SCCA’s Spec formula class begins the transition to 2.0-liter Mazda MZR engine in 2018
SCCA Formula Enterprises cars will be transitioning from their current 2.3-liter engine to a 2.0-liter Mazda MZR engine. As a result, a new class for cars fitted with the new engine will be created for 2018, FE2. Both FE and FE2 will run as national classes for two years before all cars must be converted to the new engine to compete in U.S. Majors Tour events and at the SCCA National Championship Runoffs.
The decision was made by Sports Car Club of America’s Board of Directors because there is a need for a new drivetrain. Currently, FE cars are powered by a 2.3-liter engine. However, SCCA Enterprises President Robey Clark noted that replacement parts for that powerplant have become increasingly scarce, so SCCA Enterprises had to explore new options.
To address the situation, SCCA Enterprises is introducing a new Mazda 2.0-liter MZR motor for FE cars. Upgrading to the 2.0-liter MZR engine, available for delivery by February 2018, will result in a car being classed as FE2. Those using the old 2.3-liter engine can continue to do so for the next two years as Runoffs-eligible FE cars and can compete at U.S. Majors Tour events. But the goal is to have all chassis upgraded to FE2 specs by 2020, at which point the original FE class will be designated for regional SCCA competition only.
“The 2.0-liter MZR is a solid motor and will give an extra performance boost to Formula Enterprises cars – generally speaking, the powerplant produces around 185hp and 158lb-ft of torque,” Clark said. “Deployment of this new engine is a cost-containment measure that allows FE2 to remain a low-cost option for those exploring open-wheel racing. But the motor is also a nice upgrade for a competitive class that has found favor with racers of all ages throughout the country.”
Along with the new engine, SCCA Enterprises is introducing a new 6-speed SADEV transaxle gearbox that will be an option for FE and FE2 cars, as well as Enterprises Sports Racers. The new gearbox serves both the FE and FE2 cars as an upgrade to the current Elite Gearbox. SCCA Enterprises and SADEV partnered to retool the very popular and durable SL75 transaxle so that the FE family of suspension geometry and parts remain unchanged. The SADEV transaxle gearbox is currently available to racers and includes no-lift shift and auto-blip capabilities.
For the purpose of Runoffs participation in 2018, FE drivers can campaign 2.3-liter cars during the year and have those races transfer to the FE2 class as long as the 2.0-liter engine has been installed prior to Runoffs qualifying in October at Sonoma Raceway.