I'm in the UK and I want to get into rally driving?

Question

I'm in the UK and I want to get into rally driving. I'm prepared to save and buy a car (possibly in an 80's/90's type - astra GTE?) but don't know how to get my foot in? I'm a female and my bro is prepared to invest in the hobby and join in too - he is an engineer who served in the RAF so knows stuff about engines and also loves cars. I love all vauxhalls and love opel mantas too, is the opel/vauxhall specific rallys?

Answer 1

A copy of the MSA blue book is vital to begin with. It's "the bible" with regards regulations, licence requirements etc, as when you decide upon your Vauxhall or Opel you will need to find out if and where it is eligible to compete.



Word of warning new regulations are imminent which will outlaw unhomologated cars competing on MSA sanctioned events which include club and national events. Check the K37 regs as these will come into force very soon.



Before you choose your car and get started it is imperative to join your local motor club as they will advise on all necessary requirements for getting started, including licence requirements eg BARS tests etc. Also they will advise on choice of vehicle.



Road rallying may be an idea to start with and a Vauxhall Astra or Manta GT/E would be ideal but again check with a motor club as road rallying is on the wane in the UK.



If you want to use an older Manta GT/E then Historic rallying would be something to consider. It is thriving in the UK and consists of real special stage rallying. Again I strongly advise, before you do anything, that you join your local motor club.