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Formula Ford is the world's premier junior development category in motor sport.
 Currently, over 70% of the 2009 V8 Supercar field, raced in the Formula Ford category in their early careers, as did many Australian stars racing overseas, including Formula One driver Mark Webber.
An open wheeled racing car, Formula Fords comply with stringent rules designed to reduce costs for newcomers to the sport, and to allow every driver to compete on his or her own merits.
Every Formula Ford is constructed from a light-weight tubular space frame designed to maintain the highest levels of driver safety. Aerodynamic modifications, such as wings and spoilers, are prohibited.
A number of manufacturers, both local and international, build the basic Formula Ford body and chassis; the most common being the French Mygale and Australia's Spectrum chassis.
 An all-new Ford Fiesta 1600cc engine was introduced for the 2006 season, replacing the Ford Cortina and Escort powered Kent engine that has been with the category for over 30 years.
Each vehicle is powered by this 'control' Ford Fiesta 1600cc, 100ps DOHC, lightweight aluminum, four cylinder engine. Tuned to develop more than 125 horsepower, Formula Fords reach speeds in excess of 250 km/h.
The key to the category's long-term success is the uniquely level playing field dictated by the performance parity rules, allowing the differing skills of the drivers to determine the victor.
The relative parity between the vehicles also guarantees the category's reputation for some of the most exciting and close racing to be seen on any Australian or international circuit.
| Specifications |
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Formula Ford racing cars are designed to comply with a strict set of rules which are revised annually. The rules for Formula Ford racing cars ensure that costs are limited and that driver skill becomes the major factor in achieving success.
For technical regulations, please click here
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| Chassis: |
Tubular space frame (exotic materials prohibited) construction confined to maximum dimension. Constructors aim to maximise torsional rigidity and minimize weight while maintaining the highest level of driver safety. |
| Engine: |
 1600cc, 100ps DOHC four-cylinder Ford Fiesta engine, sealed on cylinder head and front and rear crankshaft seal covers.
Developing 81kW the engine is tuned to develop 125 bhp at 7,000rpm. All components and measurements are specified and the Formula benefits from the worldwide parts support provided by the Ford Motor Company. |
| Steering: |
Rack and pinion |
| Suspension: |
Front & Rear - pushrod activated dual damper system. Full racing car suspension designs are required to ensure maximum tyre grip at various cornering speeds. Chassis balance is adjustable and controlled by damper, spring and anti-roll bar combinations. |
| Brakes: |
Four-wheel disc brakes have independent front and rear activation. Front/rear bias is adjustable. |
| Gearbox: |
Limited to 4 forward and 1 reverse gear. Ratios can be changed to suit various circuits and conditions. |
| Fuel tank: |
41-litre |
| Tyres: |
Front & rear - 5.5 in Avon (ACB10) tyres. A grooved Avon racing tyre is chosen for optimum grip under all weather conditions. The Avon tyre and compound are specified, ensuring an economical wear rate. |
| Aerodynamic Devices: |
Not allowed. Down force is limited to the combination of chassis design/set-up and tyre grip, together with the natural forces of gravity. |
| Weight: |
495kg with driver |
| Top speed: |
250 km/h (approx) |
| Driver Protection |
Side protection structures (sidepods) constructed from materials designed to crumple on impact and reduce the risk of driver injury in a side collision were introduced to the category in 1997.
The size of the cockpit opening has been increased to allow for the quick exit of the vehicle in an emergency.
On-board fire extinguishing systems, roll-over hoops and additional protection around the drivers' legs provide increased driver protection. |
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