Ford Fiesta WRC in the World Rally Championship
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Manufacturer:
Ford
Category: WRC
Since 2017 until 2021
The Ford Fiesta WRC, developed by Ford's performance division, Ford Performance, and based on the Fiesta road car, has been a prominent contender in the World Rally Championship (WRC) since its introduction. Here are some key points regarding the Ford Fiesta WRC's participation in the WRC:
Introduction: The Ford Fiesta WRC made its debut in the WRC in 2011, replacing the highly successful Ford Focus RS WRC. It was developed to meet the new regulations introduced by the FIA for the top tier of rallying.
Competitive Performance: The Fiesta WRC has been competitive since its introduction, with Ford's factory team, M-Sport Ford World Rally Team, and other privateer teams campaigning the car in WRC events. The Fiesta WRC has secured numerous rally victories, podium finishes, and championship titles.
Driver Success: The Fiesta WRC has been driven by some of the top talents in rallying, including Sebastien Ogier, who won multiple WRC titles with the Fiesta WRC under the M-Sport Ford team banner. Other notable drivers who have piloted the Fiesta WRC include Elfyn Evans, Ott Tänak, and Thierry Neuville.
Technology and Development: The Fiesta WRC features advanced technology to enhance its performance and reliability in the demanding conditions of WRC events. It utilizes a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four engine, all-wheel drive, and sophisticated suspension systems to tackle a variety of terrains, from gravel to tarmac to snow.
Championship Success: The Fiesta WRC has played a significant role in M-Sport Ford's success in the World Rally Championship. The team has secured Manufacturers' Championships and Drivers' Championships with the Fiesta WRC, showcasing the car's competitiveness at the highest level of rallying.
Continued Evolution: Over the years, the Fiesta WRC has undergone various updates and evolutions to remain competitive against rivals from other manufacturers. Ford Performance and M-Sport Ford have continuously refined the car's design, aerodynamics, and technology to keep it at the forefront of WRC competition.
The Ford Fiesta WRC has been a successful and competitive contender in the World Rally Championship, achieving numerous victories and championships since its introduction. It remains a popular choice for both factory teams and privateer entries in WRC events, demonstrating Ford's commitment to rallying and motorsport excellence.
Ford Fiesta WRC technical specifications
The Ford Fiesta WRC (World Rally Car) is a high-performance rally car developed by M-Sport, Ford's official motorsport partner, to compete in the top tier of the World Rally Championship (WRC). Here are some specifications of the Ford Fiesta WRC:
Engine: The Ford Fiesta WRC is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four engine. WRC regulations mandate the use of a restrictor to limit power output, and the engine produces around 380 horsepower and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque.
Transmission: The Fiesta WRC features a six-speed sequential gearbox with hydraulic shift mechanism. It is equipped with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel for quick and precise gear changes.
Four-Wheel Drive: Like all WRC cars, the Fiesta WRC utilizes a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system to maximize traction on various surfaces encountered during rally stages. The system allows for variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles as needed.
Suspension: The Fiesta WRC is equipped with adjustable suspension components, including dampers and springs, to adapt to different terrain and driving conditions. The suspension setup is designed to provide optimal performance and stability at high speeds.
Brakes: The Fiesta WRC features high-performance brakes with ventilated discs and multi-piston calipers on all four corners. The braking system is designed to provide consistent stopping power and durability under the demanding conditions of rally racing.
Weight: The minimum weight of a WRC car, including driver and co-driver but excluding fuel, is specified by WRC regulations. For the Ford Fiesta WRC, this minimum weight is around 1,230 kilograms (2,712 pounds).
Safety Features: The Fiesta WRC is equipped with a comprehensive safety package, including a roll cage, reinforced chassis, and fire suppression system. These safety features are designed to protect the driver and co-driver in the event of an accident.
Aerodynamics: The Fiesta WRC features aerodynamic enhancements, including a large rear wing and front splitter, to improve downforce and stability at high speeds. These aerodynamic components help optimize the car's performance on both gravel and tarmac surfaces.
The Ford Fiesta WRC is a highly capable and competitive rally car designed to excel in the challenging conditions of the World Rally Championship. Its combination of power, agility, and reliability makes it a formidable contender in the world of rally racing.
