What is the Subaru Rally Support Program?

The program was started to assist rally drivers with funding through the Subaru Contingency Program. The program consists of prize payouts for Group N, Production GT and select Regional Rally participants. Also, a Subaru Parts Truck will attend the events and offer parts to competitors at reduced costs.

What’s on-board the Parts Truck?

The truck is fully loaded with over 500 Genuine US Spec Subaru Parts ranging from wheel bearings and brakes to control arms. There is even room for a spare windshield. Parts specialists are available, providing expert knowledge and purchase assistance. The truck also has communication gear and point of sale systems.

Why is the WRX a good rally car?

The Subaru WRX is bred for rally racing due to its famous symmetrical all-wheel drive system and famed boxer engine.  The all-wheel-drive system on all Subaru cars has been tested and developed through rally racing over the past decade, so the cars are very reliable and very capable. Additionally, a vast amount of parts through SPT (Subaru Performance Tuning) and STI (Subaru Tecnica International) are available.

How much horsepower does a rally car have?

This really depends on what class the rally car runs in. For example, the rally cars of Subaru Rally Team USA run in the Open Class, where they are required to fit a 34mm intake restrictor on the turbocharger. This limits horsepower to around 350hp. Other rally cars in the Group N or PGT class of Rally America are fitted with 32mm restrictors which limit power to between 220hp to 275hp.

What is a ride in a rally car like?

When the driver uncorks the rally car and your body is pressed into the seat with heavy g forces, you know you’re in for a wild ride. Being on a roller coaster without a set metal track, it’s up to these skilled professionals to guide the car through a never-ending set of twists and turns. Using time-honored rally skills like left foot braking, Scandinavian flicks and hand brake maneuvers, the car does things you never thought possible. Big air, churning dirt and huge puddles await you deep in the woods.

How can my friends and I see a Rally America National Championship event?

First, check this website to see which event is next on the schedule. The event’s website will most likely have spectator information available or will list local locations where you may pick up spectator information.  However, the best way to see a rally is to volunteer to help with the event. Please visit http://www.rally-america.com/volunteer.php to learn more.  Being a volunteer is the ultimate experience for a rally fan. You’ll be a part of the rally and meet all of the drivers and crews. Best of all, the volunteers get as close to the action as the drivers do!

How do I become a rally driver?

The first step to becoming a rally driver is to educate yourself. You wil first need to learn everything about the rules and regulations associated with the sport, as well as budget and logistical requirements.  There are many rally events held across North America, and Subaru of America supports and recommends Rally America events. Please visit Rally America at www.rally-america.com for a complete schedule and other series information.  Be sure to read their rule book before investing any money in building or purchasing a rally car.

A new Rally America rule requires that new drivers start off in a Group 2 or Production Class car. Both of these classes are two-wheel-drive classes only. That means you wont be able to start off in a Subaru; instead you’ll have to finish a few events and gain some experience before being allowed to drive a high powered rally car like a Subaru.  Again, refer to the Rally America rule book for details on how this works.

There are also a few rally schools a driver may attend.  Subaru recommends the Team O’Neil Rally School (www.team-oneil.com), located in New Hampshire.  There may be other schools available and it is recommended that a new driver contact Rally America first to learn which schools are available. 

Volunteering and working at the various local events in your area will give you good opportunities to learn what these events entail and how they are run. Check the Events schedule on this site to find when and where a Rally America National Championship race will be in your area. Visit each venue’s web site to get specific information on that event.

Where can I purchase Subaru apparel?

A current selection of Subaru branded apparel, including SWRT, is available through a partnership with LL Bean and can be found online at www.subarugear.com. The selections include polo shirts, caps, anoraks, Gore-Tex jackets, T-shirts and much more.