thumb|Class 3 Autograss car

Autograss is a form of motor racing, with races organised at various venues across the UK and Ireland. The roots of the discipline can be traced back to the 1960s.

Typically, Autograss races are conducted on oval tracks spanning approximately 400 meters and featuring grass or mud surfaces. These races are primarily organised and promoted by non-profit clubs which are affiliated with the National Autograss Sport Association, the governing body of the sport. The National Championships, held annually, comprise separate class events for men, women and juniors. The championships usually take place from August to September.

The sport encompasses ten different car classes, ranging from production saloons to single-seat 'specials'.

Classes of cars

The rules and regulations for all classes are outlined by the National Autograss Sport Association.

Class 1

The cars used in Autograss racing are small hatchbacks, which undergo certain modifications. As per Autograss regulations, these cars have their trim, dashboard and seats removed. The engine is typically kept standard with limited modifications allowed, such as a reboring of up to +60. The engine capacity is restricted to 998cc, except for Mini's which can be modified up to 1058cc.

In separate races, junior drivers aged 10–16 are permitted to drive class 1 cars. Initially limited to Mini's standard 1000cc, the eligibility of this class has expanded to include cars like the Peugeot 106, Nissan Micra, Toyota Yaris, and Citroën c1 since 2006. To accommodate the rising costs and scarcity of classic Minis, other experimental cars are being added to the list. The purpose of class 1 racing is to maintain an entry-level class with affordable construction costs.

Class 2

Class 2 in Autograss racing encompasses front-wheel-drive vehicles equipped with an engine that has two valves per cylinder and does not exceed 1300cc. These vehicles can have their engines placed either at the front or the back. The commonly observed models in this class are Vauxhall Nova, Nissan Micra, and Ford Fiesta. To ensure fair competition among the diverse range of vehicles used, a restrictor is fitted in the inlet manifold to balance their performance.

See also

  • Autocross
  • Folkrace

References

  • National Autograss Sport Association Official Website