Budget Porsche racing! It sounds like a contradiction but it is possible. For those wanting to join in the most economic way, here’s a brief on how to put together a 944 Challenge car to the minimum specification.

Standard 2.5 litre 944 Porsche, 5 speed manual. Left or Right hand drive

Roll cage

Yokohama Control Tyres

Control brake pads

Control Wolf ECU Kit

Racing seat

Racing harness

Window net

Towing eyes

Various stickers

Clear adhesive film

Fire extinguisher and bracket

Battery isolation switch

Remove passenger seat, carpets, spare wheel and tools.

Install a roll cage from a CAMS approved builder.

Install seat, harness and window net

Fit tyres, ECU kit and brake pads

If front lower control arms are alloy, replace them.

Fit towing points

Add adhesive film to headlights and driving lights

Install a fire extinguisher in the cabin.

Install battery isolation switch operable from inside and outside the cabin.

If the car is not road registered, disable the ignition/steering lock device.

Add race numbers to sides and front

Add windscreen banner

Add stickers for tow points, battery, battery isolator switch, CAMS sticker

When finished, take a photo and apply to CAMS for an inspection and a log book.

Enter a race and go…

If you follow these steps, you will build the most basic of 944 challenge cars. Including the cost of a second hand road registered car (pick one up for between $12,000 and $15,000), you could put together a 944 Challenge car and get change from $20,000. This car probably won’t get you up on the podium but if you’ve always wanted to go racing, you’re on the track with a car that can be upgraded at your own pace and budget.

Want better performance without expense?

Lose weight! It costs nothing but a little work. You have a lot of it to lose in order to meet the minimum of 1100 kg with driver, and you will be surprised all the stuff you can do without.

Once you are on the track, it won’t be long before your sleepless nights will be filled thoughts and plans for making your car go faster. The class rules allow many engine and suspension enhancements to give you better performance, but that’s another story.