Just because you want to race Porsches doesn't mean you'll have to sell vital organs to afford it. The 944-Spec series was conceived to offer Porsche enthusiasts a way to go racing with limited expense and low operating costs. Consisting of spec-built 1983-1988 Porsche 944s and 1987-1988 Porsche 924Ss, 944-Spec follows a similar concept to that of Spec Miata and Spec E30 in that, due to the parity between cars in the class, driver skill is the biggest factor in regards to a racer's competitiveness. Let's take a look at some of the details of the series and car setup:
Sanctioning Bodies/Organizers:
Race Format: Sprint
Typical Race Length: 25 to 50 minutes
Car Type / Production Dates:
Engine:
Output: Approximately 150 horsepower. HP + torque figures, divided by 2, must not exceed 140 on the dyno.
Weight: 2600lbs minimum (with driver)
Data System: Unrestricted
Suspension Adjustability:
1) Koni – Front: 8641-1038 Sport, 8641-1414 Sport / Rear: 26-1209 Sport, 8040-1035 Sport
2) Bilstein Front P30-0104 Rear: B36-0161, B36-2052
Tire Size: Toyo Proxes RR, 225/50/15 (dry) / Toyo Proxes RA-1, 225/50/15 (wet)
Aero: No air dams, wings or spoilers are allowed other than stock components.
Special Features:
Constraints:
Car Cost: $4,000-$9,000 (used), $11,000-$15,000 shop build (new)
TypicalCar CountRange: 10-15 cars per race, depending on region/event
Strongest Regions:
Weekend Run Cost:
During the 2010 racing season, an intrepid 944-Spec racer itemized his DIY run costs into this handy chart below. Keep in mind that your mileage may vary, and costs for some of these items may have gone up slightly since this chart was created
Given these expenses, a race weekend should range between $500 to $700 including entry fees. Lodging and trailering costs should also be considered.
Crossover Classes:
Record Lap Times/Tracks:
Example shops providing support:
Shops Providing Arrive & Drive Rental:
Here's some great footage of some Spec 944s going toe-to-toe at Mid-Ohio Raceway from the Bennington Motorsports "Green Machine" 944 driven by Dan Pina, with some Spec E30 and GTS mixed in with the pack:
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