Fensport GT86R Race Project, Part 2 - 2013

January: A new year and lots to do!! We are continuing to develop the GT86R in preparation for this years Toyota Sprint Series.

Roll cage installation, a full FIA International Spec multipoint cage by Custom Cages has been installed.

The roll cage and interior were finished in time for the car to be on display at the Autosport International on the Summit Racing stand along with new Summit adjustable rear suspension arms, front strutbrace and Lower subframe brace.

Next modification is the Turbocharger!! Our preferred choice is the Avo Turbo kit and we're pleased to announce Fensport as the European distributor for Avo, we will be working closely with them and developing the kits for EU spec cars and conditions.

We are using the Ecutek software to control boost electronically, the Race Rom maps have allowed us to control boost in gear , against throttle as well as have a full 'closed loop' system. A 3 bar map sensor has also been added along with an overboost fuel cut. Boost is set to 0.5bar.

Another addition for this season is a M Factory 4.44 final drive along with a 1.5way plate lsd, both will help the rear differential get all the extra power to the ground!

Also changed this year is the front brakes, which has helped to save rotaional and unsprung weight, we have opted for the excellent Stoptech big brake kit with 4 pot front calipers with a 328mm discs.

Another area we are always improving is weight reduction, so a full perspex window kit has been fitted including side and rear windows. The doors are lightened now the roll cage is installed, the rear parcel shelf has been trimmed down.

The car has been prepared for the 2013 Toyota Sprint Series, now running in Pro Tuner class and up against some very powerful 4wd opposition.

28th April
The 1st round of the Toyota Sprint Series held at Blyton Park Circuit saw the Fensport GT86 claim 1st in class and 5th Overall.

The team suffered brake problems on the day, earlier in the week the decision was taken to disable the abs system and it cost the team dearly with front brake lock up! Lesson learned don't disconnect the abs!! Despite the brake problem the team were very happy with the car's handling and balance. The power is fantastic and now the brakes are fixed we are really looking forward to Round 2 at Woodbridge on the 19th May where we plan on getting that perfect run!

10 - 18th May
After the first round the power has been increased, boost is now up to 0.75 bar with more mapping and high octane race fuel. A full 3" Blitz prototype exhaust has been manuufactured in house from the turbo to the back bumper. Power is now approx 320bhp.

19th May
Back out on track, this time at Woodbridge a nice open long track we needed the extra power to keep up with the 4wd cars, and the GT86 didn't disappoint with 2nd place overall :) 

21st May - 8th June
After our second place we were pleased but know we have to push harder, we are after a win this season and a good overall result in the championship.

The next round of modifications begins ....

A stiffer actuator has been fitted to increase boost response, boost is left at 0.75 bar but the new actuator helps the spool up time in the lower gears. Wider 245 section Toyo R888 tires are fitted to help with traction and put the power down. A new lighter intercooler and alloy front bumper bar reduces front end weight.

And new Seibon carbon front splitter and an extra pair of canards help to generate more front downforce. Also fitted is a Seibon rear boot lid to help reduce more weight.

Toyota Sprint Series Round 3, held at Barkston on a purpose built tight and twisty sprint track. We finished 2nd overall and closed the gap to the more powerful 4wd cars, missing the win by just 0.28 of a second.

10th June
Next job was to get the car on the dyno and test our power modifications were heading in the right direction, 334.9bhp and 266 ft-lbs with beautiful smooth power and torque curves :)

Also fitted now is the beautiful carbon fibre bonnet from Seibon, as well as adding extra cooling for the engine bay, it also weighs 1.2kgs lighter than the standard bonnet.

 
27th June
Huge thanks to Autocar and Toyota GB for hiring Bedford Autodrome and producing a stunning video of both our street and race GT86's going up against a standard GT86 and also a Mclaren MP4-12C for comparison. We had a fantastic day and the GT86R emerged as the victor :) :)

Fensport GT86R vs Mclaren MP4-12C - Autocar review of the Fensport GT86 turbo cars