurance Karting, lots of testing in the GT-R, and sedan/coupe racing as well.

I have attended Jim Hall Kart Racing School for one week and graduated with great marks - top laps at 0.25 second behind Chief Instructor and National Shifter Kart Champion Eric Shutte.

I have spent a considerable amount of one-on-one time with 2-time Le Mans Champion Roland E. Linder, including track time and mentoring. He is extremely confident in my abilities and I have his full support. We maintain regular contact.

At Bondurant, I was as fast as a more experienced and current Grand-Am GT Class driver, graduating the program with very good marks.

I also want to mention that I have considerable experience handling the AF 350Z - http://www.automotiveforums.com/350z/ , which is putting out around 375 to the wheels.

I look forward to driving the GT-R and am confident in my abilities to deliver.

blackcomet

03-16-2005, 10:00 PM

#98

03-17-2005, 12:11 AM

I am very happy to see race drivers participate in this public debate and I appreciate your time and interest.

Concerning my experience -

First, I want to point out that the primary reason for the entry into World Challenge in '06 rather than this season is for driver development. I will have a full time program in place to ensure my success as the driver including a full season of Endurance Karting, lots of testing in the GT-R, and sedan/coupe racing as well.

I have attended Jim Hall Kart Racing School for one week and graduated with great marks - top laps at 0.25 second behind Chief Instructor and National Shifter Kart Champion Eric Shutte.

I have spent a considerable amount of one-on-one time with 2-time Le Mans Champion Roland E. Linder, including track time and mentoring. He is extremely confident in my abilities and I have his full support. We maintain regular contact.

At Bondurant, I was as fast as a more experienced and current Grand-Am GT Class driver, graduating the program with very good marks.

I also want to mention that I have considerable experience handling the AF 350Z - http://www.automotiveforums.com/350z/ , which is putting out around 375 to the wheels.

I look forward to driving the GT-R and am confident in my abilities to deliver.

Good, it's nice to see that you have some experience. I've done karting myself and it's somewhat helpful for learning to left-foot brake, but it's more geared toward preparing yourself for a formula car. Driving a formula car and driving a sedan are totally different worlds, which I'm sure you know.

My suggestion would be to enter your car in as many SoCal and NorCal regional races as possible. Drive with the engine detuned to save wear on the car and just get used to driving it in real races, especially traffic. Obviously you'll be testing all the different setups so you'll learn what fits you best. Make sure and get some test days in the rain. I could write pages more, but if you really have experienced mentors they'll be telling you the same things as I'd be writing, which essentially amounts to the critical needs for absolutely huge amounts of seat time if you want to survive the experience of world-champion pilots lapping you.

I'm at the track often so we might collide sometime...I usually bring crates of Redline Oil too so if you need some let me know.

#98

03-17-2005, 12:20 AM

you mentioned going to kart school and I was curious while you were on that topic. Even here in Canada there are a lot of those schools, I was just curious if it was just a place to get better at racing or is it like when you get out you get some sort of license to race in certain racing leagues or somethin??

Karting is a ladder to formula, specfically for younger racers who start usually by the time they're 11 with aspirations of becoming a paid-driver. It won't get you a racing license in any of the touring car series you see on TV. To race in SCCA there is a pretty standard ladder for getting different licenses...check out www.scca.com for more.

But karting is more than just a place for the young, ambitious and usually at least moderately wealthy. It is a place where older people race just purely for the sport, competition and fun of karting. Karting is insanely thrilling and challenging. It truly boggles my mind that anyone would spend more huge sums to customize their street-car when they could be using that money to kart.

Dreamspawn

03-17-2005, 12:44 AM

It was Igors first time driving a right hand drive car.

Personally - I have been driving GT-Rs in the US since 1999. I worked at Motorex 1999-2002. Its really not hard to shift with either hand. If you can pick things up with either hand- you have enough coordination.

I envy you so very very much. like i said earlier in the thread if i got chance just to see a skyline in person i'd cry, and you have goto drive them. Is rbmotoring legalizing skyline yet or still seeking approval from the big 3?

Also Igor how did you get into road racing? The only thing like that i can find here in KY is autocross? Isn't the nearest road course mid-ohio? I'm 19 i'm highly interested in going road racing even its the most little level. Just wondering how u got started? So that i might be able to follow in your steps.

Layla's Keeper

03-17-2005, 12:48 AM

You can tell that a car is fighting a push from 60 seconds of spliced together footage ?

Most vehicles inheriently understeer, the GT-R is not most vehicles

Any spectulation of finishing positions is pointless. We dont have any expected results, but are looking forward to the possibilities.

An ISMA supermodified laps Sandusky Speedway in under 16 seconds and in qualifying you get three laps, one to warm tires and two hot. I was a member of Race Race America Ltd up until the untimely death of our founder and learned chassis setup (and construction) at the hands of Jim Bodnar.

Yes, I can in fact tell what a car is fighting from limited time on track and a compromised viewing position (crew stands at Sandusky were at the entrance to turn one, behind the pit entrance) and judging by the amount of lean at the nose compared to the tail, the points where the throttle was being picked up, and how much steering input was cranked in from the wheel angle, it looked like a bad push off center on throttle.

Tiger Racing

03-17-2005, 03:27 AM

No Road America this year. Scheduling conflicts.

Merely a reference. There is no Road America race this season. Instead, Cleveland has been added to the schedule. World Challenge will be a support race for... CART. :)

As far as times the car runs. We are currently working with the SCCA on the VTS. We came out to Sebring to get a feel for the races and see how the event is run. We have had a little bit of time to talk to SCCA about what the car is.

I'm sure that I'm not the only one who will be interested in seeing the VTS when it comes out. Have you guys paid the homologation fee yet?

I want to point out that the primary reason for the entry into World Challenge in '06 rather than this season is for driver development. I will have a full time program in place to ensure my success as the driver including a full season of Endurance Karting, lots of testing in the GT-R, and sedan/coupe racing as well.

So you don't actually have any real, race experience? None? As someone else who leaped before looking into World Challenge, may I ask you a question?

What are you smoking and is it legal in Amsterdam?

I understand wanting to race what you want, where you want, but whose idea was it to take a totally untested car and a completely inexperienced driver into what is arguably the most competitive road racing series in North America? Even a full year of endurance karting is nothing compared to what the least experienced full-time driver in WCGT has under their belt. Who's sponsoring this team?

C.

#98

03-17-2005, 04:19 AM

So you don't actually have any real, race experience? None? As someone else who leaped before looking into World Challenge, may I ask you a question?

What are you smoking and is it legal in Amsterdam?

I understand wanting to race what you want, where you want, but whose idea was it to take a totally untested car and a completely inexperienced driver into what is arguably the most competitive road racing series in North America? Even a full year of endurance karting is nothing compared to what the least experienced full-time driver in WCGT has under their belt. Who's sponsoring this team?

C.

heh, what did you think I was talking about in my earlier posts? I wouldn't even throw a rookie into a competitive regional spec-miata race, unless I wanted him to suffer a serious blow to his ego (and likely his roll-cage too). Site revenue appears to have financed the car, but you as someone with personal experience running a WC program as well as I know that it takes hundreds of thousands just to show up consistently at the tracks let alone be competitive. Buying the car is the least expensive part.

Anyway, he needs gigantic amounts of seat time in the Skyline just in order to deal with the battling leaders come up to lap him. Those guys will have no mercy for a rookie as they battle it out. Seems like a nice guy...wanna keep him from making a really costly mistake. Anyway, bottom line is that if he has serious natural talent then a year of solid racing should make him good enough to avoid disaster. However, if not, lol, he might want to consider 2007.

SkylineUSA

03-17-2005, 03:27 PM

What are you smoking and is it legal in Amsterdam?

I understand wanting to race what you want, where you want, but whose idea was it to take a totally untested car and a completely inexperienced driver into what is arguably the most competitive road racing series in North America? Even a full year of endurance karting is nothing compared to what the least experienced full-time driver in WCGT has under their belt. Who's sponsoring this team?

C.

TigerRacing,

Igor is a very intelligent, and motivated young man. Plus, with the car he has, and a team of experts to back him, I have all the confidence in the world that not only can he participate in the WCGT, but he will be competitive. He is probably one of the most intelligent people I have had the pleasure to speak with, and I have friends and family in Mensa. Give him a chance, before you try to chastise him, please.

#98

03-17-2005, 04:31 PM

TigerRacing,

Igor is a very intelligent, and motivated young man. Plus, with the car he has, and a team of experts to back him, I have all the confidence in the world that not only can he participate in the WCGT, but he will be competitive.

The thing is that all the other teams have experts and drivers with years of experience. Also, despite the idolized view you have of the Skyline I doubt it will be a competitive car. It is an aging platform and in the engine-restricted series of GT will not to be able to use its ability to creative massive hp. Its handling isn't exactly legendary either.

tyndago

03-17-2005, 06:26 PM

I'm sure that I'm not the only one who will be interested in seeing the VTS when it comes out. .

The VTS will read like most of the cars. Tires a certain width. Lots of stock parts in the engine. Lots more stock parts than you might think. The car will weigh in the 3000-3200 lb range. It will make about 500 hp. There wont be any real suprises.

So you don't actually have any real, race experience? None? As someone else who leaped before looking into World Challenge, may I ask you a question? I understand wanting to race what you want, where you want, but whose idea was it to take a totally untested car and a completely inexperienced driver into what is arguably the most competitive road racing series in North America? Even a full year of endurance karting is nothing compared to what the least experienced full-time driver in WCGT has under their belt. Who's sponsoring this team?

So you went into World Challenge and realized how difficult it is and you ask us what we are smoking.

1 year. Actually 15 months of development for this car for this series. We are currently at Sebring - looking and learning more about what we threw our hat into.

As far as this car being untested. Its a Nismo built race car. A car based on a chassis that Nismo has been racing for 16 years. Its a 5 year old race car that finished 2nd overall in Super Taikyu in 2001. More history of the vehicle is in the article about this car.

As far as inexperience goes. Everyone is a rookie sometime. There have been a couple of rookies that have done well at World Challenge.

tyndago

03-17-2005, 06:28 PM

all the other teams have experts and drivers with years of experience.

All the other teams have drivers with years of experience ? Really ? All of them?

So then a rookie cant race in this series until he gets "years of experience"?

Tiger Racing

03-17-2005, 07:00 PM

Igor is a very intelligent, and motivated young man.

That doesn't mean he is good at racing cars.

Plus, with the car he has, and a team of experts to back him, I have all the confidence in the world that not only can he participate in the WCGT, but he will be competitive.

I certainly wouldn't be money on it, but I guess it's your money to lose.

He is probably one of the most intelligent people I have had the pleasure to speak with, and I have friends and family in Mensa. Give him a chance, before you try to chastise him, please.

I don't know what IQ points have to do with this, other than the fact that it is questionable whether entering a highly competitive, extremely expensive pro series to get one's first taste of racing is really the smartest route into motorsport history. But I didn't chastise anyone. I made a joke about what a huge bite this guy is taking off the road racing pie. As I've said, it'll be interesting to see how this plays out. I was just wondering why this plan was implemented in this way.

C.

#98

03-17-2005, 07:03 PM

All the other teams have drivers with years of experience ? Really ? All of them?

So then a rookie cant race in this series until he gets "years of experience"?

Probably 90 percent if not all of them have years of experience. Rookies don't typically jump into a high-powered GT series.

Anyway, I'm not trying to be negative. I hope Igor is successful and if I can aid him I'll do that.

Tiger Racing

03-17-2005, 08:05 PM

The VTS will read like most of the cars. Tires a certain width. Lots of stock parts in the engine. Lots more stock parts than you might think. The car will weigh in the 3000-3200 lb range. It will make about 500 hp. There wont be any real suprises.

I know how VTS sheets usually read. The devil is in the details.

So you went into World Challenge and realized how difficult it is and you ask us what we are smoking.

Yes. I did. I am speaking from first hand knowledge and experience. We jumped into Ferrari Challenge without really looking at the series, because we wanted to race a Ferrari 355 F1 car. We needed the paddle shifter for hand controls. We had no idea how competitive the series was until we were in it. The only other cars I'd ever raced were an '88 Supra and a '95 Mustang. Both street cars run in track day events. The Ferrari Challenge cars aren't really race cars compared to serious race cars, but they are a mighty step up from a 6 cylinder Supra with a bolt in, 4-point harness. I did pretty well in Ferrari Challenge for a couple of yrs, then went to SCCA Club Racing where I won the So Cal Regional T1 Championship before plunging blindly into World Challenge in a woefully underpowered and decidedly unreliable Ferrari. I had enough race experience under my belt that I could at least stay out of the way while I was getting my butt kicked, but I could have used more time in close, competitive racing with more equal drivers. I don't know anyone who couldn't.

1 year. Actually 15 months of development for this car for this series. We are currently at Sebring - looking and learning more about what we threw our hat into.

I'm curious as to why you didn't look into World Challenge more closely before acquiring this car and issuing a press release.

As far as this car being untested. Its a Nismo built race car. A car based on a chassis that Nismo has been racing for 16 years.

The car has never been run in World Challenge trim.

As far as inexperience goes. Everyone is a rookie sometime. There have been a couple of rookies that have done well at World Challenge

Come on now. Being a rookie to a particular series is nothing like being flat out new to racing overall. Rookies usually have some experience in lower leagues for a few yrs before moving up to the majors. No doubt about it, World Challenge is major league road racing. These guys are bloody well serious. Many of them are paid professionals, a lot of them spend more time behind the wheel in a year than they do tucked into their beds at home and I don't believe that any of them went from 0-170 like you are talking about doing.

All the other teams have drivers with years of experience ? Really ? All of them?

Yes. I don't know of a single driver whose first year of road racing began in World Challenge.

So then a rookie cant race in this series until he gets "years of experience"?

You're misunderstanding how the term rookie is commonly used in this context. And the point is whether someone with zero experience can be competitive against the likes of Pilgrim, Henzler and Archer in their factory backed or supported cars.

C.

#98

03-17-2005, 10:42 PM

Winning T1 in the SoCal region (althought right now T1 fields are almost non-existant in SoCal) and having experience in the 355 Challenge series is a far cry from where Igor is at. Many times when you hear the term rookie used it is rather ludicrous. Like in touring car in 2004 Bob Endicott was competing for ROY, but only cause it was his first year in WC. If BMW's hotshoe in the BTCC, Andy Priaulx came to Speed WC he'd be considered a rookie.

There's a double regional at Buttonwillow this weekend...but I'm assuming he doesn't have his regional license yet. Are you even SCCA members yet?

Which reminds me, you do know that Igor will need to complete a bunch of national level races to even qualify for the pro-license required for WC. And before he can get a national license to compete in national events he needs to get a novice-license and then compete 4 regional races.

Maybe I'll volunteer to instruct at Igor's SCCA super-school (required to get the novice license). The best route would be to purchase a spec-miata to compete in for the rest of the season.

tyndago

03-18-2005, 08:47 AM

Thank you to everyone for their input. We are discussing each post among ourselves. We appreciate the advice from people with experience.

We had a chance yesterday to walk around in the rain andt

SkylineUSA

03-18-2005, 12:52 PM

That doesn't mean he is good at racing cars.

I certainly wouldn't be money on it, but I guess it's your money to lose.

I don't know what IQ points have to do with this, other than the fact that it is questionable whether entering a highly competitive, extremely expensive pro series to get one's first taste of racing is really the smartest route into motorsport history. But I didn't chastise anyone. I made a joke about what a huge bite this guy is taking off the road racing pie. As I've said, it'll be interesting to see how this plays out. I was just wondering why this plan was implemented in this way.

C.

How many cars total will be racing in a normal WCGT season? I would put money that the GTR would finish in the top 50%, if it can get a full season in.

As far as the IQ, you are missing my point. Don't key in on the fact that he is just a smart kid, he has a plan, he has a team, and the kids has some skills, not necessarily on the race course yet, but with practise it will come.

As for the way he is going about it, speculation on my parts, it has to do with the car.

#98

03-18-2005, 01:58 PM

I would put money that the GTR would finish in the top 50%, if it can get a full season in.

A judgement based on your extensive knowledge of motorsport, no doubt.

SkylineUSA

03-18-2005, 05:41 PM

A judgement based on your extensive knowledge of motorsport, no doubt.

I guess you take that as an insult.

SkylineUSA

03-18-2005, 06:01 PM

Its handling isn't exactly legendary either.

Ignorance is bliss.

That has to be one of the most uniformed quotes I have seen posted on the internet, way to go 98.

Tiger Racing

03-19-2005, 01:44 AM

How many cars total will be racing in a normal WCGT season? I would put money that the GTR would finish in the top 50%, if it can get a full season in.

Yeah, that's not all that hard to do as long as your car is reliable enough to finish the races. You do realize that the predictions for this car are slipping? First it was top 15s and top 10 finishes in races and now it's finishing in the top 50% in points for the season. HUGE difference there. :)

As far as the IQ, you are missing my point. Don't key in on the fact that he is just a smart kid, he has a plan

You mean the plan where he goes straight from karting to professional road racing in less than a year and half?

he has a team, and the kids has some skills, not necessarily on the race course yet, but with practise it will come.

I don't know what skills you're talking about, but there is no guarantee of racing talent no matter how much practice someone has, let alone a mere 15 months or so.

As for the way he is going about it, speculation on my parts, it has to do with the car.

Could be. I'm still curious.

C.

SkylineUSA

03-19-2005, 02:01 AM

Yeah, that's not all that hard to do as long as your car is reliable enough to finish the races. You do realize that the predictions for this car are slipping? First it was top 15s and top 10 finishes in races and now it's finishing in the top 50% in points for the season. HUGE difference there. :)

I have a more realistic point of view, I never said top 15:)

You mean the plan where he goes straight from karting to professional road racing in less than a year and half?

Time will tell.

I don't know what skills you're talking about, but there is no guarantee of racing talent no matter how much practice someone has, let alone a mere 15 months or so.

Once again, time will tell.

Could be. I'm still curious.

What do you know about the GTR? I have seen a GTR take out 911s, 355s, M3s, Evos, WRXs, Elises, NSXs, and GTOs in a head to head road racing circuit. And that was with the R33s. The R34 is a much better car than the R33.

Tiger,

So how many cars are in this racing series?

Layla's Keeper

03-19-2005, 02:10 AM

Ignorance is bliss.

That has to be one of the most uniformed quotes I have seen posted on the internet, way to go 98.

Are you willing to tell us flat out that the R34 GTR Skyline will outhandle the Viper Competition Coupes, the Pratt & Miller Caddy CTS-V's, the Farnbacher Racing Porsche 911GT3's, the Leighton Reese C6 Corvette, and the myriad number of C5 Corvette Z06's?

Especially considering that the series runs a spec tire with spec sizes. From the Speed World Challenge site themselves.

Grand Touring (GT): The tires used are the Toyo Proxes RA-1 race compound DOT-approved tire. The size(s) used depend on the GT car. The sizes used in the GT class are the 245/40/18, 275/35/18, 305/35/18 and 335/30/18.

According to jbskyline.net, R34 GTR Skylines use 245/40 ZR18's off the showroom floor. SWC does make rules allotments for widened cars (very specific rules about how you can widen the fenders and by how much, though) and may allow use of the 305's, but it all depends on what the SCCA says you can run.

Layla's Keeper

03-19-2005, 02:35 AM

31 GT cars showed up at Sebring this weekend. Here's the field breakdown.

11 Viper Competition Coupes
5 Porsche 911 GT3 Cups
2 Pratt & Miller Cadillac CTS-V's
4 Corvette C5 Z06's
3 Corvette C6's
1 1st generation Viper GTS coupe
2 Volvo S60R's
1 Saleen SR351
1 Pontiac GTO
1 Ford Mustang

SkylineUSA

03-19-2005, 03:11 AM

Are you willing to tell us flat out that the R34 GTR Skyline will outhandle the Viper Competition Coupes, the Pratt & Miller Caddy CTS-V's, the Farnbacher Racing Porsche 911GT3's, the Leighton Reese C6 Corvette, and the myriad number of C5 Corvette Z06's?

Especially considering that the series runs a spec tire with spec sizes. From the Speed World Challenge site themselves.

According to jbskyline.net, R34 GTR Skylines use 245/40 ZR18's off the showroom floor. SWC does make rules allotments for widened cars (very specific rules about how you can widen the fenders and by how much, though) and may allow use of the 305's, but it all depends on what the SCCA says you can run.

Can out handle, hopefully we will see one way or the other.

Like Tiger mentioned, I am curious to find out.

The GTR is a very capable car. Top 50%, I would consider that being very competitive for a first year car, no?

#98

03-19-2005, 04:36 AM

Could be. I'm still curious.

What do you know about the GTR? I have seen a GTR take out 911s, 355s, M3s, Evos, WRXs, Elises, NSXs, and GTOs in a head to head road racing circuit. And that was with the R33s. The R34 is a much better car than the R33.
[/B]

What are you referring to like that Japanese show that usually takes a bunch of exotic cars and throws on that circuit together? Regardless, most of what you've seen is probably not worth much in telling how good a car is. You'll see a Civic take out a Ferrari if one is a fully built racecar and the other one is just a cage. Most of the things you see on the internet aren't reliable. Most of those cars you mentioned are not really Speed-GT level cars. Speed GT is really somewhere between GT and GTS in classic terms. 355s would simply be demolished by even the slowest Speed GT cars and the M3 was never really meant to compete with V10s and 5 liter V8s with an I6. When it got the 4 liter V8 it kicked ass, but the 3.2 liter L6 is just too stressed already for GT, but it grab some poles and wins in the L6 format just cause it handles so well.

Anyway, back further you said "ignorance is bliss" and even more hilariously "that is the most uninformed comment ever" in regards to my statement that the Skyline's handling isn't that legendary. The Skyline handles great no doubt about it, but some make it out as if it's simply the best handling car ever or something when simply there are a bunch that handle better. Its mystique comes from its ability to create massive power, the forgiveness of a somewhat softly sprung awd the fantastic launches, but then a little bit too much from the internet which is filled mostly with kids who obsess over anything turbo and awd. The fact that is has never come to the US and appeared even less in American and European road racing has led to teens routinely making hyperbolic assumptions. Unfortunately it won't be able to race in the power trims that the most famous skylines have featured. Besides, in racing AWD is a whole other ball game as you're going to be experiencing the cost of extra wear on the front tires that rwd cars won't have, especially with the understeer that cars like the Skyline tend to create. The Skyline makes non-world-class drivers like us better...it lets us beat faster cars cause it's so forgiving. But world-class drivers don't need forgiving cars and a 911 is a better handling car when driven perfectly...most of us would die trying to drive a 911 anywhere near the limit, but look relatively decent driving a Skyline hard. And like I said, regardless of how well it handled compared to its contemporaries, it's an aging platform contesting against state of the art equipment.

Anyway kids, don't forget to miss the 12 hours of Sebring today (sat) to get a taste for the kind of action you see in Speed GT...Unfortunately they usually focus almost solely on the P1 category and GTS. F1 follows it too, but it has turned into somewhat of a bore fest.

SkylineUSA

03-19-2005, 06:14 AM

What are you referring to like that Japanese show that usually takes a bunch of exotic cars and throws on that circuit together? Regardless, most of what you've seen is probably not worth much in telling how good a car is. You'll see a Civic take out a Ferrari if one is a fully built racecar and the other one is just a cage. Most of the things you see on the internet aren't reliable. Most of those cars you mentioned are not really Speed-GT level cars. Speed GT is really somewhere between GT and GTS in classic terms. 355s would simply be demolished by even the slowest Speed GT cars and the M3 was never really meant to compete with V10s and 5 liter V8s with an I6. When it got the 4 liter V8 it kicked ass, but the 3.2 liter L6 is just too stressed already for GT, but it grab some poles and wins in the L6 format just cause it handles so well.

Anyway, back further you said "ignorance is bliss" and even more hilariously "that is the most uninformed comment ever" in regards to my statement that the Skyline's handling isn't that legendary. The Skyline handles great no doubt about it, but some make it out as if it's simply the best handling car ever or something when simply there are a bunch that handle better. Its mystique comes from its ability to create massive power, the forgiveness of a somewhat softly sprung awd the fantastic launches, but then a little bit too much from the internet which is filled mostly with kids who obsess over anything turbo and awd. The fact that is has never come to the US and appeared even less in American and European road racing has led to teens routinely making hyperbolic assumptions. Unfortunately it won't be able to race in the power trims that the most famous skylines have featured. Besides, in racing AWD is a whole other ball game as you're going to be experiencing the cost of extra wear on the front tires that rwd cars won't have, especially with the understeer that cars like the Skyline tend to create. The Skyline makes non-world-class drivers like us better...it lets us beat faster cars cause it's so forgiving. But world-class drivers don't need forgiving cars and a 911 is a better handling car when driver perfectly, but most of us would die trying to drive a 911 and look good driving a Skyline. And like I said, regardless of how well it handled compared to its contemporaries, it's an aging platform contesting against state of the art equipment.

Anyway kids, don't forget to miss the 12 hours of Sebring today (sat) to get a taste for the kind of action you see in Speed GT...Unfortunately they usually focus almost solely on the P1 category and GTS. F1 follows it too, but it has turned into somewhat of a bore fest.

GTRs are not AWD. They are really partial AWD, more power to the ground.

But, you do make some good points.

I live in England, so I get to see a totally different realm that what you guys do for racing. So, I will have to wait and see the results posted on the internet.

One question 98, how many GTRs have you seen race in person? I have seen well over 100.

Good luck to all that have entered the race, and be safe.

Time will tell once the GTR can get in there and play.

#98

03-19-2005, 07:50 AM

Haven't seen much live action and what I have seen is not sound for judgement. What kind of races did you watch the Skylines participate in? Club level racing is sort of unhelpful for determining how cars will perform in professional series.

A little more info the 12 Hours of Sebring for anyone reading the thread. On Speed throughout most of the day...here are some interesting entries in addition to the dominant R8s, Vettes and GT3s in case you need some more convincing to watch it:

TVR 400
Spyker
Maserati MC12 (the enzo-dervied GT1 car)
Aston Martin's new DB9 GT1 car
TVR 400

Fully entry list and site link:

http://www.imsaracing.net/2003/events/sebring05/entrylist.pdf

and

http://www.sebringraceway.com/information.html

SkylineUSA

03-19-2005, 10:43 AM

It's really a mute point either way. Let's just wait and see what happens when the GTR gets its chance.

I understand what you are say, it's very hard to be competitive with a bunch of unknowns. It takes years to get where these guys are at in this type of racing series, with their skills, cars, crew, learning the courses, sponsors, etc. The fact that this GTR might be thrown into the mix with a very young driver is ludicrous (in my best mike tyson voice), but if anyone can do it, Igor is your man

98, thanks for the links, very cool site.

TatII

03-19-2005, 11:56 AM

let me just add something here. i'm not road racer,and i sure as hell don't participate in proffessional road racing. but what makes this GTR different from buy just any other GT-R and modding our selves is that, the car that Igor bought is already a race car in the japanese proffesional league. Sure its no JGTC 500 car that pulls 3 G's in the corner average, but its still a japanese race car built by the same team that built the legendary 24 hour le man's racer Falken GT-R. so your saying that a 24 hour le mans race car is not in the same pedigree as the speed world challenge? the Falken GT-R ranked as high as 3rd in the nurburgring in 2003 before a clutch failure kept it off the podium. so a GT-R's chassis is still competitive with todays modern cars as long as its built right, and this GT-R is built by those same guys so i can safely say it is tuned right.

also this car already has its history of winning endurance races, the setup is proven to work and its victories proof it. now i'm just alittle worried about igor being competitive enough to race it to its 100% potential, but i'm no one to judge since i have no experience so i'm not goin to add any comment on that.

SkylineUSA

03-19-2005, 02:03 PM

Tiger Racing

03-19-2005, 02:05 PM

What do you know about the GTR?

Almost nothing about the cars that have raced overseas and even less about World Challenge spec GTRs because they don't exist yet.

I have seen a GTR take out 911s, 355s, M3s, Evos, WRXs, Elises, NSXs, and GTOs in a head to head road racing circuit.

My 355 Challenge car has bested most of those cars at various events. Of course, none of those were World Challenge cars. My Mustang has left my 355's times in the dust, but has taken years to come up to World Challenge speeds. I did watch a Mustang wipe the floor with other GT cars at the Laguna Seca race last October, but then it was being driven by a well respected and seasoned professional, Boris Said. As another poster alluded to, you really need to have an idea of the specs for each car to compare before being impressed by one beating another.

So how many cars are in this racing series?

You can find entry lists for the past five years on the World Challenge website.

http://www.world-challenge.com/2005/entrylist-gt.html

Last year, an average of 30 cars were entered in each race. Currently there are 51 cars registered for the 2005 season, but less than half of those are regulars.

Top 50%, I would consider that being very competitive for a first year car, no?

Not really. Like I said, just finishing each of the 10 or so races in a season will likely put you in the top 50% in points for the year. Hel, I finished in the top third in my second year and that was driving my 355.

C.

Tiger Racing

03-19-2005, 02:25 PM

the car that Igor bought is already a race car in the japanese proffesional league. Sure its no JGTC 500 car that pulls 3 G's in the corner average, but its still a japanese race car built by the same team that built the legendary 24 hour le man's racer Falken GT-R. so your saying that a 24 hour le mans race car is not in the same pedigree as the speed world challenge?

Actually, Le Mans spec is a few steps above World Challenge. A car taken to that degree would not be elibigle for WCGT.

C.

SkylineUSA

03-19-2005, 02:25 PM

I remember Boris Said's name from a few years ago when the late Paul Mumford beat him and the rest of the feild at Laguna.

I'm here to tell you guys/gal, the GTR is bred for this type of racing. Most of the guys here in England try to turn them into 1/4 milers, but that is not what they were built for.

I am not going to predict what the car will do anymore, but I will say you will take notice, good or bad:D

TatII

03-19-2005, 02:42 PM

Actually, Le Mans spec is a few steps above World Challenge. A car taken to that degree would not be elibigle for WCGT.

C.

this car is not the exact car that raced in le mans, it doesn't have a stroked 2.8 liter block, this one is pretty much a stock engined car with bolt ons, and it doenst' have the widend track either. however the point that i was making was that these people who built this particular GT-R also built a 24 hour le mans car, which means these guys knows what they are doing. i'm not sayin the car is goin to dominate, but i'm pretty sure it will be a competitive car.

SkylineUSA

03-19-2005, 04:43 PM

I just noticed Igor, you have the Michael Jordan of NISMO R34 GTRs :D #23

ac427cpe

03-19-2005, 05:04 PM

What so many of you have failed to see is that we are talking about a relatively greenhorn driver (no offence Igor, i'm comparing you at a professional level) in an unknown car competing in one of the most demanding races in the US. It will be a great experience for him and the team, and will greatly help broaden his views on the racing world. I don't think he's ready to jump straight to that level, but with a year's worth of practice (which he will also need to achieve the required licensing) he will know what he's doing enough to SAFELY be in the field.

For those saying the car will make a HUGE difference and equalize the field... since it is the first to run in the US at that level, the SCCA will TEAR IT APART. There is no precident so they will be able to mandate whatever they want about the car. They might say it can run as it is, they might make him race it at a stripped down STOCK trim with their chosen tire size. The car won't make a huge difference, all the cars out there have their advantages and disadvantages, but they will all be prepared racecars, set up to the pinnacle of what the SCCA will allow for them. the fact that it is a skyline might put him at more of a disadvantage, but we won't know till he is able to register it.

i'm curious to see what will happen if he can get it into the SWC, i just think it's a bit too soon to speculate anything.

igor@af

03-20-2005, 10:30 AM

Having spent this past week at Sebring and not having time to read the entire thread at this point as I am flying out to NY Auto Show here in an hour, I just want to say this.

This speculation on my performance sounds rather pointless. (note to C. - I didn't make either of these statements, nor do I agree with them, but just doing comparative math here - "top 15" and "top 50%" in a ~31 car field is about the same to me.)

As much experience as you, #98, and you, C., might have, I am also going to consider what the likes of Michael Krumm (JGTC), Divina Galica (F1), and Stu Hayner (you know him), had to say to me at Sebring. Not to mention Jorge Koechlin, Roland Linder, and Jim Hall....

I appreciate everything that anyone takes the time to input