New Solo Spec Coupe Class Unveiled for SCCA Autocross Competition
TOPEKA, Kan. (Sept. 4, 2017) -- The Sports Car Club of America® officially announced today the creation of a new Solo Spec Coupe (SSC) class for autocross competition. The new supplemental class for 2018 national and regional events was developed to be unique in that it primarily focuses on a competitor’s driving skill by having racers participate in nearly identical cars.
Mike Cobb, SCCA President & CEO, said SSC leverages the knowledge and market strength of longtime Club partners Tire Rack, Koni, Eibach and SPC Performance to produce a turnkey competition platform that is both cost efficient and fun.
“When you take an exciting car model and add great partner support, a dedicated Solo Spec Coupe class in which to play, and terrific drivers, you get an outstanding SCCA member experience we’re sure many people will enjoy,” Cobb said.
The base platform selected by the Solo Events Board will be the 2013 to 2016 Subaru BRZ or Scion FR-S. Howard Duncan, SCCA Rally/Solo Senior Director, said the BRZ and FR-S were selected because the cars are modestly priced, rear-wheel drive, late model enthusiast vehicles useful as both a “daily driver” and for autocross competition.
“These cars offer aftermarket modifications embraced by enthusiasts who enjoy the driving experience,” Duncan said. “The vehicles are readily available and modifications fairly simple. The cars have shown reliability, which should help with cost containment. And a street ride can be maintained for daily use while also allowing for fun autocross performance. It’s a very positive package all around.”
Vehicles will be able to compete with original equipment. But the Solo Spec Coupe will also have a two-stage upgrade option. Tire Rack is SCCA’s Stage 1 Performance Package coordinating partner. The components will be offered to SCCA® members at a discounted price, and an opportunity for non-members to join the Club before purchase. Drivers interested in the package can learn more at Tire Rack’s SSC webpage, but the basic elements include:
- Koni Sport Shocks, factory sealed (front left strut, right front strut and rear)
- Eibach Pro-Plus Kit (F/R springs and F/R adjustable anti-roll bars)
- SPC Front Alignment Kit (camber bolts, adjustable lower control arms and toe arms)
Tire Rack is also the preferred supplier of the Stage 2 Performance Package that includes 17”x 8” wheels, running a minimum of 17 pounds with minimum offset of 40 millimeters. There will also be a 225/45R17 spec tire used in SSC with a minimum 200 treadwear. The specific spec tire brand will be named later this year.
A Stage 3 Performance Package, consisting of a PCM/ECU retuning module, is currently being researched and considered for future use.
For components not specifically listed in the Stage 1 or Stage 2 Packages, the Solo Street Category allowances will apply. Vehicles will be allowed to compete “under prepared” without all permitted modifications being installed. Where applicable, Solo Spec Coupe cars can also compete in the STX class.
For more information, please visit the SCCA Solo Spec Coupe webpage.
The Sports Car Club of America®, Inc., founded in 1944, is a 67,500-member motorsports organization that incorporates all facets of autocross, rally and road racing at both club and professional levels. With headquarters in Topeka, Kansas, the SCCA annually sanctions over 2,000 events through its 116 Regions and subsidiary divisions. Much of the SCCA’s activities are made possible with support from the following Official Partners: Chevrolet, the Official Truck of the SCCA; Hawk Performance, the Official Brake Products of SCCA; Mobil 1, the Official Oil of SCCA; Sunoco, the Official Fuel of SCCA; and Tire Rack, the Official Tire Retailer of SCCA. To learn more, please visit www.scca.com.
