• Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025
• Location: Knockhill Racing Circuit, Scotland
• Time: Gates open at 8:00 AM; Event concludes at 5:00 PM​

Scottish Ford Live Event Highlights

Scottish Ford Live is all about celebrating Ford’s legendary performance heritage, bringing together an incredible mix of classic and modern machines. One of the biggest draws of the event is the exclusive Ford-only track sessions, where a diverse lineup of Ford models will take to the circuit as part of Knockhill’s Hot Hatch Track Day. Expect to see everything from old-school RS Cosworths to heavily modified STs and Mustangs pushing their limits.

The Ford RS Owners’ Club display will be another major highlight, featuring an exceptional collection of some of the finest Ford models. From rare, factory-original classics to high-horsepower track builds, this display is the ultimate showcase of Ford engineering and tuning excellence.

Alongside the action on the track, the exhibition area will be packed with Ford club stands, Show & Shine competitors, and competition cars. It’s the perfect opportunity to check out Scotland’s best Fords, chat with fellow enthusiasts, and take inspiration for your next build.

Get Involved

Scottish Ford Live isn’t just about spectating—it’s about taking part. If you want to show off your Ford, you can enter the Show & Shine competition or secure a place on a club stand. All Ford models are welcome, from concours classics to modern modified builds. Simply select the option to join a club stand or show your car when purchasing your ticket.

Judging categories include:

• Car of the Show
• Show & Shine Pre-2000 (1st, 2nd & 3rd)
• Show & Shine Post-2000 (1st, 2nd & 3rd)
• Best Clubstand.

For those who want to experience the thrill of Knockhill firsthand, the Hot Hatch Track Day will be running all day, open to any road or track cars. There will also be two Ford-only track sessions, giving Blue Oval fans the chance to hit the circuit in a dedicated, Ford-packed grid. Whether you’re an experienced driver or taking to the track for the first time, a full driver briefing will ensure you’re ready to go.

Win a VIP Weekend at Scottish Ford Live!

Want to experience Scottish Ford Live in true VIP style? We’re giving one lucky winner the ultimate Ford fan prize package, including:

• A pair of weekend tickets for Scottish Ford Live 2025
• VIP access to the Knockhill boardroom during the event, offering prime views of the track and exclusive hospitality
• Overnight accommodation at Keavil House Hotel, just a short drive from the circuit

To enter, just answer one simple question and submit your details in the entry form. The winner will be announced the week of May 12.

Secure Your Spot

Tickets are on sale now. This is Scotland’s biggest celebration of all things Ford, and you don’t want to miss it. Gather your friends, polish your pride and joy, and join us for a full-throttle day at Knockhill.

Scottish Ford Live 2025 is set to be bigger and better than ever. Will we see you there?

Click here for more details and to purchase tickets.

The post Unleash the Blue Oval Passion at Scottish Ford Live 2025! appeared first on Fast Car.

This isn’t just another race weekend—this is 50 years of motorsport history coming back to life. Expect legendary cars, iconic drivers, and adrenaline-pumping action as Knockhill relives its most epic moments on track. And the best part? You could be there VIP-style! Keep reading to find out how to win an all-inclusive weekend trip to Scotland’s most legendary circuit.

What’s Going Down at Knockhill’s 50th Anniversary?

• Saturday, May 17 – Modern Mayhem & Championship Action

Saturday is all about full-send racing. Knockhill Motor Sports Club (KMSC) and Scottish Motor Racing Club (SMRC) are bringing some of the most thrilling race series in the UK to the track. Expect fierce battles in Scottish Classics and Legends, high-speed action from Minis, ModSports, Fiesta STs, and C1s, and the ultimate time-attack showdown in Super Lap Scotland (SLS). Adding to the excitement, a guest round of pickup trucks will be hitting the circuit, delivering door-to-door, tail-happy chaos.

• Sunday, May 18 – A Nostalgic Blast from the Past

If you’re a sucker for old-school racing legends, Sunday is your day. The highlight of the day will be a recreation of Knockhill’s legendary 1975 opening ceremony, featuring a Formula 5000 monster, just like the one Chris Amon shredded the track with back in the day.

There will also be a high-speed demonstration from a Footwork F1 car, bringing pure, unfiltered speed to the circuit. Legendary Scottish drivers will return to the track in their original competition cars, making for an emotional and historic spectacle. Off-track, visitors can explore a motorsport photography exhibition capturing some of Knockhill’s most iconic moments, as well as track parades, live interviews, and autograph sessions.

If that wasn’t enough, more championship racing will take place throughout the day, alongside a special guest race featuring classic 1990s Pick Up Trucks. If you want to see classic race cars ripping it up like it’s still 1975, this is where you need to be.

Win a Weekend Experience!

Want the ultimate Knockhill experience? We’ve got a weekend prize package up for grabs, including a pair of tickets for both days, plus an overnight stay at Keavil House Hotel—a stunning country house just a short drive from the track.

For your chance to win this epic motorsport weekend, just answer the question below and drop your details in the entry form. We’ll contact the lucky winner the week of May 5.

Book Your Tickets Now!

Don’t want to leave it to luck? Book your tickets now HERE
This is 50 years of racing history packed into one insane weekend—you don’t want to miss it!

The post 50 Years of Motorsport at Knockhill! appeared first on Fast Car.

What Is Liqui Moly Select?

The Liqui Moly Select award isn’t about having the most powerful build or the most expensive modifications. Instead, it’s all about recognising the cars that capture our attention for their style, character, and individuality. Across Japfest, Ford Fair, Trax, and Classic Japfest, we’ll be handpicking 10 of the coolest cars that we think truly represent what makes the modified scene so special.

Each Liqui Moly Select winner will receive a commemorative rosette along with a special goody bag. Inside, you’ll find over £80 worth of Liqui Moly products, plus some cool merch too! Each bag contains: Cera Tec engine protection, Motor Clean engine flush, Wheel Cleaner, Waterless detailer, microfibre cloth, air freshener, plus Liqui Moly branded stickers and pens.

Whether your build is focused on track performance, clean OEM+ styling, retro charm, or wild custom creativity, you’ve got a shot at taking home an award.

Where to Win?

The Liqui Moly Select award will be presented at:

Japfest – Celebrating all things JDM.
Ford Fair – A must-attend for Blue Oval fans.
Trax – The UK’s top performance car event.
Classic Japfest – Showcasing legendary JDM icons.

With just 10 winners per event, we’ll be keeping our eyes peeled for the cars that bring something special to the show. If you’re attending, make sure your car is looking its best—whether that means a deep clean, some final tweaks, or just showing up with a build that represents your style.

Think your car has that cool factor? Bring it to the show and find out!

The post Celebrating the Coolest Cars with Liqui Moly appeared first on Fast Car.

Yes, that’s right. It’s a machine that teaches you how to pull the perfect wheelie! This setup offers a safe and supervised approach to learning how to use the right blend of throttle and weight transfer to keep that front wheel perfectly balanced in the air.

How the Wheelie Machine Works

Forget sketchy car park antics or dodgy first attempts on your mate’s bike, this is the safest and best way to learn how to wheelie.

The setup features a state-of-the-art Max Up Wheelie Machine, fitted with an Aprilia V-Twin Tuono, a high-performance motorcycle known for its power, torque, and aggressive streetfighter stance.

The rear wheel is fixed to a rolling platform, allowing you to practice clutch-ups and throttle control without the risk of flipping the bike. The machine simulates real-world wheelie dynamics, so you’ll get a true-to-life experience, feeling the lift, balance point, and power without any of the danger.

What’s Included in Your Experience?

For just £20, you’ll get:

• A short safety briefing – Learn the fundamentals of wheelie control, throttle modulation, and body positioning from expert instructors.
•  A full 5-minute ride on the machine – Enough time to get comfortable, build confidence, and start mastering the balance point.
• Expert tips and coaching – Whether you’re a first-timer or a two-wheel pro, the instructors will help you improve.

It’s the perfect way to get your adrenaline fix, push your limits, and master the precision of pulling the perfect wheelie.

Where Can You Try It?

The Wheelie Machine will be available at several Fast Car events this year:

• Classic Ford Show – the huge annual gathering of yesteryear’s finest Fords
• Ford Fair – Silverstone, the mecca of Ford enthusiasts.
• TRAX – The UK’s biggest track day event, now with an extra dose of two-wheel action.
• FordFest – A festival-style event celebrating the best of the Blue Oval.
• Classic Japfest – The ultimate throwback for JDM lovers, now with a wheelie twist!

So, whether you’re there for the cars, the action, or just the awesome modified car community, make sure you hit up the Wheelie Machine and send it!

How to Book the Wheelie Machine

With limited slots available at each event, the best way to secure your spot is by booking in advance. We’ll be announcing when bookings are live very soon, so keep an eye on the socials, and the website, to be the first to know.

The post New Wheelie Machine at Fast Car Entertainment Shows appeared first on Fast Car.

Japfest is back for 2025, and it’s bigger, better, and faster than ever! For the first time, the UK’s ultimate celebration of Japanese car culture will feature a full track day on Saturday 12th April, giving enthusiasts the perfect chance to experience the thrill of Silverstone’s iconic National Circuit.

This all-new Saturday Track Day sets the stage for the main Japfest show on Sunday 13th April, making it a full-throttle weekend of cars, speed, and unforgettable JDM vibes. Whether you’re looking to perfect your lap times, push your car to the limit, or simply enjoy a day of adrenaline on one of the UK’s most legendary circuits, this is your chance to get on track like never before.

What to Expect at the Japfest Track Day

The Japfest Track Day on Saturday 12th April is a full-day event dedicated to giving you as much seat time as possible. For £249 for a half day and £349 for a full day you can take part in this exclusive open pit lane track day. Whether you’re a seasoned track veteran or a complete novice, you’ll get the opportunity to unleash your car on the fast, flowing 1.64-mile Silverstone National Circuit.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Date: Saturday, 12th April 2025
• Location: Silverstone National Circuit
• Track Time: Open pit lane
• Exclusive: Japanese cars only.
• Who can take part? Everyone! From experienced drivers to first-timers looking for their first taste of track life.
• Half day cost: £249. Book AM slot here. Book PM slot here.
• Full day cost: £349. Book here.

Japfest Track Day: The Perfect Warm-Up for Japfest Sunday

The Saturday track day is more than just a warm-up — it’s a chance to make the most of your Japfest weekend. Get your car dialled in, test your setup, and push your driving skills to the next level before the main event kicks off on Sunday 13th April.

Don’t worry if you’re new to track driving — Japfest is all about having fun and enjoying your car. The Silverstone National Circuit is the perfect mix of high-speed straights, flowing corners, and technical sections to keep things exciting. Check out our Silverstone Track Guide for tips on mastering the layout.

Sunday: Japfest Returns with a Bang!

After a full day of track action on Saturday, the Japfest show takes over Silverstone on Sunday 13th April. Expect jaw-dropping car displays, epic club stands, live demos, and even more track time throughout the day.

Tickets are selling out fast! Read our full report from Japfest 2024 to see what all the fuss is about!

Don’t Miss Out – Book Your Track Time Now!

Track time for Japfest’s first-ever Saturday Track Day is limited, and demand is expected to be huge. Whether you’re chasing personal bests, shaking down a new build, or just out for a blast with your mates, this is the perfect opportunity to send it on Silverstone’s legendary tarmac.

The post Japfest 2025 Track Day appeared first on Fast Car.

Welcome to the Burnout Stage, a dedicated area where you can light up the tyres, unleash the noise, and put on a proper smoke show -legally! No need to risk fines (or worse) by trying to show off as you leave the event. This is your chance to do it right, in front of an epic crowd, with zero consequences!

How The Burnout Stage Works

• Bring your car to the Stage – Any monster with enough grunt to spin the wheels is welcome.
• Drop the clutch and send it – No holding back. Just pure, unfiltered burnout mayhem.
• Massive crowd, massive energy – Expect cheering, smoke, and insane rev-limiter action all day long!

Take Part

It’s simple: Turn up, line up, and light ‘em up! If you’ve got a car that’s up for the challenge, head over to the Burnout Stage and get ready to put on a show.

Whether you’re sending it yourself or just soaking up the spectacle, the Burnout Stage is set to be one of the wildest, most high-energy parts of TRAX!

So, who’s got the nerve to step up and send it?

Don’t forget to check out all the other awesome features at Trax. Head to the What’s On pages to see the latest details on the line-up of features and attractions that ensure Trax is the ultimate car show of the year! Tickets are selling out fast, so be quick and book now to avoid disappointment.

The post The Burnout Stage is Coming to TRAX! appeared first on Fast Car.

Handpicked by Fast Ford – Built to Dominate

Curated by Fast Ford, this lineup showcases both high-powered street machines and full-blown race cars. These aren’t just fast by Ford standards—they’re some of the quickest performance cars you’ll find anywhere in the UK, full stop. Many have been featured online, in magazines, and even on our YouTube channel, proving their status as serious heavy hitters.

Expect to see 500bhp-plus beasts, savage all-wheel-drive creations, and lightweight, turbocharged weapons that can embarrass supercars. Whether it’s a top-speed hero, a Nürburgring-hunting track car, or a rally-bred legend, every car in this lineup has earned its place through raw speed, power, and engineering excellence.

On Track – Where They Belong

These cars look fast sitting still. But they look much faster on track! That’s why the Fastest Fords will hit the track, unleashing their full potential in a dedicated demo session. These machines deliver ear-splitting exhaust notes, blistering acceleration, and tire-shredding performance every time they hit the track.

Don’t miss your chance to witness true speed. Head to the Fastest Fords display, then watch them tear up the track!

The post UK’s Fastest Fords at Ford Fair appeared first on Fast Car.

Expect a carefully selected lineup of top-tier feature cars, representing the best of performance, styling, and engineering from across the Ford scene. From track-focused builds to high-horsepower street machines and immaculate show cars, every vehicle here has earned its place.

A Display Packed with Automotive Icons

The Fast Ford stand is always a highlight at Ford Fair, and 2025 is no exception. You’ll see iconic past feature cars, a few future video stars, and maybe even something unexpected. Whether you’re into RS models, STs, Cosworths – or anything tuned with a Blue Oval badge – this is where you’ll find the absolute best.

The team handpick each car on the display for its standout presence. Some have been featured in the magazine in previous years, while others are fresh builds ready to make a serious impact. These are the kinds of cars that push boundaries—whether through insane power figures, meticulous craftsmanship, or cutting-edge modifications.

More Than Just a Display

Beyond the cars themselves, the Fast Ford display is a gathering point for true Ford enthusiasts. It’s a place to chat with fellow owners, swap build stories, and get inspiration for your next project.

Be sure to stop by, check out the cars, and connect with fellow fans online. Follow Fast Ford on social media to stay up to date with latest announcements as they reveal just which cars will form the 2025 display.

Book your Ford Fair tickets now to be a part of the biggest Blue Oval event of the year!

The post Fast Ford at Ford Fair 2025 appeared first on Fast Car.

Expect roaring engines, massive crowds, and some serious figures as cars hit the rollers all day long. Whether you’re looking to confirm your latest tune, compare figures with your mates, or just put on a show, this is the place to make it official.

What to Expect from the Rolling Road?

This professional 2WD dyno is built to accurately measure horsepower and torque output, giving you a real-world performance reading in a controlled environment.

If you’ve ever wondered what your car is actually making at the wheels—now’s your chance to find out!

How to Get Your Car on the Mobile Dyno

No need to pre-book—just head over to the dyno stand on the day and secure your slot. The dyno operator will be selling runs throughout the event, so get there early to guarantee your spot.

• Price per dyno run: £55
• Limited slots available—first come, first served!

Where & When?

You’ll find the mobile rolling road at several Fast Car Entertainment events this year:

• Ford Fair – The UK’s biggest Ford event at Silverstone.
• TRAX – The ultimate track day experience, now with dyno action.
• Ford Fest – A full-throttle Ford festival.
• Classic Japfest – A paradise for JDM lovers and high-revving monsters.

Why Put Your Car on the Mobile Dyno?

• See your real-world power and torque figures—no guessing, just facts.
• Check the results of your latest mods or tune—is your remap delivering what it promised?
• Compare with friends and fellow enthusiasts—who’s making the most power?
• It’s a huge spectacle! Even if you’re not running, watching high-powered cars hit the dyno is an event in itself!

Get Ready to Send It!

Whether you’re proud of your build, looking to verify your gains, or just want to be part of the high-horsepower action, the mobile dyno is the place to be. No booking required—just turn up, sign up, and put your foot down!

Are you brave enough to test your car in front of the crowd? Let’s see what you’re really pushing!

The post Mobile Dyno at Fast Car Entertainment Events appeared first on Fast Car.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or taking on your first-ever track session, these top 10 tips will help you make the most of your day while keeping safety and fun a top priority.

New for Japfest 2025: Saturday Track Day – 12th April

Before we dive into the prep tips, here’s something you don’t want to miss! Japfest 2025 now kicks off with a full track day on Saturday 12th April. You’ll get exclusive access to the Silverstone National Circuit, the perfect warm-up ahead of Sunday’s main show.

• Track sessions: Available to all skill levels. Exclusive to Japfest attendees.
• How to book: Click here for all the details.
• Need tips on mastering the circuit? Check out our Silverstone Track Guide.

Now, let’s get you and your car prepped for the ultimate track experience!

Track Insurance

Track sessions at events like Ford Fair, Trax, and Japfest rarely have incident. But, investing in track insurance for the day gives total peace of mind should the worst happen. Specialist insurers like REIS can provide track day cover that will pay for damages to your car, whether the accident is caused by you or by someone else on the circuit hitting you. Track day policies are available for you all UK tracks including Silverstone at events from Fast Car Entertainment. Some insurance companies can even add track day cover to your exisiting policy, and it’s usually not too expensive so its worth asking about for extra peace of mind.

Enjoy Your Track Session!

By following our track session prep tips, you’ll ensure that both you and your car are ready for an exhilarating, safe, and enjoyable track session at Silverstone. Preparation is key, so take the time to get everything in order and make the most of your day on the track. Happy driving!

The post Track Session Prep Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

Taking place at the iconic Silverstone circuit on the 13^th of April 2025, Japfest promises an exhilarating lineup of attractions that will appeal to all automotive enthusiasts. Highlights include the thrilling Drift Kings demo, where spectators can witness tyre-shredding drifting demonstrations from the most talented and well-known drifters in the UK. Attendees can also enjoy public track time, offering a unique opportunity to take their own cars onto the legendary track for just £40, to book a track session click here.

For those seeking even more thrills, they’ll be the opportunity to ride shotgun in a drift taxi, allowing passengers to experience the thrill of drifting firsthand in pro spec drift cars.

Fast Car at Japfest Silverstone 2025

Additionally, the Fast Car Car Culture Collection will showcase an impressive array of modified Jap cars from big powered Supras to stanced Civics, celebrating the creativity and diversity of the modified Japanese car scene.

Shoppers will not want to miss the expansive retail village, featuring industry-leading aftermarket specialists offering fantastic bargains on a wide range of products. From performance parts to car care essentials, there’s something for every automotive aficionado. With so much on offer, Japfest Silverstone is set to be an unforgettable experience for both car lovers and casual attendees alike! The 2024 event was a sell-out, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event by securing your public tickets today.

Check out our Aftermove from Japfest 2024 to see why you need to get your Japfest Silverstone 2025 tickets today!

The post Record Demand for Club Car Tickets at Japfest Silverstone 2025! appeared first on Fast Car.

The BMW M3 has long been the blueprint for performance car fans looking to blend the thrill of driving with the practicality of everyday use. But when you take one and start stripping it back, adding precise modifications, and honing it into something with both purpose and passion, you get a car that’s more than just a performance machine—it becomes a statement. This is exactly what Pipercross have done with their latest creation: a modified G80 M3 inspired by the Club Sport that pushes the boundaries of what a modern performance car can be.

This build is not only about the raw numbers or eye-watering speed; it’s about tuning every detail to deliver a car that’s refined, aggressive, and ready for the track. Here’s how Pipercross have transformed this M3 into an all-out performance weapon while keeping true to the BMW mantra of ‘sheer driving pleasure’.

Planning the G80 M3 build

Pipercross have never been a brand to settle for anything less than excellence. When they decided to create a Club Sport version of the BMW M3, they were not interested in just slapping on a few bolt-on upgrades and calling it a day. Instead, this build is about evolving the car’s potential over time, refining each component in a way that enhances the driving experience while staying rooted in the concept of a true, driver-focused car.

This modified G80 M3 is still in its early stages, and that’s part of the appeal. It’s a phased build, designed to evolve with the car’s performance. From the moment they decided to bring the car to life, Pipercross wanted something more — a machine that blends the brand’s tuning philosophy with BMW’s iconic Club Sport character.

Improving air flow into the modified G80 M3

And with the Air Max Carbon Intake Kit at the heart of it, the first step has been a resounding success.  This isn’t a part you’ll find just anywhere. It’s a Pipercross creation, designed and developed entirely in-house over the course of a year. The result? A beautifully crafted piece of engineering that looks as good as it performs.

Carbon fibre is a tuner’s dream material: it’s lightweight, it’s strong, and it does wonders for improving airflow. Plus, it isn’t bad on the eye either, is it? The Air Max intake has been meticulously engineered to not only save weight but also increase intake efficiency, allowing for a smoother, more responsive power delivery. And it looks gorgeous to boot! It’s this level of detail that elevates the car from simply good to absolutely great.

In terms of performance, this intake system enhances the M3’s ability to breathe, making it more efficient at higher revs. This means quicker throttle response, sharper acceleration, and a subtle but unmistakable improvement in power delivery—ideal for both track and road use.

Chassis modifications on the modified G80 M3

No great performance car is complete without a suspension system that can keep up with its capabilities. In this case, the team at Pipercross have chosen to fit Nitron dampers. Nitron is synonymous with top-tier performance suspension, and their setup on this M3 has been meticulously tuned for the perfect balance between daily driving comfort and track-ready precision.

Adjustable dampers allow the driver to dial in the suspension for varying road conditions. Whether it’s the smooth curves of a country road or the brutal demands of a track day, the suspension offers the kind of flexibility and control that an M3 deserves. You’ll feel it in the corners — sharp, precise, and ready to tackle any challenge you throw at it.

But Nitron’s contribution is not just about handling; it’s about giving the car a direct connection to the road. Every corner, every undulation is felt through the chassis, making it a car that’s just as much about the driver’s engagement as it is about the lap times.

Modified G80 M3 brakes

In a build like this, upgrading the brakes is a no-brainer. The G80 M3 is no slouch when it comes to power, and with a car that’s capable of pushing the envelope, you need braking to match. Enter Tarox floating discs and upgraded pads, designed to withstand the high demands of track driving while offering consistent, reliable stopping power.

The Tarox system provides a strong bite, confidence-inspiring feel, and most importantly, resistance to fade under extreme braking. This car isn’t just about going fast, it’s about being able to stop just as fast. And with these brakes, you’ll have complete control at every speed.

Interior modifications

The interior of this M3 is where form and function really come together. Pipercross worked closely with Cobra Seats to create the perfect bucket seat: the Nagaro Munich. This is no ordinary racing seat. It’s a blend of carbon fibre construction and luxury detailing, designed to keep you firmly planted during aggressive driving but also offering the kind of comfort you’d want on longer journeys. Ideal for that club sport purpose of driving all the to the Nürburgring or Spa in relative comfort, yet still being supportive enough to hold you firmly in place when you’re at full throttle clocking up some impressive lap times.

The Munich seats are the top-tier version of Cobra’s popular Nagaro bucket, with carbon backing and bespoke embroidery that pays homage to BMW’s Motorsport heritage. The seats provide excellent lateral support, ensuring you stay securely in place when cornering hard, yet they still retain a sense of refinement and quality that doesn’t scream ‘track car.’

Exterior modifications on the G80 M3

The exterior modifications are subtle but purposeful, starting with the *M Performance wing. The standard duct tail just didn’t cut it for this build. The larger wing not only gives the car a more aggressive stance but also enhances its aerodynamic efficiency, providing greater downforce at higher speeds. This is about more than just looking the part—it’s about creating a car that is as stable at 150mph as it is at 50mph.

With the added wing and aggressive stance, the M3 looks ready for action. But the wing’s performance benefits go beyond aesthetics. It plays a crucial role in improving stability on the track, keeping the rear planted and balanced, especially during high-speed corners.

What’s next for the modified G80 M3?  

Pipercross are no strangers to the art of tuning, and this build is just the beginning. Their Club Sport M3 will continue to evolve over the coming months, with more phases planned. Future upgrades may include a roll cage and more aggressive weight-saving measures, further enhancing the car’s track potential.

The beauty of this build lies in its ongoing evolution. Instead of going all-in from the get-go, Pipercross have carefully mapped out a future for this M3 that’s as thrilling to anticipate as it is to drive. Every new phase is another chance to make this already impressive machine even better.

This club sport BMW M3 is the epitome of what happens when you marry passion with precision. Every part of this car has been carefully chosen to ensure it delivers not only on the road but also on the track. And while it’s not quite finished, the build is a testament to the vision of a car that’s more than just a performance machine — it’s a living, breathing expression of what happens when a great car meets great engineering. If this is what the beginning looks like, we can’t wait to see where Pipercross take it next.

Love modified cars? We host a number of performance car events throughout the year at some of the UK’s most iconic venues. Head over to our Fast Car Events page for more info on what’s coming up next.

The post Modified BMW G80 M3 Gets Club Sport Treatment appeared first on Fast Car.

Engine swaps really personify modified cars. Fitting a more powerful motor is a fantastic way to improve the performance of your ride, but which engine swaps are best?

These days we’re spoilt for choice with engine tuning, so we don’t need to go to the hassle of an engine swap. But that doesn’t mean it’s no longer a good idea. It can still be one of the coolest mods to make, and the most cost effective way to massive performance gains. Not to mention the autmatic gratificaion of people when you lift the bonnet at car events…

With enough time, money, and skill, you can fit any engine swap you want. You can have a Bugatti Veyron engine fitted to a BMX if you really wanted to. But for the sane (or slightly less insane) among us, we want the best engine swaps to offer great value for the time, money, and effort we put in.And this is exactly what this feature is about. Read on to discover which the best engine swaps you can make right now.

Best Engine Swaps: Toyota 1/2JZ to anything RWD

The JZ is arguably the best all-round inline six-cylinder engine ever made. So, it’s no surprise JZ conversions make for the best engine swaps.

We’ve seen these swaps made to countless cars over the years – even models that already have fantastic factory-fitted engines such as Nissan Skylines, 3-Series BMWs, Honda S2000s, and Mazda RX7s. The JZ swap really is that good.

The JZ motor is still relatively common and inexpensive considering the massive tuning potential on offer. It’s easy to see why a JZ swap is so tempting, and for many cars there are full fitting kits available too.

Full conversion kits allow you to run a BMW gearbox if you want, making it one of the best engine swaps available for any RWD with an engine bay long enough for an inline six.

Best Engine Swaps: VAG 1.8T in to any FWD or mid-engine RWD

Compact, super cheap, hugely tunable, and with a strong transmission. The 1.8-litre 20V turbo lump found in countless VAG vehicles has became one of the most popular engine swaps in to, well quite frankly, anything.

The most common place you’ll find the 1.8T outside of its factory installation is still in Mk1 (check out this 1.8T Mk1 Golf), Mk2, and Mk3 Golfs, That’s thanks to its relatively ease to upgrade, but we’ve seen 1.8Ts in Renault 5s and Clios, Peugeot 205s, Lotus Elises, MR2s, even a Ford Focus and a Mk3 Escort. There’s no reason why you couldn’t put one in anything you fancy.

While there’s no non-VAG fitting kits out there, there is a lot of info available for 1.8T engine swaps. Plus, they’re still cheap and plentiful, so doing the conversion is far less of a headache than most engine swaps. What are you waiting for?

Best Engine Swaps: GM LS Series V8 Into Anything RWD

The default engine swap for just about anything is the good ol’ LS V8. These swaps are so common some people have started considering them boring. Trust us, no LS-swapped car is boring from behind the wheel.

If you didn’t already know, the LS series is GM’s modern V8. From the factory it made it’s way into everything from pick-up trucks to Corvettes, and was available in sizes ranging from 4.8-litres to 7.0-litres. And they all have one thing in common – massive tuning potential.

500bhp is standard or comes from simple bolt-on upgrades for the performance versions. And the smaller truck versions are incredibly strong and capable of 1000bhp-plus, even on standard internals. It’s no wonder the LS V8 is one of the best engine swaps of all time.

Doing a big V8 engine swap usually has three major issues. Firstly, it’s hard to shoehorn one in to your car. Secondly, they’re usually all hooked up to automatic transmissions. And thirdly, they’re usually bloody heavy, which ruins handling.

But not the LS. It’s no heavier than a Toyota 2JZ or similar. There are plenty of off-the-shelf LS conversion kits for most popular RWD cars. And not only do the LS engines come with super strong manual boxes as standard, there’s also full conversion kits available to allow you to use the common, cheap, but very strong BMW gearboxes. Ideal.

Best Engine Swaps: Honda K20 into Toyota MR2s and Lotus Elises

We don’t need to tell Honda fans how good the K20 engine is, but for the rest of you, listen up. It really is about the best transversely-mounted engine you can get. Capable of over 300bhp when tuned even when naturally aspirated is impressive enough but add some boost with a supercharger or turbo conversion and things get really crazy.

Massive power, massive revs, strong transmissions, and decent reliability too. No wonder it’s considered one of the best engine swaps you can make. The K20 is still popular when swapped into earlier Civics, and more recently has found homes in the Mk6 Ford Fiesta ST. But perhaps one of the best swaps is a K20 fitted to the back of mid-engine sports cars like the Toyota MR2 or Lotus Elise and Exige.

There are full kits and even specialists dedicated to K20 engine swaps in to MR2s and Elises, so if you want a mid-engine RWD supercar-beater, this is the way to go.

Best Engine Swaps: Saab Turbo into Vauxhall

Saab isn’t the first company you think of when it comes to tuning or best engine swaps. But it was one of the pioneers of turbocharging and made some damn good motors. And, because it was part of the GM group from the 1990s-onwards, those engines share a lot of parts with another GM brand, Vauxhall.

That means it’s easy to put the strong and tunable turbocharged Saab engines in to both front- and rear-wheel-drive Vauxhalls. For the front-wheel-drive cars, nearly all of the component parts are interchangeable from Saab to Vauxhall. You can buy a scrap Saab 900 or 9-3 Turbo and more-or-less swap the entire thing over to your FWD Vauxhall. Which is nice.

For rear-wheel-drive engine swaps it’s not quite so simple. The main headache here is finding a suitable gearbox. But would you believe it? The Omega tranny bolts directly to the Saab engine. So, as rear-wheel-drive swaps go, this one’s pretty damn easy too.

Best Engine Swaps: Toyota 1UZ into anything RWD

The 4.0-litre 1UZ V8 typically found in big Lexus models was unheard of for years, but these days it’s one of the best engine swaps money can buy.

Designed as a race engine, it is incredibly over-built for the standard power levels. It’s capable of massive power and high revs with ease.

Since people have noticed the 1UZ’s potential, using it as a donor for engine swaps has become popular. We’ve seen them fitted all manner of RWD cars, in naturally aspirated, turbocharged, and supercharged form.

While they only ever came with an auto ‘box as standard, there are kits for Toyota, BMW, and Nissan manual boxes.

Another big reason the 1UZ is so popular is due to its very lightweight and compact design; it’s barely any heavier than a typical four cylinder. This allows the 1UZ to slide into smaller RWD cars like MX5s and AE86s without negatively affecting the handling – we’ve even recently seen one fitted to a Ford Focus ST170, complete with twin turbos!

Swapping engines from the same manufacturer

Robbing a bigger, more powerful motor from another model from the same manufacturer as your car can make for some of the easiest and best engine swaps available. Here’s a few options of how taking parts from a bigger brother can improve your car.

N54 into any BMW

The N54 is the 3.0-litre twin-turbo motor found in the BMW 335i amongst others. Quite frankly it’s an amazing piece of kit, and makes for some of the best engine swaps going. It’s incredibly strong, incredibly tuneable, and with a pretty indestructible gearbox to match. It’s not too expensive either. But it’s not the easiest engine to swap; complicated electronics mean fitting now into an earlier E36 or even E46 isn’t a straightforward bolt-in job. But the reward on offer matches the difficulty to install, so it’s still one of the best engine swaps you can make.

Z20LET into Vauxhall Corsa engine swap

C20XE and C20LET swaps into Novas and Corsa Bs formed the basis of Fast Car magazine for a large portion of the 1990s and early 2000s. Today the same principals apply to the later Z20LET engine and the Corsa C.

Corsa Cs cost peanuts and weigh less than 1000kg. Z20LETs are similarly cheap, yet are easy to tune. And full fitting kits costs just a few hundred quid. Fitting a Z20LET to a Corsa C is a marriage made in heaven. No wonder this is a hugely popular conversion; it’s one of the cheapest and easiest engine swaps out there.

Puma 1.7 into Mk5 Ford Fiesta Zetec Z engine swap

If you’re looking for a bolt-on engine swap, then look no further. The Ford Fiesta Mk5 shares a platform with the Puma, meaning the Puma’s VVT-equipped 123bhp 1.7-litre Zetec SE engine literally bolts straight in place of the Fiesta’s 100bhp 1.6-litre. It’s so quick and easy Fast Ford magazine even fitted one in less than 24 hours for a mag feature a few years ago.

Breakers even sell complete kits of all the parts you’ll need: engine, gearbox, ECU, wiring loom, ignition key, and spa on, to make it a simple bolt-in conversion. Even the wiring – typically one of the biggest headaches – is a plug-and-play job. Make sure you get the key and transponder ring; the key is coded to the ECU, but it all plugs straight in.

This is one of the best Ford engine swaps you can make and is probably the best engine swap for a beginner. Plus, 23 percent gains for a day’s work isn’t to be sniffed at!

VTEC B-Series, H22A or K-Series engine swaps

There’s a whole heap of non-performance Hondas out there, but it’s easy to swap in a VTEC B-Series, H22A, or K-Series. These engine swaps will fit most 1990s-onwards Hondas, partly due to the interchangeability of parts from the factory and partly thanks to the huge Honda tuning scene.

Swapping big power Honda motors in to base models makes a lot of sense. They’re more common to find for sale than the hot models, and many owners will start with the smaller engine model when younger but want more power once insurance prices drop. The best reason though, is because cars like a K-Series-powered EG Civic don’t exist from the factory. Creating your own is undeniably cool. Plus, it makes for a very fast, lightweight car – even with a standard engine. Add some boost, and you’ll create an animal!

Cosworth YB engine swaps

The legendary Cosworth YB engine has been fitted to almost everything over the years. We’ve seen it in a wide range of modified cars, from classic Minis to Caterhams, BMWs to Transit vans. But its most loyal following is, unsurprisingly, the fast Ford scene. That means the YB has been squeezed into almost every Blue Oval you think of; from classic Mk1 and Mk2 Escorts, Capris, and Cortinas, right through to modern Fiestas and Focuses, and even a Ka! (You can check out that Ford Focus Cosworth photographed above).

Traditionally, the conversion used to involve chopping up a Sierra floorpan and stitching that into whatever body your were building. Then you’d simply bolt on all the Cossie components; either 4×4 or rear-wheel-drive spec. Most Sierras are rotten beyond repair these days, so more modern methods involve fabricating custom mounting points. Typically the YB is used alongside Ford transmissions (MT75 for 4×4, or BorgWarner T5 for RWD) and differentials/driveshafts. But mating the YB to a suitably beefy BMW gearbox and/or stronger Toyota rear diff is becoming increasingly popular.

Either way, when the YB is in the bay, tuning is seemingly limitless. The stock 204bhp is nothing to write home about, but simple bolt-ons will take that closer to 400bhp. Open it up and tinker some more and well over 600bhp is easy to achieve. We’ve seen YBs producing over 1000bhp, and regularly see 700-800bhp road cars.

The only downside is the price. As parts become rarer, and the desirability of original cars goes up, the price for buying, maintaining, and modifying a YB has rocketed in recent years. That said, it’s still one the of best engine swaps you can make, to almost anything.

Nissan RB into 200SX

For huge tuning potential and an insane soundtrack, the Skyline’s RB six-cylinder is a brilliant engine swap for the 200SX. The conversion is almost a direct drop-in; it’s so easy it has been suggested Nissan planned to fit the RB in the first place. There are few things to sort out, but nothing too taxing. Do it, and you’ll add an extra pair of cylinders and extra 500cc, another turbo, and loads of tuning potential!

Zetec Turbo into FWD Fords

Words: Stav & Jamie

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You may have heard that a better flowing cylinder head will improve an engine’s power potential. And you may have heard of the terms porting, gas-flowing and a big-valve head, but do you know what they actually mean, how they work and why they give the power gains they do? To answer these questions, we take a closer look at the world of cylinder head porting, breaking down different terms, and explain why cylinder head porting is crucial for gaining extra performance in a reliable manner. But, let’s start with explaining what a cylinder head is and what is does.

What does a cylinder head do?

The cylinder head is what allows the engine to breathe. It allows air/fuel mixture into the engine through one set of valves, then seals the cylinder when the valves close. This is so the mixture can combust and produce power, before expelling unwanted exhaust gases through another set of valves. As a result, it’s a crucial aspect of how an internal combustion engine works on a car.

Specialists and tuners often refer to the cylinder head as ‘the lungs of the engine’. Air is drawn in, used to create energy and then expelled out again. And sticking with our anatomical analogy, the best way to think of a standard head is as the lungs from someone who has been smoking for 50 years. The airways are restrictive and could be a whole lot better. If, however, the cylinder head ports were increased its size, the head acts more like the lungs from a long-distance runner. They are much more efficient and less restrictive to performance.

Another way to look at it is to think of the bottom end of the engine as a big pump. The cylinder head is what allows air in and out of that pump. Obviously, the more usable air/fuel you can get in, and the more exhaust gases you can get out, the more power that pump will produce.

Bigger is better?

However, sadly it’s not just a simple case of bigger is better. The head modifications need to work with the rest of the engine spec. There’s no point having a massively ported head if the rest of the engine (including induction, fueling and exhaust systems) is more restrictive than the ports in the head. However, if the engine has got a host of other goodies like lairy cams, bigger injectors, and so on, the standard ports in the head can quickly become the most restrictive part of the entire gas flow in and out of the engine.  Therefore, it responds really well to porting and machine work.

Most standard ports are quite restrictive to airflow

What are cylinder head ports?

The cylinder head ports are the passages that the fuel and air mixture travel along to enter the cylinder bores and the exhaust gases use to escape from the engine. The majority of standard heads have lots of excess material in the ports. This is due to the costs involved with fine tuning each individual head after the casting process. Major improvements can be made to the head here. When you place the inlet or exhaust manifold gaskets on a factory head, for example, you will see that there is usually a good 1-2mm of material before the ports and the manifolds line up. This material can be removed to enlarge the port to offer less restriction to the flow of gases.

But it’s not a simple case of making everything bigger. A good flowing head will have the ports as straight as possible, too. This is so the gases flow as directly as they can. As a result, this means that on some heads most or even all of the material needs to be removed from one particular area to straighten up the flow path as much as possible. The smoother and more direct the port flow from the manifold to the valve, the lower the restriction to gas flow.

Machining guides

In addition, some cylinder heads have valve guides that protrude into the throat area of the port, causing further disruption to the airflow. This is one key area that cylinder head specialists concentrate on; either ‘bullet-nosing’ the guides, or machining them back flush with the rest of the port. This can make a huge difference to the airflow and performance potential.

Larger ports will flow more gases than standard ports. But, it is as much about the shape and the flow of the port as it is about the physical size.

Modern day cylinder head porting

Traditionally, cylinder head porting has been done by hand, and is something of an art-form. It’s not something we’d recommend you have a go at yourself in your shed.

But modern-day technology does mean that specialists can use computers to help them out a bit. The first port and first set of inlet and exhaust valves are still ported manually. But rather than worrying about multiple ports to deal with, they concentrate all their efforts on just one. This process can take several weeks; porting, testing, flowing, porting again, and so on until they are happy. Once happy, the port can then be digitally scanned before the programme is loaded into a state-of-the-art CNC machine. The incredible accuracy of the CNC machine ensures that all ports are exactly the same shape and design. Therefore, they will flow exactly the same amount of air.

Combustion chamber

The combustion chamber is where the fuel and air mixture is ignited via the spark plug to cause combustion, and therefore energy. The more complete the combustion, in terms of burning all the available fuel and air mixture, the more efficient the engine will be. In turn, the more power it will produce.

Smoothing the combustion chamber can help prevent coke build-up.

The head doesn’t have an effect on how complete the combustion will be. Complex issues with the ignition and fuel timing through the ECU control that. However, the combustion chamber itself can be smoothed and polished to make it less susceptible to coke build-up. And that coke build-up can cause hot spots within the combustion chamber. This in-turn can have an effect on how the fuel and air mixture combusts.

That’s why many specialists smooth out the surface of the combustion chamber at the same time as porting the cylinder head.

Some performance valves feature a very narrow throat to pose as little restriction as possible.

Cylinder head valves

The inlet and exhaust valves open to let fuel and air in, shut to create a seal in the cylinder, then open to let exhaust gases out.

Fitting bigger valves means the openings through which the air and fuel mixture enters, and exhaust gases exit, the cylinder are bigger. The bigger the opening the more gas can flow through. Simple as that, then?

Not quite. It’s not all about the size. Bigger valves have a lower gas speed entering the cylinder, which can cause problems with performance. Instead, specialists will work out how much air flow is needed to create the desired power levels. Then, they to achieve this flow rate with as small a valve as possible. This in-turn helps to keep the gas speed as high as possible.

Typical ‘big valves’ in most applications are between 1-2mm larger diameter than standard. This is the usual limit a valve seat in an alloy head will allow. With cast iron heads like the older Pinto engines, the valve seat is machined as part of the head so you can fit much larger valves without too many problems.

What are the different types of valves on the cylinder head?

There are two types of valve; one and two-piece. Most OE valves are of a two-piece design where the head and stem are made from separate materials then fused together to become one. The easiest way to tell if a valve is a two-piece item is to put a magnet to it; two-piece valves have a magnetic stem and a non-magnetic head. One-piece valves are usually made of a high-grade stainless steel such as 214N.

On turbocharged engines, which can experience higher cylinder temperatures, the valves may be sodium-filled to help with heat dissipation.

The shape and design of the valve also has a huge effect on the way the head flows air/fuel mixture and exhaust gases. Some high-performance engines respond well to what are affectionately known as ‘penny-on-a-stick’ valves, so called because of how they look. They have a narrower throat to the valve, and the valve itself is flatter and thinner than standard. The area gained by removing material from the valve allows the gases to flow quicker and easier past the valve. However, it depends largely on the design of the port as to whether these valves will work or not.

Bronze valve guides can cope with the increased heat of a performance engine better than factory-spec steel items.

Valve guides

The valve guides support the valve within the head. Most modern alloy heads have separate valve guides. However, with the older engines, such as the Pinto and the Crossflow, the valve guides are actually part of the casting.

With alloy heads the valve guide is a separate piece because the head is too soft to withstand the opening and closing motion of the valve. This means they would wear out rapidly. A steel guide insert is usually fitted.

With some performance engines such as the Cosworth YB, and many later engines, bronze valve guides are standard. Bronze helps with heat dissipation. The valves, especially exhaust valves, get very hot and can expand, and the effect is even worse in turbocharged engines. The clearance between the valves and the guides is incredibly tight, typically between 1.5 and 2thou. There isn’t much room for the valves to expand before they touch the guides. Bronze guides can deal with the heat better and help reduce the problem. They also wear much better than cast iron guides, and will last longer.

Valve springs

The valve springs’ job is to shut the valves after the camshaft has opened them, and keep them shut until the camshaft opens them again. In theory it is straightforward but there is a bit of science involved when choosing the springs to match the camshaft.

On a camshaft with high lift, the opening and closing ramps on the lobes are usually quite steep and aggressive. As you can imagine, when the engine’s revving at 7000rpm the force at which the valve hits the seat as it closes is quite hard; it is likely to want to bounce back off the seat a little. This is where you need uprated valve springs matched to the camshaft, as they will keep the valve shut and eliminate this problem.

Also the valve springs have to be matched for height to avoid becoming coil-bound at full valve lift. A higher-lift cam will compress the spring more than a normal lift cam, so the valve spring will need to accommodate this. A valve spring should always have 40thou clearance between the coils when at full lift.

Double valve springs

Double valve springs are also available for high-performance engines and work in the same way as single springs. The main benefit of double springs is they offer more strength to keep the valve closed. It is not always possible to achieve this strength with a single spring. The second, inner spring, is always shorter than the outer spring. This means the valve is easier to open because there is less resistance at first. However, when it closes it has the force of both springs pressing against it. This also helps keep the valve shut in engines with particularly aggressive camshaft designs.

Manufacturers or tuners cut valve seats using specialist tooling.

Valve seats

The valve seat is what creates the seal when the valves close. Without an airtight seal the engine would have no compression and would therefore not run.

The part of the seat that creates the seal is the 45-degree angle that matches the 45-degree angle on the valve, and the thickness of this angle can affect a head’s performance. Narrower valve seats are less obstructive to the airflow, therefore a head with narrower seats is capable of producing more power.

The valve seat on the exhaust side helps dissipate heat from the exhaust valves. The exhaust valve seat needs to be significantly larger than the inlet seat because when the valve is shut, the contact between the two helps take heat away from the hot exhaust valve. If the contact area’s too small the exhaust valves would get too hot.

Valve seat cuts

A lot of cylinder head porting specialists like to cut three angles in to the valve seats. This opens up the seat to encourage the air/fuel mix and exhaust gases to flow around the valve rather than straight in at a 45-degree angle and potentially cause turbulence. Usually the first angle is cut at 60-degrees. The second angle is the sealing section at 45-degrees to match the valve. The third is opened up to 25- or 30- degrees.

A valve seat is around 6mm thick, so the angles are typically divided up so that the first angle is about 3.5mm. The second is 1.5mm. The third is 1mm wide.

On high-performance engines specialists will sometimes cut five angles in the valve seat, or even cut ‘radius’ valve seats which further encourage the gases to flow around the valves.

The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the valves within the head.

Camshafts

The choice of camshafts is a world of its own, and is far too complex to go into detail in this cylinder head porting guide. You can check out our camshaft guide for more advice.

However, the camshaft does have a massive influence on how the head works and reacts with different aspects of head tuning. It’s worth summarizing some of the key points while looking at cylinder heads too.

The camshaft turns rotational movement into linear movement to open and close the valves. The camshaft design determines the length of time the valves open for (duration) and the height the valves rise to (lift). These different designs will give an engine different characteristics. However, as far as the head is concerned, the camshaft dictates how much air/fuel mixture gets in and how much exhaust gases get out of an engine. Any modification carried out to the head, such as porting or bigger valves, needs a camshaft tailored to suit. For the best advice speak to cylinder head specialists or direct to the camshaft manufacturers. They will be able to guide you specifically for your engine.

Most cam follows are hydraulic, but mechanical items are often required with particularly aggressive cam profiles.

Cylinder head porting a normally aspirated engine vs forced induction

When cylinder head porting a turbocharged or supercharged engine, you need to take a different approach to that when porting a naturally-aspirated cylinder head. With a turbocharged engine you can force a lot of air/fuel mixture through what is not necessarily a well-designed port, so the incoming gases are not too much of a problem. However, getting the exhaust gases out is.

On a traditional naturally-aspirated engine, the exhaust ports need to flow around 75% of the inlet ports. For example, if an inlet port flows 100cfm, the exhaust ports would need to flow around 75cfm. However, on a turbocharged engine the exhaust ports need to flow around 90% of the inlet ports. So, using our previous example, this would mean that the exhaust valves would need to flow 90cfm instead of 75cfm. Therefore, in short, a turbocharged head needs much more work on the exhaust ports, and a naturally-aspirated head needs more work on the inlet side of things.

Love modified cars? Did you know that we host performance events across the year at some of the biggest race tracks in the UK? Be sure to check out our Fast Car Entertainment events page to see what’s coming up next. 

The post Cylinder Head Porting: A Comprehensive Tuning Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

Andy Rouse: The Legend

Andy Rouse was the man to beat in the Birtish Touring Car Racing in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He is perhaps most famous for his work Ford, both as a driver and also as an engineer. Initially winning the BTCC with an XR4Ti, and then dominating the series with the Kaliber-sponsored Sierra RS500 Cosworth, and latterly with his work on te Super Tourer Mondeos.

And now, thanks to CNC Motorsport, that engineering innovation continues to be used on the race track with this latest continuation build RS500 racers.

A father and son team with a legendary legacy in motorsport engineering behind them, made this magnificent machine a reality. Alan Strachan, a former employee of Andy Rouse Engineering— and pretty handy with a spanner— along with his son Andrew poured two years of dedication into this RS500, in between their other exciting projects.

RS500 Touring Car Specs

This is not just another tribute build. This is a pukka RS500 Touring Car. But, of course, iot would be rude not to update it a little. So, this car now packs a 575bhp Cosworth YB engine built by Harvey Gibbs and a whopping 10-inch viscous rear diff. All while staying true to the original Andy Rouse Engineering design. With full HTP papers, this Cossie is ready to tear up any historic race events.

CNC Motorsport left no stone unturned in their drive to stay true to form. The perfect blend of period-accurate specifications and innovative technology, resulted in one-of-a-kind beasts like this. This car sports everything from original Getrag five-speed gearbox to period style gauges, fuel tank enclosure and Rouse-designed roll cage. It’s worth noting that CNC Motorsport is the only certified manufacturer of period ARE cages by Motorsport UK.

Two More RS500 Touring Cars To Build

This isn’t the last Sierra RS500 Touring Car we’ll see from the guys a CNC Motorsport. The second build is already underway, and a slot remains for the final one. Alan Strachan envisions these cars to be enjoyed and raced without holding back, bringing the flame-spitting glory of the RS500 to roads around Europe in style. We can’t wait!

The post New Build Sierra RS500 Cosworth Touring Car is Ready to Race! appeared first on Fast Car.

After a blockbuster Ford Fair Silverstone event, the team are working around the clock to bring you an end-of-season Ford show we can all be proud of. Here’s what you can expect to see at the show.

Why Attend Ford Fest 2024?

If you’ve got a soft spot for the Blue Oval, this is the event you can’t afford to miss. The finest Fords from every era, ranging from pristine retro gems to track-ready beasts, all gather in one place. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of vintage classics or you crave modern, highly-tuned monsters, Ford Fest 2024 has something that’ll get your motor running.

At its new home at Mallory Park in Leicestershire, Ford Fest 2024 offers the perfect blend of everything a family-friendly modified car show should be. Enjoy all the fast and frantic action of the various live-action displays, go bargain-hunting in the Retail Village, and then chill as you wander around the hundreds of stunning club and display cars on show. What better way is there to spend a sunny September Sunday?

You can book tickets to Ford Fest 2024 today. Here’s why you should…

BOOK YOUR FORD FEST TICKETS HERE!

Key Highlights of Ford Fest 2024

• Date: Sunday, 22nd September 2024
• Location: Mallory Park Circuit, Leicestershire, LE9 7QE
• Main Attractions:
  • Fast Ford and Classic Ford magazine displays
  • Public track sessions
  • Club displays and awards
  • Paul Swift’s high-energy stunt show
  • Extreme BMX Stunt Display
  • Auto Jumble for private sellers
  • Special Display area for non-club Ford owners
  • Funfair with various kids’ rides
  • Camping facilities available from Saturday
  • Mallory Café and live band on Saturday

Ford Fest 2024 Club & Car Displays

Hundreds of Club Cars on Display

We’re talking hundreds of club cars, as far as the eye can see. If you’re part of a Ford club, this is your moment to shine. Space is limited, so make sure your club books a slot  ASAP to ensure your pride and joy gets the spotlight it deserves. Plus, various club awards are up for grabs, so bring your A-game!

BOOK YOUR FORD FEST CLUB TICKETS HERE!

Special Display Area at Ford Fest 2024

For those not part of a club but still want to show off their Ford, we’ve got you covered with the Special Display area. Just £2 on top of your ticket price gets you a spot within the circuit and early access to beat the queues. It’s a win-win!

BOOK YOUR SPECIAL DISPLAY PASS HERE!

Street Elite

Witness the elite do battle in the ultimate Show & Shine contest. Sponsored by CarGods, the Street Elite competition will see stunning fast Fords of all shapes and sizes battle it out ot be crowned winner. Expert judges from CarGods, Fast Ford magazine, and Classic Ford magazine will closely scruitnise each and every car on display and choose their Top 3 Winners. Each will receive a prize donated by CarGods. Make sure you head over to the Street Elite area, here is where you will find the very best presented Blue Ovals anywhere in the UK!

Think you car has what it takes to do battle in Street Elite. Enter now…
ENTER STREET ELITE HERE!

Fast Ford and Classic Ford Magazine Displays

Fast Ford and Classic Ford magazines are pulling out all the stops with their jaw-dropping displays. Think of it as a time capsule of feature cars, showcasing the best from the past and present. It’s like walking through a living, breathing museum of Ford greatness.

BUY THE LATEST CLASSIC FORD MAG HERE! BUY THE LATEST FAST FORD MAG HERE!

Greatest Ford Hot Hatches

Hot Hatchback Display

One of the show’s most exciting features is the display of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches. Over the past 40 years, Ford has produced some iconic hot hatchbacks that have become legends in their own right. Cars like the Fiesta XR2 and Escort XR3 started the craze in the 1980s but Ford went on to dominate the hot hatch market throughout the 1990s and well into the 2000s and beyond with icons such as the Escort RS Turbo, Focus RS and Fiesta ST. This display will give you a unique opportunity to see all these amazing cars in one place. From the early classics to the very latest fast Fords, this is a must-see for any Blue Oval fan!

BOOK YOUR FORD FEST TICKETS HERE!

Ford Coupes: Elegance on Display

Finest Ford Coupes Collection

The hot hatches aren’t the only fast Fords on display. While Ford may have built it’s racy image on its motorsport pedigree in the 1980s and 1990s, before then it was all about the elegant coupes. And sporty luxury is something is in the DNA of all fast Fords. That’s why Ford Fest pays homage to the Ford Coupes. This display brings together the finest Ford coupes from throughout the ages. From the old-school Capri through to the modern Mustang, and including beloved unsung heroes like the Puma, Probe, Cougar, and Granada Coupe, this is your chance to see these elegant machines up close and personal. Don’t miss this stunning collection!

BOOK YOUR FORD FEST TICKETS HERE!

Live Action at Ford Fest 2024

Track Time at Mallory Park Circuit

Mallory Park’s awesome circuit will be buzzing with non-stop action. Whether you want to test your own Ford’s mettle against the tarmac or just kick back and watch the madness from the superb viewing spots, there’s a slice of track heaven for everyone. For just £30 you enjoy a 15-minute session of full-throttle action to see what your fast Ford is really capable of.

BOOK YOUR TRACK TIME HERE!

Instructor Supervision from the Motorsports School

Make the most of your track experince with expert supervision from the Motorsports School. For just £20 per session, instructors will guide you to get the most out of your track time. This service can be booked in advance or on a first-come, first-served basis at track sign-on. Plus, helmet hire is available for £10 – simply pay by credit card or leave your driving license as a deposit if paying by cash.

Paul Swift’s High-Energy Stunt Show

Paul Swift’s stunt show is back, and it’s going to be epic!  Paul’s high-energy performance is guaranteed to leave you on the edge of your seat. Daring maneuvers, jaw-dropping stunts – it’s the kind of show that’ll have you talking about it for weeks. Paul’s current line-up of stunt cars includes a Ranger Raptor and the all-new Mustang Dark Horse – both of which are expected to be at Ford Fest 2024!

Extreme BMX Stunt Display

And let’s not forget the Fusion Extreme BMX Stunt Display! The UK’s best riders from BMX and MTB going head-to-head in a battle of epic proportions. Expect insane stunts, high-speed spins, and massive backflips that’ll make you cheer like never before.

Funfair for Kids

Bring the whole family because Ford Fest 2024 features a funfair with various kids’ rides. It’s fun for all ages, ensuring everyone has a fantastic day out!

Retail Village

Auto Jumble: Perfect for Private Sellers

Looking to clear out some garage clutter or sell those sought-after parts you’ve been hoarding? The Auto Jumble is perfect for private sellers. For just £60, you get a 6x3m space to sell your parts or vehicle, plus that includes entry for two adults! A great deal if you ask us!

Merchandise and More

Explore a variety of trade stands offering everything from car parts to branded Ford merchandise. It’s the perfect place to pick up a new T-shirt, stickers, or even a back issue of your favorite Ford magazine.

Make a Weekend of It

Camping at Mallory Park

Camping at Mallory Park is the perfect way to make a weekend out of it. Arrive on Saturday, pitch your tent or park your motorhome, and enjoy the bar and café in the afternoon and evening. Prices start from just £30 per pitch.

Mallory Café and Live Band

Kick back and relax at the Mallory Café, open for campers all afternoon and evening on Saturday. Enjoy great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and live music from a band – the perfect way to unwind and get ready for the big day on Sunday.

BOOK YOUR CAMPING HERE!

Join the Ultimate Ford Celebration

So, what are you waiting for? Get your tickets, pack your bags, and join us for a day (or weekend) of Ford-filled fun. Ford Fest 2024 is calling – see you at Mallory Park!

BOOK YOUR FORD FEST TICKETS HERE!

The post Ford Fest 2024 Event Preview appeared first on Fast Car.

The Ultimate Racing Experience with State-of-the-Art Simulators

The heart of this experience lies in the state-of-the-art Simulator Suite, where you’ll find four cutting-edge Exsim VR5 Motion Simulators. These simulators are equipped with the top-of-the-range D-Box actuator system, featuring six inches of travel. But that’s not all – they also boast a unique Progressive Yaw system that adds rear-end traction loss to a four-actuator setup. This means you’ll feel every turn, every acceleration, and every braking zone as if you were right there on the track!

The Exsim VR5 Motion Simulators come complete with Samsung Ultrawide gaming monitors, offering an immersive visual experience that will transport you into the heart of the action. And to ensure unparalleled accuracy and brake feel, they feature the latest Heusinkveld Engineering pedals.

And of course, the simulators come fitted with the latest range of carbon fibre race seats from simulator sponsors, Tillett. This is the perfect opportunity to test the seats in a race or track scenario to see why you need them in your car!

Tackle the Iconic Goodwood Track

During your 20-minute sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to virtually tackle the iconic Goodwood track, a true petrolhead’s favourite. Goodwood Motor Circuit has a rich history and has seen legendary drivers like Sir Stirling Moss, Jim Clark, and Jenson Button take on its challenging corners and straights. Now, it’s your turn to leave your mark on this famous circuit and make your way up the Tillett leaderboard!

Be sure to check out our Goodwood track guide so you can familiarise yourself with the circuit now to give yourself a slight advantage…

Book Your Spot and Get Ready to Race

The Race Simulator Experience is available to book now. Advanced bookings cost £20 per 20-minute session. With limited spaces available, book now to avoid disappointment!

Add a simulator sessions to your German Car Festival or Classic Japfest ticket purchases.

The post Race Simulator Experience at German Car Festival & Classic Japfest appeared first on Fast Car.

Today is a sobering day in the world of high-octane car culture. Why? Because today is the day we learned that Hoonigan has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, aiming to discharge a whopping $1.2 billion in debt while restructuring its operations. Known for its crazy, adrenaline-pumping content and jaw-dropping builds, Hoonigan became a household name for car fans all across the world with stars like Ken Block and Travis Pastrana doing crazy things in crazy cars. But the challenges post-pandemic have thrown quite the spanner into the works.

What Went Wrong?

During the pandemic, demand for automotive customisation and modifications surged. People stuck at home turned to thier cars. Home garages became tuning workshops, igniting a golden era for companies like Hoonigan. But, as the world re-emerged, so did the economic toll of supply chain constraints and soaring costs.

Revenue jumped from $844 million in 2019 to an eye-watering $1.5 billion in 2022. But then took a nosedive in 2023. Hoonigan faced high interest rates and skyrocketing costs for materials like aluminum, coupled with a sudden slump in demand. The company missed its projected earnings targets, and it was clear something drastic had to be done. Enter Chapter 11.

The Merger and the Downfall

As part of a rebrand, Hoonigan became the face of Wheel Pros, LLC, back in October 2023. Remember Wheel Pros? They’ve been a stalwart in the aftermarket world since 1994, designing and selling wheels, tyres, and accessories. Clearlake Capital acquired Wheel Pros in 2018, leading to a flurry of acquisitions and expansions. When Hoonigan merged with Wheel Pros in September 2021, everything looked golden. The company was experiencing tremendous growth.

Before merging with Hoonigan, Wheel Pros was in full throttle with its expansion plans, snapping up two facilities in the United States back in 2018 and 2020. The cost? A cool $12 million, plus some extra cash for additional investments. But the investments didn’t pan out as expected. By late 2021, they had to let go of a big chunk of one facility and shut down the other entirely in early 2023.

What’s Next for Hoonigan?

Hoonigan’s Chapter 11 filing in Delaware isn’t just about cutting losses. It’s about restructuring for a more sustainable future. They’ve already entered a Restructuring Support Agreement (RSA) with many of their debtholders and are in the process of securing approximately $570 million in new capital. The goal? To emerge from the proceedings in just two months, backed by the majority ownership of a group of current lenders.

The good news for employees, customers, vendors, and suppliers is that Hoonigan plans to continue normal business operations without any disruptions. The court will have the final say, but this restructuring could pave the way for a leaner, more resilient company.

A Community in Transition

For a brand that’s defined car culture and pushed the boundaries of what’s possible behind the wheel, this bankruptcy isn’t the end—it’s just another chapter. The community of automotive enthusiasts remains strong and hopeful. Maybe it’s the adversity that fuels our love for cars even more. Hoonigan, after all, is more than just a company; it’s a symbol of our undying passion for high-performance vehicles and the thrill of the road.

We wish Hoonigan all the best with the restructure, and look forward to seeing what cool content and products the iconic Hoonigan brand can give car enthusiasts in the future.

Sources: Hoonigan, MSN

The post Hoonigan has filed for Bankruptcy appeared first on Fast Car.

How Can I Spot Hidden Problems with My Car?

Ever had your day ruined by your car throwing up an unexpected problem? Of course you have, you drive a modified car! One minute you’re happily cruising along and everything is right in the world. Then, without warning, an annoying rattle, nasty noise, strange smell, odd vibration or even the dreaded engine management light immediately ruin your day!

Luckily, with modern cars, something as simple as a fault code reader and a clever phone app from Carly is enough to diagnose the issue and put you on the path to repair.

But, what if we told you it’s possible to spot those problems before they even occur? Well, that’s another benefit of Carly. Something as simple as a little Bluetooth dongle in your glovebox that costs less than £80 really can save you hundreds in repair bills. Not to mention keeping your sanity and anger management issues under control by preventing the breakdown before it even happens!

Hidden car problems can sneak up on you, but don’t worry! We’re going to show you how you can spot hidden problems with your car before they turn into costly and inconvenient repairs.

Why Spotting Hidden Problems Early Matters

Catching issues early can save you a ton of time, money, and stress. Hidden problems often start small but can lead to major repairs if ignored. By being proactive, you can extend your car’s lifespan, improve safety, and keep those repair bills low.

Get to Know Your Car

As car enthusiasts, we’ll guess you already know your car quite well. Therefore, we’ll skip over general advice for everyday Joe Public and assume that you already regularly check things like the tyres, fluid levels (and condition!) and would have spotted any obvious defects. We’ll also assume that already know the little nuances of your particular car and know when you should start to be concerned about something or not. We’ll also assume that you know your own car well enough to notice if it starts making any odd new noises or strange smells, and would investigate appropriately.

But visual inspections only tell you so much. Unfortunately, with ever more complex systems and ever more cramped engine bays, the amount of useful information you can garner from visual inspections alone is getting less and less. And the old-school attitude of ‘just drive it until something breaks, then you know what to replace’ no longer works when that component might take out several others when it fails. Plus, it does very little to cure your woes when you’re sat on the hard shoulder waiting for the recovery truck!

Unearth Hidden Problems with Carly

That’s why you need technology to assist. Something like Carly’s Diagnostic Tool is an inexpensive solution that quickly connects to your car to provide OEM-levels of data on its condition. It dives deep into the car’s multiple ECUs to paint a complete picture of vehicle health.

1. Fault Codes and DTCs

Not only will Carly flag any existing fault codes that have been triggered, but it will also alert you of any soft fault codes. Soft codes are similar to DTCs but don’t cause the engine management light to come on. Think of them as a precursor to a full-blown fault code. When the ECU notices a blip or that something isn’t quite as it expected, it logs a soft fault code. Not all fault code readers can access soft codes, but they are vital for spotting any hidden problems with your car.

2. Live Data Logging

If you suspect all is not well with your car – and let’s face it, you know it better than anyone – Carly’s Live Data feature is another brilliant tool to have on your side. Carly’s innovative technology allows users to access live data from their car’s OBD-II port in real-time. With the ability to record this data while driving and easily save or export it from your phone, you can effectively replicate issues and analyse the information to accurately pinpoint any underlying causes.

You don’t need to be a trained technician to use the Live Data feature. The user-friendly interface of Carly’s Live Data feature eliminates the need for specialised technical knowledge, as it offers suggested value ranges for hundreds of parameters, simplifying the process of identifying any abnormal readings.

3. Stay On Top of Maintenance

Service intervals are set for a reason. Regularly adhering to service schedules and staying on top of routine maintenance is crucial for keeping your car running smoothly and preventing costly repairs down the road.

Skipping or delaying these simple tasks can lead to big problems that might have been easily avoidable. Fortunately, the Carly App is here to make your life easier. This powerful tool keeps track of all your car’s servicing and maintenance schedules, sending you timely alerts when something is due. With Carly, you’ll never miss an oil change, MOT, or brake check, ensuring your ride stays in peak condition and prolonging its lifespan.

When coupled with the Bluetooth OBD-II Scanner, the Carly App also allows you to reset things like the oil service light. Perfect if you service your own car or change the oil more frequently than the OEM recommended intervals. The App You can even set reminders for things like tyre rotation, allowing you to truly get your money’s worth from your expensive performance rubber.

Get the App!

More than that, the Carly App also has a comprehensive Car History Checker. Carly’s checker provides detailed insights into vehicle images, theft status, finance status, write-offs, mileage history, MOT records, damage reports, salvage auctions, ownership history, tax status, and more.

And the best bit? The Carly App is completely free! Simply head to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and download it to your smartphone today. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

What Else Can Carly Do?

Carly is such a versatile tool, and the Carly Scanner is fantastic at reading and understanding car fault codes. More than just reading fault codes, Carly’s Smart Mechanic feature also advises on what the most likley cause is, and estimates how much a repair is likely to cost. The Carly App is free to download for your smartphone from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store, and offers some fantatsic features that will help you diagnose potential issues and stay on top of your maintenance schedule too. The new Carly free car history checker that provides you with loads of info on your car’s history.

In addition, the Carly Scanner can help avoid getting ripped off at the garage, help you spot hidden problems, and even customise your car’s coding. All for around £80! Every car enthusiast needs one in their glovebox.

RELATED ARTICLES

What Are Car Fault Codes?

What is Mileage Tampering? Amd How to Avoid it.

Unlock Hidden Car Secrets with Carly’s Free Car History Checker!

4 Ways To Avoid Expensive Car Repairs

Code your own car with Carly!

Carly Smart Mechanic is Your Ultimate Car Companion

The post 3 Ways to Spot Hidden Problems with Your Car appeared first on Fast Car.

The subject of engine and oil additives has always been a divisive one. Some people swear by them. While others think they are little more than snake oil. So, we decided to put some to the test.

One of the most popular additives among modified car enthusiasts is Liqui Moly Cera Tec. It adds protection and increases the longevity of your engine, but we wondered if could also help increase power and torque too. So, we grabbed a mate’s Focus ST, ordered some Cera Tec, and headed to the dyno to find out…

Watch the video to see how we got on. Or, for more details, continue reading below

What is Liqui Moly Cera Tec?

Cera Tec is a high-tech ceramic wear protection additive from Liqui Moly. Its main job is to enhance the performance and longevity of your engine by reducing friction and wear. It incorporates advanced ceramic compounds to provide superior chemical and thermal resistance, and is suitable for use in both petrol and diesel engines. You can also use it with all commercially available motor oils.

While Liqui Moly explains the main benefits of Cera Tec are reduced wear, smoother running, and possibly better fuel economy, we wondered if those reductions in frictional losses would translate as an increase in power and torque too. Let’s find out.

Buy Cera Tec for your car today. Here are some of the best prices currently available.

The Test

So, to find out if adding an oil additive would increase power we asked to borrow a friend’s Focus ST and set about doing a back-to-back comparison. The car was due for an oil change, so it was perfect to get a base figure from before we added any Liqui Moly products.

We put the car on the dyno and recorded two ‘before’ runs to give us a base figure to work from.

Then, we completed a full oil flush using Liqui Moly’s Motor Clean. Once this had been given time to circulate for 10 minutes or so, we then drained the oil and replaced the oil filter with a brand new genuine Ford replacement.

We replaced the engine oil with Liqui Moly Special Tec 5w-30, which is designed to meet the required specifications for the Focus ST.

Finally, we added one bottle of Liqui Moly Cera Tec oil additive. We then drove the car back to Mobile Eco Tuning (about 5 miles away) where we put the car back on the dyno for another two power runs.

Using that data, we were able to see what difference, if any, the Liqui Moly additives had made to the performance of the car.

The Car

The car we used for this test was a 2007 Ford Focus ST. It features some bolt-on performance upgrades such as a turbo-back exhaust system including sports cat, Ram Air intake system with uprated crossover pipe, Airtec intercooler and inlet plenum, block mod, and a Revo Stage 2 remap. The car has been well cared for throughout its life with a comprehensive service history. It’s a daily driver and has covered just shy of 90,000 miles

Owner Mark Sargeant had never had the car on the dyno, but was told previously the car should be running close to 300bhp.

This mix of performance upgrades, mileage, and regular use makes it a perfect test bed for this experiment.

The Dyno

The dyno we used for this test is a state-of-the-art Dimsport 4WD DF4FSHLS at Mobile Eco Tuning (MET) based in Somerset. It’s one of the best dynos currently available, capable of supporting over 1000bhp and providing accurate power and torque measurements.

More than that, we also asked David and the team at MET to data log each dyno run too, so we could analyse all engine parameters to get a better understanding of any differences between the dyno runs.

The Results

Before Liqui Moly Cera Tec

On the very first dyno run, the car made 246.2bhp with 427.6Nm. On the second run, it produced a little more power, recording 258.9bhp while torque increased to 440Nm.

You can see from the dyno graph that the power starts to flat-line at around 5500rpm on both runs. This is why the peak power figure on the first run was recorded at around 1000rpm less than on the second run. David at MET advised that this is a classic symptom of a very common wastegate issue with the Focus ST. A weakened actuator spring means the wastegate cannot maintain boost pressures at higher revs, resulting in the power curve flattening out. This theory was further supported by the torque curve falling quite notably after 4000rpm.

Looking at the trajectory of the power curve, without the wastegate issue, we could estimate the peak power would be between 270-280bhp.

After Liqui Moly Cera Tec

After we replaced the oil and added Cera Tec, the car was back on the same dyno on the same day for some back-to-back testing. Again, we completed two runs. The first of which showed peak power had increased to 268.7bhp. Torque had increased too, now at 488Nm. On the second run both power and torque decreased slightly – 261bhp and 473Nm. Heat soak starts to take effect on the second run and reduces peak power.

Once again the issue with the actuator spring was present. Checking the data logs showed that the wastegate was holding 1.2 bar of boost up until 4000rpm. Bu it drops off quickly. By the end of the run, the boost pressure was less than 0.7 bar of boost. This is almost certainly the cause for the dip in the graph after 4000rpm. David at MET is confident that with an uprated actuator, the power and torque curves would be on course to produce well over 300bhp peak power.

Did Liqui Moly Cera Tec increase power?

Yes! More than we expected! Despite the issues with the wastegate not holding boost pressure, we can still draw some very impressive conclusions. The peak power figures have increased from 258.9bhp to 268.7bhp. A 10bhp gain for an oil additive is very impressive, but that only tells half the story.

More impressive than the peak power figures is the gain in mid-range power. Let’s compare the most powerful ‘before’ run with the most powerful ‘after’ run. You can see that at 4300rpm the bhp difference is well over 20bhp. Between the least and most powerful runs, the delta at 4300rpm is nearly 30bhp!

Did Liqui Moly Cera Tec increase torque?

Yes, once again the results impressed us! Comparing the before and after graphs, we can see that peak torque occurs at the same point (all four runs saw peak torque recorded within less than 100 rpm of each other). However, the peak figure has increased by a whopping 48Nm between the ‘before’ and ‘after’ runs. The difference between the highest and lowest runs of the day is over 60Nm!

Before Liqui moly Cera Tec vs After 

This is not a scientific test, but it was a real-world test that replicated how most owners will use Cera Tec. The issue with the wastegate actuator did prevent us from seeing what the true peak power figures might have been. David at MET checked the data logs from all four runs to verify that nothing else could be causing the increases we’ve seen. That leads us to believe that the reduction in frictional losses after using Cera Tec has released extra power and torque.

Perhaps the most notable difference is how much sooner the power comes in. Between 3000rpm and 4500rpm the difference in the area under the curve is quite significant.  It’s the same story with torque too. The rate at which the torque increases after we added Cera Tec is a huge improvement compared to before. You’d definitely notice these increases on the road.

The Dyno Operator Says…

David at MET said: “We couldn’t quite believe it either. We’ve checked the data logs and there’s nothing different between the runs, so the increases must have come from the reduction in frictional losses. These STs always suffer with actuator issues – 9 out of 10 we see have similar problems to this one – but I’d never have guessed that adding Cera Tec would increase the performance in the way it has.”

The Owner Says…

When we asked Mark for his feedback on the way back to the dyno he said the car already felt smoother and more responsive to drive. After seeing the figures on the dyno Mark said: “I couldn’t quite believe the difference it made! It felt stronger but I wasn’t expecting it to show such a big difference on the dyno. I’m a little bit gutted about the actuator but I’ve already ordered one with an uprated spring and an uprated recirc valve too. I’ll bring the car back to MET for another dyno run once I’ve fitted those to see what difference it makes.”

Do Liqui Moly Engine Additives Really Work?

It’s always difficult to tell if an additive has made any difference or not, especially as many form part of a preventative maintenance routine. Would something have failed if you didn’t use the additive? You’ll never know. But is is better to be safe than sorry?

In our test, we clearly showed that the oil flush, fresh high-quality oil and Cera Tec additive have contributed to a significant increase in power and torque. We can’t vouch for the improvement in longevity or fuel economy as we have been unable to test those, but given the results on the dyno we would be surprised if it doesn’t make a notable improvement there too.

Using additives like Cera Tec and others from Liqui Moly’s comprehensive range of products forms the foundation for a solid preventative maintenance routine. Cera Tec costs around £20 per bottle, offering extra peace of mind for a small additional cost. Plus, when you can literally pour extra horsepower and torque into your engine, why wouldn’t you!?

Try Cera Tec in your car today and let us know the results.

The post Liqui Moly Cera Tec adds protection… and gains POWER! appeared first on Fast Car.

Let’s face it – even for die-hard enthusiasts, expensive car repairs can sometimes feel like a rip-off. Unexpected repair bills leave your wallet lighter and your mood darker. Garage anxiety is very real. We’ve all been there, but fear not! With the knowledge and insight provided by in-depth diagnostics with Carly, you can take back control and avoid getting ripped off the next time your car throws up an issue. For less than £80, it’s a no-brainer and every car fan should have one.

Stay Informed & Avoid Expensive Car Repairs  

Knowledge is your best defence against getting swindled. The more you know about your car and its needs, the less likely you will fall prey to unscrupulous mechanics. And with Carly Diagnostics, you can access the same data as the main dealers. Simply plug in the OBD-II Scanner and connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth. Armed with all the information on your car’s health, you can make an informed decision about your car before even visiting a garage.

It also means you can give the mechanics a clear indication of what might be at fault. This has a couple of major benefits. First, it saves the mechanic time in identifying the issue. And if it saves them time, it saves you cash! Secondly, it shows that you know what you’re talking about. Even the most unscrupulous mechanic is going to think twice about ripping you off then they know that you can just plug in Carly and check for yourself anything they are telling you.

Check Prices

Be Smart

But it’s not just highlighting fault codes that Carly does. Alongside pinpointing the error, Carly’s Smart Mechanic feature can advise on how to fix it. That gives many competent DIY mechanics the confidence they need to tackle the repair themselves. Not only do you avoid getting ripped off, you can avoid taking your car to a garage at all. And that provides a real sense of accomplishment for those who prefer the ‘Built not Bought’ ethos when it comes to modified cars.

Even if the repair job was too large or too tricky to complete successfully at home, Smart Mechanic gives you a detailed estimate of what the repair should typically cost. Armed with this information, you can see if a mechanic’s quote is within the range Carly estimates and avoid getting ripped off.

Learn More

Stay Organised

Get familiar with your car’s maintenance schedule. Your owner’s manual is your best friend here. But let’s be honest, you don’t carry that around in your pocket every day, do you? However, your smartphone with the Carly App is always within touching distance.

Carly’s Maintenance feature provides a timeline for routine maintenance like oil changes and general inspections. It also advises on the tools and parts you’ll need to service your car yourself. The Scanner allows you to quickly and easily reset the service light too. Sticking to your car’s service schedule has never been easier, and we all know how proper maintenance can prevent minor issues from turning into major (and expensive) problems.

More Info

Keep Up To Date to Avoid Expensive Car Repairs

Intermittent faults are the worst to diagnose. When something breaks, it’s comparatively easy to identify and replace. But when the fault only manifests itself at certain times, under specific conditions or loads, trying to pinpoint the exact cause of the fault can be much harder.

Carly can access live data directly from your car’s OBD-II port in real-time. You can record this data while driving, and then save it or export it from your phone. This means you safely replicate the issue and check the data to accurately see what is causing it.

You don’t have to be a fully trained tech to use the Live Data feature, either. Carly provides a suggested range of values for each of the hundreds of parameters available to view, so you can quickly see which one falls outside of any expected readings.

Discover More

Be Part of the Community

As well as all the clever features we’ve just touched upon, one of the huge benefits of using Carly is the passionate and enthusiastic community of fellow Carly users. The Carly Community is an online forum where users discuss specific fault codes, repair issues, or maintenance problems. As a Carly user, you can post your specific questions about your car and you’ll get helpful and relevant advice from experts and other Carly users.

Join the Community

What else can Carly do?

Carly is an incredibly powerful tool to have in your pocket. As well as the key features we’ve already mentioned, here are just some of the other features you can use Carly for:

• Battery registration: easily register a new battery to your car so you can fit battery replacement at home.
• Battery health check: monitor the status and condition of your car’s battery.
• Custom coding: unlock hidden features and tailor settings to your specific needs.
• DPF regeneration: prevent your DPF from clogging and force a regen when you want to.
• Exhaust flap control: control your car’s active exhaust system from your phone.
• Engine Learning reset: force your car to relearn engine settings after completing a repair to ensure optimum combustion.
• NOx filter regen: schedule a NoX filter regeneration from your phone.
• Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) control: put your EPB in service mode to allow you to carry out serving work or repairs.
• Auto Transmission: discover historical data ort reset learning values so your car adapts to your driving style.
• Used Car Check: perform a thorough mileage check on any potential purchase.

The Carly App is free to download for your smartphone from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store, and offers some fantatsic features that will help you diagnose potential issues and stay on top of your maintenance schedule too. The new Carly free car history checker that provides you with loads of info on your car’s history.

In addition, the Carly Scanner helps you spot hidden problems, corroborates your vehicle mileage, and can customise your car’s coding. All for less than £80! Every car enthusiast needs one in their glovebox.

RELATED ARTICLES

What Are Car Fault Codes?

Unlock Hidden Car Secrets with Carly’s Free Car History Checker!

What is Mileage Tampering? And How Can I Avoid It?

3 Ways to Spot Hidden Problems with Your Car

Code your own car with Carly!

Carly Smart Mechanic is Your Ultimate Car Companion

The post 4 Ways To Avoid Expensive Car Repairs appeared first on Fast Car.

Our how-to guide will walk you through every step in applying Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light and EXO V5 at home, giving you that professional finish from the comfort of your own home. Let’s dive right in!

Why Ceramic Coating over Wax?

First things first, why should you be trading your wax for a ceramic coating? The answer is longevity and protection! Ceramic coatings provide superior protection against UV rays, chemicals, bird droppings and other surface contaminants.They last far longer than traditional waxes – we’re talking years, not months!
Don’t believe us? We put Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light to the test. Read here!

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Ceramic Coating

1. Full Decontamination Wash

Before anything else, your car needs to be squeaky clean. Start with a full decontamination wash to remove any dirt, grime, or residues. This step ensures that nothing gets in the way of that perfect finish.

Pro Tip: Wash your car a day earlier and let it dry completely overnight to avoid water trails when you’re applying the coating.

2. Machine Polish

With a clean car, it’s time to buff out those imperfections. Machine polishing removes scratches, swirl marks, and other blemishes. This step is crucial because the ceramic coating can accentuate any surface flaws present, so you need teh surface to be flawless before locking in that finish.

Don’t fret if this sounds tedious; consider outsourcing the polish job to professionals while you handle the more fun stuff – like applying the coating!

3. Panel Wipe

Next up is prepping the surface with a panel wipe. This gets rid of any oils or residues left from polishing, giving you a clean surface for the ceramic coating.

Spray on the panel wipe solution and buff off with a clean microfiber cloth. Easy peasy!

4. Applying the Ceramic Coating

Here’s where the magic happens:

• Get your nice applicator pad ready, place a few drops of Crystal Serum Light on it.
• Work in small sections. On a bonnet, split it up – for example, start with just one quarter.
• Apply in straight lines, then cross-hatch (apply lines perpendicular) to ensure even coverage across the panel.
• After a few minutes, you’ll notice the product begins to split out on the surface – this is your cue to gently buff it off with a clean microfiber cloth.

5. Applying EXO V5

EXO V5 acts as a hydrophobic topper for that next-level finish. Gtechniq explain why a two-coating system is better than one, check it out for some nerdy science behind the chemistry involved!

• Wait at least 1-2 hours after applying Crystal Serum Light.
• Using a clean fresh applicator pad again, apply EXO V5 in straight lines over the working area and let it split-out before buffing off with a clean microfiber cloth.

Note: If you have previously applied Cyrstal serum Light, then panel wipe the car to ensure surface is free from any contaminants (not neccessary if apllying EXO V5 on the same day). If you applied Crystal Serum Light a few days/weeks before applying EXO V5, give the car a full decontamination wash and then panel wipe before application.

Dos and Don’ts Once Applied

Dos:

•  Leave your car out of rain for the first 12 hours.
•  Let it cure without touching detergents for the first week.
• Use quality cleaning products and practices to maintain best results

Don’ts:

• Skimp on drying time.
• Wash your car for the first week.
• Neglect your regular cleaning routine

Can I apply a ceramic coating at home?

Applying a ceramic coating at home is not just doable; it’s unbeliveably satisfying when you step back and admire that flawless finish. With Crystal Serum Light and EXO V5, you’re giving your car the ultimate protective layer that looks incredible and lasts much longer than those traditional waxes.

Go on, give your car the ultimate protection it deserves.

The post How to Apply a Ceramic Coating to Your Car appeared first on Fast Car.

The Ford Fiesta ST Mk6 went back to fast Ford roots of sticking a big engine in a little car; then, stiffening up the chassis, and sending it down the road for some chuckable-yet-useable fun. It really was the XR2 reincarnated in the 2000s.

And, just like the XR2, the chassis underneath can easily cope with more power than the stock 2.0-litre Duratec’s 150bhp (hence the ST150 tag). Also, just like the XR2, tuning the engine gives significant improvements, either in screaming naturally-aspirated guise or gulping down wads of boost from a forced-induction conversion. But, because technology improves over time, the rewards on offer from a well-tuned ST150 far outweigh anything Ford’s earlier hot hatches could ever hope to muster.

Over the years we’ve seen plenty of fast-road conversion with around 200bhp combined with sensible chassis and braking upgrades. In more recent times, more ST owners have turned to adding boost to give some quite crazy power figures for a little Fiesta, initially with bolt-on supercharger kits, but latterly with full-blown big-turbo installations. That’s before we mention the abundance of engine swapped cars out there. And, of course, the Mk6 ST has always been capable on track, and we’ve seen plenty of track and full-on race cars embarrass much more powerful machinery on circuits thanks to an uncompromising and incredibly nimble chassis setup.

Or, like most people, you could combine your perfect blend of all of the above to create an ST that is unique, fits your needs and reflects your personality perfectly. Here’s our comprehensive guide to tuning the Ford Fiesta ST Mk6.

Ford Fiesta ST Mk6 Engine tuning

The ST’s 2.0-litre Duratec is a robust engine, and as long as you keep an eye on the oil levels regularly (it does like a drink) you can get stuck in straight away with the upgrades. If you want to be sensible, the first upgrade should really be a power steering relocation kit; it won’t gain you any power or improve performance but will stop the original setup spitting its PAS fluid all over the engine bay at high revs. And when you start tuning, you’ll want higher revs. Some tuners recommend an oil cooler upgrade for similar reasons.

When the car was new, Mountune offered warranty-friendly performance packages in the shape of MP165 and MP185 tuning kits. Complete kits are no longer available, but some of the key components (such as the air filter kit) are. That’s your starting point when tuning the MK6 Fiesta ST: engine breathing. The original airbox is an awkward and unsightly beast, not to mention restrictive. Bin that in favour of a K&N 57i kit, ITG foam induction kit, or the Mountune cold air induction system, and you’ll free up some grunt immediately, but more importantly, lay the foundations for things to come.

With fresh air coming in, it’s then time to focus on getting the exhaust gases out. Cat-back exhaust systems give added audible appeal, but for more meaningful gains, consider a sports cat from Scorpion, Piper or Milltek or even a decat if you intend to use the car off-road.

Add a suitable remap to the mix and you can expect to see around 165-to-170bhp – plus a much more enthusiastic driving experience – from these simple upgrades.

Camshafts

The next step is to add a set of fast-road cams as Mountune did with the MP185 kit. A tried-and-tested profile is the Cosworth 200-spec camshaft kit; fit without the need to change valve springs, and will produce up to 200bhp with supporting mods. Other profiles from the likes of Newman Cams and Piper Cams are also available, as are double valve springs for cam kits with very high lift.

For cams like those, you’ll be looking at building a high-spec naturally-aspirated engine, and the next restrictions are the inlet manifold and throttle body. Mountune fitted a unique inlet on its top-spec MR200 tuning upgrade for the ST, as did Cosworth with the 200 kit. The former is no longer available new, but replica Cosworth items are available from tuners like Jamsport and SiCo Developments, while Pumaspeed offers its own similar version.

With a suitable remap, this will take power to around 190/200bhp. This power is the sweet-spot for fast-road applications. If you’re looking to retain some degree of originality, get off here.

Naturally-aspirated Tuning

If you’re looking for more power, you now face two distinct options. Stick with naturally-aspirated tuning or add some boost by way of a supercharger or turbocharger conversion.

Sticking with naturally-aspirated tuning, a set of throttle bodies comes next. Many of these require a stand-alone ECU, but there are kits available that work with the ST’s drive-by-wire throttle, working work with a remap on the stock ECU. You’ll see over 200bhp, but you’re into the realms of diminishing returns and every extra horsepower will become more expensive and time-consuming to extract. That said, with a 2.3-litre bottom end, ported and big-valve head, lairy cams and enormous throttle bodies, over 300bhp is possible. This is usually reserved for race cars where 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated regulations are extreme.

An easier way to reach similar power levels – and beyond – in a road car would be to switch to forced induction.

Ford Fiesta ST Mk6 forced induction tuning

While the ST’s Duratec engine will make for an excellent, high-revving, throttle-bodied howler capable of delivering over 300bhp without a boost gauge in sight, getting there is neither cheap nor easy. But converting to forced induction is surprisingly simpler than it sounds.

Jamsport launched several bolt-on supercharger kits for the Mk6 ST using centrifugal Rotrex units. A stock Duratec will take 300bhp on standard internals, plus because of the linear nature of boost delivery based on engine speed, these conversions even worked perfectly well on the factory ECU. A supercharger would work on an otherwise stock ST, but best results come when adding cams, exhaust systems and inlets. Even more is achievable when you throw in some uprated internals and a bigger blower.

Supercharger conversions retain that naturally-aspirated feeling behind the wheel, but for the biggest jump in performance you can’t beat a turbocharger. There are many different routes available, and it’s all custom-build stuff so not really an off-the-shelf kind of upgrade. As such, your engine builder or tuner can work with turbo choice, cam profiles, engine spec, and a whole host of other variables tailored to what you want. Big power is possible, and we’ve seen STs knocking on the door of 500bhp with well-spec’d turbo conversions.

Ford Fiesta ST Mk6 Transmission tuning

The Mk6 Fiesta ST came fitted with Ford’s common IB5 gearbox. It may lack the sixth speed of more modern transmissions, but it’s so short-geared you don’t really need another. The stock IB5 might not be the slickest ‘box Ford ever fitted, but it will cope with most you’ll throw its way, especially if sticking with naturally-aspirated tuning.

The ST lacks a limited-slip differential, though. And while the IB5 ‘box is strong enough, the stock diff has been known to break. And when it breaks it usually disintegrates and takes out the entire gearbox. An uprated limited-slip diff like Quaife’s ATB is an ideal solution for most road cars, but track and race cars might prefer a more aggressive plated-type from Gripper or 3J Driveline.

The standard clutch and flywheel are adequate for most power increases up to around 200bhp (providing they’re in good health), but for anything more you’ll need an upgrade. Helix offers various options: uprated organic for road use, or heavy-duty paddle clutch kits for track and race.

For boosted cars, a beefier gearbox like the MTX-75 is essential. It’s not a straight swap, though, and will need modifications to the engine bay, along with a different clutch plate to suit the input shaft. You’ll need that limited-slip differential now too.

Ford Fiesta ST Mk6 suspension tuning

Developed by Ford’s TeamRS division at the Nürburgring, the Mk6 Fiesta ST has fantastic handling straight out of the box. It’s fun, playful and communicative; exactly as a hot hatch should be. It does sit too high, though.

You’re unlikely to see many STs with original springs these days, but if yours has then a set of lowering springs from Eibach are the answer; the lower stance not only looks better but it helps performance a little too. The best option is to couple the springs with matched updated dampers; Bilstein’s B12 kit has long been a favourite of ours and works exceptionally well on the Mk6 ST.

So well, in fact, for a fast-road car there isn’t any real need for coilovers – certainly not budget types that will hinder rather than help performance and ride quality. If you’re a track fan you may find that the adjustable settings and stiffer spring rates of a set of a quality coilovers are helpful for perfecting the handling package; ASTs are said to be the best for the Mk6 ST. I’ve had first hand experience with ST’s coilover package for the Mk6 and found it to be a great balance between road and track use without breaking the bank.

Polyurethane bush upgrades from SuperPro or Powerflex are wise investments to replace worn rubber units and stiffen the chassis. Add a performance rear anti-roll bar from Whiteline, and rear axle spacers at the same time, and you’ll have a decent little setup.

Dedicated track and race cars have the option of full roll cages, motorsport-spec rose-jointed suspension components to really stiffen things up, but often are too much of a compromise for any road car. Air ride has been used to great effect on show cars too.

Ford Fiesta ST Mk6 brake tuning

Don’t think the seemingly small diameter 258mm front brakes are no good; when combined with decent fast-road compound brake pads, uprated discs, and braided lines they’re perfectly adequate for fast road use. In fact, the Fiesta ST Championship used to run them, so they are proven to work on track too.

There is a cheap and easy upgrade, though: fitting Focus ST170 300mm discs with Mk3 Mondeo callipers. This is a fantastic upgrade that makes a notable difference on a very small budget – they work even better with uprated discs, pads and lines.

Another in-house upgrade is to use the Brembo four-pot callipers from a Mk1 Focus RS. You’ll need suitable brackets, but they’ll clear the stock 17in rims when you add a set of wheel spacers.

Perhaps the best option, though, is a proper aftermarket big brake kit. There’s plenty of options from the usual suspects such as AP Racing, K-Sport and Hi-Spec, offering various diameters; and that’s crucial because for a track car you’ll want to drop an inch or two on wheel size to optimise handling.

At the rear, there’s no need for anything fancy. Simple disc and pad upgrades are effective, but if you want bigger discs, then fitting the ST170’s carriers to the Fiesta callipers allows you to run 270mm rears within the stock wheels.

Interior

The stock half-leather ST seats are comfy and supportive enough for day-to-day use, but for enthusiastic driving and the odd track day you’ll want something that can hold you in place a little better. Mountune fitted a set of Recaro Sportster CS seats (the same as found in the Mk2 Focus RS) to the demo car back in the day (which we later robbed for our own project ST) and they were perfect; comfy enough to use on long journeys, but more than supportive enough for fast road thrills and a spot of track day fun. These, with the rear seats deleted and maybe a half-cage, will give an excellent clubsport vibe that many owners are looking for.

But they are expensive. And seemingly fitted to every modified Ford these days. So, for something a little different, one of the reclining bucket seats from specialists like Corbeau could be the answer. Especially as these allow the use of performance four-point harnesses when on track, or the factory three-point seatbelt for comfort and practicality on the road. Dedicated track and race cars will look to lightweight carbon/Kevlar FIA-approved race seats and matching harnesses.

Wheels & Tyres for the Mk6 Fiesta ST

The stock 17in multi-spokes were funky when the ST launched, but they do look a little dated today. And they’re heavy. Very heavy.

In a test Fast Ford conducted a few years ago we weighed the stock alloys and tyres at a whopping 20.87kg each. In the same test, we weighed a similarly sized set of Team Dynamics Pro Race 1.2s with the same tyres, and they tipped the scales at 17.6kg. That’s a 12kg reduction. And they say that 1kg of unsprung weight is worth 4kg of chassis weight, which means that’s the same as removing a massive 48kg!

So, the first thing is to ditch the stock alloys for something lighter. Many cast alloys offer significant weight savings over stock, but forged alloys will give the biggest gains.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to play around with offsets and increase width to fit a fatter tyre. Most road cars stick with 17s or drop to 16s, but most dedicated track and race cars go even smaller to 15in diameter wheels as this gives the best handling characteristics on the Mk6.

As for tyres, Toyo’s R888R is a firm favourite for track use, but any quality tyre will do. Just don’t fit budget rubber and undo all that excellent work on the chassis and upgrades.

Check out our guide to best aftermarket wheels.

Ford Fiesta ST Mk6 styling upgrades

The funky styling and chunky arches on the Mk6 Fiesta have something of a retro appeal these days. Despite the Mk6 Fiesta only being a teenager, car designs have changed so much through the 2010s and into the 2020s that the ST has a decidedly old-school feel to its aesthetics. There’s no need to improve on what Ford gave us, other than maybe removing any twin stripes if they were fitted, as they do look dated by modern standards. Lairy kits and massive rear wings are all available, of course, but a more subtle approach with a lowline kit and front splitter is preferred by many.

If you’ve got to this point in our Mk6 Fiesta ST tuning guide then the chances are you love a modified Ford. The good news for you is that we host both Ford Fair and Ford Fest, two of the best Ford shows around. We also happen to host Trax at Silverstone, too, which means you’ll get to mix it up with other marques too. Be sure to check out the Fast Car event series for more information. 

The post Ford Fiesta ST Mk6 Tuning Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

Ever come across a used car with surprisingly low mileage and thought to yourself, “This deal seems too good to be true”? Well, sometimes it is. That’s why we’re diving into the shady world of mileage tampering – a dirty trick used by some unscrupulous sellers to make a vehicle seem more valuable than it really is. With expert tips and free tools from Carly, we’ll explain what mileage tampering is, how to spot it, and, most importantly, how to avoid falling victim to it.

What is Mileage Tampering?

Mileage tampering, also known as odometer fraud, is the illegal act of rolling back or altering a vehicle’s odometer to display a lower mileage than the car has actually travelled.

Back in the day, it was called ‘clocking’. You’ve probably heard horror stories of dodgy dealers winding back the odometer readings with an electric drill hooked up to the input shaft. But in modern cars with much greater digital integration, dishonest owners can add mileage blockers that can prevent your car’s odometer from increasing. Some clever blockers can even slow down the rate at which mileage is recorded. So, while the odometer may be increasing to prevent arousing suspicion, it might only be showing 1 mile for every 2 miles physically travelled, for example.

Why would someone do this? Simple – to make the car appear less used, thereby increasing its market value. Lower mileage often translates to a higher selling price, especially when it comes to high-end performance cars, because it suggests the car has more life left in it, has likely been subjected to less wear and tear, and therefore is less likely to require expensive repairs in the future.

Is Mileage Tampering Illegal?

Using a mileage blocker to alter the data on your vehicle isn’t technically illegal in the UK. But, while you can change the mileage data, UK law makes it crystal clear: you MUST disclose any mileage discrepancies when you’re selling your car or providing official documents, like during an MOT or service. Failing to do this is breaking the law.

So, while physically installing a mileage blocker is not technically illegal in the UK, trying to hide any mileage discrepancies, means you can be arrested for mileage fraud.

The biggest problem for second-hand buyers is that sellers may genuinely not even know about any mileage tampering themselves. Therefore, it’s much better to do your own checks when looking to buy a car.

Should I Be Worried About Mileage Tampering?

Yes. In the same way that you should be worried about previous accident damage, or any outstanding finances. According to Carly’s extensive database, in 2023 over 6% of mileage checks showed signs of mileage tampering. If you scale that up, that means that out of the predicted 7 million used cars expected to be sold in 2024, over 440,000 buyers are at risk of being misled by mileage tampering.

How Can I Spot Mileage Tampering?

Okay, now that you know why it’s a problem, let’s look at how to spot mileage tampering. You should check the physical condition of the car aligns with the mileage reading. Excessive wear on the pedals and steering wheel should align with high mileage. Worn or collapsed seats and scuffed carpets are also indicative of regular use.

Check clutch condition too – modern clutches last surprisingly well, so a slipping clutch will be suspicious on a car with anything less 60-80k on the clock. And, if you’ve got access to a ramp, check the underside for worn bushes, rod ends, and bearings. Again, excessive wear points to a car having covered higher mileage.

A car’s service history can provide a wealth of information. Regular maintenance records should show consistent mileage progression. Gaps or inconsistencies in these records should ring alarm bells.

But ultimately, you probably won’t be able to tell if the car has been subjected to mileage tampering from a visual inspection alone. You’re going to need some help.

Uncover Mileage Tampering with Carly

The criminals use high-tech gadgets to fool you, and the only way to avoid getting duped is to arm yourself with similarly clever technology. Tools like Carly can literally save you thousands!

FREE Car History Checker

The first tool in your arsenal is Carly’s Car History Checker. Unlike similar checks, Carly’s Car History Checker is completely free to use! It pulls the same information from the same sources as other services and can be downloaded totally free as part of the Carly App.

Carly’s checker provides detailed insights into vehicle images, theft status, finance status, write-offs, mileage history, MOT records, damage reports, salvage auctions, ownership history, tax status, and more. Basically, it provides all the information you would usually pay up to £30 per car to unlock… for free!

Carly OBD-II Scanner

For a deep search into a car’s history, you want to arm yourself with a Carly OBD-II Scanner. This connects directly to your car, and Carly’s advanced diagnostics can read the electronic modules to detect any discrepancies in mileage data. And we’re not just talking about the odometer on the dash, here. Modern vehicles store mileage information in various systems throughout the car. The transmission control module, powertrain control module and body control modules will all store mileage information.

For many modern cars, Carly can interrogate the numerous ECUs and control modules in a vehicle and extract the mileage reading from each unit. It then compares these to the mileage on the dashboard and flags if there are any discrepancies. This also helps detect the presence of mileage blockers.

For less than £80, it’s like having a personal detective in your pocket, ensuring you get the real story behind the odometer reading. And that’s without factoring in all the other diagnostics, maintenance and coding benefits Carly offers too!

How Can I Avoid Mileage Tampering?

Mileage tampering is a deceitful practice that can lead to significant financial and safety issues for unsuspecting buyers. By being vigilant and using the right tools, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this increasingly popular scam. Remember, a deal that seems too good to be true often is. Stay informed, do your homework, and trust technology like Carly to help you make smart, safe car-buying decisions.

What Else Can Carly Do?

Carly is such a versatile tool, and the Carly Scanner is fantastic at reading and understanding car fault codes. More than just reading fault codes, Carly’s Smart Mechanic feature also advises on what the most likley cause is, and estimates how much a repair is likely to cost. The Carly App is free to download for your smartphone from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store, and offers some fantatsic features that will help you diagnose potential issues and stay on top of your maintenance schedule too. The new Carly free car history checker that provides you with loads of info on your car’s history.

In addition, the Carly Scanner can help avoid getting ripped off at the garage, help you spot hidden problems, and even customise your car’s coding. All for around £80! Every car enthusiast needs one in their glovebox.

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The post What is Mileage Tampering? And How Can I Avoid It? appeared first on Fast Car.

Club car spaces now SOLD OUT!

All available club car spaces at Ford Fair 2024 have been sold. You can still purchase a Public Ticket and park in the public car parks – don’t forget to add a Public Car Parking pass for each car parking in the public car parks.

Don’t miss the biggest and best Blue Oval show of the year!

With over 4,000 cars on display and 18,000 guests attending last year, Ford Fair is the must-attend event for Blue Oval fans. With modern Fords on display, concours Cortina’s to feisty Fiestas, from all over the UK and beyond there is enough to keep everyone interested. There’s so much variety in the Ford scene, and this is the show that brings all that variety together.

This year, Ford Fair is proud to announce Laird Performance as Headline Partners. Laird Performance is a leading Ford tuning software development centre, specialising in the range of EcoBoost engines and how to effectively maximise their potential. The guys from Laird Performance will be out in force with a selection of demo and customers cars on display – both on and off the the track – as well as being on hand to answer any questions you might have, or just generally talk all things fast Ford!

Here are some of the best bits to look forward to at Ford Fair 2024!

BOOK YOUR FORD FAIR TICKETS HERE!

60 Years of Mustang

2024 marks 60 years since Ford’s famous pony car first made an appearance at the World’s Fair in 1964. Since then it’s become an icon, synonymous wioth fast Fords all over the world. To celebrate the anniversary, Ford Fair has a dedicated Mustang display from the Simply Mustangs club. Prepare to be blown away by the sight – and epic thunderous V8 soundtrack! – of a display of over 100 Mustangs all in the same place!

Forming part of the Mustang display area will be Academy Motorsport, Nemesis UK, and Ford Fair’s lubricant partner, Liqui Moly. Here you’ll find some of the best Mustangs of the entire show, including a track-spec S550 as well as the very latest S650 Mustang GT4 race cars! And if that wasn’t enough, current British GT4 Champion, Erik Evans, will be on hand to sign autographs and chat to fans about his racing and the incredible Mustang race car!

Check out the GT4 race Mustangs here:

Clubs & Ford Displays

Attracting the very best Blue Ovals in the country, the club and special displays at Ford Fair are like no other. With an estimated 4000 club cars on display, Ford Fair is undoubtedly the biggest gathering of Fords anywhere in the UK! Clubs always have been, and always will be, the beating heart of Ford Fair and without them, the show wouldn’t be what it is today.
You can expect to see hundreds of different clubs on show at Ford Fair 2024, including various model-specific clubs, and regional and national branches of wider groups too. Plus, there are always cool displays from online and social media groups too. And they all come together in one incredible venue for a true celebration of all things Ford. Make sure you take time to wander around the different displays and gaze at the marvellous Blue Ovals on show.

CLUB CARS SPACES NOW SOLD OUT!

Club Awards

As usual, we will be awarding our loyal clubs for their efforts, the quality of cars on display, and overall impression by offering a chance to win one of several club awards. This year, our judges will be looking for the Best Club Stand, Best Regional Club, and Best Classic Club.

Club Hero Award

Does your club have an outstanding member that deserves recognition for their efforts!? Then the Club Hero Awards is ideal! This award gives the club members the chance to nominate an exceptional individual in your club. Whether they quietly make things happen in the background, or if they are proactive member that is effectively the face of your club, we want to hear about them and their achievements.

To nominate please include:

• Club name
• Your name
• Your contact details
• Nominee name
• Nominee contact details
• The reason they deserve to win

Announcements and prize-giving will take place at the show.

NOMINATE YOUR CLUB HERO TODAY!

Top Ten Rosettes

There’s always loads of cool cars on display at Ford Fair, and this year asked our expert team of editors to comb through all the cars on display at the show looking for their top ten fast Fords. They will be on the hunt for just ten of the very best cars to catch their eye, and each one will receive a rosette to commend their efforts.

Special Display

The club scene is a huge part of Ford Fair, but not all fantastic Fords are part of a club. Fear not, these stunning machines still get to show-off, forming the Special Display. Here, you’ll find a diverse mix of beautiful Blue Ovals on show, from Ford owners that belong to wider car clubs in general, members of groups that aren’t displaying elsewhere at the show, or simply mavericks who are happy doing their own thing and going solo. This display gives those owners a chance to show off their fast Fords that would otherwise be resigned to the general car park! And cars like these deserve to be a part of the show!

SPECIAL DISPLAY SPACES NOW SOLD OUT!

Drift Kings

Get ready to witness motorsport mastery at its finest as Britain’s top drifters make their way to Ford Fair Silverstone this year! At the renowned home of racing, you can watch these drift kings push their skills and vehicles in pursuit of greatness. They’ll be navigating through legendary corners such as Brooklands and Luffield – all whilst reaching speeds over 100mph on Wellington Straight. This is an event not just for petrolheads but anyone who appreciates awe-inspiring automotive skill – stay tuned for more news on driver lineups so that you don’t miss it!

BOOK YOUR FORD FAIR TICKETS HERE!

Experience the Thrill of Drift Taxis at Ford Fair 2024

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience at Ford Fair 2024 with the introduction of Drift Taxis! Join seasoned professionals for an exhilarating ride, fully immersing yourself in the heart-stopping world of drifting. Feel the rush as you sit in the passenger seat of a purpose-built drift machine, with tyres screeching and smoke filling the air. Britain’s top drifters, with years of experience, will navigate hairpin bends and execute perfect drifts, ensuring a thrilling yet safe experience.

To secure your spot, pre-book your Drift Taxi ride today for only £35, saving £5 on advanced bookings. With 220 slots available throughout the day, don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to be part of the action. Book now to secure your ride.

BOOK YOUR DRIFT TAXI HERE!

Street Elite

Want to take centre stage at the Ford Fair? Want to take home the prize of the Ford Fair Street Elite winner? Sponsored by detailing gurus Auto Finesse, Street Elite is a hand-picked selection of the best Blue Ovals in the country. These top Fords come together to form one of the most impressive displays at the entire event!

The hand-selected few will have the opportunity to be part of Street Elite competition live at the show. On the day, our judges – along with the experts at Auto Finesse – will pick their top three cars of the display, with the winner taking home the trophy and bragging rights.

Reckon your Ford has got what it takes?

ENTER STREET ELITE HERE!

Track Action

With the famous Silverstone National Circuit in full swing all day, now’s the chance to get out on track in your very own fast Ford!

Driving on Track

Held at the Home of British Motorsport, it’s no surprise that track action always plays a huge part at Ford Fair. Once again the track is open to the public, giving you the opportunity to take to the hallowed tarmac in your very own fast Ford and follow in the wheel tracks of some of motorsport’s greatest ever drivers.

Track time is sold in advance and often sells out, so be sure to book your track time early!

Passengers can join the fun too! All-day passenger passes are available to buy for just £10. All passengers will also need a crash helmet, so if you don’t have a spare, you’ll need to hire one. Head to the pit garages next to Race Control for more info.

BOOK TRACK TIME HERE!

Watching the Track Action

If you’re not taking to the track in your own car, then sit back and enjoy watching the adrenaline-filled action as it comes thick and fast throughout the day. As well as the public track time there will be dedicated sponsor sessions and classic-only sessions too.

The track action is always exciting at Ford Fair and is the perfect entertainment while you rest your legs after walking around the rest of the show. Pitch up in the grandstands or on the grass banking, and witness some of best Blue Ovals in the country on one of the world’s most famous race tracks.

BOOK YOUR FORD FAIR TICKETS HERE!

Classic Fords

It’s not all about latest models at Ford Fair 2024, check out the Classic Zone too. The Classic Zone is an area dedicated to the fast Fords from by-gone days. Here, you will find a host of classic Ford car clubs and all manner of retro Blue Ovals on display. Heading up the Classic Zone is the Classic Ford magazine stand, with a selection of past, present, and future features cars on display. Naturally, as magazine-featured motors these classic Fords will be among the best anywhere at the entire show.
As well as admiring some of the finest classic Fords on show, you’ll also be able to take home a latest copy of Classic Ford magazine, pick up any back issues you may have missed, or take advantage of some show-exclusive offers, including discounted magazine subscriptions.

Ford Magazines

The biggest magazines in the Ford tuning scene, Fast Ford and Classic Ford, will of course be at the heart of Ford Fair 2024.

Classic Ford Magazine

Classic Ford is a monthly magazine for proper old-school petrol heads. Packed with everything from the best modified feature cars and in-depth tech features to the latest products to hit the shelves and the best classic Ford shows and events, Classic Ford is the magazine for all retro Ford enthusiasts.

It’s not just all engine rebuilds though; readers want to get involved in the scene around their classic Fords and enjoy using and having a laugh in their cars. Classic Ford gives you all this and more in one monthly package. If you want to buy a copy of the magazine the Classic Ford stand is the place to be. In addition to single copies, you will also be able to take advantage of some of the fantastic offers exclusive to the show. Grab the latest issue or pick up a back issue of any copies you might have missed. Better still, take advantage of the show-exclusive subscription offers. Head to the mag stand for full details.

BUY THE LATEST CLASSIC FORD MAG HERE!

Fast Ford Magazine

The UK’s number one Ford tuning magazine, Fast Ford, returns to Ford Fair, and they’re bringing along some of the very best cars in the country. Found right at the heart of the show, you can’t miss the formidable Fast Ford stand. With a stunning array of hand-picked past, present, and future magazine feature cars, the Fast Ford stand always boasts some of the most impressive Blue Ovals you’ll find anywhere at the show. The display covers all corners of the fast Ford scene. Old and new, with everything from crazy-power street machines, through show-stoppers and B-road blasters, to full-on track weapons all on display in one place.

The Fast Ford stand is always buzzing with activity, with many familiar faces from the magazine floating around too. Plus, there’s a cool selection of magazines, collector’s edition bookazines, T-shirts and branded goodies available to purchase too.

BUY THE LATEST FAST FORD MAG HERE!

Retail Village

The Retail Village at Ford Fair 2024 offers Blue Oval owners the chance to bag themselves a real bargain. Inside the huge area dedicated to traders and exhibitors you’ll find everything you could ever need for your fast Ford. From performance upgrades, to styling products, to hard-to-source accessories, and even Ford-based clothing, plus loads more!

Within the Retail Village, you’ll find our Lubricant Partner, LIQUI MOLY. Renowned for their high-quality motor oils and additives, LIQUI MOLY products are engineered to enhance performance and protect your Ford’s engine. Whether you’re cruising in a classic Cortina or pushing the limits in a feisty Fiesta, LIQUI MOLY’s innovative solutions ensure optimal lubrication and reliability for every project. See them at Ford Fair 2024 and discover why LIQUI MOLY is the choice for Ford enthusiasts.

So, whether you want to track down that specific part you’ve been looking for, have a hunt for the latest bargains, book your Blue Oval in for a complete makeover, or just talk to the leading lights in the fast Ford scene for sound advice, the Retail Village is the place to head. Be sure to check it out!

BOOK YOUR FORD FAIR TICKETS HERE!

Entry Photographs

What better way to remember Ford Fair 2024 than with a cool photo of you arriving at the show? Pro snappers from Photography UK will be perched at all entrances, capturing every single car that enters the show. Therefore, your Blue Oval is guaranteed to be photographed! If you’re heading on track, you can get a photo of your fast Ford on the famous National Circuit too. Photography UK will also be capturing professional images of each and every car as they complete their flying laps. If you’re on track, Photography UK will be sure to have a photo of you!

Head to the Photography UK stand in the Retail Village. Here, you can browse all images to spot your car on arrival or on track. Photography UK’s on-site printing facilities means you can purchase a copy to take home there and then.
But don’t worry if you’re too busy enjoying the rest of the show. All images will be available to view and purchase on their website after the show at www.photography-uk.com.

BOOK YOUR FORD FAIR TICKETS HERE!

The post Ford Fair 2024 – What’s on? appeared first on Fast Car.

We’ve all been there. Happily cruising down the road enjoying the drive, only to have your dashboard light up like a Christmas tree with a dreaded Check Engine light? It’s bloody annoying. But more than that you immediately start to worry about how much this is going to cost to fix.

Only those error messages needn’t be anything to worry about. When you know how to decipher them and learn how to take appropriate action, those fault codes can, quite literally, be a lifesaver for you and/or your car. That’s why we’ve teamed up with the experts at Carly, and are diving deep into the cryptic world of car fault codes. So, let’s take a closer look and demystify the world of car fault codes.

What Are Car Fault Codes, DTC Codes, or OBD Codes?

First things first – what exactly are car fault codes, DTC codes or OBD codes? Well, for starters, they all mean the same thing. What car owners often call car fault codes are also known as diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) by manufacturers, mechanics and those in the trade. You may also hear them called OBD codes. This is because they are accessed via the OBD-II port using an OBD scanner tool.

But what are they? Simply put, car fault codes are alphanumeric codes that your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics (OBD) system generates when it detects a problem. Think of them as your car’s way of communicating when it’s not feeling 100%. These codes can help identify an issue, making it easier for you (or your mechanic) to diagnose and fix the problem.

Why Do Car Fault Codes Matter?

Understanding car fault codes can save you a ton of time, money, and hassle. Instead of blindly poking around under the bonnet or getting ripped off at the garage, you can get a clear idea of what’s going on with your car. Plus, with more complex systems on modern engines, all components need to work in perfect harmony with one another.

The guys at Carly say they frequently see instances where an owner has ignored an initial fault code, only to lead to significant damage and much more costly repair bills. A classic example is an engine suffering a slight misfire. You might think this is annoying but because the car runs you decide to put off repairing it until a more convenient time, or until it gets worse. What you don’t realise is that the excess fuel being dumped into the exhaust has now totally destroyed the catalytic converter. So, what would have been a quick and relatively cheap fix is now a repair bill running into the thousands!

As they say, “Knowledge is power”, and this is definitely true when it comes to cars. So, if you have the knowledge, make sure you use it wisely.

How Can I Check My Car’s Fault Code?

All right, let’s get to the good stuff – how do you check your car’s fault codes? Gone are the days of guessing games and unnecessary trips to the mechanic. With a nifty tool called an OBD-II scanner, you can quickly and easily read these codes yourself.

How to Use an OBD-II Scanner

An OBD-II scanner is a small device that plugs into your car’s OBD-II port (usually found under the dashboard). Once connected, it reads the fault codes stored on your car’s computer. They are incredibly quick and easy to use. Here’s what you need to do to check your car’s fault codes:

• Locate the OBD-II port: This is typically found under the dashboard or in the footwell area.
• Plug in the scanner: Connect your OBD-II scanner to the port.
• Turn on the ignition switch: Switch your car to the “ON” position, but don’t start the engine.
• Read the codes: Follow the scanner’s instructions to read the fault codes. Most scanners will display the codes on a screen, and some even provide a brief description of the issue.

Are all OBD-II Scanners the same?

Not all OBD-II Scanners are created equal. Some require the unit to be connected directly to the car, while more modern Bluetooth OBD-II Scanners use an adapter and connect to your smartphone.

Some, like Carly, can read pretty much everything on your car. This provides access levels to rival the very expensive OEM diagnostic machines that your local main dealer might have. Most cheaper versions, however, can only read the generic fault codes. Plus, the user interface can be very basic.

Budget OBD-II scanners can point you in the correct general direction of a fault. But if you want to isolate a particular problem, you will need the comprehensive database of vehicle-specific fault codes of something more sophisticated, like Carly.

Decoding Standardised Fault Codes

Each vehicle will have a complete list of unique fault codes that relate to manufacture- and even model-specific systems fitted to that car. Depending on the car in question, there can be hundreds of possible fault codes. But the good news is that list of codes isn’t as difficult to decipher as you might fear. Well, at least the standardised fault codes aren’t.

Handily, car fault codes all follow the same format. They all start with a letter (P, B, or C), followed by four numbers. And breaking those down allows us to decode the fault.

Decoding Fault Codes: The Letter

The first letter denotes what part of the car is at fault.

• P = Powertrain
• B = Body
• C = Chassis

Decoding Fault Codes: The First Number

The first of the four numbers will be either a ‘0’ or a ‘1’.

• 0 = Standardised fault codes
• 1 = Manufacturer specific codes

Decoding Fault Codes: The Second Number

The second digit denotes which of the car systems is at fault. There are eight different categories:

• 0 = Fuel and Air Metering and Auxiliary Emission Controls
• 1 = Fuel and Air Metering
• 2 = Fuel and Air Metering (injector circuit)
• 3 = Ignition systems or misfires
• 4 = Auxiliary emission controls
• 5 = Vehicle speed control & idle control systems
• 6 = Computer & output circuit
• 7 = Transmission

Decoding Fault Codes: The Third & Fourth Numbers

The third and fourth digits are simply used to define the specific problem in question.

We had the DTC code P0303 appear on a project car recently. From what we’ve just learned, we can determine the fault is a misfire on cylinder three. The ‘P’ shows it’s a powertrain problem and the first ‘0’ means it’s a standard fault code. The ‘3’ indicates an ignition system or misfire issue, and the ’03’ tells us it’s on cylinder three. Simple, really.

Pinpointing The Problem

That’s all well and good, but it doesn’t really pinpoint the fault. In our example, the P0303 trouble code could have been triggered by anything from a loose connection of an HT lead, to a dodgy electrical system, to an issue with the fuel system, or any other number of problems. All the standard fault code tells us is that we have a misfire on cylinder three. It doesn’t identify the root cause of the misfire.

That’s where more comprehensive OBD-II scanners like Carly’s can really help. We’ve got a separate feature on how a good OBD-II scanner can save you money, but when you consider our example you can see how quickly the costs of replacing spark plugs, HT leads, and coilpacks can quickly mount up before you finally fix the fault.

Instead, Carly can identify which component part is at fault. Even in situations where the symptoms may be caused by one or more faulty component parts, Carly draws on an extensive database based on previous repairs of the same vehicle to identify which is the most likely culprit. More than that, Carly’s built-in Smart Mechanic feature provides detailed repair tips written by expert mechanics, to give you the confidence to make the repair yourself without having to pay garage costs.

Preventing Future Fault Codes

Of course, prevention is better than cure, right? And Carly can help here too. Carly is a powerful diagnostic tool that not only reads fault codes but also offers detailed insights into your car’s health. It’s like having a mechanic in your pocket!

With Carly, you can perform in-depth diagnostics, reset error codes, and even customise your car’s settings. More than that, Carly also monitors ‘soft codes’ too. These are like a precursor to a full fault code that brings on the engine management light. If the ECU has detected an odd reading from a sensor, it may flag that as a soft code to keep an eye on before it gets worse. Carly accesses these too, allowing you to make any repairs before they lead to impending failure.

On top of that, Carly’s Used Car Checker is a fantastic tool to have when looking to buy your next car. Check the mileage hasn’t been tampered with. Corroborate the seller’s story about which parts have been replaced and when. Even check how it’s been driven and what kind of life a car’s had. All from the power of a little Bluetooth adapter and your smartphone! Once you try Carly, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Understanding Car Fault Codes

Car fault codes don’t have to be a mystery. With the right tools and knowledge, you can easily decode these error messages and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or just someone who wants to save a few quid on repairs, understanding car fault codes is a valuable skill. And with Carly in your pocket, it’s easier than ever.

What Else Can Carly Do?

Carly is such a versatile tool, and it offers so much more than just a car fault code reader. The Carly App is free to download for your smartphon from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store, and offers some fantatsic features. One of the best is the new Carly free car history checker that provides you with loads of info on your car’s history, for free.

In addition, the Carly Scanner can be used to look for evidence of mileage tampering, can help you avoid getting ripped off at the garage, can help you spot hidden problems, and can even be used to customise your car’s coding. All for around £80! Every car enthusiast needs one in their glovebox.

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Carly Smart Mechanic is Your Ultimate Car Companion

The post What Are Car Fault Codes, DTC codes, and OBD codes? appeared first on Fast Car.

The world’s largest privately-owned Ford performance specialist, Steeda, has just revealed their first two European-registered homologated Steeda Mustangs. And they did it in style, at the legendary Nürburgring.

Steeda’s Big Bet on European Shores

Steeda’s Europe Director Robbie Kazandjian grins from ear to ear: “I honestly believe we are offering the only V8 performance sports car that is accessible to the European audience.” And with their aim to take the Steeda Mustang to the top step of sports car performance in Europe and rival BMW M Sport and Mercedes AMG vehicles, we can say they’re placing their bets right.

Teeming with upgrades that thrill any racing purist, Steeda’s Q767 Dark Horse Mustang is all about fine-tuning perfection. Cue in the greatly improved chassis, suspension set up, and raw power from a 6-speed manual mated to a 5.0-litre V8 engine, and what you get is a fusion of rarities in the modern sports car market.

All-Around Sports Car That’s Perfect for Track or Road

Built for enthusiasts who yearn for untamed performance without the astronomical price tag, the Steeda Mustang screams ‘bring it on’ regardless of the arena. Be it hunting down straights on Europe’s racetracks or defying corners on its winding roads, the Steeda Mustang stands ready for both.

The car’s parts packages, meticulously crafted at Steeda’s factory in Valdosta, Georgia, carry a proven track record backed by seals of approval from prominent racetracks such as Sebring and Road Atlanta. Also, its advanced fine-tuning capabilities – thanks to Steeda Front camber plates – mean you can easily switch between road trips and track days with up to -3 degrees camber achievable.

The Steeda Mustang doesn’t merely look the part; it plays the part to thrilling perfection. Bundled with enhancements such as Steeda’s Dual Rate Springs and IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) package, it enables enthusiasts to taste the adrenaline-fueled world of performance motoring.

Steeda Mustang: It’s Not Just a Ford Mustang Anymore

With the unveiling of the new Q767 Dark Horse cars, Steeda has put a magical spin on the top-of-the-range Ford Mustang. It takes the already impressive Dark Horse model up a notch (or three!) to unimaginable levels of handling and performance. Built on the Mustang Dark Horse & GT platforms, Steeda’s Q767 is offered for sale across Europe, where the cars will be officially registered as ‘Steeda Mustangs’. This opens up a new world of street-legal performance for the European market. So if you’re a Mustang fan who has always wanted to exploit the performance of the American icon but couldn’t due to EU restrictions, the Steeda Mustang is your golden ticket.

The icing on the cake? The Steeda Q767 Dark Horse packages start at just £9,975 over the base vehicle, ensuring you can live the dream without burning a hole in your pocket.

There’s not much on the market today that can offer that level of performance for that price point. And the best bit It’s a proper V8 and not some battery-powered EV! For that reason alone, it gets our vote!

If you like Mustangs, be sure to head to Ford Fair at Silverstone on August 11th where we’ll be celebrating 60 years of this fast Ford icon!

The post Steeda Q767 Dark Horse Mustang appeared first on Fast Car.

If you’re a Ford fan, mark your calendar for August 11th because Ford Fair 2024 at Silverstone is an event you can’t miss. It’s the largest gathering of Ford enthusiasts in Europe, drawing thousands of fans and featuring over 4,000 cars. Whether you’re into modern or classic Blue Ovals, there’s something for everyone.

Here are 10 reasons why Ford Fair should be your top destination this summer.

10 Reasons to Visit Ford Fair #1: Unmatched Variety of Ford Cars

With over 4,000 cars on display, Ford Fair offers an incredible range of vehicles. From the latest models to classic gems, you’ll see everything from sleek Mustangs to vintage Cortinas. It’s an eclectic mix of show, street, and track cars (and everything in between!) for anyone who appreciates a fast Ford.

#2: Thrilling Track Action

Held at the legendary Silverstone Circuit, Ford Fair gives you the chance to witness and participate in some heart-pounding track action. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed laps or even get behind the wheel of your own Ford. Public track time is a major highlight, but be sure to book early as spots fill up fast!
Cke out our guides on how to prepare your car and how to get ready for your track session to get the most from your track experience.

#3: Drift Kings and Drift Taxis

Get ready for some sideways action with the Drift Kings showcasing their skills at high speeds. If that’s not enough, you can hop into a Drift Taxi for an exhilarating ride with a professional drifter. Feel the G-forces and experience the thrill of drifting from inside the car!.

10 Reasons to Visit Ford Fair #4: Club Car Displays

Ford Fair is the ultimate gathering for Ford clubs across the UK. With around 4,000 club cars on display, you’ll witness the passion and dedication of Ford enthusiasts from all over. Check out model-specific clubs, regional branches, and unique social media groups all showcasing their best.

#5: Special Displays

Even if you’re not part of a club, there’s a spot for you in the Special Display area. Here, individual owners can show off their prized Fords, from solo mavericks to members of larger multi-marque car communities. It’s a diverse and vibrant section that adds even more variety to the event.

#6: Street Elite Competition

Think your Ford has what it takes to be among the best? Enter the Street Elite competition, sponsored by Auto Finesse. This prestigious contest brings together the top Blue Ovals in the country, with the winner taking home the coveted Street Elite trophy. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in top-tier car customization.

10 Reasons to Visit Ford Fair #7: Classic Ford Zone

Step back in time in the Classic Ford Zone, where you can admire some of the finest vintage Fords. From retro Escorts to iconic Capris, this area is a nostalgic trip through Ford’s rich history. Plus, you can pick up the latest issue of Classic Ford magazine or browse through back issues for some retro inspiration.

#8: Retail Village

Need parts, accessories, or just some cool Ford gear? The Retail Village has you covered. With a wide range of traders and exhibitors, you can find everything from performance upgrades to styling products. Don’t miss our headline sponsors, Laird Performance. Ross and the Laird Performance twem will be bringing along some of their latest demo cars, inlcuding their big-power Mk8 Fiesta ST. 

Another stand to visit is the LIQUI MOLY stand for high-quality oils and additives tailored for your Ford. Here, you’ll also find the very latest and very cool Mustang GT4 race cars!

Also, make sure you check out the Auto Finesse stand with some of the very best cars you’ll find anywhere at the show, and head over to Maxton Designs to check out the latest styling upgrades available for your fast Ford too.

#9: Magazine Stands

Meet the teams behind Fast Ford and Classic Ford magazines at their stands. Check out some of the most impressive feature cars, grab the latest issues, and even snag some exclusive show deals. It’s a great place to mingle with fellow enthusiasts and industry experts.

10 Reasons to Visit Ford Fair #10: Photographic Memories

Capture the moment with professional entry photographs by Photography UK. As you arrive, your car will be snapped, and you can purchase a high-quality print to remember your day. If you’re hitting the track, get a photo of your car in action on the famous Silverstone circuit.

Book Tickets Today!

Ford Fair 2024 is more than just a car show; it’s a celebration of all things Ford. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder it’s the biggest Blue Oval event of the year. So, grab your tickets, polish your ride, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Silverstone!

BOOK YOUR FORD FAIR TICKETS HERE!

FORD FAIR FAQs

When is Ford Fair 2024?
Ford Fair 2024 is on August 11th.

Where is Ford Fair held?
The event is held at Silverstone Circuit, the Home of British Motorsport.

Can I still attend if I don’t have a club car space?
Yes! You can attend with a Passenger or Public Ticket. Just make sure to get a Public Car Parking pass if you’re driving.

How can I book a Drift Taxi ride?
Drift Taxi rides can be pre-booked for £35. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.

Is there something for classic Ford fans?
Absolutely! The Classic Ford Zone is dedicated to vintage Fords and is a must-visit for any retro enthusiast.

Get ready to embrace the thrill of Ford Fair 2024. See you at Silverstone!

The post 10 Reasons to Visit Ford Fair: The Ultimate Blue Oval Bonanza appeared first on Fast Car.

Tailoring Your Search with Parts Finder

eBay has revolutionised the way we shop for performance car parts with the introduction of their new feature, Parts Finder and eBay Assured Fit. In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key, and eBay is making it easier than ever to find the perfect parts for your vehicle. With the Parts Finder feature, all you need to do is enter your car’s registration number, and eBay will provide you with a curated selection of parts that are covered by their eBay Assured Fit guarantee.

Gone are the days of endless scrolling and guesswork. My Garage allows you to save up to 20 vehicles, making it a breeze to find parts for your entire fleet! Whether you need that replacement part for the daily driver, or are looking to take your project to the next level with the latest performance upgrade, eBay has got you covered. This time-saving feature takes the hassle out of searching for the right part and ensures that you get exactly what you need.

You’re in Control

But many of our modified cars feature upgrades or other components from different models. What if you’ve swapped engines from a more powerful model? Or fitted bigger brakes from a different brand?

Fear not. eBay understands that sometimes you may be looking for something specific. That’s why they also give you the option to search by keyword or brand. With eBay, you have the flexibility to find precisely what you’re looking for, no matter the circumstances.

Peace of Mind with eBay Assured Fit

One of the biggest concerns when shopping for car parts online is whether or not the part will actually fit your vehicle. Previous experience of reading an ad that says a part’s designed for your car, only to find out it’s nothing like the part you actually need, can put people off buying car parts online.

eBay recognises this and has introduced eBay Assured Fit to put your mind at ease. When browsing for parts, simply look for the green checkmark next to an eligible part or accessory.

This green checkmark is the symbol of eBay Assured Fit and shows that the product is the right fit for your vehicle, based on the information you have entered. As a reassurance, eBay offers a money-back guarantee. If the part or accessory does not fit your vehicle, you can return it for free within 30 days of receiving it and receive a full refund. This means you can shop with confidence, knowing that you won’t be stuck with a part that you can’t use.

With eBay, finding the perfect parts for your vehicle has never been simpler. So, head over to eBay to find the right part, at the right price.

The post Find your Perfect Performance Upgrade with eBay appeared first on Fast Car.

With Ford Fair selling out club tickets well ahead of the club deadline, Ford clubs acted fast to secure their spot at the UK’s biggest and best Ford show. The Mk4/4.5 Focus ST Owners Group were one such proactive club, with 120 cars booked to be on display at the event in 2024. To find out more about this impressive bunch of Blue Oval brothers (and sisters!) we spoke to club founder Louise Rowlands to get the lowdown…

VITAL INFO

Name: Mk4/4.5 Focus ST Owners Group

Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/522413018593725

Instagram: @Mk4FocusSTOwners

Email: Mk4STOwners@gmail.com

Models covered: Focus ST Petrol and Diesel Mk4 & 4.5

Cost to join: Free

When was the club first founded, and why?

We formed this group back in October 2019 after a club I had joined folded due to the club founder cancelling his order. I wanted to be part of a group specifically for the latest Focus ST and there were not many out there. With the support of my husband Derek and some fellow owners, the group was created. Then the hard work began. I can’t thank my team (Derek, Angela, Lee, and Jamie) enough for their continued support with running the group.

How many active members does the club currently have?

Currently we have around 1500 members, based all over the world. We currently have members from the UK, Europe, Taiwan and Australia.  The group is continuing to grow steadily, and is exclusively for owners – from the start, we asked what members wanted and the response was that they wanted a group purely for owners of the Mk4, so that they could share their experiences with fellow owners.

We have over 1400 followers on Instagram and offer those followers that are not in the Facebook group the opportunity to join us at shows and events.

Which models does the club cater for?

Mk4 and Mk4.5 Focus ST only (both petrol and diesel), but it doesn’t matter if it’s standard or heavily modified, all are welcome.

What does the club offer to new members?

All members are welcomed into the group by one of the admin team and are asked to do an introductory post about themselves. They are pointed in the direction of our discounts, and we have regular events from major shows to smaller local events to be part of. They get the amazing knowledge of all our members, including the admin and group experts, and good old merchandise for representing the group too.

Can you describe a typical club member?

Approachable, helpful and friendly with a wicked sense of humour. Goes the extra mile to help everyone no matter where they are.

What shows and events does the club usually attend?

Our show programme is usually packed with around 10 shows per year, including Ford Fair. Our Events manager always delivers a fun packed season that’s for sure!

What’s the best thing about being a member of the club?

If I may use quotes from some of our members: “A friendly community who are respectful to each other.”
“You have got this group right, it’s like belonging to a massive family.”
“This group has kept me going through some difficult times.”
“A place where I feel safe, and no-one disrespects each other.”
“The best bunch of crazy people with awesome cars.”
“Everyone is willing to help each other out, whether on a post, DM or a Face Time.”
“I used to have money until I joined this group! All the members are bad influences when it comes to trying to keep a car standard!”

Where do you see the club in five years’ time?

Larger than a lot of similar clubs out there. A group that everyone wants to join not just because of their love of the car they own but because we put our heart and soul into everything we do. We are not just any car group – we are a family.

The post Club Spotlight: Mk4/4.5 Focus ST Owners Group appeared first on Fast Car.

If you want to know more about FN2 Honda Civic Type R tuning, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ll look at which parts need upgrading and which don’t. The aim is to give you a better idea of where you should spend your money, and what your next upgrade should be.

It’s worth noting, the third Type R is quite similar under the skin to the earlier EP3 model despite the radically different styles.

The Honda Civic Type R has long been the go-to hot hatch for keen drivers. It offers an intoxicating blend of rev-hungry, naturally-aspirated VTEC power mixed with a fantastically playful chassis. The FN2 is a perfect example of this, but like all mainstream production cars it does have its restrictions.

Thankfully, there’s an enormous tuning scene and an army of specialists to support Civic Type R FN2 tuning. Whether that’s sticking to the FN2’s naturally aspirated roots and crafting a throttle-bodied, 9000rpm-screaming track weapon, or adding some boost to create a brutish forced-induction fast-road monster ready to go supercar-hunting, the FN2 Type R can do it and can do it well.

Here’s what you should be looking to upgrade when tuning your Civic Type R FN2.

Civic Type R FN2 Engine Tuning

The FN2 Type R’s 2.0-litre K20 engine kicks out a credible 198bhp and revs right round to 7,800rpm without fuss. Those are impressive numbers for any hot hatch of the time but are particularly striking for a natural-aspirated 2.0-litre; the Ford Focus ST of the same era only produces 24bhp more from its 2.5-litre, turbocharged, five-cylinder engine!

But therein lies the FN2’s biggest problem when it comes to performance tuning; it’s already so well optimised from the factory that you won’t see the same huge gains other cars enjoy from simple bolt-on mods. That said, there is still a lot more to come from the K20 if your tickle it in the right places.

There are two distinct routes to tuning the FN2’s motor: stick to naturally aspirated tuning or do what Honda was eventually forced to do with the later FK2 Civic Type R and add some boost.

Remapping

Die-hard fans prefer to stick with naturally aspirated tuning to retain the FN2’s rev-hungry character – it is the last of the screaming VTEC breed after all. Therefore, Civic Type R FN2 tuning typically begins with a remap for around £500 – which, unlike the previous EP3 Type R, is installed via the OBD2 port on the FN2, making Type R tuning much easier.

Don’t expect massive peak power gains though; an extra 15bhp or so is all you’ll get from an otherwise stock FN2. But that’s not the point at this stage; the main benefits of the remap are more mid-range torque and a lower VTEC crossover point, getting you onto the more aggressive cam profile sooner for added urgency.

Performance Exhaust

To make the most of the remap, performance hardware is needed. The main restrictions here, as ever, are inlet and exhaust systems.

Naturally aspirated engines are particularly sensitive to exhaust tuning, and a cat-back system on its own does little more than improve the soundtrack on an FN2. Instead, for any meaningful gains you’ll be looking at a performance 4-2-1 exhaust manifold from the likes of Tegiwa, Japspeed, or Toda Racing.

Prices range from around £350 for the Japspeed item, to over £1500 for the Toda Racing kit . Add a sports cat (or de-cat for track cars where road legality isn’t an issue) and a cat-back system to complete the package. Japspeed and Cobra Sport offer 2.5in (63mm) systems for the FN2 – the former costing around £550, and the latter £850 – but many tuners prefer the larger 3in (70mm) bore of the Tegiwa cat-back exhaust, which is available for less than £500.

Intake Tuning

Next up you’ll need to look at getting air into the motor fast enough to match. Replacing the stock airbox with an induction kit is your next move, and there are plenty of options to suit your budget. An Injen cold air intake kit will set you back £350, but you can spend as much as £1000 on the Mugen kit. The Tegiwa carbon airbox (£450) is a popular choice, as is the HKS kit (£530).

With the basic principles of induction, exhaust, and remap covered, you can expect to see around 220-225bhp from the FN2. The next levels include adding a performance inlet for around £500 (taking power to approximately 230bhp), and finally adding a set of performance camshafts (£620) will give you enough to reach 240bhp.

Further NA Upgrades

And 240bhp is the sweet spot when it comes to Civic Type R FN2 tuning; it’s visceral, lively, and aggressive, and retains that naturally aspirated high-revving character – over 9,000rpm is possible, but you’ll want to add a modified oil pump to prevent oil cavitation at those speeds.

Further tuning will see the use of a larger throttle body, or a set of individual throttle bodies, and when coupled with a K24 2.4-litre bottom end to create what is affectionately known as a Frankenstein engine (stuffed full of appropriate high-compression pistons, beefy con-rods, and so on) we’ve seen over 300bhp achieved from a naturally aspirated Civic Type R. But it does start to get very expensive, and there are other, much easier ways to unleash that sort of power from the Civic Type R FN2… By adding boost.

Civic Type R FN2 Forced Induction Tuning

One of the easiest ways to get big power from Civic Type R FN2 tuning is to add a supercharger kit .The K20 responds well to a bit of added boost; the extra low-down grunt works in harmony with the VTEC’s top end. Kits like those from TTS Performance use the Rotrex range of centrifugal superchargers, with kits starting at around £3600 for parts-only. For that you’d be looking at the entry-level, non-intercooled kit with a C30-94 blower running around 7psi of boost – but that’s still man enough to add around 100bhp at the wheels.

Upgrading to TTS’s Supersport kit sees a front-mount intercooler and suitable radiator upgraded added, alongside a high-flow Walbro fuel pump and 4-bar MAP sensor, but retains the C30-94 unit, now producing over 12psi of boost. That’s enough for 350bhp at the wheels – and you can push 400bhp with some clever use of water/methanol injection too.

Amazingly, there are bigger blowers available too; TTS offers kits with C38 superchargers that will take the power all the way to 600bhp, but you’ll need a fully forged build if you want to run more than around 14psi of boost.

Of course, superchargers aren’t the only way to add boost; we’ve seen epic 700bhp-plus results from a turbocharged Civic Type R FN2, but these are custom one-off builds with price tags to match. It just goes to show that anything is possible if you really want it, though.

For more advice on engine tuning, be sure to check out our guide on how to tune the K20 engine.

Civic Type R FN2 Transmission Tuning

Clutch

The stock FN2 Type R transmission will cope with most things thrown at it. The stock clutch won’t.

For anything more than mild mods, you need an upgraded clutch. A typical stage 2 kit costing under £500 will handle as much torque as you’re ever likely to see from naturally aspirated Civic Type R FN2 tuning, but supercharged and turbocharged cars might need to look to for something with added bite.

The good news is it’s all available. Some tuners also recommend swapping to a lightweight 3.2kg chromoly flywheel at the same time; it only costs around £240 and perfectly fits the K20’s rev-happy nature.

Driveshafts

One area you might need to look at, and almost certainly will for big-power boost applications, is the stock driveshafts. For mild increases they’re fine, but an enthusiastically driven Type Rs, even in NA tune, will chew through them. Upgrades for sub-250bhp cars are available for around £120 per side, but a pair of units capable of up to 500bhp will set you back around £600.

Gear Sets

K20 tuning is popular in the United States and given their love for drag racing and insane amounts of horsepower, some US tuners have even developed uprated gear sets for the stock transmission.

PPG offers a four-speed dog-engagement gearset that is rated to 1000bhp but losing the top two gears isn’t ideal for anything outside of a dedicated drag car.

A better bet would be a set of uprated helical gears from MFactory; at $2500 they’re reasonably priced and have been proven to work in 350-to-400bhp race cars. For the ultimate, money-no-object transmission upgrade, Quaife’s QKE8J five-speed sequential gearbox will make your FN2 Civic Type R feel like a touring car when shifting gears.

Differentials

Almost unbelievably for a car of this nature, Honda fitted the FN2 Type R with a conventional open differential from the factory. One of the best ways to improve the overall driving experience, especially on a tuned FN2 Civic Type R, is to swap that for a limited-slip type differential.

Which type you choose will depend on your driving style and what you use the car for, but most owners prefer the torque-biasing types such as Quaife’s ATB, or the MFactory helical LSD. Prices range from around £600 to £750, plus fitting, but are a worthy upgrade and make a lot of sense when the gearbox is out for a clutch replacement/upgrade; adding one will transform the way your FN2 Type R handles.

Civic Type R FN2 Suspension Tuning

It was never intended to be a comfy motorway cruiser, so when it comes to chassis tuning the Civic Type R FN2 you might as well go for it and create a proper little buzzy B-road blaster. If you bought one as a comfy commuter, you bought the wrong car. But if you want to leave the supercar exotica for dead when the road gets twisty, here’s how.

Springs & Dampers

The first step is, as always, a set of lowering springs. These are cheap (sub-£200) and simultaneously improve both ride and handling and the overall aesthetics too. But for the most noticeable improvement, a set of adjustable coilovers will bring your FN2 Civic Type R to life. Tein, MeisterR, and BC Racing upgrades are all available for around £1000, and all do a good job of firming up the suspension for fast road and track use but without compromising quality or day-to-day useability. Just be weary of coilover kits that seem too cheap to be true; remember the adage ‘you get what you pay for’.

Anti-Roll Bars

Working in conjunction with a set of coilovers, uprated anti-roll bars will help tune the FN2 Civic Type R to give even more grip. Many performance upgrades feature multiple settings to make the bar stiffer or softer, so you can play around and find the perfect setup for you.

Bushes

One more area of the suspension worth looking at is the bushes. Most of the stock rubber bushes will be worn out by now, so replacing them with a firmer polyurethane upgrade makes a lot of sense; not only do you get a genuine performance benefit of the stiffer bush and less unwanted flex in the suspension system, but they’ll never need replacing again in the future.

A full bush kit will cost around £350, but individual areas can be upgraded at a time, with prices ranging from £60 for front wishbone bushes to £140 for rear beam bushes.

Geometry

Like all hot hatches, getting the suspension geometry correct is key to fantastic handling. Perhaps one of the best upgrades when it comes to Civic Type R FN2 tuning is to dial-in some fast-road settings.

Again, this is all personal preference, but a starting with around 1-deg of negative camber both front and rear, with 1mm toe-in at the front and 2mm toe-out at the rear is a good base to build from. A set of camber bolts from Eibach (£20) will allow you to dial in the front, while at the rear you’ll need to add their camber shim plates (£17) to get the required settings.

Civic Type R FN2 Brake Tuning

The FN2’s brakes are the same as those found on the earlier EP3 version; they work well biting down on the factory 300mm discs, and even look presentable with the raised ‘Type R’ lettering cast into the caliper. Therefore, the first upgrade for most owners is a simple case of fitting some performance pads and discs from the likes of EBC.

But for those who use their Type R on track, or just want some more pose factor for the show ground, binning the single-piston sliders in favour of some big sexy six-pots is the way to go. Dynodaze has seen good results with the YellowSpeed big brake kit, comprising a 330mm disc and six-pot caliper, available for around £1500.

Other options from K-Sport, CompBrake, and Tarox are also available, depending on your budget and requirements.

Performance Wheels & Tyres

The stock wheels and tyres are heavy – weighing 22kg each – and there are plenty of aftermarket wheels to choose from. So, ditching the originals in place of some lightweight performance alloys will not only allow you to improve the looks of your FN2 Civic Type R, but you’ll also gain a genuine performance edge too.

The stock rims are 7.5in wide with an ET55 offset for both 18in and 19in versions but increasing width to 8.0in means you can get a fatter tyre to help put all that power to the tarmac. The stock ET55 does mean the wheels tuck in the arches a tad too much; ET40 fills the arches much better and still avoids clearance issues, even on an 8.0in rim.

As for tyres, fit the best you can afford. Fit budget-spec ditch-finders at your peril.

Check out our best Honda Civic Type R wheels guide for some FN2 wheel inspiration. 

Interior Upgrades For Civic Type R FN2

The FN2 comes well spec’d as standard. It does everything you want it to, so any upgrades in here will be purely personal choice; dress it all up in sexy carbon fibre, add some luxurious diamond-stitched retrim upholstery, and give everything a warm bathing glow of aftermarket lighting upgrades? Or just rip it all out in the name of saving weight before bolting in a roll cage and pair of bucket seats?

The choice is yours. Just don’t fit a big stereo – nobody wants to listen to your The Corrs Greatest Hits album over a screaming K20!

Civic Type R FN2 Styling Modifications

The eighth-generation Civic is one of the most recognisable cars ever designed; the angular styling does a good job of getting noticed on all its own, without the need for huge body kits and other add-ons. But, of course, if you do want to personalise your FN2 Type R then upgrades like a Delta Styling rear wing and Mugen-inspired splitters, rear valance, fog vents, and grilles add some extra aggression without being too OTT.

Love modified cars? Then why not get yourself down to Silverstone this September 1st for the biggest celebration of modified cars, it’s Trax 2024!

The post Civic Type R FN2 Tuning Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

Historically, a proper car check via typical ‘VIN checkers’ could see you forking out up to £30 per search. And when you’re as picky about your next potential ride as we are, we seldom buy the first car we see. Typically, a modified car fan will view multiple examples before finally committing to a purchase. And if you do a history check for each one, those car bills can quickly mount up.

Not any more. Thanks to Carly and its new Free Car History Checker service. Now, you can simply download the Carly App to your smartphone and check as many cars as you like, all totally free of charge.

What Info Does Carly’s Free Car History Checker Provide?

With Carly’s tool, all it takes is a vehicle registration number to unlock a treasure trove of data. Here’s what you can expect:

• Vehicle Images: See the life journey of the car through collected visuals from various sources.
• Theft Status: Insights from both UK and international stolen vehicle databases.
• Finance Status: Know if there’s any unresolved financial burden on the car.
• Written-off Information: Find out if an insurance claim branded the car beyond repair.
• Mileage History: Cross-verify logged mileages and spot any mileage tampering.
• MOT History: Detailed records of each MOT check, including pass/fail statuses.
• Damage Reports: Comprehensive details about prior damages.
• Salvage Auctions: Uncover hidden damage not flagged by insurance companies.
• Ownership History: Track how many hands the vehicle has passed through.
• Tax Status: Current taxation information.
• Definitive Vehicle Information: From fuel consumption to engine specs and performance metrics.

Knowlegde is Power

Carly’s Free Car History Checker isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer for both buyers and sellers in the used car market. For buyers, it is like having an detective in your pocket. One that can sift through all the records to give you a detailed picture of the car’s past. This information is allows buyers to make well-informed decisions, and arms you with negotiating power. Sellers, on the other hand, can build trust with buyers. Being transparent about a car’s history paves the way for smooth, honest transactions.

How to Access the Free Car History Checker

The Free Car History Check is accessible to all new and existing Carly users via their app (available in both free and premium versions). Grab your phone and download the Carly app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Trust in Carly

In an era where transparency can be hard to come by, Carly is setting new standards with its Free Car History Checker. By providing unmatched insights, Carly empowers every car enthusiast and prospective buyer to avoid headaches or potential pitfalls and make informed choices effortlessly. So next time you’re eying that potential new car, remember – Carly’s got your back.

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The post Unlock Hidden Car Secrets with Carly’s Free Car History Checker! appeared first on Fast Car.

When it comes to preserving your car’s paintwork, there are plenty of options to choose from. But which products really offer the best paint protection for your money? While there are many loads of various sealants and coatings available, there are two heavyweights that stand out from all the rest when it comes to paint protection. They are, of course, modern ceramic coatings from specialists like Gtechniq and traditional waxes such as carnauba wax.

To see which is really the best, we’ve put them head-to-head in our Ceramic Coating vs Traditional Wax test. We prepped the bonnet from our old Honda Civic Type R project car and coated one half in Gtechniq’s Crystal Serum Light and the other half in a traditional carnauba wax we bought from a Facebook ad. To make it a fair test, we only used Crystal Serum Light on its own. Gtechniq would normally recommend using the ceramic coating in conjunction with their EXOv5 hydrophobic coating for added gloss and better water and dirt repellency. But for our test, we wanted to see how the ceramic coating stands up on its own.

We then put the bonnet through a series of washes. To replicate how you would wash your car at home, we used typical car cleaning products you’ve probably got already. We used a bucket with a grit guard, a Gtechniq Wash Mitt, and some pH-neutral GWash Car Shampoo!

After each wash cycle, we rinsed the bonnet and checked the levels of water and dirt repellency offered by each side. The results are very conclusive! Check out the video to see for yourself!

The post Ceramic Coating vs. Traditional Wax – Which is Best? appeared first on Fast Car.

Unleashing 830 Horsepower on UK Roads

The 2024 Shelby Super Snake Mustang is a true powerhouse, boasting an astonishing 830 horsepower from its supercharged V8 engine. This makes it the highest-performing Shelby Super Snake ever created! And it delivers an exhilarating driving experience that will leave you breathless.

Proper Upgrades for Proper Power!

The Shelby Super Snake Mustang goes beyond raw power with comprehensive upgrades to every aspect of its performance. From an uprated suspension and improved cooling system to larger brakes and high-flow exhaust, every detail is fine-tuned to deliver a technically sophisticated and highly-capable performance machine.

Aggressive Design

Featuring an aggressive and aerodynamic design, the Shelby Super Snake Mustang demands attention wherever it goes. Lightweight materials like aluminium and carbon fibre not only enhance its handling but also contribute to its striking appearance. Look out for the carbon fibre rear wing, which adds not only style but also improves the car’s agility on the road.

Behind the Wheel

Having driven an earlier Clive Sutton Mustang – the CS800 – we can vouch for the incredible driving experience these supercharged ‘Stangs provide. Clive Sutton, the man behind the company, has expressed his excitement about bringing this powerful and desirable Mustang to UK shores. He stated, “We have a long history of bringing UK enthusiasts the most powerful and desirable Mustangs.” And with a three-year warranty and full vehicle manufacturer-style turnkey experience, buyers can rest assured that they’re getting a top-quality product from a trusted source.

Reserve Your Spot Today

Starting from £220,000 on-the-road, the Shelby Super Snake Mustang is available in limited build slots. With only 250 of these exceptional vehicles up for grabs, you’ll want to secure your spot quickly. Visit the Clive Sutton website or call their London-based team to reserve your new Shelby Super Snake Mustang today.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the thrill and power of the new Shelby Super Snake Mustang. Act fast and reserve your spot today for an unforgettable driving experience that pushes the boundaries of performance.

Like Fast Fords?

And if you’re a Ford enthusiast, make sure to check out our upcoming Ford events:

• Ford Fair at Silverstone on August 11

BOOK YOUR FORD FAIR TICKETS HERE!

• TRAX at Silverstone on September 1

BOOK YOUR TRAX TICKETS HERE!

• Ford Fest at Mallory Park on September 22

BOOK YOUR FORD FEST TICKETS HERE!

At Ford Fair, we’ll have a display of over 100 Mustangs, including the latest GT4 race cars from Academy Motorsport. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!

The post New Shelby Super Snake Mustang Now Available in the UK! appeared first on Fast Car.

If there’s one car that epitomises the modern fast Ford tuning scene, it’s a bright orange Ford Focus ST Mk2. When it arrived in 2005, the ST225 (as it soon became dubbed thanks to its 225PS/222bhp turbocharged engine) brought some much-needed performance credentials to the second-generation Focus. Its playfulness, endless grunt, and the sheer fun factor of driving one secured its immediate hit status.

It wasn’t just a hit with buyers either, but with the modifying scene too, which soon realized that the Volvo-sourced five-cylinder could dish out much more than factory 222bhp. That coincided with the arrival of OBD-port tuning, allowing owners to remap the car from the comfort of their own driveway, and on the Ford Focus ST Mk2 it yielded particularly impressive results of 40-to-50bhp gains.

This was coupled with the fact that many tuners had already seen great success with the same engine in fast Volvos, and it didn’t take long before UK companies seized on the information available and were able to offer significant power upgrades, almost overnight. Something of a performance tuning arms race began at once; tuners and specialists all had STs on their fleets of demo cars, and new performance tuning products came to the market seemingly every week.

Growth in tuning potential

At first, simple bolt-on mods gave the factory power a boost to around 300bhp, but it wasn’t long before full builds and bigger turbos were emerging.

Then, Ford Focus ST Mk2 tuning took another leap forward in 2009 when the RS model arrived. Based on the same second-generation Focus platform as the ST, the RS offered factory-fit upgrades that delivered over 300bhp, with the potential for more. So much more.

Today, tuners and owners are continuing to develop performance upgrades, and there’s an abundance of interior and exterior styling options to make your ST truly unique.

There’s a reason the Focus ST225 is still so popular in the fast Ford scene; little else offers anywhere near the driver satisfaction and immense tuning potential. And, with prices at an all-time low, now is the time to buy, tune, and, most importantly, enjoy one of the greatest fast Fords ever built.

Here’s our modifying tips on how to make your Mk2 Focus ST faster.

Ford Focus ST Mk2 Engine Tuning

The growling turbocharged five-pot found in the Mk2 ST has become the signature soundtrack for a generation of fast Fords. While the same basic layout has been proven to produce very big numbers (over 1000bhp has been achieved on numerous occasions), the stock ST engine does need some TLC to get the best out of it.

Engine Strengthening

If you’re planning on any future performance engine tuning, or just to drive your ST with some spirit, then one of the first modifications you should be looking at is the fabled block mod. The aluminum block has steel liners, which have been well documented for cracking or splitting – even at factory levels of tune. The cure for a cracked liner is a new block (and you might as well go for an RS block if that happens), but if yours is in good health the much talked-about block mod is a great preventative measure.

It was all top-secret stuff at the time, but the block mod is effectively nothing more than a series of precise shims inserted in between the cylinders to prevent any unwanted movement causing the liners to crack. There are plenty of tuners offering the block mod, so it’s something that should be high on your list of priorities if you plan any further tuning, or purely for peace of mind.

ECU Remap & Supporting Mods

That said, generally speaking the first stages of tune should be okay on a stock block. A first-level software upgrade will take power to around 260bhp, and thanks to the ST’s OBD port you can upload a remap from the comfort of your own driveway.

Add some hardware upgrades to improve the breathing restrictions of the standard car (air filter, intercooler, exhaust) and 300bhp is easily within reach. You’ll want an uprated breather (the stock breather is prone to problems anyway) and will also need to relocate the ECU if you’re fitting an induction kit.

Beyond this, you really need the aforementioned block mod, or you’re asking for trouble.

Focus RS Parts

Now you’re knocking on the door of RS power levels, and the next step up involves robbing big brother of some of its components – a cost-effective way of upgrading if you can find an RS owner who has just upgraded themselves and has second-hand RS components for sale.

A set of bigger RS injectors and a stronger actuator on the turbo will yield around 340bhp, which is getting close to the limits of the stock ST rods and pistons. RS internals will safely see you into the 400s, and you’ll need the RS’s BorgWarner turbo to get you there too.

Most people consider around 420bhp as the limit for OE RS stuff, after which point you’ll end up on the same upgrade path as for the legit RS models. This includes fully forged rods and pistons, lairy cams, bigger valves, ported cylinder head, larger injectors and an even bigger turbo – all of which will see you well into the 500bhp range.

Engine Management/ECU

But it doesn’t stop there these days. One of the biggest leaps forward in ST tuning was the introduction of plug-and-play engine management systems. These allow tuners to remove the potentially troublesome MAF sensor and replace it with a MAP sensor instead, which is better suited to high-boost, big-power engines.

Modern aftermarket ECUs also allow tuners to take full advantage of tricks such as flex-fuel (various different ethanol/methanol fuel blends), clever torque limiting strategies (that means big-power 700-to-1000bhp cars can still put the power down effectively), and all manner of modern electronic trickery that helps the engine produce power reliably and controllably. It really is a case of how far do you want to go?

Transmission upgrades

The Ford Focus ST Mk2 came with the ultra-tough Getrag M66 six-speed gearbox; it’s the same unit shared with the RS and we all know how much power they can take without fuss. Therefore, providing it’s all in good health, there’s not much you need to concern yourself with for most applications.

Clutch & Flywheel

You will, though, need to look at clutch upgrades for anything other than a first-stage remap. Thankfully the RS’s clutch and flywheel assembly is a direct, factory upgrade and is more than enough for most road-going STs, capable of holding 400-to-450bhp without too many dramas.

But genuine RS parts aren’t cheap, and for similar money you could also get various upgrades, ranging from beefier organic clutches, through to various paddle clutch designs, or even twin-plate setups. Speak to your tuner to discuss which is the best option for your intended use.

The original rubber lower torque mount will be perished and split by now, so a stiffer polyurethane upgrade is a no-brainer. Many ST owners also like to fit a short-shift kit, with a current trend towards fitting entire shifter towers from the likes of CAE, which also have a visual impact on the interior as well as a positive shifter action.

Limited Slip Differentials

One thing the ST’s M66 does lack is the factory-fitted Quaife ATB (£808) found in the RS, so a proper limited-slip diff upgrade is a worthwhile investment – especially for big-power cars or those driven hard regularly on track.

Of course, the Quaife offers an OEM-style upgrade, but there are plenty of fit-and-forget solutions such as similar torque-biasing solutions from Wavetrac (£1392), Blackline and M Factory. These are ideal for most fast-road and occasional track day cars, but if you’re looking from something a bit more track-focused then a plated-type diff from Gripper or 3J Driveline might be up your street. Plated diffs are generally considered a bit harsh for regular road use, but are well suited to hard track abuse.

Speaking of which, if you want the ultimate in ST transmissions then look at the Quaife QKE45Z sequential gearbox. It’s not cheap (prices start at £5750, but rapidly increase when you add extras such as super-finished gears, gear indicator displays, and oil breathers) but it is a direct replacement for the M66 and will transform the way you drive the car, regardless of the power it has.

Ford Focus ST Mk2 Suspension Tuning

The first thing you need to ask yourself when it comes to suspension, is ‘what do I want from the car?’, as your answer will influence your choices.

Is it all about the lows at shows? Then a custom air-ride kit is probably the way to go to achieve a show-stopping stance but still remain useable on the road.

Lowering Springs & Dampers

For most, though, the first step to improving the ST’s suspension is a basic set of lowering springs, which you can source for less than a couple of hundred quid – even for top-quality parts.

Even better is to couple the lowering springs with a set of matched dampers. Something like Bilstein’s B12 kit £704) is perfect for a road-going ST, improving handling, roadholding and ride height all without sacrificing ride comfort for daily use – it’s a factory-quality, fit-and-forget upgrade.

Coilovers

Of course, you might not want to forget, and if you like the odd track day or two you might want the ability to tinker with the settings to find the perfect balance to suit your car and driving style.

In that case, a set of coilovers is probably the answer. Coilovers range from budget options at about $/£500 right through to race-spec three-way adjustable units at over £5000. Most ST owners won’t be looking at either extreme; instead, quality kits like KW’s Variant 3s (£2152) and Bilstein’s B16 (£1550) will give the perfect mix of on-track performance but without rendering the car unbearable for regular road use, to hit that sweet-spot between road and track. Going much lower than a 25mm drop should be accompanied by adjustable top mounts to dial out excessive negative camber.

Peripheral Suspension/Chassis Mods

The Ford Focus ST Mk2 also responds well to a set of uprated anti-roll bars. Many are adjustable with different mounting points for drop-links altering the effective stiffness of the bar; start at the softest setting and work up from there.

Finally, a full set of poly bushes for the ST will cost around £600, and make a notable improvement on road and track cars alike. The beauty with these is that you can do them one pair at a time when funds allow, and they also replace worn-out rubber bushes with something that gives genuine performance benefits and will never wear out again, It’s a no-brainer when your standard bushes inevitably fall apart.

The ST tends to suffer badly on the front wishbones, which take massive stress during gearchanges. The stock bushes are oil-filled and prone to splitting from as low as 12,000 miles, so even if the rest of your ST is completely standard, you should still look to fit a set of polyurethane bushes in the front wishbones.

Ford Focus ST Mk2 Brake Tuning

The ST has 320mm discs at the front as standard, which are pretty big for a road car. A decent set of pads is the first step at around $/£150-250, and when coupled to performance discs, decent fluid and braided lines, provide enough stopping power for most road-going STs.

Of course, for track cars and those looking for the pose-factor, there are plenty of big brake kits available from the likes of AP Racing, PB Brakes, Tarox and K-Sport; Collins Performance even offers a kit using the Brembos from the Mk3 Focus RS as a cheaper alternative.

Prices range from about £1200-£3000 depending on exact spec.

Wheels & Tires

The stock ST alloys are heavy, and people have fitted them to everything from Mondeos to Transit Connects. Ditch them in favor of some lightweight motorsport rims for a reduction in unsprung weight, better brake cooling, and better style too.

Stock sizes are 8x18in with a high offset of ET52.5, but there’s room to reduce this to around ET40. Even an increase to 8.5in width will fit with an ET40-42 offset without causing any issues. Of course, if you’ve fitted one of the wide-arch kits available for the ST, you can go even wider and more aggressive on the offset.

As for tires, fit cheap and nasty rubber at your peril. Why undo all that hard work with chassis and performance tuning by fitting a cheap set of boots? Stick on some quality treads from a reputable brand and enjoy your ST’s full potential.

Interior Modifications

The ST came with cloth or leather Recaros depending on spec, and while there’s nothing wrong with them at all, they simply aren’t as nice as the Sportster CS shell seats found in the later RS. You can make these fit an ST with relative ease, and they improve the look and feel of the cabin no end – plus offer a more supportive driving position for any track or spirited fast-road driving.

Some owners like to remove the rear seats, and often add a roll cage (either a real one or a cage just for show) for that clubsport vibe.

Exterior

The ST looks good in standard trim (many owners like to keep things just as the factory intended), but subtle additions like splitters, lowline kits, bonnet vents and spoiler extensions give a stealthy hint of aggression while in keeping with the OEM-plus vibe.

But go to any Ford show during the summer and you’ll notice that the ST is merely a blank canvass for you to express your personality, and you can go as crazy as you like; wide arch kits and WRC-inspired wings and bumpers are all readily available to give the Focus an adrenaline shot, while many owners tend to top these off with custom wraps to really stand out from the crowd.

Photos: Ade Brannan.

Get your Mk2 Focus ST tuned and ready to display at our premier Ford Fair and FordFest events! Want to test its new limits? There are track time session available at both Silverstone (Ford Fair) and Mallory Park (FordFest). Secure your ticket today! 

The post Ford Focus ST Mk2 (ST225) Tuning Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

Ford has a long and illustrious legacy of creating hot hatches. From the earliest turbocharged pioneers like the Escort RS Turbo through to the modern-day performance icons such as the Focus RS with its famous ‘Drift’ button, fast Fords have continuously pushed the boundaries and set new standards in the world of hot hatchbacks.

The Ford community is blessed with incredible show scene too. Major events throughout the summer such as Ford Fair the RSOC National Day give owners plenty of opportunities to show off their fast Fords to fellow enthusiasts. This year also sees the return of Ford Fest – the end-of-season celebration of all things Blue Oval. New for 2024, Ford Fest moves to Mallory Park, where the picturesque venue combines a relaxed atmosphere on the showground alongside the fast and furious action on track.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FORD FAIR HERE! SEE WHAT’S 0N AT FORD FEST HERE!

One of the most anticipated spectacles at Ford Fest 2024 is the Hot Hatch display. And that got us thinking, what are the greatest Ford hot hatches?

Well, here’s our Top 10 Ford Hot Hatches. See if you agree…

S1 Escort RS Turbo

The Ford Escort RS Turbo Series One, introduced in 1984, quickly became an icon among hot hatch enthusiasts. This pocket rocket was Ford’s response to the growing demand for small, powerful cars that delivered thrilling performance. It was oh-so Eighties in design, with its distinctively aggressive styling, flared wheel arches, and Diamond White-only finish. The Escort RS Turbo was an instant standout, but its looks were just the tip of the iceberg. It was another Eighties phenomenon that really grabbed your attention – the addition of a turbocharger!

The motorsport-spec turbo gave the 1.6-litre CVH engine an impressive 132 horsepower. Paired with a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission, this hot hatch could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just under 8 seconds—a remarkable feat for its time. The turbo gave the Escort exhilarating acceleration while race-bred underpinnings maintained a nimble and responsive driving experience.

What sets the Escort RS Turbo Series One apart and solidifies its place on our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches is not only its performance but also its iconic status within automotive history. It symbolizes a pivotal era in the evolution of hot hatches, showcasing Ford’s dedication to blending performance with practicality. With its dynamic design and impressive power output, the Escort RS Turbo Series One remains one of Ford’s most celebrated hot hatches, leaving an indelible mark on car enthusiasts worldwide.

Looking to buy one? Check out our S1 Escort RS Turbo buyer’s guide!

LEARN MORE ABOUT FORD FAIR HERE! SEE WHAT’S 0N AT FORD FEST HERE!

Mk6 Fiesta ST

The Mk6 Ford Fiesta ST(150) holds a special place in the hearts of hot hatch enthusiasts as it marked the highly anticipated return of a performance-oriented Fiesta. Introduced in winter of 2004, the Fiesta ST(150) took on the torch as the successor to the beloved XR2, injecting new life into Ford’s hot hatch lineup.

Powered by a two-liter Duratec engine tweaked by TeamRS, the Fiesta ST(150) delivered an exhilarating 148bhp. This naturally aspirated powerhouse showcased its prowess with a top speed of 129mph and a 0-60mph acceleration time of 7.9 seconds. Enhanced with variable intake and free-flowing exhaust, this pocket rocket offered plenty of grunt and thrills that left drivers grinning.

The Fiesta ST(150) remains a favourite among enthusiasts due to its superb driving dynamics and easy tunability. Combining performance, style, and affordability, the Mk6 Ford Fiesta ST(150) is undoubtedly deserving of its place on our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches. Its spirited nature and enduring popularity make it a true hot hatch that continues to captivate drivers seeking thrilling yet accessible performance.

Looking to buy one? Check out our Mk6 Fiesta ST buyer’s guide!

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Mk2 Focus RS

The Mk2 Ford Focus RS holds a special place in the hearts of fast Ford enthusiasts. It is widely regarded as one of the finest hot hatches ever produced. While the more recent Mk3 RS may have its merits, many fans still consider the Mk2 as the ultimate choice for its unbeatable combination of performance, character, and driving enjoyment.

Introduced in March 2009 as a high-performance upgrade over the already-impressive Focus ST225, the Focus RS Mk2 retained its front-wheel-drive setup. This powerhouse derived 301bhp from an enhanced version of the ST’s Volvo-sourced 2.5-liter engine, featuring graphite-coated piston liners and a larger turbocharger. To ensure impressive handling and exceptional grip, it boasted an ATB limited-slip differential and innovative RevoKnuckle front suspension.

The aggressive exterior of the Focus RS Mk2 featured wide wheel arches, a full body kit, and a prominent WRC-style rear wing. This muscular appearance perfectly matched the car’s performance capabilities. Inside, Recaro bucket seats enhanced driver comfort and support while optional Luxury Packs added extra touches of refinement.

While opinions may differ on which version of the Focus RS is best, there is no denying that the Mk2 holds an irrefutable place on our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches. With its head-turning looks, exhilarating performance, and engaging driving experience, the Focus RS Mk2 embodies the essence of a true hot hatch. Whether enjoyed in stock form or modified to achieve breathtaking power, this iconic Ford model continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

Looking to buy one? Check out our Mk2 Focus RS buyer’s guide!

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Mk7 Fiesta ST

The Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST(180) is hailed as one of the greatest-ever hatchbacks, delivering a captivating blend of performance, drivability, and affordability. No wonder it has secured its place as a hot hatch icon.

This formidable Fiesta continues to stand as a testament to the best four-wheeled fun money can buy. Launched in January 2013, the ST180 was a product of Ford Team RS’s dedication to crafting a true driver’s car. Its 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine packed a 197bhp punch with an overboost function unleashing an additional 15 seconds of sheer power. Acceleration from 0 to 62mph took just under seven seconds, but it’s the in-gear acceleration and torque that truly makes you smile.

The Mk7 Fiesta ST(180) has garnered immense popularity among driving enthusiasts and car modifiers alike. Its superb handling and tunability have made it a firm favourite for performance enhancements. Bolt-on upgrades alone will increase power to around 400bhp!

With its exceptional performance, sharp styling, and unwavering appeal, it’s no wonder the Mk7 Ford Fiesta ST(180) remains one of Ford’s small cars to date. Its position on our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches is well-deserved, representing a pinnacle in hot hatch engineering and providing an unforgettable driving experience that will continue to captivate enthusiasts for years to come.

Looking to buy one? Check out our Mk7 Fiesta ST buyer’s guide!

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Mk1 Focus RS

The Mk1 Ford Focus RS was a true game-changer in the hot hatch world. Introduced in October 2002, this performance-driven hatchback revived Ford’s legendary Rallye Sport brand after a decade-long hiatus.

Designed by Ford’s Special Vehicle Engineering (SVE) division, the Focus RS was a celebration of Ford’s triumphs in the world rally championship, drawing inspiration from motorsport legends Colin McRae and Carlos Sainz. Based on the Focus ST170 three-door model, the Focus RS underwent extensive enhancements, with a reported 521 new and unique components sourced from suppliers to the WRC team.

At the heart of the Focus RS was a turbocharged 2.0-liter Zetec engine, branded as Duratec RS. Equipped with forged pistons, modified cylinder head, and a Garrett GT2560LS turbo, it delivered an impressive 212bhp. The MTX75 gearbox received close ratio gears, an AP Racing clutch, and a trendsetting Quaife ATB differential for enhanced performance.

Further upgrades included beefier driveshafts, WRC-inspired suspension arms, Sachs springs, Brembo four-pot front brake calipers, and revised ABS. The stunning wide track and WRC-style OZ alloys were seamlessly integrated into bespoke broad wheel arches, complemented by striking bumpers and side skirts.

With only 4,501 units produced at the Saarlouis assembly line, the Mk1 Ford Focus RS is a rapidly appreciating asset today. Its exceptional performance, stunning design, and limited production numbers make it a deserving addition to our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches.

Looking to buy one? Check out our Mk1 Focus RS buyer’s guide!

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Mk2 Ford Focus ST(225)

The Mk2 Ford Focus ST(225) is a hot hatch that stands as an icon in the fast Ford community. It earns its place as a must-have for enthusiasts seeking a truly remarkable driving experience.

Launched in September 2005, this practical, fun, and highly tuneable hot hatch was marketed under the Sports Technology brand, showcasing its prowess as a rapid road machine. At the heart of the Focus ST(225) beats a turbocharged 2.5-liter Volvo-based five-cylinder engine, delivering an exhilarating 222bhp. With a growling engine note and impressive acceleration, it could sprint from 0 to 60mph in just 6.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of 150mph. Coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox, revised suspension, and powerful brakes, the ST(225) offered a meticulously balanced package.

While the arrival of the larger Focus RS may have overshadowed it, the ST(225) continued to gain popularity among drivers who appreciated its exceptional performance and engaging driving dynamics. Its immense tuning potential further solidified its status as a favourite among car modifiers looking to extract even more power from its capable engine.

Today, the Mk2 Ford Focus ST(225) remains a perfect fusion of power, poise, and practicality. With prices still within reach, it stands as the ultimate Blue Oval bargain—the hot hatch that excels in all aspects of driving pleasure. Whether on road or track, the Focus ST(225) delivers an unforgettable experience, making it a deserving member of our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches.

Looking to buy one? Check out our Mk2 Focus ST buyer’s guide!

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Ford Fiesta XR2 Mk1

The car that started it all for fast Ford hatchbacks. The Mk1 Ford Fiesta XR2 is a special car in the hot hatch hall of fame, cementing its status as a true classic. The model history of the XR2 dates back to the early 1980s when it was introduced as a high-performance variant of the popular Fiesta.

The Mk1 XR2 benefits from decades of motorsport success, making upgrades relatively easy and affordable. Bolt-on power gains can be achieved through old-school tuning such as improved air filter, exhaust system, high-lift cam, and a ported head with bigger valves. With the right modifications, power outputs well over 100bhp can be achieved, and even more can be unlocked with enhancements like a pair of twin-40mm Webers. Or, a full engine swap is easy enough.

The Mk1 Ford Fiesta XR2 deserves its place on our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches due to its classic status and tunability. It represents an era when Ford showcased their dedication to producing thrilling and accessible performance cars. With its iconic design and potential for modifications, the Mk1 XR2 continues to captivate enthusiasts who appreciate its heritage and enjoy the driving experience it offers.

Looking to buy one? Check out our Mk1 Fiesta XR2 buyer’s guide!

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Ford Focus RS (Mk3)

It’s not hard to see why the Mk3 Ford Focus RS is on our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches. Launched in January 2016, this powerhouse remains the epitome of a modern-day hot hatch. It offers exhilarating performance and unmatched driving dynamics.

Under the bonnet, the Focus RS boasts a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, delivering an impressive 345bhp. A state-of-the-art electronic all-wheel-drive system ensures exceptional traction. Meanwhile, massive Brembo brakes provide impressive stopping power. The RS’s computer-controlled suspension and multiple driving modes allow for a tailored experience, whether you’re seeking precise handling or full-on thrills.

One of the most notable features of the Mk3 Focus RS is its Drift Mode, allowing drivers to indulge in controlled slides and spine-tingling sideways action. Combined with its ability to hit 60mph in under five seconds and achieve a top speed of 165mph, the Focus RS proves itself as an outstanding performer in every regard.

Whether you’re a collector, track enthusiast, or daily driver seeker, the Mk3 Ford Focus RS is an exceptional choice. Its phenomenal performance, unrivalled handling, and accessible pricing make it a standout hot hatch that captures the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. Now is undoubtedly an opportune time to secure a Focus RS Mk3 for an unforgettable driving experience.

Looking to buy one? Check out our Mk3 Focus RS buyer’s guide!

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Escort RS Cosworth

The Escort RS Cosworth’s place on our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches is assured. It has legendary status as a classic performance car and rally hero. Introduced in May 1992, the Escort RS Cosworth replaced the Sapphire Cosworth 4×4 as Ford’s formidable motorsport machine.

Built by Karmann in Germany, the Escort RS Cosworth featured a heavily reworked Mk5 Escort bodyshell. Its power came from the mighty Cosworth YB engine. Only the smaller T3 turbo was replaced with a T3/T04B turbocharger, generating an impressive 227bhp in road-going form.

What truly sets the Escort RS Cosworth apart is its jaw-dropping aesthetics. The monstrous rear wing and adjustable splitter not only made it an icon of its generation. Not only that, these made it the first mass-production car to generate aerodynamic downforce at both the front and rear. The inclusion of sexy 8×16-inch alloys, prominent wide arches, and bonnet vents further enhanced its aggressive appearance.

Over time, the Escort RS Cosworth underwent revisions and limited editions such as the Monte Carlo edition. An updated version followed with a YBP powerplant and Ford EEC-IV engine management, providing better drivability but slightly reduced power output.

While the Cossie faced challenges such as theft and ridiculous insurance premiums, it remains a favourite to this day. With its tunability reaching astonishing power figures, and the desirability of a much-loved Nineties icon, it continues to dazzle at shows while stunning onlookers with its performance capabilities.

The Escort RS Cosworth truly is a perfect ten in the world of Fast Fords, forever turning heads and capturing the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.

Looking to buy one? Check out our Escort Cosworth buyer’s guide!

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Mk4 Focus ST

Despite its inconspicuous styling and five-door bodyshell, the Mk4 Ford Focus ST deserves its place on our list. Since its introduction in 1998, the Focus has evolved and improved with each generation. And it culminates in the latest Focus ST(280), representing the pinnacle of the breed.

While it may lack the overt sportiness of its predecessors, the Mk4 Focus ST makes up for it with advanced technology, an exceptional driving experience, and impressive build quality. Many owners appreciate its understated nature, allowing them to enjoy a car that doesn’t draw unnecessary attention in everyday situations, while still packing a punch under the bonnet.

Underneath its refined exterior lies the same 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine found in the previous-generation Focus RS. However, unlike the RS, the ST benefits from improved reliability. Combined with an inspirational chassis, the Mk4 ST is more than capable of rivalling most hot hatches on the market.

Furthermore, being a Ford, the Focus ST enjoys extensive support from the tuning scene. With options for upgrading and personalizing their ST, owners can stand out from the crowd.

It may very well be the very last Ford hot hatch ever built. But while we transition into an era of electric vehicles, the Mk4 ST represents a culmination of years of development. Its subtle appearance belies its fierce capabilities and engaging driving dynamics. It’s a worthy addition to our list of Greatest Ford Hot Hatches.

Others Great Ford Hot Hatches…

Ford has produced some of the greatest hot hatches throughout the Eighties, Nineties and Noughties. We’ve listed 10 of our favourites, but there’s loads more you could choose from. Including:

• Escort RS1600i
• Focus ST170
• Mk8 Fiesta ST
• Mk2 Fiesta XR2
• Fiesta RS Turbo
• S2 Escort RS Turbo
• Mk5/6 Escort RS2000
• Mk3 Focus ST(250)
• Fiesta RS1800
• Fiesta XR2i
• Fiesta Supersport

See these cars and more at Ford Fair and Ford Fest!

If you love fast Fords, then make sure you visit Ford Fair at Silverstone on August 11! Ford Fair is the biggest Blue Oval gathering of the year! Check out what’s on at Ford Fair 2024 and book your tickets today!

And don’t forget Ford Fest is back for 2024! The end-of-season festival for all Fords moves to its new home at Mallory Park on September 22nd. Be a part of the action and book your tickets today!

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The post The Greatest Ford Hot Hatches appeared first on Fast Car.

The story of the Ford Cosworth YB engine starts long before the arrival of the Sierra Cosworth in 1985. Although that was the first time we saw it in all its road-going glory, the tale starts at the end of the 1970s.

Ford Cosworth YB Engine History

Despite dominating circuit racing and rallying throughout the 1970s, Ford’s grip on motorsport was loosening, and fast. Even the mighty DFV Formula One engine was losing out to modern turbocharged units.

The misery was blatant during a Ford VIP visit to the 1983 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, where a touring car battle supported the main event. Dismayed Blue Oval bigwigs Stuart Turner and Walter Hayes witnessed a series of Capris being humiliated by V8 Rover SD1s, with only Richard Longman’s class-winning Escort RS1600i easing the pain.

Turner and Hayes agreed a plan of action. This coincided with a tour of Cosworth’s premises in the company of American Blue Oval bosses Ed Blanch and Jim Capolongo. Yes, the aim of the visit was to check out the firm’s forthcoming Formula One engine. But how could they ignore a Pinto/T88 bottom end equipped with an aluminum, 16-valve cylinder head, which accidentally-on-purpose found itself the center of attention…

By the autumn of 1983, Cosworth went ahead with SOHC Pinto/T88 cylinder block based 2.0-litre engine. However, unlike the original naturally-aspirated conversion, this time it would include a turbo. It also needed to produce 180bhp in road trim and more than 300bhp when race-tuned.

But when it was found that 200bhp-plus was easy to achieve for road cars, this was also agreed. Experience later proved that race engines could produce up to 350bhp with relative ease. However, the big leap to 550bhp came with the RS500-style YBD power unit in 1986.

YBD Cosworth Engine

Initially coded YAA (YB, the production version came later – see Ford Cosworth YB Engine Codes), Mario Illien designed the original Pinto/16-valve conversion in 1983. It featured a very free-breathing cylinder head, a complex inlet manifold and long, tubular exhaust manifold; optimized for tuning to a 300-to-400bhp race engine – with full-throttle breathing in mind. Not much thought to drivability or refinement.

By the time ex-Weslake/ex-Lotus engineer Paul Fricker joined Cosworth at the end of 1983, Illien had left. Ford had by then awarded Cosworth a contract to complete the engine. It could also build a facility to produce at least 15,000 units.

This meant a complete redesign of the engine to make it suitable for road use. The conversion from race to road engine was never easy, and Fricker was always under pressure from Cosworth and Ford.

First there was the original contract of 15,000 engines. “At one time Ford talked of ending the project after the first 5000, but luckily they never did,” said Fricker.

Then there were changes with the fueling system. Originally contracted to Bosche, later went to Weber-Marelli of Italy following good experiences in F1. “There, we had three people who were working for just two clients – Ferrari and us,” said Fricker.

And then a load more work went into re-specifying the turbo. Fricker continued, “We did 400-to-500 hours on the performance test beds at Cosworth. The first time we put one on the durability bed, it lasted just 35 minutes before it blew up.”

The first YBA prototype started test-bed work in Northampton in June 1984. Although, the first engines and test cars didn’t go to Weber-Marelli in Italy until September 1984. Subsequently completed and signed off by mid-1985.

Compared with the basic Pinto, almost everything changed except for the cylinder block itself. This included new cylinder head and valve gear, new steel crankshaft, rods, pistons, and sump. The use of hydraulic valve lifters was a given. No subsequent engine tuner appears to have suffered from not being able to use conventional lifters.

“They did weigh more,” Fricker admits, “and there was always a small amount of air in the oil. We ended up changing the design so they couldn’t deflate overnight. On the original engine, if you had a hot engine, then left it parked for a week, the lifters would go down.”

Cosworth built a new factory at Wellingborough; series production started in 1985 and ended in 1995. Along the way, the YBB evolved. For the Nineties, the big change was to redevelop the engine for use in the EsCos, originally as YBT and (from 1994) as YBP. The YBT engine might have looked similar, but had advanced in various ways. This was notably with a hybrid T03/T04B Garrett turbocharger. It was really too big for road cars, but Ford Motorsport needed a large enough unit homologated to make the Escort Cosworth the rally winner it became.

Blue painted cam covers instead of the Sierra Cosworth 4×4’s green identify the YBT. Paul Fricker explained: “We needed yet another color, and we thought it looked nice. We didn’t consult Ford Design until it was too late to get into an artistic argument.”

With 227bhp at 6250rpm, the YBT engine was extremely flexible. Naturally it ran on unleaded fuel, and an exhaust catalyst was standard. Finally, in 1994, the YBT gave way to the YBP.  This one had a smaller T25 turbo, Ford’s EEC-IV electronic engine management, and a restyled camshaft cover. It was more drivable, just as potent, and visually smarter than ever.

In an 11-year life at Wellingborough, it made something like 39,000 YB-based engines. It’s still very much the stalwart of the fast Ford scene to this day.

Ford Cosworth YB Tuning Guide

Cosworth Engine Block

There are two main types of Cossie block – known as the 205 and the 200. The latter is a thicker-wall design and was found in 4×4 versions, such as the Escort and 1990 Sapphire. These are easily identified by the numbers cast on the side. Although, to confuse things further, the RS500 block was a thick-wall design but stamped 205.  It’s recognizable by its smaller core plugs.

If you want moderate power up to around 350-to-400bhp then either is fine. Although good quality fasteners and gaskets are a must for any YB block. But for anything more powerful you should ideally be starting out with the 200 block. The extra material within the block, in particular at the base of the cylinders, makes fitting long studs rather than head bolts an option. This can help improve the sealing between head and block, and ultimately aiding reliability.

For most engines sub-500bhp, six long studs will be adequate. The center six, with the closest and furthest fixing retaining the original length bolts or studs. But mega-power engines (or those used in harsh race conditions) will usually feature all ten long studs. This is to allow for even more clamping force. This requires additional machining; the water pump needs modifying to avoid clipping the newly fitted studs at the front end.

Liners

Along with long studs, almost all big-power YBs will feature Nikasil-coated steel liners. These are stronger, have better oil control, and offer less friction than the original bore.

There are two types of liner: dry or wet. Dry liners are 3mm thick and are sleeved into the original bore. Wet liners are thicker at 6mm. They are so-called because the extensive machining to get them to fit means none of the original bore remains and the new liner encroaches into the block’s waterways.

Liners and studs are not cheap, though – a fully prepared block will set you back thousands. These days we can also start throwing alloy block options into the mix, which are as strong as the 200 blocks, if not stronger, but are considerably lighter. Smith & Jones Engineering offers alloy blocks in varying bore sizes from standard 90.82mm up to a whopping 96mm, which are available with different deck heights for those looking to lengthen the stroke too.

Working with a new block like this, ARP/Smith & Jones also offer a new ‘though-stud’ design of head stud, which as the name suggests is a stud and nut design that passes all the way through the block and into the crankshaft main caps, therefore tying the whole engine together from top to bottom.

Costing around £3500 for a bare block (before you add options like piston cooling jets at £150, and the through studs at £650) they’re normally reserved for the biggest of builds and aren’t commonly found in road cars. But they are the foundation for some of the most powerful YB engine builds we’ve seen.

Cosworth Engine Internals

The factory internals of the YB are actually very good, especially the stock cast steel rods (much better than most OEM cast iron rods) are proven to cope with 500bhp. The only criticism is that they are a bit on the short side. Therefore, to free up a bit more power (as much as 10bhp in some cases), many tuners opt to fit longer con-rods – usually 136mm as opposed to the standard 128mm items.

Doing so makes the rod angle more favorable, meaning that when the crank rotates, the rod doesn’t travel through such a steep angle and forced out of the cylinder wall, but is instead being pushed upwards into the cylinder.

The stock crankshaft is also very capable as standard – it can cope with most things thrown at it and is only really changed when stroking the engine to a larger displacement. There is one caveat, though – if it has been ground down a size or two it’s best suited to sub-350bhp applications. With the prices of standard-grind cranks on the rise (we’ve seen sellers asking as much as £1500), the price gap between a second-hand original and a new aftermarket item is ever decreasing.

Pistons

YB pistons are particularly well engineered as standard, and work well on 400bhp engines many times over. But when altering the compression ratio or using valve cut-outs (needed for engines running anything more aggressive than BD10 cams) the machining costs can add up. Therefore, many engine builders opt for a set of forged pistons made to their exact required specification instead.

On the subject of compression ratios, 7.5:1 and 7.2:1 used to be the norm in high-boost applications. But with the advent of better engine management, improved gasket designs, and greater clamping force offered by stud-and-nut kits, many tuners are taking advantage of them to maintain a higher compression ratio – in some cases actually increasing it from the standard 8.0:1 to over 9.0:1.

Cosworth Turbo and Exhaust

The turbo dominates the YB like a massive chili on a tiny pizza. Many people think it is the business end of the engine. In reality, it is just another component part of the entire YB package. As such, needs to be carefully considered to work with everything else in the engine when tuning.

The standard Garrett T3 found on the Sierra and Sapphire Cosworth is good enough to see you with around 300bhp, and specialists like Turbo Performance can make use of tricks like cut-back blades, and 360-degree thrust bearings to help improve performance of the OE unit.

But the traditional upgrade is the Escort Cosworth’s larger T34 turbo, capable of 350-to-400bhp with the right optimisation. Because they are all based on the same Garrett T3 core, specialists like Turbo Performance can actually pick-and-mix housings to create a T34 with the T3’s smaller 0.48 exhaust housing, for example, to provide greater peak power than a stock T3 but with less lag than a stock T34.

From there a T38 hybrid will see you well into 400bhp power figures, and an even bigger T4-based turbo from the RS500 will take you the rest of the way up to 500bhp.

Newer turbos

These upgrades work time and again with great results, but with the development in technology and newer turbos now available, the choice has opened up even further. Garrett’s roller-bearing GT range of turbos have been used to great effect on the YB, and the new BorgWarner EFR series of turbos are showing very impressive results in terms of power and, thanks to their twin-scroll design, driveability and quick spool-up too.

With so many options available, turbo choice is virtually endless, and it is best left to the experts to decide what will work best for a given application.

The good news, though, is that the YB’s exhaust manifold is of a twin-scroll design as standard, so is ready to accept a twin-scroll turbo without too much fuss. Bigger turbos often require a larger mounting flange, however, so it’s often worth upgrading to a tubular exhaust manifold at the same time. Doing so also makes installation of an external wastegate easier too, which many tuners prefer over the OEM-style internal wastegate, to offer more accurate boost control.

Cosworth Engine Inlet and Injectors

On the opposite side of the engine to the turbo, inlet manifold choice has also improved drastically over the years. To start with, the RS500 eight-injector manifold was a must, then the ‘Swedish-style’ inlet was everyone’s fancy, and now nearly all big-bhp YB builds feature a Hart inlet.

There are slight differences in performance between them, but all that really matters is that they all perform much better than the standard inlet, which becomes a restriction at around 500bhp. Roller-barrel throttles have also been used to good effect in many applications, but as they were only ever designed to work on 300bhp WRC cars, when you start to push enough air for over 500bhp through them they don’t always like it. Another option is to fit a set of individual throttle bodies. Used with a plenum chamber, these will have performance advantages. Considering a single throttle body gives such good results, only use when looking to squeeze out every last bhp possible.

Sizing up

The traditional route of replacing injectors was to go for the next size up in the Bosch range. The first step is dark greens or 803s, capable of 300-to-330bhp, costing around £320 as set from trusted sellers such as Motorsport Developments. Continuing up, the colour-coded Bosch items are ‘light-blues’ or 400s, which are good for up to 400bhp, then ‘greys’ or 403s, which supply the juice for 400-to-450bhp.

Sticking with the Bosch injectors but wanting more than 450bhp involves simply adding more of them – another four, in fact. This utilises the RS500’s or WRC-style eight injector setup. Eight greens will provide enough fuel for over 500bhp Eight greys are suitable for ultimate power.

Today, sophisticated modern engine management and improved injector designs mean you can buy items that will deliver over twice as much fuel as a set of greys. As a result, there’s no need to add the complexity and expense of an eight-injector setup. Traditionally, larger injectors were more difficult to control at lower engine speeds. Therefore, two sets of smaller injectors were the preferred method of ensuring low-speed driveability coupled with peak power potential. Now, modern injectors/ECUs are more capable of delivering at both ends of the scale, so offer a neat and simple alternative.

Cosworth Engine Head and Cams

Designed to go racing, the top end of the YB engine is impressive in stock form too. For a stock head, 350bhp is no problem. But at around 500bhp the ports start to become a bit of a restriction. As standard, the inlet ports are 22.5mm and the exhaust ports are 23mm. Opening these up to around 25mm and 24mm respectively will be good enough for 500bhp while retaining standard valve sizes. For even more power, increase the port sizes to 26/27mm and 25/26mm. Remember, you’ll also need bigger valves to make the most of them.

As for camshaft options, this will usually depend on what the engine is built for – there are many off-the-shelf profiles to choose from, and many engine builders have cams ground to their specific requirements too. Top-end engines will be running ‘custom spec’ profiles (closely guarded secrets), and some are so aggressive they actually require the head to be machined in order to fit them; the lobes are so big they physically won’t rotate within the confines of a standard head.

But for 500bhp engines there are plenty of options. Generally, a BD10 inlet with standard exhaust cam is the first-stage upgrade and works well on a variety of engines, but BD14 and BD16 combinations have also been used to good effect, while some tuners swear by the profile offered by an AB07 cam. As with turbo choice, the cam profile needs to be chosen to work with the rest of the engine spec, so leave this to the engine builder to decide.

Ford Cosworth YB Engine Management

Long gone are the days of a simple Stage 3 chip. Nowadays, with massive advances in technology we expect a lot more refinement, even from the standard ECU. Features such as closed-loop lambda control, wasted-spark ignition, and the ability to live map have made big improvements. These are ideal for fast-road applications. On top of these there is now a wealth of standalone, aftermarket ECU systems to choose from. All of which are more than capable of running a YB engine.

It is also worth noting that one major factor in changing to an aftermarket ECU these days is not just because of the additional mapping features, but because it also replaces the standard wiring loom. Something that, now it’s all old and crusty, can cause major problems on a Cosworth. Thankfully, companies like Auto Dynamix offer OEM-style replacement wiring looms, or bespoke items to suit your specific setup.

Modern ECUs also allow tuners to take full advantage of several advances in engine management design since the YB was first introduced; things like coil-on-plug ignition, knock detection and electronic boost control all help aid reliability and performance. While extras such as launch control, full-throttle gear shifts, and anti-lag systems all add to the grin-factor too.

Ford Cosworth YB Engine Codes

A Ford Cosworth YB engine is a Ford Cosworth YB engine, right? Wrong. There were actually 20 different versions of the legendary Ford Cosworth YB Cosworth engine over the years, and here’s what they were…

Code              Year              Description

YAA                1983              Original aftermarket naturally-aspirated, 16-valve conversion for Pinto

YAB                1984              First turbocharged version of YAA

YAC                1990              Naturally-aspirated version of YBG for kit cars, with carbs

YBA                1984              Modified version of YAB

YBB                1985              Series-production Sierra Cosworth engine

YBC                1985              Race version of YBB

YBD                1987              Series-production Sierra Cosworth RS500 engine with big turbo

YBE1A           1987              Version of YBB for Ford Industrial Power Products, used in the Panther Solo

YBE2A           1989              Version of YBG for Ford Industrial Power Products, used in the Panther Solo

YBF                1987              Race version of YBD/RS500 engine

YBG                1989             ‘Green’ version of YBB used in Sapphire Cosworth 4×4 (US83 emissions)

YBG (GrpN)   1992              Race version of YBG

YBJ                1989              ‘Green’ version of YBB used in Sapphire Cosworth 4×4 (15.04 emissions standards)

YBM               1989              Race version of YBG and YBJ

YBP                1994              Small-turbo Escort Cosworth engine – fitted with EEC-IV management (launched 1994)

YBR                1990              Ford rally engine for use in Sapphire Cosworth 4×4

YBS                1990              Ford rally engine, Group A rally kit, parallel to YBR

YBT                1992              Escort RS Cosworth big-turbo road engine (rally cars also used engine code)

YBT (GrpN)    1992              Race version of YBT engine

YBV                1992              Methanol-fuelled 2.3-litre version of YBM for racing in America

The post Ford Cosworth YB Engine Guide & How To Tune It appeared first on Fast Car.

Bentley Motors is a name synonymous with luxury and high-performance vehicles. And their famous 6.0-litre W12 epitomises just that, with plenty of power and a silky smooth delivery. But as the automotive world moves away from traditional internal combustion engines, like all car manufacturers, Bentley has been forced to adopt modern hybrid technologies. That means the much-loved W12 engine, a hallmark of Bentley since 2003, is making way for a ground-breaking new engine: the Ultra Performance Hybrid V8.

We’ll first see the latest engine powering the new Continental GT. But will it live up to the outgoing W12 – an engine that powered 105,000 Bentleys over two decades? The on-paper stats certainly suggest it will. So, let’s take a closer look…

Hear the new Ultra Performance Hybrid V8!

It may be a hybrid, but the new Ultra Performance Hybrid V8 certainly sounds like a V8 should!

The Dawn of a New Powerhouse

Dubbed the most powerful road car to ever sport the Flying B badge, the Ultra Performance Hybrid V8 is not just about maintaining Bentley’s legacy of luxury; it’s about amplifying it. With an anticipated base of a 4.0-litre V8 engine paired with an electric motor and battery, this hybrid combo promises over 1,000Nm of torque with a remarkably flat torque curve, plus 770 horsepower.

Cheaper than a Ford Ranger company car

The electric motor has a claimed all-electric range of 50 miles which suggests Bentley is looking at the future of plug-in hybrid technology. That keeps the Continental GT’s CO2 emissions impressively low at approximately 50g/km. To give that some context, that means it falls in the 8% bracket for company car tax values. Assuming a starting price of around £200k provides a BIK with value of just £16,000. So, a 20% taxpayer would pay just £3,200 a year (£266.66 per month) for one as a company car! By comparison, a £60k Ford Ranger Raptor has a BIK value of £23,000! That means (based on our £200k estimation) a Continental GT would be over £100 per month cheaper than a Raptor pick-up truck!  Good luck getting accounts to sign off a £200k car, though!

A Nod to Sustainability

This transition is part of Bentley’s ambitious Beyond 100 strategy, initiated in 2020. The goal? Achieving carbon neutrality and championing sustainability by 2030. While the automotive world gradually shifts towards fully electric vehicles – with Bentley planning an all-EV line-up by 2033 – the introduction of the Ultra Performance Hybrid V8 shows Bentley’s strategic embrace of hybrid technology during this transition.

What This Means for Enthusiasts

For die-hard fans of traditional internal combustion engines, this evolution brings mixed emotions. The discontinuation of the W12 represents the passing of an era; however, it also signals a few more exhilarating years with petrol-powered Bentleys than initially anticipated.

The post Bentley goes hybrid! Introducing the Ultra Performance Hybrid V8! appeared first on Fast Car.

Ceramic coatings are a hot topic in the fast car scene right now. They don’t just add gloss, they also add serious protection for your paintwork. But with so many products on the market all labelled as ‘ceramic’, things can quickly get confusing. Why do some last for several years while others only last a few months? What’s the difference between a ‘coating’ and a ‘sealant’? And how should you look after a car that has been treated? These are just some of the topics we discuss in our latest video with the experts at Gtechniq.

What is Ceramic Coating?

Think of ceramic coating as a superhero cape for your car. But instead of fabric, it’s made of a chemically blended polymer that forms a bond with your paint. Why? To shield it from just about anything the road throws its way—UV rays, dirt, rain, and even those pesky bird droppings. It’s the invisible guard that keeps your car looking effortlessly cool and clean.

Why Should You Consider Ceramic Coating?

1. Long-Lasting Protection: Unlike traditional waxes, a quality ceramic coat can last years, not weeks. We’re talking serious durability that keeps your paint job pristine.

2. Phenomenal Shine: Ceramic coatings are renowned for that eye-popping gloss, enhancing and protecting your vehicle’s appearance in ways wax just can’t.

3. Easier Cleaning: Ever dreamt of a car that almost cleans itself? Well, ceramic coatings come close. Water and dirt just slide right off.

How Do You Apply Ceramic Coating?

We know what you’re thinking—can you apply a ceramic coating at home? And the answer is yes! The key to a fantastic result is all in the prep work – which is why Gtechniq recommend having your car machine polished prior to applying a coating. But as long you have somewhere to keep the car out of the elements while it cures (such as a garage or carport), than the physical act of applying a ceramic coating is no more difficult than waxing a car.

Common Myths About Ceramic Coating

Myth #1: It’s Invincible

It’s tough but not indestructible. You still need to take care when washing your car, but by using good techniques and the correct products a ceramic coating is much more resistant to scratches and swirl marks, keeping your paintwork looking its very best for longer.

Myth #2: No More Washes Needed

You may need to wash less frequently, but keeping up with maintenance is key to longevity. Over time the coating can become clogged and the water-beading and gloss effects may lessen. But a good decontamination wash will clear our all that dirt and grime and get your car beading and gleaming like the day the coating was first applied. Easy as that!

Myth #3: Only Pro Detailers Can Apply It

Wrong again! There are a couple of considerations to be aware of, but if you have a dry space to keep the car out of the weather while the coating cures , you can easily apply a ceramic coating at home. For best results, the paintwork should be machined polished beforehand to ensure a flawless finish prior to the coating being applied.

More Detailing Tips

Curious about more ways to enhance and protect your ride? Check out our other posts with Gtechniq:

• Gtechniq Gwash vs Ceramic GWash Car Shampoo
• Snow Foam Myths Debunked
• How To Protect Alloy Wheels
• Why Ditch the Sponge and Use a Wash Mitt Instead?
• Drying Towels: Which One is Right for You?

The post Ceramic Coatings: Your FAQs Answered! appeared first on Fast Car.

What Is a Car Spoiler?

Car spoilers are an essential part of a car’s aerodynamics. Adding one is one of the best car modifications you can make. They control the airflow over and under your car. Directing air where you want it – and away from where you don’t – can reduce turbulence and increase downforce, ultimately increasing the grip levels during acceleration, braking, and cornering. Spoilers and wings are available in several different materials. Depending on your application and intended use, you can typically choose from ABS plastic, fiberglass, aluminum, or carbon-fiber. Plus, because of their performance credentials, spoilers add a sporty and stylish look to any vehicle.

What’s the difference between a spoiler and a wing?

The terms rear spoilers and rear wings are often used interchangeably. But they are actually quite different in the way they work. While both are designed to make a car more aerodynamic, the way the airflow is redirected varies quite significantly.

A wing deflects the airflow in an upward motion. Therefore, it generates a force on the car in the opposite direction – downforce. Think of it as a upside-down airplane wing. The airplane wing is designed to force the plane into the air. On a car, it’s designed to press the car into the road to give more grip.

On the other hand, car spoilers are used as a barrier to disrupt or “spoil” airflow. They are attached directly to the vehicle, typically either on the rear window, roof or trunk. As the air passes over the car, the spoilers cause the airflow to change direction and cause turbulence. This results in downforce that helps improve traction and stability.

Spoilers and wings were created for sports cars but can also be found on regular passenger cars today. They serve a functional purpose by improving aerodynamics and vehicle stability.

What are the different types of car spoilers?

There are several different types of spoilers available for cars, each with its own unique function and design. Each style offers its own set of characteristics and performance advantages, meaning that not all spoilers are best suited to all types of cars. To help discover which one is best for your car, we’ve compiled a list of the most common types of car spoilers. Check these out, and see which one best suits your needs and style.

Lip Spoiler

Enhancing the overall style of your car, a lip spoiler (or decklid spoiler) offers more than just a cosmetic upgrade. It provides a slight increase in downforce, improving stability at higher speeds. Installing a lip spoiler is easy and won’t have any significant drawbacks – it doesn’t even affect fuel consumption to any noticeable level.

Lip spoilers are particularly suitable for hatchbacks and sedan/saloon models, adding a touch of sporty sophistication to the overall design. So, if you’re looking to enhance both the appearance and functionality of your vehicle, a lip spoiler is a great choice.

Pedestal Spoiler

Pedestal spoilers are favored by sports car enthusiasts for their sleek and low-profile appearance. This type of spoiler is mounted on pillars above the trunk lid. By creating a downward force on the rear of the car, they improve traction and stability at high speeds. Whether it’s a Dodge pickup truck or an Audi station wagon, the addition of a pedestal rear spoiler can not only enhance the performance but also update the overall look.

These spoilers provide the needed downforce without compromising visibility or interfering with brake lights. With their ability to optimize aerodynamics, pedestal spoilers are a popular choice for those seeking the best performance and stylish enhancement at the back of their vehicles.

Ducktail Spoiler

The ducktail spoiler, named after its distinctive shape resembling the tail of a duck, is a popular aftermarket addition to cars. Aside from enhancing the appearance, this spoiler also improves aerodynamics by reducing drag and increasing downforce. It achieves this by effectively managing airflow at the rear of the vehicle. Ever watched Nascar? Well you’ll be all too familiar with this type of spoiler…

It’s important to note that the installation of a ducktail spoiler may require modifications to the car’s trunk or rear end. Overall, the ducktail spoiler offers both aesthetic reasons and performance benefits, making it a desirable choice for car enthusiasts seeking improved aerodynamics and a more aggressive, sporty look.

Roof Spoiler

A roof spoiler is a small wing-like structure that is attached to the rear roof of a car. Typically, these are most commonly found on the rear tailgate of sports hatches. Its main purpose is to enhance the aerodynamics of the vehicle. By reducing drag and increasing downforce, the roof spoiler improves stability, especially at high speeds. There are several types of roof spoilers available, including lip spoilers, pedestal spoilers, and ducktail spoilers.

Lip spoilers are the most common and tend to be smaller in size. Pedestal spoilers, on the other hand, are larger and more prominent, extending further from the roofline. These variations offer different levels of performance and aesthetic appeal. Roof spoilers are commonly found on sporty hatchbacks like the Ford Focus RS and Honda Civic Type R. They serve as an important component in enhancing both the performance and visual appeal of the vehicle.

Race Car Rear Wing

Race car rear wings are large and adjustable spoilers that play a crucial role in optimizing aerodynamics. They create significant downforce, which enhances traction and handling, especially during high-speed cornering. By reducing drag, race car rear wings also improve stability at high speeds, allowing the vehicle to maintain better control.

In addition to their functional benefits, these spoilers add a bold and aggressive look to race cars and high-performance sports cars alike. They are an integral part of achieving the best performance on the track. With their ability to generate downward force and improve aerodynamic efficiency, they contribute to improved acceleration, stability, and overall driving dynamics.

Whale Tail Spoiler

Perhaps best known for cars like the Ford Sierra Cosworth and Ford Escort Cosworth, whale tail spoilers gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. So-called because the large rear spoilers and single supporting pedestal resemble the tail of whale, these are one of the most iconic types of car spoiler available. Technically, this is a rear wing, not a spoiler, but like all other spoilers, its primary function is to improve the aerodynamics and stability of a car.

Thanks to its large surface areas a whale tail spoiler creates a significant amount of downforce, reducing lift and improving traction at high speeds. This contributes to better handling and stability, especially during acceleration and high-speed maneuvers. While the whale tail spoiler offers notable performance benefits, it also adds an aesthetic touch to the car, giving it a distinctive look reminiscent of the iconic sports cars of the past.

Bi-Plane Spoilers

Another type of car spoiler made famous by fast Fords, is the bi-plane spoilers found on the back of the Merkur XR4Ti and European Sierra XR4i from the 1980s. Consisting of two wings or flaps, these spoilers were used in racing cars to enhance their performance at high speeds. They provide increased downforce and improved handling, allowing drivers to navigate corners with precision.

However, due to the significant drag they create, bi-plane spoilers may not be suitable for all types of driving. One advantage of some bi-plane spoilers is their adjustability, enabling drivers to fine-tune the amount of downforce generated. Additionally, these spoilers can enhance the overall appearance of a car, creating a more aggressive and sporty look.

Gurney Flap

Gurney flaps are small flaps attached to the trailing edge of a car spoiler. They sit at right angles to the surface of the spoiler and significantly increase the amount of downforce created. These simple flaps are designed to create an upwash of air as it passes over the spoiler, creating a low pressure area on the top surface and a high-pressure area on the bottom surface. This pressure difference generates additional downward force, which improves the stability and handling of the vehicle at high speeds.

First seen on open-wheel race cars in the 1970s, the Gurney flap is named after American F1 and sports car driver Dan Gurney, who invented and developed the device.

Gurney flaps are commonly found on race cars and high-performance vehicles, as they play a crucial role in maintaining stability and ensuring the best performance at high speeds. Their installation at the rear of the car ensures that the downforce is generated towards the back of the vehicle, preventing rear-end lift and improving traction.

Active Spoiler

Active spoilers have the ability to change their angle of attack based on driving conditions. Equipped with electronic sensors, they detect speed, braking, and other factors to adjust the position of the spoiler accordingly.

Besides their functional purpose, active spoilers can also give a sporty or aggressive look. These spoilers are not only limited to appearance but also serve practical purposes by improving aerodynamics and reducing drag. In addition, high-performance cars often utilize active spoilers to enhance handling and stability at high speeds – many can even double up as an airbrake under heavy braking conditions too. Most active spoilers work in harmony with a fully active aerodynamics system that controls airflow all around the car.

Airbrake

Airbrakes, a type of car spoiler, play a crucial role in enhancing the aerodynamics and performance of vehicles. By raising or lowering them, additional drag is created, allowing for effective speed reduction.

The angle and shape of a spoiler significantly impact its functionality. They influence the amount of downforce created, which enhances stability and handling. Airbrakes create additional drag that slows down the car. High-performance cars such as the Ford GT use an active spoiler that doubles as an airbrake under heavy braking to help slow the car. The surface of the rear wing rotates so that it is at 90 degrees to the car, creating the maximum amount of drag to help slow the car. Then, it returns to the required angle of attack to provide optimum downforce at the rear.

Chassis-Mounted Wing

The chassis-mounted wing is mounted directly to the rear chassis or subframe of the vehicle. Unlike other spoilers that are typically attached to the trunk edge or the rear of the car, the chassis-mounted wing offers improved handling and stability by increasing downforce on the rear wheels.

This type of wing is commonly found on high-performance sports cars and race cars. Its adjustable angle and size allow for fine-tuning the car’s aerodynamics to suit different driving conditions. When installed correctly, a chassis-mounted wing can significantly enhance a car’s grip and cornering ability at high speeds, optimizing its performance.

The post Car Spoilers Explained: What Are The Different Types? appeared first on Fast Car.

The eBay Garage: A Showstopper at Japfest 2024

If you’re a Japanese car fan, then there was only one place to be on Sunday, 7 April 2024. Record numbers of car enthusiasts descended on Silverstone for Japfest 2024!  And one of the highlights of the event was the incredible presence of eBay. As headline partners for Japfest 2024, eBay truly brought their A-game with the amazing eBay Garage.

Display Cars That Stole the Show

First things first, let’s talk about the display cars that stole the show.

Japspeed’s Toyota GT86 drift car was an absolute beast on the track during Japfest’s live drifting demos but when it wasn’t burning rubber on track it was wowing the crowds at the eBay Garage.

Fast Car TV’s Honda Civic Type R was another showstopper. You may have read about our Civic Type R FN2 we built using parts bought from eBay, and at Japfest 2024 you could see it up close in all its glory in the eBay Garage.

Dan Squire’s Nissan 350z ‘Fairlady’ impressed with its air suspension and custom-order SSR wheels. Dan has sourced many of the performance upgrades for his z33 from eBay, including the Brembo front brakes, Luisi steering wheel, anodised wheel nuts, carbon air intake, and the rear diffuser and spoiler too. And he’s not stopping there, with plans to add a race car-style livery and big wing to come soon.

Derrick Charles’ Subaru Impreza STi was another stunner in the eBay Garage. Clad in colour-coded lightweight carbon fibre, this ‘Blobeye’ was something of a sleeper. Underneath, substantial engine upgrades, big brakes, Airlift Performance suspension, poly bushes and a host of other trick bits give this STi some real bite. Inside, a half roll cage, rear seat delete and Corbeau seats show its function-over-form ethos.

Dan Hancox’s Nissan 350z was inspired by Toyko Drift and has wanted to build his own vision of a modified 350z ever since. With parts sourced from the UK, USA and Japan – through various eBay shops, naturally – he has created something truly unique that the crowds at the eBay Garage appreciated at Japfest 2024.

Interactive Games and Discount Offers

It wasn’t just the display cars that had everyone in awe. The eBay Garage included interactive games that allowed you to win free eBay merchandise. Who doesn’t love some free swag, right? And if that wasn’t enough, there was a dedicated Japspeed screen linked to the Japspeed eBay Shop. What did this mean for attendees? Well, you received an automatic 10% discount on anything purchased from the shop on the day! Now, that’s a deal you wouldn’t want to miss.

eBay Assured Fit: Find Parts That Fit, Or Your Money Back

A popular feature at eBay Garage was the big screen order points. These interactive screens demonstrated eBay’s parts finder function. All you have to do is simply enter your car’s reg number and the feature would bring up a huge selection of parts that fit your vehicle. The best part is that you’re covered by eBay Assured Fit, so if the parts don’t fit you can return them for free within 30 days.

A Huge Selection of High-Quality Parts and Accessories

Now, you might be wondering how eBay managed to bring all of this awesomeness to Japfest 2024. Well, as a leading online marketplace, eBay offers an unparalleled selection of parts and accessories. They have everything from essential components like spark plugs, oil filters, and batteries to performance upgrades to all areas of car tuning. It doesn’t matter if your looking to sort your chassis with new suspension mods, performance tyres, and brake upgrades, or looking to put your own stamp on things with interior customisation or bodywork styling changes. Or, if you’re searching for more power and looking at performance engine components such as pistons, camshafts and turbochargers. You’ll find the lot, plus loads more, on eBay.

Coming Up – German Car Festival and Classic Japfest

Before wrapping up, we want to give you a heads up about another event that you won’t want to miss. German Car Festival and Classic Japfest are taking place at Goodwood on 5/6 October 2024, and eBay is once again sponsoring this incredible celebration of German and Japanese automotive excellence. Trust us, if you’re a car enthusiast, these are events you won’t want to miss – book your tickets today!

eBay truly made their mark at Japfest 2024 with the eBay Garage, and we hope to see a similarly stunning presence at future shows and events. From the amazing display cars to the interactive games and discount offers, they left everyone wanting more. And with their vast selection of parts and accessories, eBay is the go-to destination for all your car modification needs. .

Visit eBay now to find the perfect parts and accessories for your car.

The post Amazing eBay Garage at Japfest 2024 appeared first on Fast Car.

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As a fan of modified cars and tuning in general, I must admit, I have a love-hate relationship with the ever-growing presence of electric cars. While I do appreciate the innovation behind the technology involved and understand the intention behind the switch away from fossil fuels, I can’t help but feel a tinge of resentment towards EVs and even hybrids.

Of course, as with any controversial topic, extremists are at either end of the scale. On one side you’ve got the idiots that glue themselves to roads at weekends (completely oblivious to the irony of the extra pollution the resulting tailbacks and diversions cause, I might add). And at the other end, you’ve got blinkered conspiracy theorists who think it’s still 1970 and that climate change doesn’t exist.

Now, I don’t fit into either of those camps.  I’m well aware of the environmental benefits of electric cars and the need to embrace sustainable technology, but I do wonder at what cost. And I’m not talking about the obvious financial costs (by the time you’ve excluded the chaff, the cheapest electric car you might actually consider owning is the MINI Cooper E, and that starts at £30,000!), I’m more concerned about what it means for the modified car culture that is our passion.

5 reasons to Hate Electric Cars

The pros and cons of EVs have been debated numerous times before and by people who are much more respected in the automotive industry than me – I’m just a bloke who likes to take what OEMs give us and think I can make it better by bolting on go-faster bits! So, let’s assume for a second, that electric cars don’t catch fire every time you park them up. Let’s pretend you could get where you wanted to go without having to make sixteen diversions to find a charge point that actually worked. And, let’s even ignore the environmentally-friendly debate surrounding developing countries being torn apart and exploited for the precious metals required to make a modern EV battery.

Even if we overlooked all those, I can still give you five very good reasons why car fans like me will always hate electric cars…

The Silent Scream

Call me old-fashioned, but I believe that a performance car should roar with power and make its presence known. One of the most bizarre experiences with electric cars is the spine-chilling silence. Even now, every time I see (not hear, obviously!) an EV pulling out of a car park, that eerie silence and sci-fi hum makes me feel all funny. Second to sight, hearing is the second most powerful sense human beings have. When I can see a car moving but not hear it, it just doesn’t sit right.

And when we look at it from a modifying perspective, it gets even worse. Let me ask, what was the first upgrade you made to your car? 95% of the time the answer will be induction kit or exhaust upgrades? Why, because the enhanced noise and more aggressive soundtrack makes our cars feel faster and more exciting to drive, even if they don’t increase power that much. What are we gonna do with EVs, download a V8 soundtrack to play through the massively-oversized entertainment system to mimic a proper car? No thanks.

Desensitized Driving

This point is more of an extension to the first, as it’s not just your sound senses that a numbed by electric cars, but all of your senses. When you fire up a modified or performance car the roar of the exhaust is accompanied by a rumble and subtle vibrations that resonate throughout the entire car. As you blip the throttle, your body picks up the changing pitch of these vibrations through your backside. You feel like you are connected to the car.

And then there’s the smell. I don’t know about you but I love the smell of a tuned petrol engine. From years messing around with old Fords I can tell if a car’s got an old Cossie YB under the bonnet just by the smell. And don’t tell me you can’t smell the difference between a standard and a remapped car.

Not with an EV. All of those sensations are wiped out, replaced only by a monotonous whir of an electric motor and cacophony of different bings and bongs coming from the dash. That hardly stirs the senses in the same way, does it?

Where’s the Fun Gone?

The other day I was talking to a guy who had numerous awesome cars at his disposal. We’re hoping to bring you full features on some of the cars in his collection very soon, but they included everything from a modern Mustang with a supercharged V8, a crazy drag-spec Maloo pick-up truck, a Ranger Raptor, a mint Volvo 850, and a restored E-type Jag. Do you know which one he said he was most looking forward to driving? A Citroen 2CV he was restoring! Do you know why? It was just fun to drive. That’s it, fun.

And that hits the nail on the head. You see, there are two types of drivers in this world: those who see it simply as a convenient means of getting from place to place, and those who see each drive as an adventure.

Electric cars are great for the former but from my experience, EVs have this uncanny ability to zap away all the joy and excitement of driving. It’s a cliché to refer to electric cars as white goods, but that’s kinda what they are. They feel characterless to drive, even if they are faster and safer. The thrill of driving isn’t about how fast you’re going, it’s about how it makes you feel.

The Soulless Sync

One of the most disheartening aspects of electric cars is their lack of personality. Sure, they may have all the fancy gadgets and (massive!) touchscreen interfaces, but where’s the soul? I miss the quirks and imperfections that give cars character. As car enthusiasts, we bond with our cars and form relationships. Admittedly, usually, love-hate relationships where we can’t get enough one minute and then threaten to set fire to bloody thing when it goes wrong again. But we form an emotional connection. It ascends from being a metal box with wheels to becoming part of the family.

On the other hand, electric cars feel like cold, calculating machines developed in the sterilized confines of a lab. Electric cars are like the T-1000 of the car world, whereas a good old-fashioned petrol car is your outdated, motorcycle-riding, shade-wearing, shotgun-slinging T-800 model.

Give me a car with a little personality, with some rough edges and a story to tell. I want to feel a connection with my car, not just be another passenger in an efficient, soulless pod.

The End of Car Culture?

When you think of car culture, what comes to mind? The sound of an engine. The smell of fuel. The bond between driver and machine. Electric cars rob us of that connection. More than that, every one of them looks the same. Sure, you can change the colour and make a few cosmetic tweaks, but adding a few stickers doesn’t really count as tuning in my book.

What will car shows and meets of the future look like? A bunch of non-descript Teslas sat around binging at each other? That’s not for me.

The Future is What We Make It

Except it doesn’t have to be that way. Electric cars are here to stay, whether we like it or not. And of course, much of what I’ve just said is equally true for boring entry-level petrol cars compared to their performance-orientated brethren. I wasn’t comparing apples with apples, but hopefully it highlights my concerns that our passion for modifying, customising, and above all else, just enjoying our cars is being washed away in the name of reducing carbon emissions.

And the really good news is that every one of the concerns I listed can be rectified and improved with modifications and tuning. It’s already started. Here at Fast Car we’ve seen several modified EVs on the show circuit, and every week a press release lands in our inbox to let us know about an new performance upgrade that’s just being launched. Everything from coilovers to big brake kits, and I personally can’t wait to see what’s possible when tuners start recalibrating electric motors!

Celebrate, Don’t Criticise Modded EVs

I’m not ready to make the leap into an EV myself just yet. Call me old fashioned, out of touch, or plain stubborn (or a mix of all three!), but I’m more than happy plodding around in a modded Ford Ranger pick-up. But I tell you what I won’t do, and that’s question anyone I see who has modified their electric car. The next time I see one at a show or a meet I’ll be the first to applaud the owner. Without these pioneers creating the demand for upgrades and custom parts, there will be no future for modified cars, at all. As modifiers, we’re already under the cosh from OEMs, DVSA, and insurance underwriters because we don’t conform and fit neatly into their predetermined boxes. Don’t let them stamp us out. Keep modifying, even if that has to be with electric cars in the future.

The post 5 Reasons to Hate Electric Cars! appeared first on Fast Car.

It’s time to get excited because TWR (Tom Walkinshaw Racing) has just revealed its flagship debut car, the TWR Supercat. This limited-production super-GT is set to make its mark in the automotive world with its stunning design, exhilarating performance, and a nod to TWR’s rich motorsport heritage.

Pretty Cat

The TWR Supercat boasts a mesmerizing carbon fiber silhouette, masterfully crafted by renowned designer Khyzyl Saleem. With a contemporary approach to design and a focus on Super-GT form and racing functionality, the Supercat is instantly recognizable from its silhouette alone. It combines the sleek profile, long bonnet, and unique rear buttresses of the Jaguar XJS. Only now with more muscle and aggression. The design takes inspiration from TWR’s illustrious motorsport pedigree, creating a ‘Greatest Hits’ of racing Jags, including cues from iconic models such as the XJ220, XJR-9, and XJR-15.

600bhp Supercharged V12 Engine

Under that instantly recognisable bonnet, the TWR Supercat features a supercharged V12 engine that will produce more than 600 horsepower. This means it will offer breathtaking acceleration and exhilarating speeds. To deliver a truly engaging and analogue driving experience, TWR has opted for a 6-speed manual gearbox. It’s all about that connection between the driver and the road, allowing the 88 lucky to fully exploit this incredible big car.

Yes, 88. That’s right. TWR has decided to limit production of the Supercat to only 88 units worldwide. Why 88, why not 90, or 100? Well, the number 88 has been carefully chosen to celebrate TWR’s 1988 Le Mans win with the Jaguar XJR-9. .

Want one? Of course, you do! The reservation book is officially open, and all you need to secure yours is a £10,000 deposit.  You’ll need to find the remaining £260k, though,  to pay off the balance before deliveries are due to start landing at the end of the year!

Who is Tom Walkinshaw Racing?

Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) is a name that carries immense prestige and heritage in the world of motorsport. Founded by the legendary constructor and racer, Tom Walkinshaw, TWR has left an indelible mark on the industry with its legacy of innovation, success, and passion.

Originally established in the 1980s, TWR quickly became a global powerhouse in both motorsport and performance engineering. The company’s success spanned multiple disciplines, including touring cars, endurance racing, and even Formula 1. TWR’s motorsport division achieved numerous victories and championships, with notable wins at iconic events such as Spa and Bathurst.

But it was racing Jaguar’s where the company really made its name. The collaboration between the two brands resulted in some of the most iconic moments in motorsport history. The XJS, in particular, played a significant role in TWR’s success. The XJS platform provided the foundation for victories in the European Touring Car Championship, the Spa 24 Hours, and the Bathurst race.

A New Era: Fergus Walkinshaw’s Vision

Today, TWR is embarking on a new chapter under the leadership of Fergus Walkinshaw, Tom Walkinshaw’s son. As the Director and Founder of TWR, Fergus is determined to uphold his father’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of performance and engineering in the 21st century. The introduction of the TWR Supercat marks the beginning of this new era. And, if the Supercat is anything to go by, we’re excited to see what other awesome projects the company will bring in the future!

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Exciting news for motorsport fans today; it has been officially confirmed that Nico Hulkenberg will be Audi’s first Formula 1 driver when they enter the sport in 2026. The 36-year-old German, who has been impressing since his return to the grid in 2023, will drive for Sauber in the 2025 season before Audi takes over the team.

Impressive Comeback for Hulkenberg

After three years without a permanent drive, Nico Hulkenberg returned to Formula 1 with Haas in 2023. His performance since then has not gone unnoticed. This recent signing by Audi confirms sets the stage for an exciting partnership between Hulkenberg and the German car manufacturer. It also means that he will displace either Valtteri Bottas or Zhou Guanyu from the Sauber driver line-up for 2025. The 2024 season has only just got underway, but with Lewis Hamilton already confirming he will leave Mercedes for Ferrari, we expect to see several driver changes ahead of the 2025 season.

According to a recent Sky Sports report, Hulkenberg expressed his excitement about the opportunity to compete for Audi in Formula 1. “The prospect of competing for Audi is something very special,” he said. “When a German manufacturer enters Formula One with such determination, it is a unique opportunity. To represent the factory team of such a car brand with a power unit made in Germany is a great honor for me.”

Nico Hülkenberg becomes a driver for the Audi F1 factory team

Praise from Sauber CEO

Andreas Seidl, Sauber’s chief executive, spoke highly of Hulkenberg and his contribution to the team’s transformation. “With his speed, experience, and commitment to teamwork, he will be an important part of the transformation of our team – and of Audi’s F1 project,” Seidl said. “Nico is a strong personality, and his input, on a professional and personal level, will help us to make progress both in the development of the car and in building up the team.”

Hulkenberg’s Impressive Resume

Throughout his career, Hulkenberg has driven for various teams, including Williams, Force India, Renault, Racing Point, and Aston Martin. He previously had a one-season stint with Sauber in 2013 before moving on to other teams. His experience and expertise make him a valuable asset for Audi’s entry into Formula 1.

Motorsport fans all over the world will undoubtedly be eagerly awaiting Audi’s debut in Formula 1 in 2026 with Nico Hulkenberg at the wheel. The partnership between Hulkenberg and Sauber, leading up to Audi’s takeover, will be an exciting glimpse of what we can expect to see in the coming years.

The post Nico Hulkenberg Confirmed as Audi F1 Driver for 2026 Season appeared first on Fast Car.

Grant Butler is a true Ford enthusiast. He has curated a collection of stunning modified Fords that will leave any car enthusiast in awe. From classic models to high-performance beasts, his collection showcases the best that Ford has to offer. We’ve even featured a few on FastCar.co.uk in the past. But now we’re back, and this time we’ve been invited to lift the lid on his entire fast Ford collection! Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout cars in the lineup…

Iconic Ford Escort RS Cosworth

Grant’s collection includes not one, but two Ford Escort RS Cosworths. One heavily  modified, and one in factory original spec means Grant has the best of both worlds. These iconic fast Fords are highly sought after among Ford enthusiasts, and Grant has taken the performance of his tuned Escort Cossie to the next level. With a ground-up restoration and custom modifications, it not only look incredible but also pack a punch under the bonnet. The interior has been completely transformed with a full retrim using premium leather and custom designs – including a leather-clad dash. The power output has been boosted to an impressive 400+ horsepower, making it a force to be reckoned with on the road and one of Grant’s personal favourites of his entire Ford collection!

Ford Sierra RS Cosworth – Where It All Began

To truly appreciate Grant’s passion for modified Fords, we need to take a trip back in time to the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth. These cars hold a special place in Grant’s heart, as they sparked his love for modified cars from a young age. With their powerful engines and sleek designs, the Sierra Cosworths are the epitome of ’90s cool. Grant’s collection includes a three-door Sierra RS Cosworth and a later 4×4 Sapphire Cosworth, both of which have been tastefully modified to enhance their performance and aesthetics. Oh, and he’s on the hunt for a rear-wheel-drive Sapphire Cosworth to complete the trilogy, naturally!

The Most Powerful Ford Focus RS in the UK

Amidst the collection of classic Fords, there is one modern machine that stands out – Grant’s Ford Focus RS. We’ve featured this car on the site before, so be sure to click the link to read full story on this truly remarkable fast Ford.

Nicknamed Blaze, this car holds a special place in Grant’s heart as his pride and joy. With over 1,000 horsepower under the hood, this Focus RS is a true beast. And it’s fully road legal! Grant has not held back when it comes to customization, with a full custom paint job, unique body mods, and a meticulously crafted interior – something of a signature upgrade for Grant. This car has become an iconic symbol of Grant’s dedication to pushing the limits of performance, and is perhaps the car is best known for in the Ford community.

Unique Ford Mondeo

While much of Grant’s collection consists of performance-oriented Fords, he also likes to have a daily driver that stands out from the crowd. Based on the top-spec Titanium X model with added Sports pack Grant’s Mondeo is an ideal daily driver for any Ford fan. But Grant’s Mk4 Mondeo has received a unique makeover, featuring a striking wrap and custom wheels that set it apart from the rest. While this car may not have the same power as some of the other fast Fords in his collection, it demonstrates Grant’s creativity and ability to turn an ordinary car into something extraordinary.

RS Turbo Rep: A Sleeper with a Twist

Grant’s Escort RS Turbo replica has a soft spot in his heart, but that doesn’t mean he’s going to leave it alone. Far from it. Grant has big plans for this car! While it’s not a genuine Series 1 RS Turbo, Grant’s mint green replica is based on a tidy XR3i and already boasts genuine Series 1 RS Turbo parts, from the bonnet and bodykit, through interior and down to the CVH Turbo engine. But that’s not staying. This one is a long-term project for Grant, and he plans to take this sleeper to another level by installing a full Mk2 Focus ST 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine and six-speed gearbox to his featherweight Mk3 Escort!. By combining the reliable and powerful Focus ST engine with the timeless charm of the Escort body, this project promises to be irresistible! We can’t wait to see it completed!

Focus RS – Mean Green Track Machine

Grant has yet another modified Ford Focus RS in his impressive Ford collection. It’s yet another magazine front cover star. And yet again, this car has undergone a significant transformation to become a unique and eye-catching machine. Grant intended Blaze, the 1000bhp monster, to be a show car. Therefore, he built Shadow – named for its once stealthy shade and because it lived in Blaze’s shadow – so that he could have something to use on track too.

The car underwent changes such as new bumpers, body modifications, custom interior, suspension and brake upgrades, a full wrap in matt grey and more. The result was a truly one-of-a-kind machine that stands out from the crowd. But things never stay the same for long in Grant’s hands. An unfortunate accident while unloading it from a trailer one day forced Grant to rethink his plans. Rather than restoring the car to its original look, he opted for something entirely different and the bright green re-wrap was the result.

Driving his Ford Collection!

What sets Grant’s collection apart is not just the impressive array of modified Fords, but also his commitment to actually driving these cars. He believes that people should enjoy their cars and not just preserve them for show.. Grant takes every opportunity to get behind the wheel of his cars and experience the thrill of watching the boost gauge climb and the rev counter bounce of the limiter. His passion for driving is at the core of his Ford collection and is a passion that resonates with car enthusiasts everywhere, including us!

See these Cars at Ford Fair and Ford Fest 2024

You can see Grant and some of his stunning fast Fords at two epic shows in 2024; Ford Fair and Ford Fest. Click the links to find out more about each event and don’t forget to book your tickets today! See you there!

The post The Best Ford Collection in the UK? appeared first on Fast Car.

The Best of the Breed: Mk4 Focus ST

The Ford Focus has been a staple in the world of car tuning for 25 years, but its days are sadly numbered. With the switch to electric vehicles looming, the Focus is expected to cease production in 2025. However, before it bids farewell, the Mk4 Focus ST has emerged as the ultimate incarnation of this beloved model. While its styling may lack the overt sportiness of its predecessors, the Mk4 delivers in terms of technology, driving experience, and build quality. It’s a grown-up hot hatch that doesn’t scream for attention but still packs a punch. And with an already thriving aftermarket scene, there are plenty of upgrades available to tune your ST to the next level.

Unleashing the Power: Tuning the Mk4 Ford Focus ST EcoBoost Engine

The Mk4 ST shares its 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine with the previous generation Focus RS but with some noteworthy improvements. Notably, the ST’s EcoBoost has proven to be more robust and reliable. A simple first-stage remap can bring the power up to 325bhp with 50bhp gains at 5400rpm. Tuning specialists like Mountune, Collins Performance, Revo, Dreamscience, Motorsport Developments, and Laird Performance all offer similar software upgrades, giving you the performance to rival even modified RS models.

Hardware upgrades such as intercoolers, cold air intake kits, and cat-back exhaust systems further enhance engine tuning. To unlock next-level performance, a sports catalytic convertor and sport gasoline particulate filter (GPF) are recommended.

Tuners like Mountune and Revo offer packages that push the power output to a staggering 360bhp to 405bhp and torque to 413lb.ft to 435lb.ft. In terms of cost, a first-stage remap and panel filter upgrade can range from £500 to £800. Hardware upgrades such as intercoolers and exhaust systems can range from £700 to £1500, depending on the brand and specifications. It’s important to note that these costs do not include installation or labour fees, which may vary depending on the tuning shop or specialist undertaking the work.

Transmission Upgrades

The stock six-speed manual transmission on the Mk4 ST is robust and handles increased power and torque well. However, companies like Helix offer clutch upgrades to handle even more torque for those seeking serious performance. Adding a well-weighted short-shift kit improves gear changes and is a worthwhile addition to any ST.

Ford Focus ST Mk4 Suspension Tuning

When it comes to suspension upgrades, the stock electronically controlled damping system of the Mk4 ST works well for most enthusiasts. However, for those seeking fine-tuned suspension settings or regular track use, investing in a set of coilovers is highly recommended.
Coilovers allow for precise adjustments in ride height, damping, and stiffness. Prices for coilover kits typically range from £1000 to £2000-plus, depending on the brand and specifications. Ford Performance coilovers (manufactured by KW) are also available through Ford dealerships. It’s worth noting that upgrading to coilovers will require an electronic damper delete module, which adds approximately £200 to the cost. For a more budget-friendly option, pairing lowering springs with the stock dampers can provide a noticeable improvement in handling without the need for more extensive modifications.

Stopping Power

When it comes to braking performance, the stock 330mm discs and twin-piston calipers are more than capable for most driving situations. Upgrading to performance pads and discs, along with braided lines for improved pedal feel, enhances their capabilities in fast road and occasional track sessions.
However, for spirited driving or track use, upgrading to a big brake kit can provide enhanced stopping power and fade resistance. EBC Brakes offers a two-piece fully-floating disc kit with four-pot calipers for £1370, while Revo’s Mono6 upgrade includes a massive 380mm disc and six-pot calipers for £2385. It’s worth noting that upgrading the brakes also involves replacing brake fluid, fitting braided lines, and potentially upgrading the rear pads, which can add to the overall cost.

Enhancing the Look

The Mk4 may still be in its early days, but there are already plenty of bolt-on aesthetic upgrades available to give your ST a more aggressive appearance. From splitters and low line kits to spoiler extensions and vinyl wrapping, there are options to suit every owner’s taste and preference. These bolt-on modifications can add a touch of aggression and individuality to the stock ST without compromising its daily drivability or practicality.
It’s worth mentioning that more radical modifications like wide-arch kits are also available for those looking to create a truly unique show car. However, it’s important to note that these modifications may require significant additional investment and potential compromises in terms of practicality and usability.

Wheels and Tyres

The performance-oriented ST Edition comes equipped with lightweight 19-inch alloys, reducing unsprung weight by 10% at each corner compared to the stock alloys. These can be purchased directly from Ford, albeit in a different finish. Lower offsets like ET42/45 can provide a more aggressive stance, and there are numerous options available in both 19-inch and 20-inch sizes. However, it’s important to consider the trade-off between aesthetics and ride comfort. For track enthusiasts, dropping down to 18-inch wheels can improve handling and offer a wider selection of track-focused tyres. When it comes to choosing tyres, it’s crucial to invest in trusted, well-known brands for optimal performance and safety.

Personalizing the Interior

The interior of the Mk4 Focus ST already exudes a premium feel, with a level of build quality that rivals its German competitors. While there may not be much need for performance-oriented interior modifications, personalizing the cabin is all about individual taste. Upgrades such as aftermarket shift knobs, pedals, and interior trim can add a touch of personal flair to your ST.

Ford Focus ST Mk4 Tuning Guide

The Mk4 Ford Focus ST is the pinnacle of the Focus lineage, offering a balance of power, refinement, and practicality. With a robust tuning scene and plenty of aftermarket support, taking your ST to the next level has never been easier. From remaps and hardware upgrades to suspension tuning and aesthetic enhancements, there are endless possibilities for getting the most out of your Mk4 ST. So why settle for the ordinary when you can transform your car into something truly extraordinary? Embrace the world of tuning, and let your Mk4 ST shine on both the road and the track.

Like this? Check out more Ford Focus ST Mk4 content from Fast Car

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If you’re smart with your upgrades, modifying a car can be more affordable than you might imagine. To prove it, we’ve compiled a list of as many budget car mods we could think of that cost less than 100 quid. Most of them cost much less than half that, and some are even totally free!

However, this list of budget car mods does come with a word of warning. Not all of them will work on your car. And it isn’t a case of the more of these you can throw at it the merrier.

But a careful selection of a few choice upgrades from our list will see your car looking or performing better than before. So, let’s take a closer look at the best DIY budget car mods you can do today!

Budget car mods under $10/£10

1 – De-Badging

There are a number of reasons why you might want to de-badge your car. Maybe your badges have discolored or delaminated over time and their crummy appearance is letting the car down. Maybe you don’t want everyone to know that you’re driving a 1.1 or a Popular Plus. And the number one reason that most people do it (for the same reason that they like to remove their rear wipers) is that it cleans up the lines of the car. Everyone likes a smooth rear end, right?

It’s a piece of cake to do, too. All you need is a hair-dryer and some fishing wire: heat the badge up so the glue softens, then slowly and gently drag the wire behind it to separate it from the car. Then all you’ve got to do is remove any residue with some adhesive remover.

2 – Tow Strap

It is designed as a recovery aid for track cars, so tow straps have become a common upgrade on street cars too – mainly because they look cool.

3 – Remove Weight

Lighter cars are faster cars. Fact. So bin anything you don’t need for a free performance boost. Improving your power-to-weight ratio will make better use of your car’s power, and reducing weight is easy. You can start by removing all the junk in your boot that you don’t need to be carrying about, emptying out the glovebox and cubbyholes, and then think about what else you don’t need.

Ever carry passengers in the back? If not, the rear seats can go. Don’t mind a bit of noise? All that heavy sound deadening can go in the bin. Your stereo system along with its speakers and all the wiring can weigh a surprising amount. And maybe skip that second round of toast at breakfast time. It all adds up.

4 – Gloss Black Plastics

Your plastics have a habit of fading over time. Don’t take it personally, that’s just how plastic behaves. Exposure to the sun’s UV rays over the years causes it to discolor, and this is particularly noticeable when you’ve just cleaned the car and the rest of it’s looking all shiny.

Thankfully, there’s a raft of plastic resto options available, and they all work in essentially the same way: first of all you wash the trim/bumpers/etc. to ensure it’s totally clean, then wait for it to be completely dry. Then you apply the trim restorer, massaging it thoroughly in to allow it to penetrate. Once it’s dry, you then just give it a wipe to remove any excess, and bish bash bosh – your cruddy grey trim is now a pleasing glossy black.

5 – Battery Tie Down

Ditch the horrible standard battery tie-down for a shiny aluminum alternative.

Cost: from £10

6 – Crackle Paint

Not as common as it once was, but crackle/wrinkle paint finishes can transform the look of an engine bay.
Cost: from £6

Budget car mods under $25/£25

7 – Stereo

A decent headunit with loads of connectivity can be had within budget, perfect for hooking your iPhone up to older models.
Cost: from £25

8 – Headlamp restoration

As cars age, it’s pretty common for their headlamps to go milky and cloudy and start to look a bit rubbish. Not only does this ruin the look of the front end of your car, but if it gets bad enough then it can be an MOT issue too. But fear not, it’s actually pretty easy to remedy, and just takes a bit of elbow grease!

Now, internet old wives’ tales will tell you that you can fix it with a bit of toothpaste, and you’re very welcome to give that a go, but there’s also a whole bunch of products on the market specifically designed to restore your headlights and get them gleaming and crystal clear again. The usual suspects such as Meguiar’s, Autoglym, Holts, ArmorAll and Turtle Wax have some great kits on offer – and you’ll be surprised at the difference it’ll make to your car’s look overall. If you want to know more, check out our full headlight restoration guide!

9 – Black Eye Headlights

Prize the lens apart and spray the insides black for an upgrade to an OEM-plus look. All it takes is a rattle can and a spare afternoon.

Cost: from £11

10 – Steering wheel refurb

Don’t want an aftermarket wheel, but wish yours was better. Refurb it using a dedicated repair kit.
Cost: £25

11 – Cold Air Feeds

Colder air is better for your engine and your brakes – get it in there!

It’s super easy to create cold air feeds to your brakes – get some flexible ducting pipework, fix one end somewhere that it’ll be getting plenty of airflow (a front lower grille, for instance), and route it so that the other end feeds to the brakes. Make sure it’s all safely and securely affixed, and won’t be getting in the way of any moving parts, and hey presto!

Cost: from £15

12 – Leather Refurb

A quick touch-up and your seats can look like they’re brand new again. If you need it, we’ve got a full guide to cleaning car seats too.

Costs: from £17

13 – Number Plates

Not tacky fonts and 3D lettering, or illegal styles, but custom plates can look quite good. Maybe consider some tasteful pressed aluminum plates? As long as they’re showing the legal font size, spacing, colors and reflectiveness and are acquired from a proper supplier, they’re totally legit and look great.

Costs: from £20

14 – Rim Protectors

Cheap, easy to apply, looks cool (to some people), and could save your precious alloys from a grizzly kerb strike – what’s not to like?

Cost: from £25

15 – Headlight Bulb Upgrade

Switch to some decent bulbs (HID conversion kits are even within budget) for improved night driving. To learn more, check out this guide.

Cost: from £20

16 – Heat Shielding/Heat Wrap

Keep your under-bonnet temperatures under control with some heat shielding or heat wrap.
Cost: from £14

17 – Camber Bolts

Sort your alignment with some camber correction bolts.
Cost: £20

18 – Fire Extinguisher

Nobody wants to think about it, but a handheld fire extinguisher can save your pride and joy should the worst happen. Get one in the car!
Cost: from £16

19 – Bonnet Struts

Fed up with having a bonnet stay? Convert to gas struts, there are kits available for most models.
Cost: from £15

20 – Engine Protection

Additives like Liqui Moly’s Ceratec provide extra protection for the insides of your engine.
Cost: £18

21 – Wheel Nuts

Nice new wheels, and rusty old wheel nuts? Sort it out! New wheel nuts cost as little as £20.
Cost: from £20

22 – Caliper Refurb kit

Refresh your stopping power with a DIY refurb kit for your calipers.
Cost: from £20

23 – Locking wheel nuts

If you’ve grown attached to your alloys, you’ll want to keep them on your car. New lockers can be picked up for £35.
Cost: from £35

24 – Boost Gauge

Who doesn’t want to watch the little red dancing around as you accelerate? All turbo cars need a boost gauge.
Cost: from £15

Budget car mods under $50/£50

25 – Steering Wheel

Aftermarket steering wheels can be had on a budget these days and improve both the looks of the interior and the feel when driving. Safety is key here, so do your research.
Cost: From £45

26 – Cleaning Kits

It sounds simple but a clean car looks better than a dirty one. Invest in some decent cleaning gear and get your Ford looking its best.
Cost: from £28

27 – Panel Filter

This has got to be the single easiest power mod it’s possible to carry out, and it does have measurable gains too. It’s a no-brainer. See, if you think of your car’s engine essentially being a big air pump (or better yet, a set of lungs), the fundamental way it works relies on you cramming a load of clean air into one end, then efficiently extracting it all from the other once it’s all dirty. And if you want to improve your car’s breathing but don’t have the ready cash to shell out on an induction kit with a great big cone, then a drop-in air filter upgrade is the next best thing.

All the big-name specialists have something to offer, from K&N and Pipercross to Ramair and beyond; they’re surprisingly affordable, and all you need to do is open up the car’s air box, take out the standard filter, and slot in your new freer-flowing one. Easy-peasy.

Cost: from £30

28 – Strut Braces

Flexing is all well and good in the club, but you don’t want to be doing that too much on a B-road. And flex is a characteristic inherent to any car, that’s just physics. Imagine twisting the opposite corners of the lid of a tub of margarine – that’s what you car’s trying to do every time you go around a corner. But don’t worry, there are things you can do to mitigate this, and a strut brace is an excellent starting point.

This is essentially a rigid bar that you bolt to your suspension strut towers to tie them together, which will significantly improve axle rigidity. And once you’ve got one going across your front struts, there’s a whole world of additional braces to consider, from lower subframe and under-body braces to K-braces for the back end.

Cost: from £50

28 – Speaker Upgrade

Upgrading your car’s speakers is one of those age-old mods we’ve been doing from time immemorial, and it’s always a good idea (unless you’ve got a fancy-pants Bentley with a factory Naim system or something). And we’re not just talking about loudness here, but quality: OEM speakers are generally specified to a budget, and it’ll make a big difference to swap in some quality replacements from an audio name you’ve heard of.

It can sometimes take a few brave pills to unclip all of your trim and hope it’ll all go back together again, but as long as you take your time and take it easy, you’ll be on to a winner. Look, we’ve even got a whole guide on how to fit car speakers to help you on your way.

Cost: from £50

29 – HT Leads

Improve reliability and add some color to the engine bay at the same time.

Cost: from £40

31 – Flocking

Flocked interior pieces give your car a real motorsport vibe as well as reducing glare and looking a million times better than tacky plastics. Prices for full dashes start outside our budget (from around £130), but smaller trim pieces can be flocked for a lot less.

Cost: from £30

32 – Poly Bushes

You won’t get a full set of bushes for £99, but you will pick up specific kits within budget and be able to replace your worn ones with performance upgrades. Be sure to check out our suspension bushes guide!

Cost: from £30

33 – Caliper Paint

This a quick and easy way to spruce up your brakes – just don’t stick Brembo decals on them after you’ve painted them!

Cost: £28

34 – Silicone Hoses

Full kits will be out of budget, but an induction hose will add some color to the engine bay and improve reliability.

Cost: from £40

35 – Hydro dipping

Water transfer printing, or hydro dipping, can give some cool effects and works on pretty much anything that can be painted.

Cost: from £50

36 – Brake Pads

Performance pads can be had within budget and will make a noticeable difference behind the wheel. Here’s how to fit them.

Cost: from £50

37 – Gearbox Mount

Lower torque mounts or gearbox mounts are prone to failure, replace them with a polyurethane upgrade.

Cost: from £30

38 – Quick Shift Kit

Sharper gear changes for a more spirited driving experience.

Cost: from £50

39 – Wheel Spacers

Wheel spacers used to have a bit of a bad reputation, back in the era when it was just a case of bolting a dumb lump of metal between the hub and the wheel. But technology’s moved on a bit, and today’s aftermarket offers all manner of high-quality hubcentric spacers. Hubcentric essentially means that they’re machined specifically to fit the wheel exactly as the hub’s locating ring would, so that the car’s weight is being correctly carried by the hub and not by the wheel bolts (which is where the bad rep came from in the first place).

Why fit wheel spacers? Well, because they’ll make your car look cooler – spacing your wheels out a bit helps them to fill out the arches better for a more aesthetically pleasing fitment. And on a more practical level, widening your car’s track can bring handling improvements, and spacing out your wheels can allow extra clearance for big brake kits too. Loads of benefits!

Cost: from £30

40 – Remote Oil Filter

Make regular filter changes easier by relocating the oil filter to make it more accessible.

Cost: £40

41 – Oil Breather Kit

A decent oil breather kit will help both engine performance and reliability, so get one fitted.

Cost: from £30

Budget car mods under $100/£100

42 – Lowering Springs

Don’t cut your springs with a grinder! Especially when proper lowering springs can be had on a budget. Exact prices depend on the brand and car in question, but kits are available for less than £99.

Cost: from £80

43 – Rust Protection

Don’t let the winter weather eat your car. Get underneath and give it a liberal coating of rust protection to keep the dreaded tin worm at bay.

Cost: From £70

44 – Geometry Setup

Technically not a modification, but a geometry setup will transform how your car feels on the road.

Cost: from £80

45 – Brake Lines

Any brake upgrade is worthwhile but braided lines are particularly cheap and easy to install offering instant benefits.

Costs: from £75

46 – Tinted Windows

Done professionally tinted windows can enhance your car’s appearance – just don’t be tempted to try it yourself as it’ll look whack! You won’t get all the glass tinted for £99, but you should be able to get the rears done.

Cost: from £99

47 – Wheel Refurb

A set of four will be out of budget, but you can get that one dodgy wheel repaired and ready for show season again. You could also check out our alloy wheel refurbishment guide to learn how to do it yourself!

Costs: from £80

48 – Rolling Road Health Check

It is not a modification but a worthwhile investment to ensure everything works as it should. Basic dyno tests are within budget.

Cost: from £75

49 – Oil Cooler

Add a decent oil cooler to help everything under control, particularly useful for track cars.

Cost: from £80

50 – Adjustable Fuel Pressure Regulator

Handy for making tuning tweaks, an adjustable fuel pressure regulator is a direct replacement for the stock part.

Cost: from £90

Well, we’ve come to the end of our not-so-shortlist detailing the best low-budget mods you can do, but what if you haven’t even settled on which car to use as the basis of your project yet? Well, if that’s the case, fear not – we’re here to help. Check out our guide to the best affordable beginner project cars you can buy right now on the used market. There’s bound to be something there that gets the creative juices flowing in that brain of yours!

Words by Jamie King & Dan Bevis

The post Best DIY Budget Car Mods appeared first on Fast Car.

What is LSPI (Low Speed Pre-Ignition)?

Let’s start by understanding what LSPI really is. LSPI (low speed pre ignition) is a form of abnormal combustion that can occur in turbocharged, direct-injection gasoline engines. It’s when the fuel mixture ignites before the spark plug fires, leading to excessively high cylinder pressures and potentially catastrophic engine damage. This issue tends to arise at low engine speeds and high loads and can destroy an engine with little or no warning. That’s why it’s crucial to know about it and so all we can to prevent it.

What causes LSPI?

While LSPI can have multiple contributing factors, there are a few primary culprits to watch out for. First, the quality of the fuel can play a crucial role. Fuel with a high concentration of low-volatility components, such as certain additives or contaminants, can promote LSPI. Specific engine operating conditions, including low engine speeds, high loads, and advanced ignition timing, can significantly increase the likelihood of LSPI occurrences.

The Origins of LSPI

You may think that LSPI is a recent phenomenon, but the phrase LSPI was coined way back in the early 2010s. The problem came to light when manufacturers began developing smaller capacity engines and incorporated turbochargers and direct fuel injection systems. While this technology helped meet emissions regulations and fuel efficiency goals, their use inadvertently introduced the challenge of LSPI.

This abnormal combustion event happens when the fuel mixture ignites prematurely, causing elevated cylinder pressures, engine knocking, piston damage, and other forms of internal engine harm. LSPI can technically happen in any engine but tends to be most prevalent in engines with smaller displacement, high torque mapping strategies, and direct injection systems. No wonder, then, Ford’s EcoBoost engines have been known to suffer from the LSPI issue.

Why LSPI Matters

The risks associated with LSPI are no joke. They range from catastrophic engine failure to internal damage that compromises performance and leads to expensive repairs. When LSPI occurs, the heightened cylinder pressures wreak havoc, potentially resulting in broken pistons, bent rods, and damaged cylinder walls. And it’s an issue that can occur at any state of tune. Don’t think it only happens if you’ve remapped your ECU, plenty of standard engines have experienced failures thanks to LSPI too.

Why Ford EcoBoost Engines Are Prone to LSPI

Ford EcoBoost engines have gained a reputation for their power and efficiency, but they do carry a higher vulnerability to LSPI due to their specific design and features. Here’s why:

Direct Injection:

Ford EcoBoost engines utilise gasoline direct fuel injection (GDI) which introduces higher pressure levels to the combustion chamber, hence enhancing the risk of LSPI occurrence.

Turbocharging:

The turbochargers in EcoBoost engines result in higher cylinder pressures, further increasing the chances of LSPI events.

Smaller Displacement and High Torque:

EcoBoost engines typically have smaller displacements but generate high power outputs and produce high levels of torque. The torque strategies mean these engines produce peak torque from as low as 2000-2750rpm, and that amplifies the LSPI risk.

Ford has taken measures to reduce the LSPI risk in their EcoBoost engines by modifying engine oil specifications and adjusting engine management systems, and it seems to be less of a concern for modern models than it is for previous-generation fast Ford owners. Nevertheless, EcoBoost engine owners should always follow recommended maintenance practices and use high-quality fuel and engine oil to further safeguard against LSPI.

How can Liqui Moly engine oil affect LSPI?

Engine oil plays a crucial role in LSPI. The composition and quality of the oil can have a huge impact on LSPI events. Aside from the obvious viscosity considerations for engine oil, in today’s engines, what’s in an oil’s additive pack is equally important, if not more so.

Oil Present At The Point of Combustion

We know that the fuel mixture combusting uncontrollably causes LSPI. While we don’t always know what causes LSPI to occur, studies have shown that the composition of the engine oil can increase the probability of LSPI events.

We also need to consider that it’s not just fuel and air in the combustion chamber – there will inevitably be some oil in there too. Whether it comes in from the top end past the valve stems, is introduced with the air via a PCV system, or clings to the cylinder walls and makes its way past the piston rings, there will be oil present at the point of combustion.

Passing the LSPI test

The API (American Petroleum Institute) has created a specific test for engine oils concerning LSPI. For an oil to achieve the API S/N Plus label, it must pass these tests.

That means the composition of the oil has to be carefully considered. Specifically, the detergents used in the additive packs can have a huge effect. Liqui Moly found that calcium-based detergents could contribute to LSPI events, so switched to magnesium-based detergents for oils aimed at direct-injection engines, and therefore pass the API S/N test.

Can Liqui Moly Products Prevent LSPI Issues?

We’ve already looked at how an oil’s composition can impact the probability of LSPI events. Liqui Moly offers a range of engine oils that meet the API S/N standard and are therefore certified to reduce the risk of LSPI.

In addition, Liqui Moly also offers a selection of additives that can contribute to a reduction in the likelihood of LSPI occurring.

Aside from oil composition, another leading contributing factor to LSPI events is the cleanliness of the engine’s internals. Excessive carbon deposits within the combustion chamber provide potential hotspots and possible sources for pre-ignition, and therefore are probable causes of an LSPI event.

Liqui Moly’s DFI Cleaner and Pro-Line Direct Injection Cleaner additives are designed specifically to address this. Using polyetheramine technology, these powerful cleaners remove contaminants from the entire fuel system as well as the combustion chambers. The result is a cleaner, more efficient engine, and considerably reduced risks of LSPI. Simply pour the can into a full tank of fuel every 4000 miles or so and let the additive do its work.

What else can I do to prevent LSPI?

Another important consideration is the oil’s cleanliness. Oil that is contaminated with dirt, debris, or fuel residues can contribute to LSPI. Regularly changing the engine oil and using high-quality filters will help maintain the cleanliness of the oil and prevent LSPI.

Of course, it is crucial to use oils that meet the specifications recommended by the engine manufacturer. These oils are specifically formulated to provide optimal protection against LSPI for specific engine designs and operating conditions. Using the correct oil ensures that the engine is receiving the necessary additives and properties to combat LSPI effectively.

It is also worth noting that driving habits can influence LSPI occurrence. Aggressive driving,  ‘lugging’ (trying to accelerate when in too high a gear) and rapid acceleration or high-speed driving, can increase the likelihood of LSPI. Being mindful of these factors and adapting your driving style to suit can help minimize the risks of LSPI.

Got a question for Liqui Moly?

The guys and gals at Liqui Moly are passionate about performance, and as official sponsors of Fast Car Entertainment events, you’ll be able to speak them directly at shows throughout 2024. Liqui Moly are attending Japfest, Ford Fair, TRAX, and German Car Festival this year, giving you the perfect opportunity to quiz them about which products are suited to your car.

Book your tickets today!

The post LSPI – What It Is & How To Prevent It appeared first on Fast Car.

In the world of car detailing, snow foam has become a popular choice for enthusiasts looking to elevate their cleaning game. But, is the thick, white blanket of foam really as effective as it seems? To find out, we caught up with Dom Berry at Gtechniq. We delved into the realm of car detailing to debunk common myths and provide insight into this essential detailing product.

The Science Behind Snow Foam

Snow foam serves a crucial purpose in the car detailing process by targeting loose dirt and contaminants on the surface of your vehicle’s paintwork. Applying this pre-wash treatment through a special lance helps to lift off heavy debris such as mud and grime, preparing the car for a more thorough contact wash. By removing these contaminants upfront, we minimizes the risk of swirl marks and scratches during the cleaning process.

Thick foam may look impressive, but does little to aid the cleaning process

Testing Different Snow Foams: Separating Fact from Fiction

In our little comparison, we compared the performance of two different types of snow foams to determine their effectiveness. The first foam we tested was thick and clingy, but it struggled to pull dirt off the car as expected. Dom emphasized the importance of finding a balance – it should have enough cleaning power to effectively remove contaminants without just sitting on the surface.

A good snow foam needs to remove the dirt as it runs off the paintwork

Finding the Right Balance for Optimal Results

Switching to W4 Citrus Foam – a snow foam with enhanced cleaning power – yielded impressive results. This foam efficiently removed dirt and grime, leaving the car’s paintwork clean and ready for the next steps in the detailing process. The key to success lies in choosing a product that strikes the right balance between foam thickness and cleaning effectiveness.

Gtechniq W4 Citrus Foam is designed to deliver maximum cleaning power.

Snow Foam: Quality Over Quantity

In the world of snow foam, thickness doesn’t equate to cleanliness. Opting for a high-quality product that effectively removes contaminants will deliver superior results and help maintain the pristine appearance of your paintwork. Remember, it’s all about finding the sweet spot between foam thickness and cleaning power for optimal performance.

Happy detailing!

The post Snow Foam Myths Debunked appeared first on Fast Car.

Why Choose the Dodo Juice Essential Collection?

In the world of automotive detailing, the name Dodo Juice stands out for excellence and effectiveness. Dodo Juice says the new Essential Collection is not just another car care kit; it’s a meticulously curated selection of detailing products designed to breathe life into your car’s appearance, ensuring it’s ready not only for the show season but for capturing admiration on every journey.

Start with the Ultimate Wash

Embark on your detailing journey with ‘Born to be Mild‘, a 500ml bottle of award-winning shampoo that offers the perfect balance between thorough cleaning and paint care.

Polish and Prep Like a Pro

Advance to the ‘Critical Finish‘ ultra-fine cut polish (500ml), suitable for all paint types. This step ensures your vehicle’s exterior is free of imperfections and primed for protection.

Unmatched Wax/Protection

The collection boasts ‘Shinecraft‘ 30ml hybrid wax and ‘Future Armour‘ 100ml spray sealant for durable protection and unmatched gloss, challenging the efficacy of traditional ceramics.

Effortless Maintenance

Concluding with ‘Mint Condition‘ 500ml detailing spray, this stage ensures your car’s breath-taking shine is easily maintained, preserving its head-turning allure.

Affordable Car Care

Priced at a mere £45 for products valued at over £53, the Dodo Juice Essential Collection also provides exceptional value, saving you £8 on top-tier car care solutions.

How to Make Your Car Stand Out with the Dodo Juice Essential Collection

Intrigued by what Dodo Juice can do for you? Enhancing your car’s looks and paintwork protection has never been easier. Whether it’s showcasing at events, cruising down the highway, or simply enjoying a pristine ride every day, these products are key to achieving and maintaining that new-car radiance and protection against the elements.

For a detailed look into each product and to make this magic kit yours, head over to Dodo Juice. Don’t miss this opportunity to redefine what it means to drive a beautifully maintained vehicle.

The post The Dodo Juice Essential Collection appeared first on Fast Car.

As a car owner, the annual MOT test can be a cause for stress and anxiety. Nobody wants to fail the test and face expensive repairs – or even worse, have their car taken off the road. However, with a little bit of car maintenance and a solid understanding of what to expect, you can increase your chances of passing the test with ease. In this feature, we’ll cover everything you need to know to prepare your car for its annual MOT test. Besides, a lot of these checks should be covered in your routine car maintenance.

What is the MOT Test?

The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an annual safety inspection that all vehicles over three years old in the UK must pass to legally drive on UK roads. During the test, an approved MOT tester will check your car’s safety, emissions, and roadworthiness. If it doesn’t pass, any defects or reasons for the MOT failure must be rectified before the car is legally allowed to be driven on the road again.

How often do I need an MOT?

You must have an MOT test every 12 months for cars over three years old in the UK. It is a legal requirement to have a valid MOT certificate to drive your car on UK roads. You can check when your MOT is due by looking at your previous certificate or using the government website’s free online tool. It’s important to book your MOT in advance to avoid any last-minute stress or inconvenience. You can book your car in for an MOT at any time, but if you can take the test up to one month before the MOT expires, the new certificate will be valid until 12 months after the expiry date. For example, if your MOT expires on June 1, you can take the test at any point in May and (if it passes) your MOT will be valid until 1st June the following year.

However, if you book your car in for an MOT and it fails because of a dangerous defect, the previous MOT immediately expires. Therefore, you will need to pass a new MOT before the car can be legally driven on the road again. So, if your MOT expires on 1st June, and you took the test on May 2 and failed, your MOT would expire there and then and you would not be allowed to continue driving until June 1.

If your car fails but there are no dangerous defects reported (it can have a ‘major defect’), then you can continue driving until the original expiry date. That’s why booking in for an MOT earlier is beneficial, as you have longer to rectify any problems before the old MOT expires and can continue driving your car during that period.

How do I prepare my car for an MOT? 

Before we kick off our MOT checklist, it’s important to remember that regular maintenance of your car will help prevent any unexpected MOT failures. This will help keep you safe on the road. It’s why we always recommend sticking to regular service/maintenance schedules. But there are a few quick, easy MOT checks you can do before having your car tested. These include checking tyre tread depths, inspecting your lights and indicators, and plugging in all the seatbelts to ensure they secure correctly.

It’s also good practice to look at the dipstick and check the engine oil level and make sure there are no warning lights on the dashboard, these are not directly MOT failures, but any issues here are likely to result in a major fault that would cause a car to fail its MOT.

Below is our MOT checklist that you can refer to. These quick MOT checks can be carried out at home with a mate or a family member, to make sure your car is ready to pass its next MOT.

1. Lights and Indicators

Blown and faulty lights are one of the most common reasons for MOT failures in the UK. Check that all lights and indicators are working properly. This includes sidelights, headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, fog lights, indicators, and number plate lights. Replace any blown bulbs. Also, if possible, make sure they are correctly aligned.

2. Brakes

Make sure your car’s brakes are in good working order. Visually inspect the brake pads, discs, and calipers for any signs of wear or damage. Listen for any unusual noises when braking. Take your car for a test drive to check that the brakes are responsive, and that the car doesn’t pull one way or the other when braking.

3. Tyres

Ensure that your car’s tyres meet the minimum legal requirements. This includes the tread depth, which must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. You should also visually inspect the overall condition of the tyres. Make sure that the tyres are inflated to the correct pressures too. Alternatively, you can always pop into a garage for a free tyre check and get them to check everything for you.

4. Steering and Suspension

Look at your car’s steering and suspension for any signs of wear or damage. This includes checking shock absorbers for leaks and cracks in the steering and suspension components. Take your car for a test drive to check that the steering is responsive and there are no unusual noises.

5. Exhaust and Emissions

You can visually inspect your car’s exhaust system to make sure it is in good working order. Check that all fixings are in place, it’s not excessively corroded, it’s not blowing and there are no leaks. The MOT test will use clever equipment to check the exhaust emissions levels and to make sure your car will meet the requirements on test day. It’s a good idea to take it to a garage beforehand for the emissions to be checked ahead of the MOT.

6. Windscreen, Wipers & Washers

Check your car’s windscreen for any cracks or chips. Ensure nothing impairs the driver’s view of the road. Make sure that the windscreen wiper blades are in good working order and that they clear the windscreen effectively. Top up the screen wash too.

7. Number Plates

Last on our MOT checklist are your number plates. Your vehicle registration is important. Unsurprisingly, cracked, damaged, or incompatible font styles will cause an MOT fail. Ensure that your number plates are in good condition, clean and legible. This includes checking that they meet the legal requirements for font size and spacing too.

Frequently asked questions about the MOT

Below, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the MOT, when you need one, whether modifications affect them, and what to expect during the test.

Do I need an MOT to drive my car?

Yes. Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal in the UK and you can be fined up to £1,000. Your car insurance may also be invalidated if you don’t have a valid MOT. It’s important to remember to book your MOT test in advance and ensure that any defects or issues with your car are resolved before the test.

Are there any exceptions or grace periods?

No, not really. There is no grace period, and once your MOT has expired you cannot drive the car again until you have one. The only exception to this is that you are allowed to drive the car to an MOT testing station provided the car has been booked-in in advance. There are no defined mileage limits and traffic officers will allow a reasonable distance to find an MOT test centre of your preference, but you’ll be pushing your luck if you try and say you’re driving from Newcastle to London for an MOT!

What if I’m not going to drive my car, do I still need an MOT?

It depends. If the car is going to be parked on a public highway, then yes it will need to have a valid MOT and be taxed at all times. But if you’re keeping it off-road, you can declare it SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification). This will exempt it from needing an MOT. You can do this online or by post, and it means that you won’t be able to drive the car on public roads until you have a valid MOT and tax. However, you’ll still need to keep your car insured even if it’s declared off-road.

Can Speed Cameras Check For MOT?

Believe it or not, they do. ANPR cameras can check for multiple things while scanning your number plate. One of which is whether or not the vehicle has an MOT. After all, no MOT means no insurance. Both of which are criminal offences. Police cars are also equipped with ANPR, which again will flag a lack of an MOT.

Can I Drive To The MOT Centre Without Tax?

No. It is an offence to drive on any public highway without valid tax in place regardless of the MOT status of the car.

What to Expect During The MOT Test

During the MOT test, an approved tester will carry out a comprehensive inspection of your car to check that it meets the minimum safety and environmental standards. The test takes around 45 minutes to an hour. You can usually sit in the waiting room while the test is carried out. Many test centres also have viewing areas should you wish to watch as your car is inspected.

What Happens if You Fail the MOT Test?

If your car fails the MOT test, the tester will provide you with a list of faults. These will need to be repaired before you can pass the test. You’ll have to get the faults fixed and then take your car for a retest within 10 working days.

What does an MOT advisory note mean?

An MOT advisory note is given when your car has an issue that doesn’t pose an immediate danger but could potentially become a problem in the future. These notes are not considered failures, but it’s important to address them as soon as possible. This will avoid more severe problems down the line. Your MOT tester can provide guidance on how to rectify these issues.

How much does an MOT cost?

The cost of an MOT test varies depending on the type of vehicle you have and where you live. There is a maximum fee set by the government – for a car is £54.85, while for a motorcycle it’s £29.65 – and these can be seen on the Gov.uk website. However, some garages may offer discounts or promotions, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal. Remember that getting your MOT done early can also save you money, as you’ll have plenty of time to address any issues before the test expires.

Will Car Modifications Affect An MOT?

Provided you have fitted modifications to your car that safe and legal, then no, it shouldn’t affect the outcome of your MOT. However, there are some circumstances where it could result in an MOT failure. One example would be extremely cambered wheels. Wheels that poke out further than the bodywork is considered illegal. Same with decat exhaust systems. The removal of the cat would result in an emissions failure.

Now, in theory, you could revert some modifications that would result in a failed MOT, like refitting a catalytic convertor before testing. Remember, though, that when driving on the public road, if a police officer suspects the car to be missing items that would cause it to fail an MOT, specifically decats here, then you can be prosecuted.

If the modifications are deemed to have caused the MOT failure, you will need to revert them.

The post Essential MOT Checklist: How To Pass Your MOT Test appeared first on Fast Car.

One of the main reasons many people fit aftermarket car suspension is to have the ability to adjust the ride height. Simply lowering the ride height does have benefits, but height-adjustable coilovers also give you the ability to alter the way weight is balanced around the car.

Corner weighting, or corner balancing, is the process of equaling the weight distributed across all four wheels. Having the car weighted evenly can lead to substantial handling improvements, and is a brilliant way of maximizing the performance gains offered by aftermarket suspension.

Not only do you benefit from improved handling, but you also achieve more predictability when cornering. With the weight distributed evenly, you’re less likely to oversteer or understeer during cornering, allowing for a more natural grip slip off.

Adjusting coilovers does a lot more than just alter the ride height

Front to back corner weighting

For many applications you will look to achieve equal weight balance between the front and rear axles. In theory, this will lead to better balance between understeer and oversteer. In most road cars, especially front-wheel-drive models, that is not entirely feasible. The majority of the weight is over the front axle due to the engine and gearbox sitting forward of the front axle. But this can play to your advantage, given that the front axle does the steering and puts the power down too.

Managing this front-to-rear split will end up being a balancing act against your car’s front and rear roll stiffness, to achieve your target amount of understeer/oversteer to suit your driving style.

It’s a balancing act that is very personal to both the driver and the car, and you will need plenty of track time, along with lots of trial-and-error, to get it right.

Side to side corner weighting

This front-to-rear split is not the most important factor when corner weighting most cars. More importantly is the side-to-side balance of the car.

An offset side-to-side balance will result in a car that doesn’t corner evenly. Or, one that doesn’t corner as efficiently at is could because you’ve compromised the setup elsewhere to compensate for the imbalance.

From a driving point of view, a car that isn’t equal left-to-right is a car that is unpredictable and much more difficult to drive. As a result, you will struggle to get the most out of it on track. Not only that, but in a launch/start scenario (for race cars), a side-to-side imbalance can lead to the car not setting off in a straight line.

Cross weights

Most scale systems will give a ‘cross weight’ reading. This shows a percentage, representing the proportion of total vehicle weight on a cross-axle diagonal pair – for example, front-right and rear-left, or front-left and rear-right. The target here will always be to keep that cross weight at 50 per cent.

To measure corner weights, you’ll need a set of four scales, one to measure each wheel independently. Motorsport systems are available and usually have four pads connected to a control and display panel.

Before adjusting, it’s important to make the sure car doesn’t have an empty fuel tank or a boot full of junk.

Instead, imagine the car was just about to go out on track – fuel in the tank, driver strapped in the seat, and nothing extra floating around the cabin. It’s also a good idea to make sure the tire pressures are set at what you would be running, and any anti-roll bars should be disconnected to prevent the roll bar affecting the result.

A scale at each corner measures the effect of adjusting the coilovers

Weighing the car and adjusting the ride height

Roll the car onto the scales and allow the numbers to settle and take note of the output.

To reduce the weight on a wheel, lower the ride height on that corner by winding the spring seat down. This is the part of the process that most frequently confuses people, and at first glance it does feel counter-intuitive, as the car will lean more in that direction.

But what you need to remember is that lowering the spring seat is actually decreasing the preload on the spring and shortening the spring and damper assembly.

Conversely, to increase the wheel load you do the opposite and wind the spring seat up. Be wary of adjusting one spring seat too far, though. Make small incremental adjustments and try to balance the adjustment across the cross-axle.

For example, if the rear-left is too light, don’t just wind that coilover up until you see the numbers you want on the scales. Instead, a combination of increasing the rear-left and lowering the front-right will distribute the weight more evenly without having (as many) adverse effects elsewhere.

Adjusting the car’s center of mass

When it comes to handling there’s always a knock-on effect elsewhere, and it’s a balancing act to find the optimal setup. The same is true with corner weighting; adjust the coilovers so there is too much disparity between them, and not only will you ruin the ride height settings, but it could also result in some very unusual and unexpected geometries in the rest of the suspension, which will also cause your wheel alignment to be way out.

If you find you can’t get to the split you want without having to adjust things so far that the ride starts to become affected, try moving some mass around in the car. For example, things like relocating the battery can often help with a car’s balance.

Corner weighting – back on the scales

Before putting the car back on the scales to check your improvements, it’s important to allow the ride height to settle.

Dropping the car back onto its wheels after having been up in the air can result in an artificially high ride height due to something called hysteresis and stiction (yes, that’s the actual engineering term) in the bushes and the joints.

This can usually be resolved just by driving the car up and down the street, over a few bumps, or even just by using your own body weight to bounce the suspension through a few loops to ensure that everything is back to the actual ride height.

At this stage, having adjustable-length drop-links for anti-roll bars would be an advantage. Unevenness in the suspension position can cause the roll bar to fight against all your hard work.

If you can, fit adjustable links and then adjust them so there is no preload in any direction at your static ride height (again, with driver in the car and so on). That will mean the roll bars are only working when you want them to.

Reconnecting the drop-links

Finally, once you have achieved your target front-to-rear split, and maintained the 50 per cent cross-axle weight (without adjusting the ride heights too far from your target), you can reconnect the drop-links and go and have some fun carving up those corners.

Getting to this point takes time and is not easy. Corner-weight scales can also be expensive, so it’s often better to let someone who knows the process well, and has experience in it, to have a go on your car the first-time round.

Once the car is in the right ballpark, though, don’t be afraid to make changes – you’ll be surprised the huge differences even small adjustments can make.

The post The Ultimate Guide To Corner Weighting Your Car appeared first on Fast Car.

If you are an avid car enthusiast, you will likely have heard the terms ‘downpipes’, ‘catalytic converters’, and ‘decats’ when talking about performance exhaust systems, specifically those on modern turbocharged engines. These components may look insignificant, but the truth is they play an essential role in tuning your car’s performance.

Here, we’ll take a closer look at what an exhaust or turbo downpipe is, and how it works with a catalytic converter or decat downpipe to enhance performance. We will also discuss how aftermarket performance downpipes can improve your car’s sound, speed and power output. So, let’s get stuck in…

What Are Exhaust Downpipes and Decats?

Exhaust or turbo downpipes play a crucial role in your vehicle’s exhaust system. They are the connecting pipes that channel the exhaust gases from the turbocharger to the rest of the exhaust system. Downpipes are usually located close to the engine and serve as a bridge between the turbo and the catalytic converter.

On the other hand, decats (also known as catless downpipes) refer to downpipes that have been modified to remove the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter’s primary function is to reduce harmful emissions, but it can also create significant exhaust flow restrictions that hinder performance. Decat pipes offer various benefits, including increased airflow, reduced backpressure, and enhanced engine sound. By removing the catalytic converter, decats provide increased exhaust gas flow and allow for performance gains.

The Benefits of Decats and Catless Downpipes

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I consider decats or catless downpipes for my car?” And the answer is “because they offer several performance advantages”. Allow us to explain…

Optimized Exhaust Flow

Decats and catless downpipes optimize exhaust flow, reducing backpressure and turbo lag. The result? Improved turbo spooling and faster throttle response, unleashing your vehicle’s inner beast. When you hit the gas pedal, you’ll feel the surge of power and acceleration, taking your driving experience to a whole new level.

Increased Power Output

With improved exhaust flow, your engine can breathe easier and generate more power. The additional flow means more air can enter the combustion chambers, resulting in better combustion and increased horsepower and torque. This boost in performance is particularly noticeable in turbocharged vehicles, where every extra bit of power counts.

Aggressive Exhaust Note

If you crave that deep, throaty growl and ear-tingling rumble from your exhaust, decats are your ticket to automotive symphony. Catless downpipes remove the catalytic converter, allowing the exhaust gases to flow more freely and creating a more aggressive and attention-grabbing exhaust note. Your car will sound like a boss, turning heads everywhere you go and announcing your presence with authority.

Enhanced Fuel Efficiency

Better MPG! Really? Yes, contrary to popular belief, decats can even lead to slight fuel efficiency improvements. How is that possible? The improved exhaust flow and reduced backpressure result in more efficient combustion within the engine. When the engine breathes better, it can burn fuel more effectively, leading to better gas mileage. So, not only will your car be more powerful, but it might also become more fuel-efficient, saving you some money at the pump.

Are Decats and Catless Downpipes Legal?

Decats and catless downpipes are a modification that falls into a legal gray area. While they are popular among car enthusiasts for the performance gains and aggressive exhaust note they provide, it’s important to understand the legal implications before making any modifications to your vehicle.

In most countries, including the United States and many in Europe, the installation of decats or catless downpipes is considered illegal for road use. This is because removing the catalytic converter, which is an essential emissions control device, violates emissions regulations.

Driving a vehicle with decats or catless downpipes on public roads can result in various legal consequences. These may include fines, mandatory vehicle inspections, and even the possibility of your car being impounded. It’s important to research and understand the specific laws and regulations in your area before deciding to install decats or catless downpipes on your vehicle.

However, it’s worth noting that some countries and regions do allow these modifications for off-road or track use only. If you’re an avid racer or plan to use your car solely for non-public road activities, then decats or catless downpipes may be a viable option.

What If I Want The Performance of a Decat But Still Want To Remain Legal For Road Use?

If you’re looking for the performance gains of a decat but still want to remain legal for road use, there are a few options to consider. One option is to look for high-flow catalytic converters (also called sports cats) that offer improved performance while still maintaining emissions compliance. These catalytic converters are designed to flow more freely, allowing for better exhaust gas flow and increased power output.

How Does a Sports Catalytic Converter Work?

A sports catalytic converter operates by utilizing a honeycomb structure coated with precious metals to convert harmful pollutants into less harmful gases. It enhances engine performance and sound through increased airflow and reduced backpressure.

Installing Aftermarket Performance Downpipes and Decats

Installing aftermarket performance downpipes and decats can greatly enhance the performance of a vehicle. These modifications improve exhaust flow, increasing horsepower. There are different types available, compatible with specific vehicles. Consider legal and warranty issues before installation, and follow proper maintenance procedures.

DIY Vs Professional Installation

When it comes to installing exhaust downpipes and decats, professional installation is recommended due to the mechanical know-how and specialized tools required. DIY installation can be cost-effective but risky for those without experience. The choice depends on skill level, budget and complexity. Of course, if you’re

Is There Anything Else I Should Be Aware Of When Installing a Decat?

Before jumping on the decat bandwagon, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, there are legal implications to removing the catalytic converter, depending on your location. Going catless may violate emissions regulations, so it’s crucial to check local laws and regulations before making any modifications.

Secondly, to fully capitalize on the power gains from decats, you may need to remap your car’s ECU. Custom tuning ensures that your engine runs optimally with the increased exhaust flow, maximizing the performance benefits.

Additionally, without the catalytic converter, your vehicle’s oxygen sensors may trigger a Check Engine Light (CEL). To address this issue, consider using a decat pipe with an oxygen sensor spacer. This spacer helps mitigate the CEL problem while still reaping the performance benefits of the decat.

Lastly, for the best results and to avoid any potential issues, it’s recommended to have a qualified mechanic perform the installation. Proper fitment and alignment are critical to prevent leaks and ensure optimal performance of your decats or catless downpipes.

By being aware of these important considerations, you can make an informed decision about installing decats in your vehicle. Responsible modification, paired with professional guidance, will ensure a smooth and rewarding experience with your enhanced exhaust system.

Accessories and Aftermarket Options

When it comes to decats and exhaust downpipes, you’re not limited to one-size-fits-all options. Many manufacturers offer a wide range of aftermarket decats and catless downpipes, catering to various vehicle makes and models. Some even provide decat pipes designed specifically to work seamlessly with your car’s exhaust system.

Remember to invest in quality components made from durable materials like stainless steel or titanium. These materials can withstand the extreme temperatures and harsh conditions encountered in high-performance applications.

Embrace the Power, Embrace the Sound!

So, to all the performance enthusiasts out there, if you’re seeking a way to unlock your car’s true potential, consider upgrading to decats or catless downpipes. The horsepower gains, improved exhaust note, and overall thrill they bring to your driving experience are unmatched.

However, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of researching your local regulations and ensuring proper installation and tuning. Responsible car modification is not only about enjoying the performance but also being mindful of our environmental impact.

Embrace the power, embrace the sound, but do it responsibly. Let your passion for cars drive you to explore new horizons, but always keep safety and legality in mind.

The post Exhaust Downpipes and Decats explained appeared first on Fast Car.

Building on the massive Mk7 Fiesta ST tuning scene, the foundations for improving the performance of the Mk8 ST were already in place long before the car was even launched. As such, numerous fast Ford specialists were quick to get to grips with the upgrades. Today you’re well catered for. Whether it’s just a simple remap or a big-turbo monster you’re after, there are specialists ready to deliver.

Of course, the sweet spot for most enthusiastic owners is somewhere in between those two extremes. The exact mods you opt for will depend ultimately on what you want from the car. Is it a B-road bruiser? A track-day racer? Or a show stunner?

But the good news there are loads of options. Here are just some of the mods we’d recommend for tuning the Mk8 ST.

Tuning the EcoBoost engine

The Mk8 ST’s EcoBoost may have lost 100cc and dropped a cylinder compared to the Mk7, but that hasn’t made it any less tuneable. Or powerful.

Engine remap

Your first step should be a performance remap. Even if you’re keeping the car totally stock elsewhere! A first-stage software upgrade (that requires nothing more than a decent panel filter in the stock airbox) will really bring the ST to life. You’ll enjoy sharper throttle response, better pulling power, and ultimately more horsepower too.

The only caveat is to choose a calibration from a reputable company. Do your homework and choose one of the many respected Ford tuners in the scene, and you’ll enjoy all the benefits without any compromise. Mountune, Laird Performance, Revo, and Collins Performance all have first-stage software upgrades for the Mk8 ST, with prices ranging from £300 to £600.

That will quench your thirst for power for a while, but those looking to take engine tuning to the next level will start reaching the limits of the factory hardware pretty quickly.

Performance exhaust & air filter

The fundamentals of air filter and exhaust upgrades come next and are well supported by upgrades from the main names in Ford tuning. Mountune offers a very impressive carbon induction kit for £399, but alternatives are also available from as little as £150. The good news is, at this point you don’t need to start worrying about expensive sports cats and sports GPFs, and a decent cat-back system will bring a healthy growl to your ST as well as getting rid of the unwanted gases fast enough not to impede engine tuning.

Sports intercooler

A performance intercooler is next on the list to keep the charge air temps under control (prices range from £310 for the Stage 1 Airtec unit through to nearly £1000 for the massive Pro Alloy upgrade). The Mk8’s 1.5-litre EcoBoost also struggles with restrictive pipework, so a big boost pipe kit, high-flow throttle elbow, and induction hose will all make a notable difference too.

Time for another remap?

Collins says its CP2 software adapts as you add further hardware upgrades so there is no need for further software upgrades at this point, whereas other software is designed to work with hardware upgrades: Mountune’s M260 and Revo’s Stage 2 work best with an induction kit, intercooler, and charge pipe upgrade, while Laird’s Stage 2 software ideally requires an intake, intercooler, sports cat and GPF delete for optimal results.

These fundamental upgrades will take power to around 260-270bhp without any problem, but for more you’ll need to replace the turbo. As with the Mk7 ST, there are several turbo upgrade options for the Mk8 too.

Big turbo upgrades

Mountune has recently released its new hybrid turbo that forms the foundations of the m285 upgrade, while Collins Performance has been working closely with Turbo Technics and the new S285 hybrid turbocharger to offer complete upgrade kits for the Mk8 Fiesta ST. Existing m260 customers can upgrade to the m285 for less than £2000, while the Collins S285 turbo and CP3 software is available for around £1600 outright, or as little as £1050-£1300 if you exchange your old turbo. But, both the m285 and CP3 packages recommend upgrading to forged pistons and con-rods too, so factor this into any budgets.

Hybrid turbo kits take power to around 280-290bhp, which is about the limit for bolt-on upgrades for the Mk8 at present. But with some custom tuning and bit of forward thinking, well into the 300bhp range is easily possible.

Transmission Upgrades

Like the Mk7 ST, the Mk8 seems to handle power increases remarkably well. Even the stock clutch seems happy until you start fitting bigger turbos and chasing 300bhp. Upgrades are available, though, starting at around £300.

One thing you will want to invest in is an upgraded lower torque mount to reduce engine movement and the likelihood of any wheel hop under hard acceleration. Collins Performance offer a CNC machined aluminium stabilizer that’s available with either Powerflex’s yellow (70A) bushes, or the stiffer Purple (80A) bushes for track use, which costs £115. Owners also report more positive gear shifts as a result too.

Finally, a quick shift kit (prices start around £55) is a simple upgrade that makes a positive difference and is something you’ll benefit from every time you drive the car.

Mk8 Fiesta ST Tuning: Suspension

The Fiesta has always been famed for its playful handling, and the Mk8 continues that tradition. But, as ever, the excellent base Ford gave us can be improved upon.

Lowering springs

The first step, and more than enough for most users, is a set of lowering springs. These cost around £150-to-£200 and work with the OE dampers to provide OE levels of comfort but with a meaner stance that offers reduced body roll, better turn-in, and an all-round sharper handling experience. They’re not expensive and make a huge improvement to how the car looks as well as how it drives.

Coilovers

For more serious drivers, or those venturing on track a few times a year, a good set of coilovers might be a better option. Bilstein’s B16 kit and KW’s Variant 3 coilovers are among the best available, and cost around £1600. Ford even fitted adjustable coilovers to the Performance Edition, and ST Edition, which can be retro-fitted and costs about £1800. The compromise in ride quality might not be ideal for all owners, but a good set of coilovers will certainly help see your lap times tumble on track.

A quality set of poly-bushes and chassis stiffening braces take things to the next level before we begin to enter uncompromising, stripped-out race car territory.

Performance Brakes

One area that can be improved without any negative side-effects is the brakes. Start by replacing the OE-spec pads with some quality fast-road upgrades. These can be accompanied by performance discs and brake lines to provide a performance overhaul of the standard stoppers.

But the ultimate in braking means swapping the factory calliper for something more manly. That doesn’t always mean having to go massive though: a decent 330mm brake kit works wonders on the little ST, and Pumaspeed offers a complete bolt-on 330mm/4-pot kit for just over £900.

Upgrading Wheels and Tyres

Wheels are always a game changer, and it’s no different with the latest Fiesta. The stock ST alloys are fantastic, but if you want to make your Mk8 stand out from the crowd then a new set of alloys is the way to do it. If you choose wisely, you can also save yourself a good few kgs over the stock ones and have even more clearance for bigger brakes too.

We’d suggest sticking with 18in rims for a road car, but – as with the Mk7 – track fans may find a smaller 17in or even 16in wheel better for handling on circuit.

The stock wheels are 7.5J with an offset of ET42.5, but you can play around a little an run an 8J rim with a slightly lower offset and fill the arches better – many specialists recommend retaining the 205-section tyre to avoid and clearance issues, although we have seen owners running 215s without any fuss.

Mk8 Fiesta ST Tuning: Exterior

The ST already looks sharp with its sports styling, but those aggressive looks can be beefed up even further with some well-placed subtle upgrades. The ever popular low-line splitter kits work well on the Mk8 to accentuate its sporting credentials, and pair up with lowering springs to give a ground-hugging race car-like stance. There’s plenty to choose from too; Delta Styling, Maxton Designs, and Triple R Composites all have a catalogue of styling parts for the Mk8 ST.

Interior Mods

All Mk8 STs come well-equipped, but of you’ve already got a top-spec ST-3 model, or have the sought-after Track Pack added then you’ve already got an ideal fast road setup that’s practical enough for the odd track day too.

If you do want to personalise things, a set of sporty bucket seats from Corbeau do the trick. You can take things further with rear seat deletes and Airtec Motorsport even does a bolt-in show cage too. Adding a false floor and a cargo net allows you to retain some kind of boot space. Things start to look very OEM-plus – like a kind of Fiesta ST Clubsport; perfect for cruising across to Germany in comfort, setting some blistering laps around the Nürburgring, and then cruising home again.

The post Mk8 Fiesta ST Tuning Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

The Evolution of Rally Cars

The Ford Focus WRC

The Ford Focus WRC made its debut in 1999 and it quickly became a force to be reckoned with. Developed by M-Sport, the official motorsport division of Ford, the Focus WRC showcased cutting-edge technology and engineering prowess. Indeed, it was Ford’s first ‘proper’ WRC car, designed specifically to meet the new regulations after the ageing Escort Cosworth.

Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter Zetec engine, the Focus WRC produced an impressive 300-plus horsepower. Its all-wheel-drive system provided exceptional traction, allowing drivers to tackle various terrains with ease. The multilink rear suspension setup that made the Focus such a great handling car on the road also has its roots in the WRC design. Homologation rules forbid significant changes to suspension mounting points, so the road cars benefited as a result.

Piloted by legends

Under the guidance of legendary drivers like Carlos Sainz and Colin McRae, the Ford Focus WRC made an instant impact. Colin McRae finished 3rd in the car’s first-ever competitive event at Monte Carlo in 1999. He was later disqualified for the infamous water pump homologation debate, but it showed the car’s inherent speed. McRae went on to win the gruelling Safari Rally a few weeks later. And then claimed victory again in Portugal in the same year.

With its powerful engine and advanced suspension system, the Focus WRC became a formidable force on the rally stage. In 2000, McRae and Sainz finished on the podium no fewer than 9 times – doing so together on four occasions! The following year was similar story – with five podiums for both Sainz and McRae. In 2002 (the final year of the iconic Martini livery), the Focus notched up another six podium finishes – three of those being outright victories.

The Ford Fiesta Rally2

Fast forward to the present day, and we have the Ford Fiesta Rally2, the latest iteration of Ford’s rally car line-up. The top-tier WRC category still exists (now called Rally1), and M-Sport enjoyed lots of success with the Mk8 Fiesta, including winning both driver and manufacturer’s titles in 2017, and winning the drivers championship again in 2018. When the rules changed to the current Rally1 specifications that include the use of hybrid technology, M-Sport switched to the Puma.
The Fiesta is still a formidable machine and is the weapon of choice for many competitors in the Rally2 Championship. Unlike Rally1, with its big budgets that only manufacturers can afford to compete in, Rally2 regulations include a price cap to keep costs under control. But think this is a ‘budget’ form of motorsport. It just isn’t. The Fiesta Rally2 still features an improved suspension system, more aggressive aerodynamics, and a refined chassis, resulting in enhanced handling and agility.

Tech Specs

Engine

The Ford Focus WRC has a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, based on the Zetec motor found in road cars. Initially built by Mountune and later by Cosworth, the spec includes a Garrett turbo with a 34mm restrictor. Power is rated at 300bhp at 6500rpm, with peak torque of 550Nm at 4000rpm.

On the other hand, the Ford Fiesta Rally 2 is powered by a modern direct-injection, turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. It uses a smaller 32mm turbo restrictor and delivers around 280 horsepower at 6000rpm and 475 Nm of torque at 4000rpm. While the Fiesta Rally2 has a smaller engine, advancements in turbocharging technology and modern direct fuel injection allow it to generate impressive performance figures.

Both cars feature anti-lag systems to ensure the turbo is always ready to provide boost. The WRC car uses a more complex ‘fresh air’ system, while the Rally2 car uses an electronic throttle body and jacks open the throttle slightly when the system is activated. Both systems do the same thing – they allow combustion to occur in the exhaust to provide maximum energy to keep the turbo spinning. On the WRC’s fresh air system, air is taken from the cold side of the turbo and plumbed directly into the exhaust manifold. Whereas on the Rally2’s system, the extra air has to pass through the intercooler, inlet, and cylinder before it reaches the exhaust where it combusts. The fresh air anti-lag system is what gives rally cars that distinctive chirping noise, too.

Drivetrain

Both the Focus WRC and the Fiesta Rally 2 feature an all-wheel-drive system, providing exceptional traction and stability on various surfaces. Both have sequential gearboxes: a six-speed Xtrac in the Focus and a five-speed Sadev unit in the Fiesta.
However, the Focus WRC utilises a fully active differential system. This allows the ramp angles of the front, rear, and centre differentials to be altered electronically. An ECU controls the settings, providing full tunability of the drivetrain.
Active differentials are incredibly expensive, therefore they have been outlawed for Rally2 specifications. The Fiesta employs mechanical limited-slip differentials, which still provide excellent performance but at a lower cost.

Weight and Aerodynamics

Surprisingly, given their 20-year gap in age and different regulations to comply with, the Focus WRC and the Fiesta Rally2 weigh exactly the same. They both tip the scales at 1230kg.
The Focus competed in a time when the manufacturers wanted the rally cars to closely resemble those on dealer forecourts, and as such the WRC car is the same overall dimensions as the road car.
However, with rules relaxed and more aggressive aerodynamics employed, the Fiesta Rally2 has little in common with its road legal counterpart. The Fiesta Rally2 is a full 50mm wider than the Focus. It’s shorter too (4065mm compared to 4152mm of the Focus), giving a squarer and more stable platform.
And that’s without the aero package. Much more than just a rear wing, the aero kit on the Rally2 car includes wider fenders, redesigned bumpers, and even aerodynamic wing mirrors.
This results in enhanced downforce and reduced drag.

Performance on the Stages

When it comes to comparing the performance of the Ford Focus WRC and the Ford Fiesta Rally 2 on the track, it’s important to consider the changes in regulations and competition. The WRC has seen several rule changes over the past 20 years, affecting everything from engine displacement to aerodynamic modifications.

What we really need is someone who has driven both the Focus WRC and Fiesta Rally 2 in anger. Someone who can offer a direct comparison of what each car feels like when strapped in and belting across the stages. Enter David Wright.

In the hot seat: David Wright

David is a keen and very talented rally driver. But he’s not a works-backed professional racer. He runs a local branch of Fix Auto UK in his home town of Bentham in North Yorkshire. “Owning a bodyshop certainly comes in handy when rallying doesn’t quite to plan,” he laughs.
Having competed at numerous events in an ex-Carlos Sainz Focus WRC (V2 FMC) belonging to a family friend, David has recently acquired a modern Fiesta Rally2 to compete in tarmac rallying events. That makes him perfectly poised to compare these two impressive fast Fords.

David explains: “They are two very different machines. The Focus was designed and built using the very latest technology and active differentials. That makes the car surprisingly easy to drive compared to the Rally2. Coupled with the extra torque from the larger capacity engine, the Focus is a bit more forgiving and is always fast.

“By contrast, you need to get hold of the Fiesta by the scruff of the neck and really throw it around. The mechanical diffs and torque deficit mean you need to be on-song all the time to extract maximum performance,” he continues.

“You can take the Focus across incredibly hostile terrain like the Safari and Acropolis, and you know it’s tough enough to cope. And you can feel that behind the wheel. Whereas the Fiesta isn’t tough enough to survive events like those, on tarmac rallies the Fiesta feels like a go-kart compared to the Focus. It’s so nimble and precise. And the Fiesta Rally2 can easily be as quick, if not faster, than the Focus WRC on the right surface.”

Which is best: Focus WRC vs Fiesta Rally2

While the Focus WRC dominated the WRC during its prime, the Fiesta Rally2 is designed to excel in the Rally2 championship, which features slightly less powerful cars than the top-tier Rally1 cars. But this allows for closer competition and, reiterating David’s comments, puts a greater emphasis on driver skill and strategy.

Both cars offer exhilarating performance, but the Fiesta Rally2 showcases the advances made in rally car design and technology. The Ford Focus WRC and the Ford Fiesta Rally2 represent two different eras in the evolution of rally cars. While the Focus WRC will always hold a special place in rallying history, the Fiesta Rally2 proves that innovation and progress are constant in the world of motorsport.

The value of the WRC car these days means it just isn’t worth the risk of David using it in competition regularly. But rally fans will still get the opportunity to see used in anger at events like Goodwood Festival of Speed. And given his record of winning the rally stage outright, David isn’t one to potter around doing exhibition runs. Oh no, this will be spitting flames and spraying dirt everywhere as onlookers are immediately transported back to the early 2000s and the era of playing Colin McRae Rally on the PlayStation.

To answer the question, ‘Which is best?’ we don’t know. On one hand, you have the technical advances and rawness of the Rally2. On the other, you have powerful nostalgia and a car that was designed with no expense spared.

Which do you think is best?

Photos: Mantis Pro Media

The post Ford Focus WRC vs Ford Fiesta Rally2 appeared first on Fast Car.

When it comes to the best project cars, Ford is a brand with a strong following. From classic muscle cars like the Mustang to modern hot hatches like the Fiesta ST and Focus RS, the mighty Blue Oval offers a wide range of models that make great platforms for project builds and are always ripe for a spot of tuning or modification.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced car enthusiast, or if you’re looking to create an immaculate showpiece or a purposeful motorsport machine (or anything in between), there’s a Ford project car out there for you. In this feature, we’ll explore some of the best Ford project cars currently available.

Why Choose a Ford as Your Next Project Car?

Ford is one of the biggest names when it comes to aftermarket and performance tuning. With enormous potential coupled with a huge and supportive following, Ford project cars are perfect for beginners to seasoned resto veterans.

With a rich history of factory-tuned examples including true icons such as the Cosworth-badged Sierras and Escorts, and the Shelby-tuned Mustangs, it’s little wonder there’s a massive following of Ford fans who enjoy taking a once-humdrum everyday car and turning it into something really special.

Choosing a Ford as your project car will often provide an iconic and timeless vehicle, and it always guarantees huge smiles! So, let’s look at what we consider to be the very best Ford project cars.

Sierra, Sapphire & Escort RS Cosworth – The Legends

If you want a true fast Ford icon, then you won’t get any better than a Cosworth. And it doesn’t really matter which one – they all pack motorsport pedigree and are all insane amounts of fun to drive!

While the famous whale tail spoiler is instantly recognisable around the globe, it is that formidable turbocharged 2.0-litre YB engine that sets the Cossie apart.

In stock trim, it produces 200-220bhp, but over 800bhp is not all that difficult to extract. For most, a solid 400-500bhp is considered the sweet spot for a road car.

But all this power and kudos comes at a price. And the price is, err, the price! Gone are the days when you could pick up a useable Cossie for £3k and today you’ll need to allow somewhere near that just in annual running costs and maintenance/repairs. These days you’ll be looking at five figures to get into a semi-decent project, but you’ll have one of the fastest and most iconic Fords ever built.

Pros: Easy to tune, iconic status, motorsport pedigree

Cons: Cosworth tax! Parts don’t come cheap.

Mk6 Fiesta ST – Performance on a Budget

The Mk6 Fiesta ST is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a piece of fast Ford fun, but on a budget. The torquey 2.0-litre Duratec gives the Mk7 ST a distinctly old-school vibe these days It’s the classic recipe of oversized engine in an undersized car – much like the original fast Fiestas, the Mk1 and Mk2 XR2.

Being naturally aspirated means the Mk6 ST responds well to old-school engineering mods:  exhaust and air filter are a must, and a set of lairy cams really work well too. That’s enough to see around 180-190bhp, and with a better inlet manifold, you can break the 200bhp barrier.

But if you want to take things further, you can literally bolt on significant power hikes in the shape of a supercharger or turbocharger conversion. We’ve seen supercharged cars kicking out well over 330bhp, and turbo’d STs producing closer to 500bhp!

Perhaps the best bit, though, is how tough the Mk6 ST is. It just laps up the abuse, and almost teases you in giving it some more. It’s the perfect track car for beginners.

With an excellent chassis and a raft of well-respected tuners to support the model, the Mk6 Fiesta ST can be whatever you want it to be. We’ve seen stanced-out show cars, drag cars, and plenty of pukka race cars. But for us, the Mk6 Fiesta is best served as a B-road bruiser; the nimble chassis and linear power delivery make for an exhilarating drive, every time.

Pros: Affordable, excellent handling

Cons: Finding a good one is getting harder, 200bhp-plus costs big bucks

Fiesta ST Mk7 – The Perfect Hot Hatch

If there’s one car that any hot hatch fan should own, the Mk7 Fiesta ST is it. It didn’t win all those motoring accolades for nothing, it really is that good. And now, with the earliest cars celebrating their 10^th birthday, there are loads on the used market and are more affordable than ever. With prices starting at just £4000, the Mk7 ST really is the ideal Ford project car for many.

The 1.6-litre EcoBoost has been proven to put up with plenty of abuse and tuning (unlike other engines in the range) and we’ve seen cars producing over 400bhp on a stock bottom end. There are plenty of tuning kits that take power well over 300bhp, and in the responsive little Mk7 Fiesta, that’s a riot!

The Fiesta ST Mk7’s popularity ensures it has great aftermarket support. Everything is covered; wheels, tuning upgrades, interior mods, and even full-on wide-arch bodykits! That means you can quickly and easily bring your vision to life, no matter how wild and whacky you might think it is! The Mk7 Fiesta ST is not just one of the best Ford project cars you can buy, it’s simply one of the best cars you can ever tune!

Pros: Easy to tune, cheap to buy, great all-rounder

Cons: Pop and bang maps and tasteless mods make you look like a boy racer

Mk2 Focus ST225 – The Performance All-Rounder

If there’s one car that sums up modern fast Fords, the Mk2 Focus ST is it. Nicknamed ‘The ASBO’ by Jeremy Clarkson when it first appeared almost 20 years ago, it arguably single-handedly saved Ford’s dwindling reputation in the hot hatch market. It’s a truly great car.

Stuffing a Volvo-sourced, turbocharged five-pot under the bonnet created a true bruiser with 225bhp and 150mph capability. It was an instant hit, and a huge army of tuners were quick to exploit the excellent powerplant and fantastic chassis. And they quickly did.

And then, four years later, Ford launched the ST’s big brother – the RS. The fundamentals were the same, but now with pumped-up arches, anabolic styling, 300bhp, and a fancy new RevoKnuckle running gear to make full use of all that power. The good news for ST fans was that most of those tuning parts could be carried across to the ST too.

Today, the ST offers an affordable way into fast Ford ownership, providing daily drivability alongside track performance. The RS, meanwhile, is a surefire future classic and already proving to be better than money in the bank when it comes to investments.

Both models make excellent Ford project cars. They’re equally well supported by an amazing community of owners. Plus, either car will provide a blank canvas with strong aftermarket support, allowing you to customise however you wish. And both can make really, really fast cars.

Pros: Immense soundtrack, loads of power potential

Cons: RS is pricey, ST is seen as its ‘little brother’

Mk3 Focus RS – The Modern Hot Hatch

The Mk3 Focus RS is one fast Ford that captivated a whole new audience of car fans. Offering a return to four-wheel-drive for the first time since the mighty Escort Cosworth, and packed to the rafters with fancy gadgets – not least of which, ‘Drift’ mode! – the RS certainly makes for the perfect project car.

Sure, it’s a practical five-door Focus, so you could use it every day if you wanted to. But most aren’t. Instead, most are weekend warriors, track toys, or show queens – and in some cases all three rolled into one! That’s how versatile the Mk3 RS is. No wonder it’s one of the most popular buys on our list for the best Ford project cars.

Yes, there were a few teething problems when it was first launched, but don’t let those put you off – for more advice check out our Buying Guide. A well-cared-for RS will provide hours of fun, and that’s in stock trim. Start adding a few bolt-on upgrades from the army of tuners that support the fast Focus and you’re quickly looking at a 400 horsepower-plus weapon that drives like OEM. Add a big turbo and bottom-end build for a few extra grand and over 520bhp is yours to play with – and trust us, that’s enough to turn the already slightly manic RS into a truly unhinged animal on the road! On the track, it finally gives the Focus the power levels that excellent chassis and superb all-wheel-drive system deserve.

Pros: Incredible fun, huge power potential, everyday practicality

Cons: Expensive to buy, engine failure issues still scare some owners

Capri – Reliving the Fastback Glory

Hairy chests and dodgy perms at the ready, it’s time to get all Bodie and Doyle with one of the all-time best Ford project cars, the Capri. Rising prices of all old-school Fords mean the Mk1 and Mk2 models are now considered genuine classics, and not really project cars these days. That just leaves the Mk3 to play with. But that’s no bad thing – it’s arguably the nicest to drive, best to tune, and easiest to live with. What’s more, it means you can relive The Professionals every time you pop to the shops! It makes for a great project car!

Rust is always a killer on old Fords, but if you find a solid Capri pretty much all the mechanicals can be easily refurb’d or upgraded – making it an ideal beginner’s classic project car or even a first-time restoration.

Even the smallest 1.6-litre Pinto engine cars have a raft of tuning options available, and the monster V6s are capable of some decent horsepower. The best bit is all models look like sports cars and just love to go sideways for maximum thrills, and the Capri in general is supported by a huge enthusiastic, knowledgeable and friendly fanbase, so help is only ever a Facebook post or quick email away.

Pros: Classic coupe, rear-wheel drive skids, great beginner classic

Cons: Rust, rust, rust.

Focus ST170 – The Forgotten Gem

The underrated Focus ST170 stands out as a hidden treasure among Ford project cars these days. For years, ST170s have been the donors for engine swaps. But a tidy example boasts an ideal mix of power, sublime handling, and practicality. Today, the ST170 is a cheap project car, but as all the rotten and tired ones see their engine bays deprived of that fabulous VVT-equipped 2.0-litre Zetec motor, the remaining few will surely start to rise in value. Our advice – get one now before prices rocket.

The three-door is generally the preferred body style for project cars, but the five-door and estate versions are equally as capable and well-equipped.

The ST170 engine was seen as the ultimate evolution of Ford’s Zetec engine. It takes the 130bhp 2.0-litre to 170bhp thanks to a host of factory upgrades. That does mean extracting more horsepower becomes difficult, and quite pricey for every bhp you gain. A decent air filter and exhaust system are all you really need, and maybe a remap to sharpen throttle response.

Instead, you’ll want to concentrate your efforts on building on what makes the Focus such an awesome car to drive in the first place – its handling. A set of poly bushes is an easy way to improve the chassis, as is a set of matched springs and dampers. Coilovers are an option, but avoid race-spec upgrades and stick to those designed for the road. Brake upgrades are easy DIY project jobs, and so too is updating the stereo to a more modern head unit. An unrivalled combination of affordability and performance makes the ST170 one of the best Ford project cars available today.

Pros: cheap project car, easy to work on, excellent handling

Cons: Fighting off classic Ford owners to keep the engine in your car

S550 Mustang – The Iconic Muscle Car

The Mustang is one of the greatest project cars of all time. Its enormous success was based in small part on the huge customization and tuning options. And thanks to 60 years of continuous production, we’re pleased to say that tradition continues to this day. When the fifth-generation Mustang was launched it was immediately supported by a long and distinguished list of tuners. And, for the first time in the car’s 50-year history, it was available to buy in the UK.

With a history on the drag strip and circuit racing, it wasn’t long before a whole raft of performance upgrades were ready to bolt straight onto the S550 Mustang. It’s an obvious choice when it comes to the best Ford project cars.

A more day-to-day 2.3-litre EcoBoost version is available, and the USA got a V6 version too. But the one you want is the 5.0-liter V8 GT model with a manual gearbox. Everything from sensible street chassis mods, to massive supercharger upgrades is only a click on the internet and a wave of the credit card away! That’s what makes the Ford Mustang such a great project car. There are so many tuning styling modifications available, no two cars ever need to be the same!

Pros: Amercian icon, V8 power, loads of customization options

Cons: You’ll never drive past a gas station again!

Not a Ford fan?

Fast Fords can make for excellent project cars to buy but we get it, not everyone is a Ford fan. Fear not. If you’re more into JDM cars or drift car projects than Blue Ovals, make sure you check out our Best Honda Project Cars To Buy, Best Nissan Project Cars To Buy, and Best Toyota Project Cars To Buy features.

Or, for something more sophisticated, check out our Best VIP Style Project Car.  Here you’ll find tips on choosing the most luxurious BMWs, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and even Rolls-Royce project cars!

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The sixth-generation Ford Mustang S550 is one of the most iconic and popular sports cars in the world. But in a world where reducing carbon emissions is a key objective for everyone, smoking around in a 5.0-liter V8 gas-guzzler can be seen as unnecessary. Plus, gas prices aren’t exactly what they were during the ‘60s!

So, Ford’s answer was to offer the same sporty chassis, sleek styling, and iconic Mustang name but with a more emissions-friendly 2.3-liter four-banger in place of the Coyote V8. But it wasn’t just a regular motor plucked from the Ford production line; the Mustang got the same EcoBoost unit as found in the formidable Focus RS.

Ok, it wasn’t exactly the same – there were a few minor spec changes from the RS motor – but the Mustang’s 2.3 kicked out a healthy 310 horsepower and more-than-useable 350lb.ft. The EcoBoost motor offers a great balance of power, efficiency, and affordability, but if you want to take your Mustang to the next level, there’s plenty of tuning options available. And, because the EcoBoost is turbocharged, there are significant gains to be found from simple tuning upgrades.

In this guide, we’ll show you some of the best mods and upgrades for your Mustang EcoBoost, from modest bolt-ons to more advanced tuning solutions.

What is Mustang EcoBoost Tuning? 

Tuning your EcoBoost Mustang is simply the process of modifying and optimizing the 2.3-liter turbocharged engine to increase its horsepower, torque, and responsiveness for a more exciting and rewarding driving experience. Tuning will involve changing various parts and settings of your engine, such as the intake, exhaust, turbocharger, intercooler, fuel injectors, spark plugs, camshafts, valves, pistons and more.

Getting the most from the physical tuning parts will also involve adjusting the engine’s computer (ECU) parameters – known as remapping. This process sees a tuner adjust settings such as the air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, boost pressure and more to fully optimize the performance of your specific car considering the physical performance parts you have added. Remapping can be done in several ways – usually via a laptop or a handheld ECU flashing device – and it can make a significant difference in your engine’s performance.

Why Should You Tune Your Mustang EcoBoost?

There are many benefits of tuning the Mustang’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost motor, but the main reasons are to increase performance and power outputs. A more powerful engine means a faster car, but with modern tuning techniques it is also possible to increase power at the top end and improve fuel economy when cruising too.

But it’s not all about the horsepower figures; tuning will also really change the character of the car, altering the way it feels to drive and ultimately making every journey much more exciting. Sharper throttle response, a raspier exhaust note, and a greater sense of urgency are all common traits of a well-tuned Mustang.

How to Tune Your Mustang EcoBoost? 

There are many ways to tune your Mustang EcoBoost, depending on your budget, goals, and preferences. Here are some of the most common and effective tuning methods:

 Bolt-On Mods

Bolt-on mods are aftermarket parts that can be easily fitted without needing major modifications or alterations. They are usually relatively inexpensive and reversible, meaning you can go back to stock if you want to.

Some of the most popular bolt-on mods for Mustang EcoBoost include:

• Cold air intake: A cold air intake replaces your stock air filter and intake tube with a larger and smoother one that allows more cold and dense air to enter your engine. This improves your engine’s breathing and combustion efficiency, resulting in more power and throttle response.
• Cat-back exhaust: A cat-back exhaust replaces your stock exhaust system from the catalytic converter back with a larger and less restrictive system that reduces back-pressure and improves exhaust flow. This in turn improves your engine’s performance and sound, giving it a deeper and more aggressive tone.
• Downpipe: The downpipe connects your turbocharger to your exhaust system, and it’s one of the most restrictive parts of the stock setup. Replacing it with a larger and freer flowing one can reduce turbo lag and increase boost pressure, resulting in more power and torque.
• Intercooler: An intercooler cools down the hot air coming from your turbocharger before it enters your engine. This increases the air density and oxygen content, resulting in more power and efficiency. Upgrading your stock intercooler with a larger and more efficient one can prevent heat soak and improve performance in hot weather conditions or when used hard on the track or drag strip.
• Blow-off valve: A blow-off valve releases excess boost pressure from your turbocharger when you lift off the throttle. This prevents compressor surge and protects your turbo from damage. Upgrading your stock blow-off valve with a stronger and more responsive one can improve turbo spool-up and sound.

ECU Tuning

ECU tuning is the process of modifying the software that controls your engine’s computer (ECU) to optimize its performance. This can be done by using a handheld device or a laptop that plugs into your car’s OBD-II port and allows you to adjust various parameters of your engine, such as the air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, boost pressure and more.

ECU tuning can also be done by sending your ECU to a professional tuner who can customize it according to your specifications. Alternatively, you can buy a pre-tuned calibration file that is already perfect for your car and use a handheld flashing device to upload the new file to your car’s ECU.

the process can make a huge difference to your engine’s performance, as it can unlock hidden power and torque that are limited by the factory settings. It can also improve your engine’s efficiency and drivability by smoothing out the power curve and eliminating any hesitation or lag.

However, ECU tuning does have some drawbacks, such as voiding any manufacturer warranty or emissions compliance. It’s always best to check a tune is legal in your State before working on your car.

Therefore, ECU tuning should be done with caution and care, and only by reputable and experienced tuners. You should also monitor your engine’s health and performance regularly and use good quality parts and fluids (including premium-grade fuels) to prevent any issues.

Turbo Upgrade

The big one! Replacing your stock turbocharger with a larger and more powerful one that can produce more boost and increase the engine’s airflow. This can significantly increase your engine’s power and torque, as well as improve your engine’s response and spool-up. Not only that, but it’s sure to make you smile every time you pop the hood and see a huge shiny turbo glaring back at you! You’ll be the envy of all your mates at the next local car meet!

However, upgrading your turbo is a complex and expensive process that requires extensive modifications and tuning to your engine and ECU. It also puts more stress and strain on your engine components, such as the pistons, con rods, head gasket, and more. Therefore, a turbo upgrade should only be done by expert tuners who can ensure proper fitment, compatibility, and reliability.

Tuning the Mustang EcoBoost: Is It Worth the Effort?

Yes. Definitely! Mustang EcoBoost tuning is a great way to enhance your car’s performance, sound, and appearance. The Mustang is supported by a fantastic network of specialists and enthusiasts, and there are plenty of tuning options available for you to choose from.

However, before tuning you should also be aware of the risks and challenges involved in tuning your engine. For more information and advice, check out our other articles on tuning:

• Beginner’s Guide to Tuning Turbo Engines
• Car Tuning: How to Performance Tune an Engine
• Best Cheap Tuning Tips to Make Your Car Faster
• Ford Mustang S550 Tuning Guide

The post Ford Mustang EcoBoost Tuning Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

The Mk3 Ford Focus ST is already a thrilling fast Ford straight from the factory. However, with the right modifications and tuning, its performance can be taken to new heights. In this comprehensive tuning guide, we’ll take you through various modifications and upgrades that will not only enhance the overall performance of your vehicle but also give it a unique and personalized touch. From engine upgrades and suspension tweaks, to advice on wheels and tires and styling tips, here’s our Ford Focus ST MK3 Tuning Guide. So, let’s dive in and unlock the true potential of your fast Ford!

Tuning the Mk3 Focus ST 2.0 EcoBoost Engine

The 2.0-litre EcoBoost has been with us since 2010. The standard 247bhp offers a lively drive, but it can be so much better with just a handful of tweaks. When it comes to enhancing the performance of your Mk3 Focus ST‘s 2.0 EcoBoost engine, there are several areas to look at. Our Focus ST Mk3 tuning guide looks at how upgrading the air filter, remapping the engine, adding a big turbo upgrade, and even considering forged engine internals can all make a huge difference in power output and driving experience.

First Steps: Air filter, Performance Exhaust, & Remap

To begin with, the basics of air filter, exhaust and remap will give 270-to-280bhp and really liven things up compared to the stock software.

One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve engine performance is by upgrading the air filter or intake system and a performance exhaust system. By increasing air flow into the engine, you can unlock additional power gains. Upgrading to a high-quality air filter allows for better filtration and increased air intake, resulting in improved engine performance.

Additionally, upgrading the exhaust system improves exhaust flow, reducing backpressure and allowing the engine to breathe more freely. This, in turn, can boost horsepower and torque, giving your Mk3 Focus ST a noticeable power increase.

Finally, an ECU remap is an essential part of maximizing power output in your Mk3 Focus ST. By modifying the ECU software that controls the engine, you can optimize the air-fuel mixture, boost levels, timing, and other parameters to achieve higher performance levels. Some popular tuning options include the Cobb Accessport, DreamScience iMap, and Mountune mTune, which allow pre-configured maps to be installed directly to the ECU. These also allow for the option of custom tuning too, where the specialist writes a file bespoke to your car which you can then upload at home.

Further Tuning: Intercooler & Sports Cat

Another crucial component to consider when tuning your Mk3 Focus ST is the intercooler. The intercooler plays a vital role in keeping the intake air temperature down, allowing for denser air and more power output. Upgrading to a larger intercooler provides better heat dissipation, enabling higher boost levels and preventing power loss due to heat soak. Here are a few key points about intercooler upgrades:

• Increased intercooler size allows for more efficient cooling of the intake air.
• Reduced intake air temperature leads to higher power levels and improved performance.
• Stock intercoolers are restricted in size, limiting their cooling capacity.

At the same time, you may want to consider swapping the original catalytic convertor for a high-flowing sports cat. The OEM cat can slow the exhaust gases from exiting the engine, causing increased back-pressure in the system. A free-flowing exhaust system allows for a better turbo spool, better throttle response, and ultimately higher peak power and peak torque figures.

Forged engine internals

The previously mentioned upgrades will see your ST kicking out around 300bhp. That’s more than enough for most and is arguably the sweet spot between power, performance, everyday reliability and cost. For more power, you really need to lay some stronger foundations in the shape of a fully-forged bottom end. It’s a wise idea given the fact the 2.0 has been known to suffer piston failure even at stock power. The jury is still out on exactly what causes the problem (weak components, LSPI, poor fuel, poor maintenance etc) but a set of forged pistons and uprated con-rods seems to sort the problem out.

These upgrades allow for higher boost levels and power output without the risk of engine failure. Forged engine internals are especially crucial for big power applications, where the engine is subjected to extreme levels of stress.

While the engine is stripped, it provides the perfect opportunity to install some performance camshafts too. The 2.0 EcoBoost cam profiles are quite mild, so fitting some performance cams is a great way to unlock more performance.

Turbo upgrades

With a bulletproof bottom end you can turn the wick up with a bigger turbo! By replacing the stock turbo with a bigger, high-performance turbo, you can achieve significantly higher power levels. Here are a few key points to consider when upgrading your turbo:

• Upgraded turbos provide boost levels, resulting in great power output.
• Bigger turbos offer improved flow capacity, allowing for higher power gains.
• Compatibility with other performance modifications, such as intercoolers and intake systems, should be considered.
• It’s important to ensure that the turbo upgrade is properly matched to your engine other components.

Fuel System

Like all Ford EcoBoost engines, the ST’s 2.0-liter version uses direct fuel injection technology. While there is certainly some scope to increase performance built into the OEM components, the stock fuel system starts to run out of juice at about 350bhp. Bigger injectors, however, are available and will see 400bhp. An uprated mechanical fuel pump may also be needed for further power gains. Alternatively, some tuners have added a secondary, supplementary port-injection fuel system to supply enough fuel for over 500bhp.

Focus ST Mk3 Tuning Guide: Transmission Modifications

While engine tuning is essential for achieving higher power output, don’t overlook the importance of transmission modifications. That’s why this Focus ST Mk3 tuning guide looks at how upgrading components such as short shifter kits, and heavy-duty clutches, and adding a limited-slip differential can greatly improve the overall driving experience

Clutch & Flywheel Upgrades

The stock clutch can cope with power outputs up to 300bhp. Heavy-duty upgrade kits are available, but using the clutch and dual-mass flywheel from the Mk3 Focus RS offers an OEM-quality upgrade that can easily handle most things an ST can throw at it. For hardcore drag and track users, race upgrades from specialists such as Xtreme Clutch are available if you really need them.

Short Shifter Kits

Short shifter kits are a popular modification for improving the shifting performance of the Focus ST. These kits decrease the distance and effort required to shift gears, resulting in quicker and more precise shifts. They also enhance the overall feel of the transmission, making gear changes more responsive and engaging. Whether you’re a performance enthusiast or simply seeking an improved driving experience, a short shifter kit is definitely worth considering.

Limited Slip Differentials

Limited slip differentials (LSDs) are a must-have upgrade for any serious performance enthusiast. By distributing power evenly between the front wheels, LSDs improve traction and reduce wheel spin during aggressive acceleration and cornering. This not only enhances the overall handling and stability of the Focus ST but also allows you to fully exploit its increased power output. Whether you plan on hitting the track or simply want to enjoy spirited drives on winding roads, upgrading to a limited-slip differential will undoubtedly take your driving experience to the next level. The most common upgrades include ATB types (Automatic Torque Biasing) from Quaife or Wavetrac.

Focus ST Mk3 Tuning Guide: Suspension Tuning

To complement the increased power output, it’s crucial to upgrade your Mk3 Focus ST’s suspension components. Suspension tuning plays a vital role in improving handling performance and overall driving dynamics. By upgrading components such as lowering springs, coilovers, and performance bushes, and optimizing the suspension alignment settings, you can significantly improve the handling of your Mk3 Focus ST.

Lowering Springs

Lowering springs are a popular choice for enthusiasts looking to improve both the performance and appearance of their Mk3 Focus ST. By lowering the car’s ride height, uprated lowering springs provide a lower center of gravity, resulting in improved handling and reduced body roll during cornering. They also offer a more aggressive stance and enhance the car’s overall aesthetics.

Coilovers: Should I fit them to my Focus ST?

Coilovers offer a higher level of adjustability compared to lowering springs, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a more customizable suspension setup. By combining a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit, coilovers allow for fine-tuning of the car’s ride height, damping, and rebound settings.

This level of adjustability enables you to optimize the suspension setup for different driving conditions, whether you’re on a spirited backroad drive or exploring the limits of your Mk3 Focus ST on the track. Additionally, coilovers provide improved handling, responsiveness, and a sportier feel compared to stock suspension. However, their race-inspired nature can make for a firm ride on the street. So, be prepared to compromise on ride quality for the benefit of adjustability. For purely street use, a set of matched springs and dampers like the Bilstein B12 kit is hard to beat.

Performance Bushes

Upgrading to performance bushes is another way to enhance the handling characteristics of your Mk3 Focus ST, which is why we’ve included them in our Focus ST Mk3 Tuning Guide. These bushes are designed to reduce chassis flex and provide improved responsiveness and steering precision. By reducing unwanted movement of suspension components, performance bushes help maintain proper suspension geometry, improving stability during high-speed manoeuvres. They also help minimize body roll, providing a more controlled and confident driving experience. Upgrading to performance bushes is a cost-effective way to upgrade your car’s handling performance without making major changes to the suspension system.

Alignment Settings

Proper alignment settings are essential for maintaining stability, predictable handling, and maximizing the performance of your Mk3 Focus ST. Alignment refers to the adjustment of various angles of the suspension components, such as camber, caster, and toe. Optimizing these settings can improve steering response, overall grip levels, and cornering performance. Correct alignment ensures even tire wear, reduces unwanted tire scrub, and provides optimal handling characteristics for spirited driving.

Focus ST Mk3 Tuning Guide: Brake Upgrades

Enhancing your Mk3 Focus ST’s braking performance is essential, especially when you’re pushing the car to its limits. Upgrading the stock brake system with high-performance components can improve stopping power, resistance to brake fade, and overall braking performance. Whether it’s upgrading brake pads, installing high-quality brake rotors, or considering big brake upgrade kits, optimizing your ST’s braking system will provide the confidence and control needed to handle higher power levels and enthusiastic street or occasional track driving.

Choosing the Right Brake Pads

Choosing the right brake pads is crucial when upgrading your Mk3 Focus ST’s braking performance. With the wide variety of brake pad compounds available, selecting the best one for your needs can make a noticeable difference in braking performance. For road use, it’s essential to choose brake pads that meet any local regulations, such as RC90 regulations for use on UK roads. Working hand in hand with other brake components, such as performance discs and brake lines, high-quality brake pads offer improved stopping power, fade resistance, and consistent performance.

Understanding the Importance of High-Quality Brake Rotors

High-quality brake rotors are essential components of an upgraded brake system and work in conjunction with performance brake pads to provide reliable and consistent stopping power. Upgraded brake discs offer several advantages over stock discs, including better cooling, improved performance, and reduced brake fade under demanding driving conditions. Whether you opt for drilled or slotted rotors, or even a combination of both, upgrading your brake rotors can significantly enhance your Mk3 Focus ST’s braking performance.

Big Brake Upgrade Kits

For those seeking the ultimate braking performance, big brake upgrades are a worthy consideration. An OEM upgrade is to use the 350mm discs and Brembo callipers from the Mk3 Ford Focus RS. These are a direct swap for the ST parts. Here are some key features of big brake upgrades:

• Larger discs and more powerful calipers allow for increased stopping power and heat dissipation.
• Upgraded brake pads provide improved performance and fade resistance under extreme conditions.
• The complete system is designed to work together, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
• While big brake upgrades can be more expensive compared to other brake upgrades, they are commonly found on serious performance cars and offer unmatched performance and reliability.

Focus ST Mk3 Tuning Guide: Wheel and Tire Modifications

Wheel and tire upgrades not only enhance the aesthetics of your Mk3 Focus ST but also play a crucial role in performance and handling. Choosing the right wheel and tire setup can greatly improve grip, responsiveness, and overall driving dynamics. Whether it’s selecting the right tires for performance driving or considering alloy wheel upgrades, these modifications will ensure that your car looks great and performs at its best on both the street and the track.

Selecting the Right Tires for Performance Driving

Selecting the right tires for your Mk3 Focus ST is essential to unleash its full performance potential. Equipping your Focus ST with high-performance tires ensures maximum grip, especially during spirited driving or on the track. Look for tires with a stickier compound and a tread pattern designed for aggressive driving. Fitting high-performance tires ensures maximum grip, especially during fast road driving or on the track.

Alloy Wheel Mods: What to Consider

The ST’s stock alloy wheels look good and are robust enough to withstand the vigors of daily driving. But that does come at a price, and that price is weight. Fitting lighter aftermarket alloy wheels reduces unsprung weight, improves responsiveness, and enhances the overall aesthetics of your Mk3 Focus ST. When considering alloy wheel upgrades, there are several factors to take into account, including:

• Rim size, width, and offset: 19in diameter by 8.5in wide with an offset around ET45 is widely considered a fantastic setup for the Mk3 Focus ST
• Weight savings: Lighter alloy wheels can reduce unsprung weight, improving suspension performance. Mountune’s OZ Racing Leggera HLT weighs in at just 9.9kg per wheel.
• Durability and finish: High-quality alloys offer improved strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.

Focus ST Mk3 Tuning Guide: Interior Styling

Enhancing the interior of your Focus ST not only improves your driving experience but also adds a touch of personalization. Upgrading interior lighting, sound system components, floor mats, trim pieces, seats, and steering wheels are all great ways to enhance comfort, style, and functionality. Whether you’re looking for a more immersive audio experience, improved ergonomics, or a sportier feel, there are a number of interior styling options available to make your Mk3 Focus ST truly your own.

Focus ST Mk3 Tuning Guide: Exterior Styling

When it comes to styling, there are several ways to make your Mk3 Focus ST stand out from the crowd. Companies like Delta Styling, Maxton Designs, and SS Tuning all have a wide selection of styling upgrades to choose from. From adding splitters and spoilers to upgrading headlights, taillights, or fog lights. Or customizing with decals or bespoke wraps, the possibilities are endless. With the right exterior styling modifications, you can make a statement wherever you go.

Inspired? Now looking to buy a Ford Focus ST?

If our Focus ST Mk3 tuning guide has inspired you, make sure you check out our Buyer’s Guide. Here, you’ll find top tips on what to look for and how much to pay for the best example available.

The post Focus ST Mk3 Tuning Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

As car enthusiasts, we know that proper maintenance is key to keeping our beloved rides running smoothly. One critical component that deserves our attention is the timing belt – also often referred to as the cam belt. In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of timing belts, exploring what they are, their importance, and why staying on top of maintenance is crucial for optimal performance.

A timing chain is a more durable alternative to a timing belt.

What is a car timing belt?

The timing belt is one of the essential components of a vehicle’s engine, and it plays a critical role in keeping everything running smoothly. However, it is often overlooked until it fails, which can cause significant damage to the engine and lead to costly repairs. A timing belt is a vital engine part that coordinates the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. That means the piston is in the correct position when the spark plug fires, and that the inlet and exhaust valves open and close at precisely the right time in the engine cycle.

What’s the difference between a timing belt and a timing chain?

A timing belt is usually made of reinforced rubber to tolerate the stress of engine usage and must be changed at recommended intervals to prevent severe engine damage due to a worn or broken timing belt. In contrast, a timing chain is a metal chain, similar to a bicycle chain, that connects the crankshaft and camshaft. Made of durable metal alloys, timing chains tend to have a longer lifespan compared to timing belts but a generally noisier and less efficient than rubber belts. Timing chains are therefore most commonly found in older vehicles and in engines designed for heavy-duty or commercial performance.

What is an interference engine?

Most modern cars have what are known as interference engines, which have a high compression ratio and larger valves that open further into the combustion chamber. This allows the engine to produce more power and efficiency but means the piston can occupy the same space as an open valve. Therefore, the timing between the valve opening and the piston reaching the top of the cylinder must be precisely in sync to avoid contact that could lead to catastrophic damage and costly repairs. By contrast, in a non-interference engine, there is a gap between the piston and the valve, so they do not interfere even if the timing belt or chain fails.

How often should you replace your car’s timing belt and why?

Timing belts aren’t immortal, and their lifespan varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Generally, it’s recommended to replace your timing belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or as specified by the manufacturer. Neglecting this vital maintenance item can lead to serious engine failure, resulting in costly repairs.

Timing belt breaks often happen without warning, making regular inspections and replacements essential to avoid expensive engine damage. Don’t wait for signs of wear and tear to appear before taking action, instead follow the manufacturer’s recommended replacement intervals.

How much does it cost to replace a car timing belt?

When it comes to replacing a timing belt, costs can vary based on factors such as your location, the make and model of your vehicle, and the labor rates of mechanics. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 to $1,000 for parts and labor. To ensure a reliable replacement, you’ll need to find a good mechanic with experience in timing belt replacements. Seek recommendations from fellow enthusiasts or check popular online forums or social media groups for recommendations and you’ll find a mechanic you can trust.

Signs that your timing belt needs replacing may include visible wear, engine noise or reduced performance and erratic idling. But often there are no signs of the impending doom until it’s too late. The main factor when it comes to timing belt replacements is simply age and mileage – so, to put it bluntly, get your timing belt replaced religiously at the recommended intervals!

Common Issues with Car Timing Belts

Common issues with car timing belts include deterioration due to age, misalignment during installation, and tensioner or water pump failure. Exposure to fluids such as fuel, oil, or coolant can also cause damage to the timing belt and significantly reduce its lifespan. It is important to follow the maintenance schedule suggested in the owner’s manual, including regular inspections and timely replacement intervals based on mileage or age. By doing so, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure the longevity of your vehicle’s timing belt.

Car Timing Belt Replacement Costs and Tips

Timing belt replacement costs for a car vary with its make and model. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations, ideally, replace it every 60,000-100,000 miles. You should replace it before it breaks and damages your engine. Replacing related parts during this process such as the water pump and any tensioners can save on labor costs too. Likewise, if you’re working on your engine and need to remove the old belt as part of the process, you should always take the opportunity to replace it with a new timing belt – it’s just not worth the risk of re-installing an old rubber timing belt.

Can you replace a car timing belt yourself?

Although it is possible to replace a car’s timing belt, it can be a difficult, labor-intensive process requiring specialized tools and knowledge. We’d recommend having a professional mechanic perform the task, as costs can vary depending on the car’s make and model. We’d suggest leaving this one to the pros unless you are extremely confident.

The Ins and Outs of Car Timing Belts

As car enthusiasts, we understand the importance of paying attention to every detail of our rides. The timing belt plays a vital role in the engine’s performance and longevity. By understanding its function, adhering to recommended replacement intervals, staying alert for warning signs, and finding a reliable mechanic, we can ensure our timing belts are in optimal condition. Doing so will help to keep our cars’ engines purring like a true performance machine. Remember, proper maintenance is the key to unlocking the full potential of your car and enjoying the open road to the fullest.

The post Timing Belt Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

If you own an S550 Mustang you might be wondering how to get more out of your engine. After all, the 3.7-liter Cyclone V6 is no slouch, producing 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque from the factory. But with some simple modifications, you can easily boost those numbers and make your Mustang more fun to drive.

We’ve got a complete guide to tuning the Mustang GT, but in this feature, we will show you some of the best tuning options for your Ford Mustang V6 S550. Whether you want a mild or wild setup, we’ve got you covered.

Intake and Exhaust Upgrades

One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your Mustang’s performance is to upgrade the intake and exhaust systems. These parts help your engine breathe better, allowing more air and fuel to enter the combustion chambers and more exhaust gases to exit. The result is more power, better throttle response, and a more aggressive soundtrack.

There are several intake and exhaust options available for the S550 Mustang V6, but our picks would include:

Cold Air Intake

This replaces the stock airbox and filter with a performance filter and a high-flow intake pipe. Improving airflow by as much as 20%, this can add up to 15 horsepower and 18 lb-ft of torque. It also improves the engine sound and appearance under the hood.

73mm Throttle Body

Replacing the stock 65mm throttle body with a larger 73mm one allows more air to enter the engine. Larger diameter upgrades are made from CNC-machined aluminum and feature a new electronic motor, making installation a simple direct swap for the OE part. It can add up to 10 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque, especially when paired with an intake upgrade.

Cat-Back Exhaust

A cat-back exhaust system replaces the stock mufflers and pipes with a mandrel-bent stainless steel system that typically features dual tips and a straight-through design. It reduces backpressure and increases exhaust flow, adding up to 12 horsepower and 10 lb-ft of torque. It also gives your Mustang a deep and throaty sound that matches its performance.

Tuning Software

Another way to unleash your Mustang’s potential is to use tuning software that adjusts the engine parameters for optimal performance. Tuning software can change various aspects of your engine’s operation, such as ignition timing, fuel delivery, air/fuel ratio, rev limit, speed limit, and more. By fine-tuning these settings, you can gain more power, torque, responsiveness, and efficiency.

There are several tuning software options available for the S550 Mustang V6, but some of the most popular ones are:

SCT X4 Power Flash Tuner

This tuner plugs into your OBD-II port and allows you to upload custom tunes or pre-loaded tunes from SCT’s database. It also lets you monitor various engine parameters on its full-color LCD screen. It can add up to 20 horsepower and 25 lb-ft of torque, depending on the tune you choose.

DiabloSport inTune i3 Platinum Tuner

This tuner also plugs into your OBD-II port and allows you to upload custom tunes or pre-loaded tunes from DiabloSport’s database. It also lets you monitor various engine parameters on its full-color touchscreen. It can add up to 15 horsepower and 20 lb-ft of torque, depending on the tune you choose.

Bama X4/SF4 Power Flash Tuner

This tuner is similar to the SCT X4, but it comes with free custom tunes from Bama Performance for life. You can choose from various tunes for different purposes, such as street, race, or performance. It can add up to 18 horsepower and 23 lb-ft of torque, depending on the tune you choose.

Supercharger Kits

If you want to take your Mustang’s performance to the next level, you might want to consider installing a supercharger kit. A supercharger forces more air into the engine, increasing its power output significantly. Superchargers come in different types, such as centrifugal, roots, or twin-screw, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

There are not many supercharger kits available for the S550 Mustang V6, but one of the most reputable ones is the ProCharger High Output Intercooled Supercharger System. This system uses a centrifugal supercharger that mounts on the driver’s side of the engine and delivers up to 8psi of boost. It also includes an air-to-air intercooler, an uprated fuel pump, bigger injectors, and a handheld tuner with suitable software. It can increase your horsepower by up to 50% and your torque by up to 40%, giving you around 450 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque at the wheels.

Is it worth tuning the Ford Mustang V6 S550?

As you can see, there are many ways to tune your S550 Mustang V6 for more power and performance. Whether you want to start with some simple intake and exhaust upgrades or go all out with a supercharger kit, you can transform your V6 Mustang into a formidable machine that will turn heads and impress on the road or track. With the right mods in the right places, the V6 Mustang can be more than a match for its V8 bigger brother.

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You love your car. If you didn’t, you wouldn’t be visiting Fast Car. Not only is your car your passion, but it’s also one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Generally, our cars are the second most expensive purchases (after our homes!) that we’ll make in our lifetimes, so it’s essential to keep them performing at their best.

Regular car maintenance can help ensure that it runs smoothly, is safe to drive, and delivers its full potential in terms of performance too. In this feature, we will cover why regular car maintenance is important and show you our ultimate car maintenance checklist for maximum performance. By following this car maintenance checklist guide, you can extend the life of your vehicle, avoid costly repairs, and ensure that your car runs efficiently for years to come.

Car maintenance overview

Routine car maintenance is crucial for ensuring maximum performance and prolonging the lifespan of your vehicle. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to have it up on the ramp or start crawling around underneath with your inspection lamp every weekend. There are several quick visual checks you make that only take a few seconds but will give you a fantastic indication as to the overall health of your car. Most of these visual inspections can be done without the need for lifting the car off the ground, and many don’t even require you to get your hands dirty, so there really is no excuse for not doing them.

Of course, for a more detailed picture of what’s going on with your car, you may need to physically get your hands dirty and start checking some of the oily bits. But this shouldn’t be a cause to put you off, and there’s no reason why you can’t carry out these checks in your home garage with some basic tools.

Oh, and a bucket and sponge are essential equipment for car maintenance too; you’ll be surprised how much difference regular cleaning and detailing can make to the overall condition of a car.

How to carry out car maintenance checks at home

We’ve selected some of the key areas that you’ll need to keep on top of as a car owners. We’ve broken down how to perform each step, and in some cases, have more detailed guides that explain the process.

How to check tire pressures

It doesn’t matter which tires you have, they all lose air over time. Having the correct pressured tires can not only improve performance, but it can also help improve fuel economy, and reduce road noise.

To check the pressures, make sure the car hasn’t been driven, and using a pressure gauge (here’s our guide to best digital tire pressure gauges) record where the air pressure is. The owner’s manual will display how much pressure the front and rear tires should be inflated to. If it’s underinflated, simply inflate until you’re reach the optimum pressure. To do this, you’ll either need to visit a garage that allows you to inflate tires, or purchase a tire inflator that uses your car’s power to inflate.

How to change headlight and other bulbs

The bulbs used on your car are another area that will need replacing. It’s unavoidable. The process for replacing each bulb is different depending on where the car the dead bulb is, and which car it is. As a result, always refer to the owner’s manual for information on how to remove the bulbs on your car.

That being said, it’s a simple DIY job for most. For headlights, you’ll either be able to access the bulbs via the rear of the headlight cluster, or you’ll need to remove the cluster entirely. Our guide on how to change headlight bulbs will help you.

How to check tire tread depth

This one is a simple car maintenance task. All you need is a tread depth gauges, which costs as little as a few dollars/pounds. You’ll need to measure towards the center of the tire, rather than the edge, but it’s worth checking the depth across the whole tire to ensure your tires are wearing evenly. If the depth is vastly different across the tire, get your wheels aligned. The legal limit for tread depth 2/32 of an inch (1.6mm).

How to check engine oil level and top up

If you happen to own a newer vehicle, to check your oil level, you simply search for vehicle information within your infotainment system. This is usually linked under “vehicle”, but changes from manufacturer to manufacturer.

If you own an older vehicle, then you’ll be doing this the old fashioned way. Once the engine is cold, locate the dipstick in your engine bay, this is a long, thin piece of metal with a hooped handle which can be sometimes a little difficult to lift if its not been lifted in a while. Pull up the stick, and wipe the end of the stick clean of oil. Then, place the dipstick back into the tube, all the way in, and remove the stick again. The oil level will be a line across the bottom of the stick, which has a markings on indicating low or full. You’ll need to be within this level.

To add oil, locate the oil cap, remove it, and pour the correct oil in. How much will depend on how low on the dipstick the oil level was, if you’re hovering above the low level, add in 250-500ml, and check the level again after a few minutes. Repeat if you need more.

To save a trip to the mechanic, here’s a guide on how to change your oil at home. And if you’re looking for some top quality oil, visit out guide to the best engine oil in 2023.

How to jump start a dead battery

Knowing how to jump start a dead battery is an essential car maintenance task that car owners should know. After all, eventually, all batteries will die. The process of jump starting is easy and safe, but if you want more information, check out our guide on jump starting a car.

• With your jump cables or jump pack, connect the positive cable to the correct terminal. The terminals are usually colored Red for positive and Black for negative. The battery will either be color-coded like this, or written with a + and -.
• If you’re using a jump pack, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on how to complete the process. Here’s our guide to the best car jump starters.
• With jump cables, connect the opposing cables to a car with a healthy battery. Clamp the negative terminal first, and follow with the positive on the healthy car. At this point, clamp the negative end of the car with the weak battery to a part of the car’s metal.
• Once connected and all ends are safe, start the engine of the car with the healthy battery. After a few seconds, you should be able to start the vehicle of the car with the weak battery. Remember to leave the car running after you’ve jump started the vehicle otherwise you’ll have to do the process again!

How to replace wiper blades

This is another simple, but essential piece of car maintenance. If your wiper blades are smearing dirty and water across the screen, then you need new ones. Each car has slightly different ways of removing wiper blades, so always refer to the owner’s manual. That being said, we’ve written a handy little guide on how to replace wiper blades that covers most applications.

How to clean a car

Believe it or not, cleaning your car should form part of your car maintenance. Removing built up road grime, brake dust and other dirt will allow for your brakes and other components to work as they should, without anything disrupting its operation. Thankfully, we’ve got multiple guides to help you with this, from what is car detailing to a full step-by-step guide on how to detail a car.

How to refill windshield washer fluid

It sounds obvious, but making sure your windscreen washer fluid is topped up is a vital part of your car maintenance. Being able to easily clean your windshield on the move should you get caught in adverse weather, on a dirty back road, or birds have decided to target your car is a vital for safety. Not to mention it’s often illegal not to have washer fluid topped up.

To top it up, simply locate the reservoir under the hood and fill up with windscreen washer fluid. We’ve got a guide to the best washer fluids on the market should you need some buying advice.

How to check engine air filter

Vital for keeping dirt outside of your engine, the air filter overtime gets clogged up by doing its job correctly. As a result, it’s important to keep on top of regular checks during your car maintenance. In some cases these air filters are washable, but often you’ll need to replace the filter. To check its condition, locate the airbox and undo its fastenings. Remove the air filter and look at its condition. If you’re looking for a replacement, be sure to check out our guide to the best car air filter.

What issues would mean I would need a vehicle tune up or service?

Ignoring warning signs and delaying car servicing can lead to costly repairs and even accidents on the road. Here are some warnings signs that your vehicle needs maintenance done. These warning signs could indicate severe issues that require attention to prevent further damage.

• Dashboard warning lights
• Unusual noises
• Vibrations while driving
• Difficulty starting the engine
• Poor gas mileage (worse than usual)
• Lack of performance
• Moisture patches under the car, particularly oil.
• Strange smells including fuel.

Monthly car maintenance checklist

Frequent monthly checks are crucial for maintaining your car’s performance and safety.

• Tire pressures
• Engine oil level
• Engine oil quality
• Brake fluid level
• Windshield wiper fluid
• Battery health

Car maintenance checklist every 3 months or 3,000 miles

To keep your car running smoothly, it’s important to carry out some regular maintenance checks every three months or 3,000 miles. Anything listed in the monthly checklist section above that you haven’t checked for a few weeks should be the first job added to your three-month checklist. Building on those, it’s also a good idea to check:

• Air filters
• Transmission fluid
• Coolant levels (this can be also be done monthly if you travel frequently)
• Air-con system
• Oil change – It’s probably overkill for most modern cars, but many car enthusiasts also reckon on an oil change every 3,000 miles. It certainly won’t do any harm, especially for a car that gets driven hard or used on the track or strip at all. For regular road cars, this would likely be overkill.

Car maintenance checklist every 6 months

On top of the 1 month and 3 month car maintenance checklist, you should also now look at the following areas:

• Oil changes: Building on the quarterly check mentioned above, an oil change twice a year is quite common practice for performance cars. Again, it’s vital for any car that gets driven hard and experiences the harsh conditions of a track day or several passes on the drag strip. It won’t do any harm for a regularly driven street car either.
• Tire tread depth: It’s a good idea to take tread depth measurements of your tires every six months. Top tip: Record these and you can get a clear idea of your tire wear, which can also help inform your suspension/geometry set-up for improved performance too.
• Check for leaks: It’s worth getting under the hood and having a good poke around every six months or so to check for any signs of oil/fluid leaks, the condition of any rubber belts or hoses, and check for any damage or corrosion to vulnerable components such as radiators, oil coolers, intercoolers or pipework. While you’re under there, check the wiring harness too, keeping an eye out for any broken clips or badly routed wires that may lead to chaffing issues further down the line.
• Fuel injector cleaner: Some owners like to run a fuel injector cleaner every six months or so to help maintain the correct spray pattern and to keep the fuel system nice and clean. This is particularly useful for direct fuel-injected motors, as poor spay patterns and unwanted contaminants in the combustion chamber can lead to LSP (low-speed pre-ignition), which can be fatal for engines.

Yearly vehicle maintenance checklist

Yearly checks should coincide with your annual tune up or service. A professional should be carrying out a thorough inspection as part of the process. But it never hurts to carry out an annual inspection yourself too. Most countries require cars to pass an annual test for roadworthiness, and these requirements can form a fantastic base for your yearly maintenance checks too.

Why is regular car maintenance important?

No matter what make or model you drive, regular car maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of any vehicle. Neglecting maintenance will not only affect performance, but it can lead to costly repairs and breakdowns too. Beyond the financial costs, failing to maintain your car can also be dangerous, putting you and your passengers at risk.

By performing regular maintenance, you can ensure your car is always running at its full potential. Additionally, keeping up with maintenance may increase the resale value of your vehicle should you ever decide to sell it. In short, regular car maintenance is a small investment that can pay off in big ways over time.

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What are slotted and drilled rotors?

Before we start, let’s first examine what your stock brakes look like. In most cases, OEM brakes tend to use a smooth rotor with multiple cooling vanes in between two smooth surfaces. A set of plain rotors are the cheapest and easiest to manufacture, provides the most user-friendly pedal feel, and offers the lowest levels of noise and vibration. They are, as you’d expect, the perfect solution for a regular street car.

But we don’t drive regular street cars. We don’t mind sacrificing the odd squeak in return for improved hard braking. And the good news is, significant braking gains can be found by swapping to a performance brake rotor and suitable brake pads, without the expense and hassle of replacing the factory brake calipers. Upgrading your rotors and pads is no more difficult than regular replacement of stock parts!

There are several options for upgrades, but the two main types of performance brake rotors available are slotted or drilled. Slotted rotors have grooves machined into the surface that dissipate heat and gases, while drilled rotors have holes that pass through the friction surface and into the cooling vanes in the middle of the rotor for the same purpose. Both improve braking performance and reduce brake fade. The choice between them depends on personal preference and your car’s specific needs and uses.

Understanding Slotted Rotors

Slotted rotors, designed with surface channels or slots, offer numerous benefits for braking performance. These slots promote consistent and reliable braking by allowing heat and gases to dissipate, thus preventing brake fade. Furthermore, slotted rotors excel in wet conditions due to their ability to remove water and debris from brake pads. It is crucial to note, however, that these rotors can produce noise and result in accelerated wear on brake pads due to increased friction. Despite these downsides, slotted rotors remain a popular choice for high-performance and race cars.

Understanding Drilled Rotors

Drilled discs (also called cross-drilled rotors), in contrast to slotted rotors, incorporate drill holes on the rotor surface. This design promotes heat dissipation and minimizes brake fade. By allowing better airflow, drilled rotors effectively cool down after intense braking, meaning the braking system is less likely to overheat and suffer brake fade. However, traditionally, drilled rotors have a higher likelihood of cracking when subjected to rigorous conditions. Therefore they tend to be preferred for street and road cars over race cars where extreme braking conditions occur.

Slotted Rotors: High Performance Braking for the Track

For track enthusiasts and performance-driven drivers, slotted rotors offer high-performance braking with precise control. These specialized rotors, featuring slots that aid in heat dissipation and debris clearance, are the ideal choice for drivers seeking ultimate braking performance on the track or during aggressive street driving.

With their superior responsiveness and improved brake feel, slotted rotors deliver enhanced stopping power and reliable performance. However, it’s important to consider the potential downsides, including increased noise and accelerated pad wear. By choosing slotted rotors, you’re opting for optimal braking power without compromising on control or performance.

What are the benefits of slotted rotors?

Slotted rotors offer numerous benefits for braking performance. These specialized rotors feature shallow channels or slots that enhance heat dissipation and combat brake fade. The sharp edges of these slots help provide better initial brake bite and improved stopping power, they also effectively remove water, dust, and debris from the braking surface and effectively clean the brake pad for optimal performance.

Slotted rotors are great in wet conditions too, by maintaining contact between brake pads and rotors. However, it is important to note that they may cause more noise and accelerated brake pad wear compared to other rotor types. When deciding between slotted and drilled rotors, carefully consider your vehicle’s specific braking needs.

What are the drawbacks of slotted rotors?

Slotted discs, despite their various advantages in terms of braking performance, are not without their downsides. One significant drawback is that the slots in the rotor can create stress points, which can lead to cracking or warping over time, compromising the overall effectiveness of the rotor.

Also, slotted rotors tend to be noisier than their drilled counterparts and may induce slight vibrations or pulsations during braking. These factors can have an impact on the overall driving experience and may not be suitable for everyone. When considering the use of slotted rotors, you need to consider any potential drawbacks carefully.

Drilled Rotors: Braking Upgrades for the Street

Drilled rotors provide notable braking upgrades for street use. These braking enhancements are achieved through improved heat dissipation and effective venting of gases and debris thanks to the holes on the disc surface. As a result, the risk of brake fade is reduced, and overall braking performance is improved. Furthermore, the extended lifespan of the brake pads can be attributed to better ventilation. But, drilled discs are not always the best aftermarket performance rotors for track use due to their susceptibility to cracking under extreme stress or heavy braking.

What are the advantages of drilled rotors for braking performance?

Drilled rotors provide numerous advantages for braking performance. With their cross-drilled holes, these rotors excel in dissipating heat efficiently, ensuring your brakes remain fade-free even during intense driving. The holes also prevent the buildup of gases and debris, maintaining a clean braking surface for optimal contact with the brake pad. This enhances overall braking performance, especially in wet conditions. Additionally, drilled rotors offer an attractive upgrade, adding a sporty and stylish element to your vehicle. So, when it comes to enhancing friction and ensuring smooth braking, drilled rotors are a better choice.

Are there any disadvantages to drilled rotors?

Drilled rotors, although visually appealing and offering better initial bite in wet conditions, come with significant downsides for braking performance. One major drawback revolves around the structural integrity of the rotor itself. The drilling process weakens the rotor by creating holes, increasing the likelihood of cracks or warping when subjected to heavy braking. Modern drilled discs use high quality materials (typically cast iron) and these ventilation holes can be cast in the rotor at production rather than drilled into the surface later, which minimises the likelihood of stress fractures forming at these points. However, whether drilled or cast-in, the holes can create an environment for water or debris accumulation, diminishing the braking effectiveness, particularly in unfavorable conditions.

So, which is better: slotted vs drilled rotors?

There’s no right or wrong answer. Both slotted and drilled rotors offer unique benefits and drawbacks for braking performance, and both are a huge step up from most stock braking systems. Slotted rotors are ideal for high-performance braking on the track, providing enhanced cooling and improved bite. On the other hand, drilled rotors are great for street driving, offering better heat dissipation and reduced brake fade. Ultimately, the type of disc you choose will depend on your specific driving needs and preferences. To learn more about choosing the right upgrades for your car, check out our other features and guides.

The post Slotted vs Drilled Rotors: Which Brakes Perform Better? appeared first on Fast Car.

The modern world is a scary place. Or, at least it can appear so. With our faces constantly stuck in mobile phones mindlessly scrolling social media, we’re continuously drip-fed bad news. Horror stories about wars. Doom about the economy. Scares about health pandemics. It can all get pretty depressing.

But that’s where having a passion for cars can really help. Think of it as meditation for petrolheads. It offers a welcome break from all the doom and gloom of modern society. Putting down the mobile phone and picking up the spanners is a great way to improve mental health.

Although campaigns like World Mental Health Day in October and Mental Health Awareness week mean awareness surrounding mental health is getting better, there is still something of a stigma surrounding the words “mental health” that we tend to shy away from, especially blokes.

Dealing with mental health is something we all do, whether we realise it or not.

Mindfulness and Relaxation in the Garage

Mindfulness is a practice that has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It offers a way to calm the mind and focus on the present moment. But did you know that working on cars can also provide a similar sense of mindfulness?

When you immerse yourself in the world of cars, your mind shifts away from the worries of daily life. The sounds, smells, and tactile sensations of working with tools and engines engage your senses, bringing you into the present moment.

Whether it’s fixing that annoying fault or taking the tuning to the next level, the methodical process helps reduce overall levels of stress and creates a sense of relaxation. We become fully absorbed in the task at hand, leaving no room for intrusive thoughts or negative emotions.

More than that. It can boost our mood too. Carl Norton from Fix Auto UK, the country’s largest network of independently owned vehicle repair centres, is a trained mental health first-aider, and recognises how spending a few hours in the garage can result in good mental health.

He says: “Having a positive outlet cannot be understated when dealing with the pressures of everyday life, and can make all the difference in difficult times. Simply having a designated place, such as a garage, where you are immune to these ties for a short while is critical in upholding your mental health long term.”

Connecting Through Car Culture

But cars aren’t a solo hobby, and by nature, we are social creatures. Whether it’s working in the garage with a friend or family member, or meeting up with mates at events, this hobby is best shared with fellow enthusiasts. Guided by a common interest, we engage in conversations that both celebrate victories and provide support in difficult situations.

Carl often highlights the power of communication in his courses. He says “I have trained more than 100 people in the car repair industry for Fix Auto UK, and one of the first things I say is that simply engaging in conversations with others benefits both yours and the recipient’s mental health. Additionally, finding those with like-minded interests can be the critical first step in feeling confident enough to reach out to someone if you need support.”

In essence, our toolboxes provide a safe environment away from the daily grind in which we can look out for one another. It is only in this safe environment that meaningful conversations surrounding mental health can blossom, so forget about that important email, call your mate and get on the spanners.

What Are The Signs of Mental Health Problems?

Abrupt mood swings, social withdrawal, or persistent expressions of sadness could all be a sign of underlying mental health challenges. As much as looking out for your mental health, it is also important to keep an eye on your mates.

When we notice these signs in someone we know, we need to be brave enough to show support and compassion. A gentle inquiry or a simple invitation to grab a spanner or a beer together can make a huge difference.

“When the check engine light comes on in your car, anyone in their right mind would stop to investigate the issue. All the same, to someone who has never driven a car before, their initial reaction would probably be one of panic and confusion. This can be applied to signs of mental ill health, and by simply learning some key indicators of when someone isn’t feeling their best, most will feel equipped enough to be active and reach out,” Carl explains.

It’s Good to Talk

Ask any expert, and they will tell you that one of the best ways to improve mental health is simply talking. We’re not suggesting that you pretend to be a therapist. Far from it. But you’ll be surprised how much difference a seemingly trivial conversation can make.

And chatting is something we can all do. Let’s face it, we do it all day when we’re stood around at a car meet. So, the next time you’re working on your car and one of your mates seems a bit off, don’t just ignore it. Keep an eye on them. And don’t be afraid to check they’re ok.

Carl says: “We recently hosted Tea & Talk sessions to encourage our repairers to be more open about their health over a cup of tea. The same can be applied in a personal sense. If your friend is showing signs of mental ill health, simply turning up with a box of biscuits and open ears could prove invaluable to them in the long run.”

Modifying Cars to Improve Mental Health

Our passion for cars is a powerful tool in the fight to escape the doom and gloom that we’re subjected to on social platforms and in the news. The positivity, enthusiasm and excitement we enjoy when messing about with cars are fantastic for boosting our quality of life and improving mental health. Want a real-life example – read our full feature on how Mica Dori’s modified Mercedes 190E helped her through dark times

Modifying cars also provides the perfect opportunity to look out for our mates too. So, make sure you use it. We are all one big car family, after all.

The post Improve Mental Health with Modified Car Therapy appeared first on Fast Car.

The sixth-generation Ford Mustang S550 has been with us for eight years, and like all Mustangs, it’s proving to be a tuning sensation with more and more quality upgrades appearing on the aftermarket. Yes, the lineup did include more frugal and more affordable engine configurations, but the one most car fans are interested in is the full-fat GT version. So, that’s the model we’ll focus on for this car tuning guide.

Unfiltered American Muscle

The GT follows the traditional Mustang format of being a big, brawny coupé with a rumbling V8. Only this time, the S550 also came in right-hand drive for the UK market, so British car fans could also enjoy the iconic Ford legend.

The 5.0-liter Coyote V8 found in the Mustang GT is a true gem. Packing over 400 horsepower as standard with rear-wheel drive, even a box-stock S550 is entertaining. But it has so much more to give if you tickle it in the right places. Power can be taken to crazy levels (even on stock internals); the chassis can be tuned to suit the road, track or drag strip (or a combination of all three); and there are so many styling parts available (from the aftermarket and limited edition/performance models), you can really customize a Mustang to you suit your tastes.

With used prices dropping as low as $25k (Mustang buyer’s guide) for an earlier pre-facelift version and brand new prices starting below $40k, that’s a whole lot of fun for not a lot of dollar. And it leaves plenty of cash in the kitty to spend on upgrades. Here’s our Ford Mustang S550 tuning guide.

Ford Mustang S550 Engine Tuning

Tuning the Mustang’s fabulous Coyote motor is surprisingly easy; double the factory power can be achieved without even needing to open it up. Yes, the Coyote V8 will do nearly 1000 horsepower still running the OEM internals.

The first thing to do is get the V8 breathing better. A performance filter helps, although for more notable gains you’ll want to replace the whole setup for a performance induction kit. It’ll also boost the noise, too.

There are several to choose from, but fitting an induction kit to a later 2018-on car will require a remap. Earlier cars will benefit from Steeda’s open cold-air induction system, which will work happily on a stock map to give increases of around 20 horsepower and 20lb.ft. of torque. But on later direct-injection cars, the stock air filter was better optimized, meaning that to find gains you need to increase the bore size of the intake. This in turn requires a remap to recalibrate the MAF sensor readings to suit.

Exhaust Tuning

With the intake sorted, attention then turns to the exhaust. An axle-back is a good starting point and gives the Mustang that V8 burble it deserves for the cheapest price. A cat-back builds on this and replaces everything after the factory catalytic converters. These are typically available with either an H-pipe or X-pipe linking the two banks together. An H-pipe gives a more traditional V8 burble and slightly better low-down performance. The X-pipe sounds raspier and offers more top-end power.

You also need to choose between a 2.5in diameter system like the Ford Performance item (said to be quieter and deliver a more OEM-like experience in the cabin) or a full 3in system, which is what most tuners recommend.

With twin pipes running front to back, Mustang exhausts don’t come cheap. The Ford Performance cat-back costs over $1500. However, systems from Magnaflow, Kooks, Milltek and Steeda are all available for less. Have a listen to this 800 horsepower supercharged Mustang.

Exhaust Manifold

The biggest gains are found by swapping the headers. Interestingly, the US-market cars made a little more power from the factory than UK cars (416 horsepower over 410 horsepower). This was due to the right-hand conversion resulting in a redesigned, slightly-more restrictive exhaust manifold, and therefore less top-end power.

Not that it matters, in the pursuit of performance you’ll be binning the stock stuff regardless of which side the steering wheel is! Again, there are several options but the long-tube headers from Kooks are widely regarded as some of the best on the market. These are available with 1-3/4in-diameter tubes (perfect for NA tuning) or larger 1-7/8in tubes (said to be ideal for big-power S550s running over 600 horsepower). Expect to pay around $1900-$2500 for a pair of smaller-diameter headers with high-flow sports cats. You can pay as much as $3000 for the larger headers with higher-quality 300-cell cats. Or, for race cars even larger 2.0in headers are available.

Remapping

To make the most of all that extra breathing, a software upgrade completes the holy trinity of air filter, exhaust and remap.

Choose a reputable tuner and you’ll see around 480-to-500 horsepower. You can nudge that closer to 500 horsepower with upgrades to the throttle body and intake manifold, but at this point, the cost-per-horsepower-gained becomes difficult to justify. Especially when you can literally bolt on another 200-to-300 horsepower in the shape of a supercharger.

Or you could just drop in a complete crate engine from Ford Performance. The top-dog V8 motor is the 5.2-liter Aluminator XS. Up to 580 horsepower at a screaming 7800rpm comes thanks to forged conrods, pistons and crank, CNC-ported GT350 cylinder heads, custom cams, and Cobra Jet intake and throttle. Yours for around $21,000.

Ford Mustang S550 Forced Induction Tuning

Supercharging

It’s easier, and cheaper, to get big numbers from the S550 Mustang by adding boost. Supercharger upgrades are by far the simplest solution, and complete kits are available that bolt straight on. Even controlling the ECU has been taken care of with most systems coming with recalibrated software solutions to suit.

There are two main supercharger configurations to choose from: twin-screw or centrifugal. In both cases, comprehensive bolt-on kits are available and include pipework, intercooler and ECU tunes. We’ve featured plenty of supercharged Mustangs for you to ogle over.

Centrifugal kits from the likes of Procharger and Vortech have a more ‘aftermarket’ approach, whereas most OEMs tend to go for the twin-screw design. And there are lots of twin-screw options out there from Roush, Edelbrock, Whipple and even Ford Performance.

The centrifugal kits tend to be a bit cheaper and not as aggressive lower down in the rev range. Twin-screw kits give more instant throttle response, offer a bit more tuneability and are usually a bit more expensive.

Both give truly epic gains: on a completely standard engine, 700 horsepower is easily achievable. With uprated oil pump gears and cam sprockets, you can up the boost alongside some bigger injectors and have 850 horsepower under your right foot. Kits typically start at around $8000.

Turbocharging

But supercharging isn’t the only way to boost your Mustang. Complete turbo kits are also available and include (almost) everything you need for installation. Many of these kits are designed for left-hand-drive cars though, so fitting to a UK car can take some work.

As turbos are driven by exhaust gases rather than a belt-driven supercharger, they can be better tuned to give a higher or lower boost at any given revs. On a standard Coyote engine, there’s nothing between the supercharger kits and turbo kits, in terms of price and indeed power. Have a nosey at the UK’s first turbocharged Mustang!

But turbochargers offer almost limitless power when you start taking the engine apart and fitting stronger internals. We’ve been told that 1500 horsepower isn’t all that difficult with a built engine, bigger turbos and some fueling upgrades, and MMR has already built a Coyote turbo thumping out a quite ridiculous 2138 horsepower!

Ford Mustang S550 Transmission Tuning

If you’ve bought an S550 with automatic transmission – especially the later ten-speed 2018-on model with the 10R80 transmission – then well done: sit back and relax; your work here is already done.

But many Mustang owners opted for the more involving manual transmission, and unfortunately, the Getrag MT-82 is not without its problems. The later MT-82-D4 (D4 for direct fourth) from 2018-onwards used a dual-mass flywheel, twin disc clutch, larger synchros, and different tooth geometry. It’s better but didn’t cure all the issues.

According to specialist CJ Pony Parts, some simple upgrades can help overcome the main issues. For starters, an uprated clutch kit can help with the high-speed lockout issue the MT-82 suffers from, while a short-throw shifter improves feel, and shifter support brackets add rigidity to prevent missing shifts. One caveat, though: the MT-82 can be finicky, so over-tightening bolts or a slight misalignment of things such as the reverse lock-out can cause issues. Installed correctly, though, they are fine.

Steeda warns against fitting stiffer diff bushes on a road car; the diffs can be noisy from the factory, and a stiffer bush can amplify this into the cabin. They are great for drag cars, though. And if you do spend time on the strip, invest in a set of hardcore diff bolts to prevent the stubby original bolts from shearing and your diff falling out.

Ford Mustang S550 Suspension Tuning

Add a few upgrades in the right places and the S550 will carve through corners as well as, if not better than, some of its more established German rivals.

The first thing to do is sort the alignment. The S550’s rear subframe has large bolt-holes to make assembly in the factory easier and faster, but this also means the subframe location isn’t very precise. Steeda says it can be as much as 12mm out, meaning the rear subframe isn’t actually in the center of the car.

That’s why one of the best upgrades you can make to any S550 – tuned or standard – is to fit a set of IRS (independent rear suspension) alignment bushes. These are basically sleeves for those larger bolt holes, which will centralize the subframe.

The alignment bushes are available separately but work best when combined with Steeda’s subframe bushing support system in the IRS base pack. These aluminum inserts work with the OE rubber bushes, so don’t increase NVH but do reduce the amount of movement in the stock bushes.

With that lot in place, a four-wheel alignment session will make sure all four wheels are pointing where they should. Steeda recommends the following for a fast road S550: front camber, -1.2deg; front caster, 7.5deg; front toe, 0.2deg; rear camber, 1.6deg; and rear toe, 0.2deg.

Lowering Springs or Coilovers?

Lowering springs will help get the car sitting closer to the ground and offer improvements to body roll too; there are several options available from different suppliers, including linear, progressive, and dual-rate types. Which you choose will depend on how you use the car; speak to your tuner to discuss in more detail.

For most owners, a good set of springs and dampers will be more than up to the job but if you like to take your Mustang on track a lot, or want almost endless adjustability, then a good set of coilovers will really allow you to fine-tune the damping and ride-height settings.

Instead, a street car will see money more wisely spent on upgrading suspension bushes, braces and arms. Polyurethane bushes will help reduce unwanted movement, but on the S550, the rubber bush itself is often not the cause for concern; it’s the bar, link, or arm the bush is fitted to that’s the issue. The standard rear vertical links, for example, are made from pressed steel and are susceptible to flexing under load. So too are the rear toe links.

Steeda, BMR and Hardrace all offer bolt-on upgrades that will eliminate the problem. As a bonus, they are adjustable too.

Anti-roll bars

It’s also worth looking at the anti-roll bars. There are options available from all the well-known names including Steeda, Ford Performance and Eibach, and they all work in a similar way – beef up the standard roll bar with a stronger, stiffer design to further resist any roll and improve longevity compared to the stock part, and most are adjustable too.

There’s almost as much scope in S550 chassis tuning as there is engine tuning, and you can build on these mods with more bracing and strengthening, more adjustment, and even a lightweight race-spec front crossmember, all available as bolt-on upgrades.

Ford Mustang Brakes

Most GT’s (including all British Mustang GTs) came with Ford’s Performance Pack 1 fitted. If not, this is the first step in upgrading the brakes, as the Performance Pack added whopping Brembo six-pot front calipers and 380x34mm discs, plus 330x25mm ventilated rear discs with floating calipers. They’re more than enough for most users, but some track-day and/or big-power owners have swapped discs for lighter two-piece items and fitted more aggressive pads. They will cope with most things you can throw at them.

But, if you want the ultimate, look to the Ford Performance catalogue, and specifically the Shelby GT350R brake upgrade. This kit includes Brembo six-pot front calipers with massive 15.5in (394mm) rotors, as well as Brembo four-pot rears with 14.9in (378mm) discs, parking brake assembly, street-spec pads, and everything to fit. They’re not badly priced at $4200 for the whole kit, either.

Ford Mustang S550 Wheels & Tire Upgrades

The key to improving performance here is weight; or removing as much of it as you can. The stock 19in alloys are heavy, and you can find significant performance gains by swapping to a lightweight option. The stock GT wheels weigh around 15kg (33lb) each, whereas Velgen’s flow-formed VF5 weighs just 11.3kg (25lb). No wonder it’s a popular upgrade. Of course, there are plenty of options available from specialists.

As for tires, stick to premium brands and high-performance ranges. There is no room for compromise with a big power ‘Stang.

Ford Mustang S550 Interior Upgrades

The Mustang GT came well-equipped as standard – unlike some of the lesser-spec models. It’s all about personal taste when it comes to interior dress-up; the stock seats are ideal for a comfy GT car, but for more spirited use on the street or track a pair of bucket seats offer more stability.

The car’s infotainment system is good, but there are better aftermarket options on the market now. Plus, while the standard car’s audio system suffices, those who love their audio as much as their V8s will want a little speaker upgrade to deliver more performance.

Elsewhere in the cabin it again boils down to personal taste. some opt for a simpler steering wheel with a little more thickness to the rim. Others swap out gear levers for purely aesthetic reasons, while others start removing unwanted plastics to help save weight.

Ford Mustang styling upgrades

You can get wide body kits and huge rear wings for the S550, but the already aggressive Mustang really doesn’t need much help in the getting-noticed department. Instead, subtle touches and the OEM-plus approach tend to get an appreciative nod from those in the know.

Shelby-tuned cars came with a selection of aesthetic upgrades, and plenty of OEM-style improvements are available, such as replacement boot lids, side scoops, and various grille upgrades. One of the best-looking styling extras in our book is the carbon-fiber GT350R-style rear spoiler – it’s not cheap, but it is beautiful.

Of course, for those who want to take it to the extreme, there are numerous wide-arch kits to choose from too – just factor in the labor costs to fit and paint the kit will add to overall expense.

Words: Jamie & Ben Birch. Photos: AS Design.

The post Ford Mustang S550 Tuning Guide appeared first on Fast Car.

ECUs are a vital part of car tuning if you’re running a modern car with electronic ignition. To put it simply, ECUs are in charge of maintaining the rhythm and balance of all the intricate mechanical dances that turn air and fuel into speed. So, when you start swapping out factory parts for high-performance aftermarket ones, the car’s stock ECU may suddenly be out of its depth – and that ain’t great for your motor’s health.

To give you more of an idea how this might happen, let’s take a look at a common example…

Case Study: Ford Focus ST & RS Mk2

The Mk2 Ford Focus ST and RS models are very tunable and reliable too, but the standard management system simply isn’t up to the job once you tune beyond the 500-550hp mark. The reason for this is mainly due to the factory MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor, which is located inside the crossover pipe just after the air filter. This sensor measures the amount of air passing across it and therefore going into the engine – from this reading, the ECU makes the crucial calculations required to determine how much fuel to add. However, on big power builds that run at higher boost levels, the sensor becomes overwhelmed and simply can’t compute the amount of airflow passing by.

Furthermore, in this scenario the sensor’s response time to rapid increments is slightly delayed, and whilst this is fine for a majority of high-performance cars, it’s not ideal for heavily modified vehicles where more precise and accurate changes would be preferable.

Also, there’s a lack of control over the entire system. Even after a custom remap that changes the stock ECU’s parameters, the MAF sensor ultimately still dictates how much fuel to add. Fully tailored map adjustments to both the fueling and ignition properties are not possible. Instead, only mild adjustments to the map file can be performed. That’s fine for the majority of mildly modified cars, but when looking to extract maximum power potential, working within these tightly controlled parameters does limit what is possible. The original MAF sensor cannot simply be uprated either.

Plug & Play

This is where the Syvecs plug-and-play conversion comes in. It entirely replaces the standard Ford ECU and its limiting MAF sensor set-up, in favor of an aftermarket motorsport control unit that works with a MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor reading instead, among others. Therefore, the previous MAF set-up restrictions are no longer an issue. What’s more, the Syvecs ECU integrates seamlessly with the car, so nothing changes in terms of creature comforts, dials, gauges, or controls.

Syvecs ECU Features & Benefits

One key benefit to the Syvecs system is the ability to fully control the engine’s ignition and fueling settings, allowing more accurate adjustment to improve power and response, but there are plenty of additional extras, too. For a start, different pre-set maps can be selected on the move, giving the driver options of low, medium or high boost settings, for example, or ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ settings on a track car.

There’s also a full suite of extra features, such as full-throttle gearshifts, meaning you don’t need to lift the accelerator pedal during a gear change to reduce shifting times. Launch control is another option; a feature which limits revs whilst at standstill to improve traction off the line. In addition, the introduction of anti-lag will help to keep the turbo spooling. But perhaps most importantly, it’s the dramatically improved throttle response and much improved torque-biasing traction control that gives the most noticeable gains on a road car.

There’s also an improved soundtrack to consider as the Syvecs ECU considerably alters the car’s engine and exhaust tone. There are also the options to add a fuel-flex feature. This is a sensor that can read the quality of fuel flowing through it (such as running regular 99RON pump fuel, race fuels, or even methanol-mixes) so the ECU can automatically calibrate itself to suit the fuel being used. All of the ECU’s readings can be displayed on a Toucan touch-screen display unit.

How to fit a Syvecs ECU

In terms of fitting, the ECU itself is a true plug-and-play conversion; literally you can just unplug the old ECU and plug the new Syvecs one in with the wiring harness provided. A base map to suit the car’s specification is then uploaded via a laptop (or this can be preloaded onto the ECU) and immediately the car will start and drive as normal, with all standard features of both the car and ECU immediately enabled. Final mapping is then done via a tuner, ideally on a dyno where everything can be closely monitored.

Head over to syvecs.com to see what packages they can provide for your own car.

Words by Simon Holmes.

The post Syvecs ECU: Everything You Need To Know appeared first on Fast Car.

When it comes to high-performance vehicles, one of the most crucial components is the brakes. Carbon ceramic brakes are a popular choice for premium, luxury and sports cars due to the superior performance and durability they offer. But what exactly are carbon ceramic brakes? How do they differ from traditional performance brakes? And what are the advantages of upgrading to them? Let’s take a closer look…

What are carbon ceramic brakes?

Carbon ceramic brakes are commonly found in high-performance sports and race cars. They are made from a composite material of carbon fibers and ceramic particles, offering superior durability and heat dissipation than traditional steel brakes. However, they come at a higher cost and may not always be necessary for regular street driving.

Advantages of using carbon ceramic brakes

Often referred to as ‘carbon-ceramic’ or ‘ceramic’ brakes, they are advanced braking systems frequently installed in sports cars and race cars from top brands like Porsche or Ferrari. These brakes are made using advanced composite materials that consist of carbon fibers and ceramic particles. The unique combination of these materials provides excellent thermal conductivity and a higher coefficient of friction than conventional iron discs used in most vehicles – basically, they grip harder and aren’t as affected by heat build-up!

Thanks to the use of these advanced materials, carbon ceramic brakes provide several benefits over traditional steel brakes. These include impressive weight savings, making them an ideal option for high-performance vehicles looking to shed some pounds without compromising on braking performance. Additionally, they boast exceptional durability with a longer lifespan than regular brake systems while being corrosion-resistant and requiring less maintenance due to their superior wear resistance.

When it comes to braking performance under extreme temperatures and high speeds on the track or during acceleration tests, they outperform conventional iron discs by reducing brake fade while maintaining consistent stopping power. However, these benefits come at a higher cost due to their complex manufacturing process, making them a popular choice for racing applications or exotic sports and hypercars that prioritize durability and performance over cost.

How do they work?

Carbon ceramic brakes use a composite material of carbon fibers and ceramic particles. When you press the brake pedal and the brakes engage, friction generates heat, causing the material to grip the rotor tightly. Ceramic brakes offer superior durability, stopping power, and weight reduction compared to iron-based brakes.

Differences between regular brakes and carbon ceramic brakes

In terms of braking systems for automotive applications, significant differences exist between the regular and carbon ceramic variants. Carbon ceramic brakes are made up of a composite material containing graphite and silicon carbide, in addition to a resin that creates a matrix composite with excellent corrosion resistance and durability properties.

In contrast, standard brake rotors tend to use cast iron discs that wear down over time due to heat-related issues like thermal conductivity problems. Brake lines in conventional braking systems can suffer from brake fade at extreme temperatures, impacting the vehicle’s stopping ability. The rotors are designed to withstand high speeds on track use and offer low weight combined with unmatched longevity compared to their more common counterparts.

Upgrading to carbon ceramic brakes

When considering an upgrade to high-performance brakes for your ride, there are several options available. These systems have grown in popularity due to their impressive performance and durability compared to traditional iron-based brake systems. Upgrading to a carbon ceramic brake system can provide vastly improved braking power and wear resistance, reduced unsprung weight, and better thermal shock resistance (making them ideal for track and race cars), but it’s essential to weigh up the costs of upgrading versus the benefits before making a decision.

Costs associated with carbon ceramic brakes

Let’s not mess about here, carbon ceramic brakes are pricey. We mean properly pricey. You can expect to pay anywhere between $3000 to $15,000 (more on exotic hypercars) for a set of rotors! But are they really worth it?

Well, yes. If you value performance, they are almost impossible to beat for a street-legal car. Carbon ceramic brake systems are an exceptional choice for those who demand top-of-the-line braking power. With their carbon-ceramic rotorsand beefy performance calipers, these systems offer superior braking performance that stands up to extreme temperatures and wear resistance. While they do come with a steep price tag due to their high manufacturing costs and expensive replacement parts, their longevity makes them a great investment for owners of race and track cars.

When considering an upgrade, it is important to consider factors such as track use or daily commuting mileage as well as compatibility with your car and wheel fitment. It’s not just the initial cost to be aware of either, but every time you need replacement brake pads or rotors, the costs will be far higher than with traditional iron discs.

How to maintain carbon ceramic brakes

They are incredibly expensive – we’ve already established that – so if you have just splashed out a small fortune on new brakes you’re going to want to look after them. And, caring for carbon ceramic brakes does require a different approach to regular iron discs. Of course, it goes without saying that regular inspection is important to check for wear and tear on the ceramic discs and brake pads. But where things differ is when it comes to cleaning. Not your brakes specifically, but even your wheels.

Never use regular heavy-duty wheel cleaners on cars with carbon ceramic discs. They are very sensitive to cleaning products, plus their porous nature means the harsh chemicals in wheel cleaners will sink deep into the material causing discoloration, reduced performance, and potentially ruining your very expensive discs!

The good news is that cars with carbon ceramic discs shouldn’t even need harsh wheel cleaners; they emit very little brake dust, meaning you can clean your wheels with nothing more than some warm soapy water and a pressure washer. If, however, your wheels are caked in road grime and you do need to use a dedicated wheel cleaner, it’s best to remove the wheel and clean it off the car to avoid contaminating those very costly brakes.

So, should you upgrade to them?

That depends. They are becoming increasingly popular in high-performance vehicles and have been the pinnacle for braking systems in many race cars for several years. They offer several benefits over traditional steel brakes, including increased stopping power, reduced weight, and improved durability. The unique makeup of the carbon ceramic material allows for better heat dissipation and less brake fade, even under extreme conditions. So, if you’re looking to gain a competitive edge on the racetrack or have the very best brakes you can find on your street car, then yes you should upgrade.

However, they can come with a hefty price tag. And unless you’re frequently finding the limits of traditional iron rotors – and they are some exceptionally good discs and pads for performance cars out there – then perhaps the cost is difficult to justify. It really does depend on what you want from your car and your own personal circumstances.

But if you were to ask, ‘are carbon ceramic brakes any good?’ then the answer would be a resounding ‘yes’. They’re brilliant!

The post Carbon Ceramic Brakes Explained appeared first on Fast Car.