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Subaru has recently unveiled its latest racing-oriented vehicle, the BRZ Cup Car Basic, designed specifically for the GR86/BRZ Cup motorsport series in Japan. This series features Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ sports cars competing against each other in a grassroots racing environment. The BRZ Cup Car Basic comes equipped with safety features such as a six-point roll cage and harness, as well as specific modifications to enhance performance on the track. Despite being similar to the GR86 Cup Car Basic from Toyota, the BRZ version offers unique features that cater to the racing community.
Safety and Design Features
The BRZ Cup Car Basic includes a six-point roll cage and harness for the driver’s seat, as required by the GR86/BRZ Cup series rules. Unique floor mats shaped to accommodate the roll cage are standard, and side and side curtain airbags have been removed to prevent interference with the roll cage’s deployment. These safety features are essential for protecting the driver in racing conditions while ensuring optimal performance on the track.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2.4-liter boxer engine in the BRZ Cup Car Basic remains unchanged, with a power output of 232 horsepower in Japanese spec. The vehicle also features an oil cooler mounted behind the lower front intake and a bespoke differential housing with built-in cooling fins. These enhancements contribute to the vehicle’s performance capabilities, making it well-suited for competitive racing in the GR86/BRZ Cup series.
Price and Market Availability
Priced at ¥3,700,400 in Japan, the BRZ Cup Car Basic offers a competitive value for racing enthusiasts considering its performance features and capabilities. Despite being more expensive than the base BRZ model, the Cup Car Basic is designed specifically for racing purposes and offers a unique driving experience for dedicated motorsport enthusiasts. Subaru plans to sell only 30 units per year, catering to a niche market of racing enthusiasts and professionals.
GR86/BRZ Cup Racing Series
The GR86/BRZ Cup racing series started in 2013 with the debut of the first-generation Toyobaru twins. The series consists of an eight-round season divided into Professional and Clubman classes, attracting a diverse range of participants from amateur weekend racers to seasoned professionals. The collaboration between Toyota and Subaru in organizing the racing series aims to promote grassroots motorsport, increase accessibility to racing opportunities, and support the aftermarket industry in Japan.
Future Prospects and Racing Community Impact
As Subaru introduces the BRZ Cup Car Basic for the GR86/BRZ Cup series, the future of grassroots racing in Japan looks promising with increased interest and participation from enthusiasts and professionals. The collaboration between Toyota and Subaru in organizing the racing series reflects a shared commitment to promoting motorsport, creating opportunities for aspiring racers, and fostering growth in the aftermarket industry. The unique features of the BRZ Cup Car Basic cater to the specific needs of racing enthusiasts, offering a competitive and thrilling driving experience on the track.