Regularity races: Does It matter more precision or speed?

Challenges measured in hundredths of a second, classic cars of enchanting beauty, the evocative smell of leather seats mixed with the throaty roar from the engines.
These are rallying events reserved for classic cars, where respecting the times required to complete a section between one stage and the next is essential. Participants are given a route to follow, which includes a series of time checkpoints and regularity sections. The aim is to go from point A to point B, from point C to point D, and so on in a given time calculated to tenths of a second. The distance between the points is a few tens of meters and the time starts when contestants’ cars pass over pressure switches. The teams need to bear in mind that for timed checkpoints, times are measured with an accuracy of one second, while for the regularity sections times are measured to an accuracy of one hundredth of a second!

As already mentioned, to navigate checkpoints and regularity sections, contestants are given a route to follow which is detailed in what’s called a Roadbook (aka a “Radar”). This provides information including distances, pictograms, drawings and symbols that the driver uses to stay on the prescribed route. The assistance of the navigator in achieving this is a key element to success. Participating vehicles must have kept the original manufacturing specification. Events take place on public roads, so cars must be properly registered, subjected to annual overhaul, and fully insured. Teams are generally composed of a driver and navigator, and close teamwork is essential. The driver forms a close relationship with, and places great trust in the navigator, and it’s this close bond that makes the route so exciting. The meticulous work of the navigators begins when they receive the Roadbook, from which they must extract all useful information about the route, timings, potential obstacles and other details essential for the drivers.

The unique aspect of these competitions is the time factor: bearing in mind that routes must be completed at a maximum speed of 40 km/h (in accordance with Automotoclub Storico Italiano (ASI) regulations), the difficulty lies in timing to perfection the exact moment when the car’s front wheels cross the pressure switches, which is a line marking the end of the test stage. Contestants are informed of the precise speed they must achieve as they cross the line, and penalties are incurred for failing to stop the stopwatch at the precise second the line is crossed.

How do you prepare a car for the race?
Preferably, the focus should be on the systems that receive most stress, namely the brakes, transmission, tyres and clutch. Contestants are often followed by their mechanics throughout the rally, who carry stock of essential spares and equipment for fixing damage and breakdowns: a new battery, a timing belt, a dynamo, wheel spokes (which can come loose), head gaskets, distributor, spare electrical parts, and above all, engine oil! In fact, they always carry an ample supply of oil. There are specific types of oils and lubricants for classic cars. These ensure first-rate performance whilst respecting the authenticity of a car’s history.

At the end of the rally, the rally jury checks the results achieved by contestants. Once results have been checked, a competition winner is announced, and they are awarded their well-earned prize. After the rally, cars are given a thorough check, essentially using the same inspection list as that used prior to the event. The only special care these classic cars require is a scrupulous annual inspection and overhaul to ensure they remain in tip-top condition for as long as possible.