Vauxhall Carlton Thundersaloon Group A Pete Stevens #1 1992

[JR98]

Before talking about this racing Carlton it is important to explain what exactly is a Thundersaloon? A thundersaloon is the basis for a racing series run in the UK and the regulations are pretty relaxed. Any saloon, coupe, hatchback or estate car based on a standard production model capable of carrying 4 occupants that was marketed before 2007 is allowed, while a historic class is available for cars marketed before 1983.

There are no limitation on engines, gearbox (although electric operation is prohibited unless it was fitted as standard), brakes, suspension or tyres (as long as they fit within the bodywork).

Today, there is a class system to ensure each car is competing with similarly performing cars.

Class A4: AWD, 2.2L Max
Class A2: AWD 3.6L Min
Class B: 2.2L-3.6L
Class C: 2.2L Max
Class D: 275HP Max
Class H1: <1983 3.3 Min
Class H2: <1983 3.3 Max
Class X: Invite Only

Whatever the class, the cars would feature heavy changes to the bodywork (to the point where they would be barely recognisable as the original) and some cars even featured engine swaps.

Back in 1992, when the series utilized Group A regulations, there were only 2 cars really running for the championship. The Vauxhall Carlton of Pete Stevens and the Mazda RX-7 of Mike Wilson. The Vauxhall featured a 5.7 GM V8 while the Mazda had a Cosworth 2.0 Turbo. Stevens would take the championship with 9 race wins and 15 podiums while Wilson would be second with 8 race wins and 10 podiums.

 

[JKgo]

...5.7 V8 in a Carlton?? Sign me up.