Suzuki is officially launching its Swift Sport Cup series today at the BRC’s 50th Anniversary event which is being held at Chatsworth, Derbyshire – the home of The Rally Show.
Suzuki is unique in offering a manufacturer backed one-make rally series in the UK and is the only manufacturer with a presence in BRC, JRC and WRC. Six crews have already signed up for this exciting and cost-effective way into rallying, five of whom will be in attendance at the event.
The Swift Sport Cup is powered by a 1.6VVT (Variable Valve Timing) 123hp engine and built by the works Monster Sport Europe team. The team will also cover factory re-preparation after each round, transport to and from events, provide Swift Sport awning and ground sheet, factory support with technical advice and on-event parts supply.
Entering in the BRC Rally 1 class, Swift Sport Cup competitors will not only enjoy British Rally Championship class prize money and be eligible for selection in the 2008 Pirelli Star Driver competition but Suzuki will also be offering its own cash incentives and rewards too.
Suzuki GB Motorsport Manager Ian Robinson said: “We have worked hard to create a series which will be ultra-competitive as well as cost-effective, a balance rarely found in motorsport. We are confident that we have done that and are looking forward to the first round on April 18th.”
“Suzuki have been great supporters of the BRC,” comments British Rally Championship Manager Mark Taylor. “They have been providing a ladder for talent over the past few years. The innovative way that the cars are available means that people who may never have been able to compete at this level now can, it’s a great starter package that can only be good for unveiling the great talent we have in British rallying.”
Benefits for Competitors
The Championship is part of BRC and will include the Pirelli, Jim Clark, Isle of Man, Ulster and Trackrod rallies, as well as the season finale Tempest Rally. Best five from six round scores count. Stand-alone 30-minute TV programme after each round. Suzuki Swift Sport Cup branded overalls. Eeze-up and groundsheet supplied free to all registered drivers. This will enhance the high-profile servicing village at each round. Arrive and drive concept including factory preparation of each car to ensure highest possible reliability and equality. Competitors only need to bring a van and mechanics to each event. Full technical support provided at each event. Discounted OE parts and free products from championship partners. Cars transported to each event making significant savings on ferries. Generous start and prize money on every round including bonus for competitors who start all six rounds. Two test days (one gravel, one tarmac) included for all competitors. Championship winner to receive a prize of a fully funded drive on 2008 Wales Rally GB in a Suzuki Swift Super 1600, or brand-new Suzuki Swift road car and a supported drive in competitor’s own Suzuki Swift Sport Cup car on 2008 Wales Rally GB. All competitors eligible for BRC prize fund and championships in addition to SSSC prizes. Junior series champion receives guaranteed place in 2008 Pirelli Start Driver selection final. All competitors eligible for 2008 Pirelli Start Driver selection on each event. Full support of Suzuki GB press office including web presence. Technical and Equipment Specification – Suzuki Swift Sport Cup
Body / Body preparation FIA approved roll cage and rollcage padding setSafety harness mount Complete body reinforcementAxle stand tubesPainting of inside of vehicle and wheel archesSeat mount pipe for seat bracket attaching pointsBonnet pins, rear gate pinsSump guard and attaching kit (support bar and boss)Fuel tank guard and under floor protectionProflex shock absorber and spring set (gravel, Tarmac)Reinforcement of suspension mounting pointsFire extinguisher mounting bracketsAssembly, adjustment and initial set-upFinal completion checkSafetySafety harnesses (Sabelt 904183E) (2 sets)Automatic fire extinguisher (Sabelt ES04)Hand held fire extinguisher (Sabelt ES07)Cut off switch & harness kitInteriorFootrest for Co-driver (Sabelt Z170460)BrakesCompetition brake pad setTeflon brake lines (wheel arch)Fuel systemFuel pipe kit – full systemEngine Cup spec exhaust pipesFree flow air filterStrengthened engine and gearbox mountingsUprated clutch disc and clutch cover Drive trainMechanical limited slip differentialAltered final drive ratioCross ratio kit (1st gear)Strengthened drive shaftsLampsLight Pod (halogen type – PIAA lamps)Optional parts for car buildMap light £17Intercom – Peltor FMT 110 £141Intercom – Peltor FMT 200 £484Peltor headrests (each) £106Trip meter 100 £267Trip meter 200 £358Shift light pro £76
