TRUE GRIP True Grip is the official magazine of the Subaru Impreza Drivers Club
Special July Track
P16
FEATURES
Southwest, Sideways
TG Editor Stu heads South to find out what it takes to get a scoob sideways - in style!
P8
True Grip July
NEWS SPECIAL
Track Special
EVERYTHING you could possibly want to know about the new STi CS400!
P22
P1 Anniversary Photo Gallery
P30
Rolling Road Day
Little Green Goblin Rounds up the Troops for a Rolling Road Day at Zen Performance.
P37
Spring Performance Car Action Day
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There’s very much a track theme running through this issue with BADBAZ leading the way with his Scottish Scoobies Trackday Teaser article on P14 [not forgetting the SIDC Trackday Calendar on P13]. On P16 is the cover article - a complete novice [Errr, that’ll be me then! - Editor] finds out quite how bad his driving really is and on P37 is Edmondo’s Spring Performance Car Action Day report. Add all that to the regular features, the extended news that takes a look at the Cossie STI and the P1 Anniversary Gallery, it’s packed to the rafters in here! So much so that the full issue of True Grip has been increased to 46 pages!
TRUE GRIP True Grip is the official magazine of the Subaru Impreza Drivers Club
grip Editor, true
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Content 3 Editor’s Intro 4W IN a CG Lock 5 C hairman’s Intro 6P hoto Competition 6R egional Organisers 7R O Feature 8N ews Special - Cosworth STi 11 B est of the Web 12 N ews Cont... 13 T rackday Calendar 13 N ational Events Calendar 14 F EATURE: Track Teaser 16 F EATURE: Southwest, Sideways 22 S PECIAL: P1 Anniversary Gallery 26 R eader’s Rides 30 F EATURE: East Anglian RR Day 32 T echnical: Engine Bay Guide 37 F EATURE: Spring PCAD 45 Members’ Discounts
So, here we are again and you’ll notice something different about this issue, what with it being the first of the ‘twin issues’ - one for non-members and another, bigger, feature-packed version for SIDC members that packs a lot more punch! As well as that, we’ve added more pages (sorry, members only), more articles and the black that adorned the previous ‘Black Issue’ is somewhat more subdued. That aside, it’s been a busy few months with this year’s show season getting underway with PCAD, the P1 Anniversary event at Prodrive in Banbury, more rolling road days and local meets than you can shake a stick at, the launch of the Cosworth Impreza and me, sideways, collecting traffic cones BUT, as well as that, I’m very excited to announce that April’s issue of True Grip has been entered into the Digital Magazine Awards in the Best Motoring Magazine category a fantastic boost not only for everyone involved in TG, but the club as a whole. It just goes to show, with blood, sweat, tears and a bucket load of sugar, you really can turn lemons into Lemonade!
Stu Mason Editor, True Grip
P.S. Huge congratulations to Bockett, SIDC member (and photographer on a number of this issues articles) on his front cover appearance in Fast Car magazine nicely done Ben!
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competitio
WIN a CG Lock
Seatbelt Stabiliser with True Grip
True Grip has teamed up with CG-Lock to offer you the chance to win one of two CG-Lock Seatbelt Stabilisers worth £49.99 each! The CG-Lock is the first major improvement to the standard 3 point inertia reel belt since its introduction 50 years ago. It is a small palm sized device that clips onto the existing tongue of your seatbelt (the bit that you reach for when buckling up) in less than 5 minutes and keeps the slack out of the lap belt portion of the seatbelt (the part that goes across your lap). In effect, the CG-Lock lets your existing seat belt work like an aircraft seat belt: when you take the slack out of the lapbelt, it stays out… if you want to loosen it off, simply press the lever and slacken it off. The CG-Lock has been proven to significantly improve lap times, on average by a second a lap (for a 1’ 30” lap). Over 10 laps, that’s a 10 second advantage over the same car with no CG-Lock fitted. To be in with a chance of winning a CG-Lock for yourself, just answer the simple question below in an email to editor@sidc.co.uk
HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning a CG-Lock for yourself, just answer the simple question below in an email to editor@sidc.co.uk
QUESTION What james bond movie was the CG-Lock used in for the car stunts? A. The James Bomb Musical B. Quantum of Solace C. Carry on Spying The first two names out of the hat will win a CG-Lock Seatbelt Stabiliser. Closing date 31st Aug 2010.
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TRUE GRIP True Grip is the official magazine of the Subaru Impreza Drivers Club
Cover Image: Stu Mason Editor: Stu Mason (stum450n)
hairman sidc club c
Pace notes
Well, well... here is our second ELECTRONIC EDITION which is now restricted to members only so to those doubting Thomases that said it wouldn’t work [CENSORED] ;o) I can only thank Stu and the contributors that have been making this the talk of the paddock... having just returned from Modified Live at Brands Hatch I was truly impressed by the number of other clubs and magazines that wanted details of who and how we do it.
Advertising Sales: Kay Scott, KJS Advertising. T: 01943 461679 E: kjsadvertising@btinternet.com Designed & produced by: Stu Mason E: stu@sidc.co.uk www.stumason.com Published by: SIDC, PO Box 5673, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6WU Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without prior permission of the Editor. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not the SIDC. All contributions, whether they bear the names, initials or pseudonyms, are accepted on the understanding that the author is responsible for the opinions expressed and that they do not necessarily reflect or comply with those of the publisher or editor. Although every care is taken, the publisher, designer and editor cannot be held responsible for loss or damage to material submitted. Whilst every care is taken to ensure contents are accurate, the publisher and editor assume no responsibility for any effects arising from errors or omissions. Acceptance of material is not a guarantee of publication in any particular issue, since space is often at a premium. The publisher and editor cannot guarantee to return original material and photographs. © SIDC 2010
So, onto the news: Whilst at Brands I was able to see the worldwide public launch of the CS400 from Cosworth. To be totally honest I was rather unimpressed with the whole affair with the car stuck between two marquees and very little else. But, they do say the proof is in the driving of this 400 BHP monster and by all accounts they aren’t having any problems selling the allocated cars! The show season is well and truly upon us and yes, I have been disappointed on that front as well! Ican certainly only apologise to those that turned up to the Japanese Tuning Show at Silverstone to witness what in my 10 years of Subaru ownership the WORST show I have attended! The organisers have yet to respond to my feedback. However its not all bad and JapFest, despite my first absence since it started, was a great outing.
Modified Live are now supporting each of the SIDC Sponsored Time Attack Series’ and these shows are certainly going the right way! Of course we still have many shows left so get booking in the shop. The best of course is Rally Day and therefore our stand space is limited so please book early to prevent disappointment. I have worked on the SIDC Unit over the winter period but we still need some work to complete it fully - anybody down south with some carpentry skills would be appreciated! For those of you who haven’t completed the SIDC Survey could you please spend a few minutes of your time to ensure we push this club in the right direction. Finally I celebrate 10 years of Impreza ownership this year and really feel that perhaps its time to consider stepping aside to let some fresh blood take the helm... If you’re interested, email the committee and we can discuss it further. Don’t panic [or celebrate] just yet though, I still very much intend being part of this great club!
Phil Stephens Club Chairman
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competitio sidc photo
latest winners
The latest winners from November to February in our monthly photo competition. To take part or view any of the entries, visit the SIDC Monthly Photo Competition section of the forums.
the_ex_leper
March: Black & White
the ro team
Regional organisers Bedfordshire Kip Chris Kirby 07921 909 989 Kipper7_1@msn.com Assisted by: Little Green Goblin Rachel Kier 07766 002293 rjjl72@hotmail.com Berkshire smiley kylie Kylie Symes kyliesidc@aol.com Devon JD Steve Forrest 07825502294 steveforrest222@msn.com Essex BRI4N Brian Stott 07828 164669 bri4n333@googlemail.com Hampshire amahrap Andy Parham 07795 296902 amahrap@aol.com Harrogate sl0959 Paul Greenwood 07530 166242 pag7110@yahoo.co.uk London Black Wing Mark French 07961 929874 Mark-French@hotmail.com Midlands I8gtmf Dave Riley 0780 894 3795 Dave@midland-scoobies.com
North West Diablo Blaze Andy Gill 07768 595756 diablo@cadscoobies.com
Edinburgh/Lothian’s Gus the Bus Angus Duncan 07725 840363 gusthebus@rocketmail.com
Lanarkshire badbaz Barry McGowan 07831 638 482 barrymcgowan@btconnect.com
Oxfordshire BigD Iain Duncan 07961 614452 isumpy1@aol.com Assisted by: stum450n Stu Mason 07515 258947 stu@sidc.co.uk
Glasgow/Strathclyde STI Pretender Robert Allan 07870 188090 robert@rmallan.fsnet.co.uk
Fife Irish Al Alan Shaw 07843 606 577 irishal555@yahoo.co.uk
Central Scotland rallye 6 Brian Smith 07979708118 brian. smith22@btinternet.com Joint: tommytcut Tam Mellon 07837728010 tammellon@hoymail.com
Morayshire ScoUK Alan Addison 07764 939 604 sidc-ro@scouk.net
Somerset/Whiltshire Scooby Princess Jacqui Bunnett 07765 101 651 jacquibunnett@fsmail.net Assisted by: Edmondo Ed Bunnett 07765 101 651 jacquibunnett@fsmail.net Sussex Subarman Keith Rudrum 07815 096862 Keith.rudrum@btinternet.com Wales Kjdmk1 Kevin Davies 07876 441507 kevinjdavies@btinternet.com Channel Islands tiny gsy James Warren 079117 27977 james_warren3@hotmail.co.uk Aberdeenshire thefastone Dale Walker 07711 379632 dalejwalker@hotmail.com
Ayrshire Scoobay Derek Robertson 07836 252209 Derek.roberts8@btinternet.com
National & International Events Organiser DaveT Dave Townsend 07846 846520 DaveT@sidc.co.uk =============================
Dundee BalliSTIc Glyn McCrickard 07739036929 glyn_mccrickard@hotmail.com
No local group in your area? Interested in starting one? Enjoy a challenge and meeting people?
Inverness/Highlands Scooby222 Dave Shanks 07768 230461 dave222@tiscali.co.uk
Contact Kim French, Regional Organiser Co-ordinator & Website Editor
Scottish Borders cruz104 John McBay 07721 433848 blurxc@tiscali.co.uk
Subaru Impreza Drivers Club PO BOX 5673, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6WU or email kim@sidc.co.uk =============================
JohnS
April: British Scenery and Landscapes (no cars!)
Icedog13
May: Things out of context, objects in unusual places
Jcscoob (again!)
June: Summer
RO Feature
Sti Pretender Woohooo! I’m famous my name in print and article all about me... Sorry, so your doing this for all the RO’s? I’m not special and just bloody write something!
Ok, my Impreza story started in 2005 looking for a 4-door family car, I found a lovely Bugeye Sport that fitted the bill and looked the part. To the uneducated everyone thought it was an STI hence my forum name. After the excitement of changing car wore off there was a voice in my head saying “I wish this had a turbo” 18 months later I got myself my 2006 Blobeye STI, which scared the proverbial out me coming from the Sport.
Other than car I work as a Senior Quantity Surveyor for a Scottish Construction Company (God, I love having a petrol card), married to Mandy and have two girls Faith and Rebecca who I am slowly brainwashing to be petrol heads.
Glasgow/Strathclyde has always had great support for its members, with good attendance at all the monthly meets and events. Regular monthly meets are the first Thursday of the Became an active member of the SIDC month at the Harvester in Hillington. in September 2006 and got hooked by From April to September you will find the community spirit the clubs has. us out and about burning the V-Power March 2008 saw a new arrival to the (or Tesco 99) with trips any where from family the deliver of a freshly imported Largs to Dunoon, across the water to mint condition V3 STI Type R. Got a taste visit some of our members from farther for trackdays and now can be found a field, living in Scotland we are never at most SIDC days at Knockhill. to far from the countryside to savour some great roads and amazing scenery.
Winter see us head indoors for a heat and a chat but October to December see a hive of activity as we start the run up to our trip to Yorkhill Childrens Hospital as part of the Santa Cruise. The support for this is absolutely amazing and each year I am overwhelmed by the response from our members. I have luckily had the privilege of donning the big red suit for the last 3 years and visiting some of the children in the wards, the smiles you get are worth a thousand words as they receive a present from Santa. My best advice for anyone wanting to get involved with the club and go to a meeting is remember we were all new once just come along and say hello.
STi Pretender RO Glasgow Region
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NEWS Coswo
rth STi specia
l
... 00 in detail THe STi CS4
the cosworth Impreza The new Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 is the result of one of the most eagerly anticipated automotive collaborations in recent times. The first genuine Cosworth-developed road car since 1996,
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the latest limited edition Impreza offers performance-car fans the thrill of a lifetime combined with exclusivity – production will be restricted to 75 cars.
The Cosworth-tuned, turbocharged vehicle is one of the world’s most accelerative hatchbacks. The renowned 2.5-litre turbocharged ‘Boxer’ engine is transformed to produce 33 per cent more power, drawing heavily on Cosworth’s extensive Formula 1 experience. The engine, which drives all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, boasts an impressive 400 ps and the new model reaches 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds, going on to cover a quarter mile in 12.75 seconds at a terminal speed of 107 mph. Top speed is limited to 155mph.
The Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 features an extensive range of Cosworth-engineered components in the engine, turbo system, exhaust, suspension, brakes and wheels, plus subtle improvements to the exterior and interior styling to create a truly distinctive high performance car with everyday hatchback practicality. Marketed exclusively in the UK in righthand drive form, the Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 is available in a choice of three exterior colours (Spark Silver, Dark Grey and San Remo Red), and is priced from £49,995 on-the-road.
Engine delivers a 33 per cent power hike At the heart of the new Cosworth Impreza is a heavily revised version of the marque’s famous horizontally-opposed, allaluminium Boxer engine. The ‘flat-four’ power unit is removed from the car, hand finished, and several internal and ancillary components are replaced with up-rated items, specified by Cosworth.
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As with all Impreza ‘Boxer’ engines, the STI Cosworth unit features twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank (DOHC) plus an Active Valve Control System (AVCS) to deliver variable valve timing and enhance low-speed pulling power. The focus of the Cosworth engine upgrade was to keep the enhancements simple, efficient and as close as possible to the original equipment design to guarantee reliability and easy maintenance at regular Subaru dealerships. Internal upgrades include highperformance pistons, which are manufactured using the same methods as those employed to create Cosworth’s Formula 1 pistons. Special features reduce carbon build-up, minimise friction and reduce weight. Forged connecting rods are made from high-strength 4340 (EN24) steel and the special Cosworth engine bearings boast a unique combination of design, metallurgy and engineering. Heavy duty cylinder head studs, high-performance multi layered head gaskets and a higher-pressure oil pump are also fitted. The overall result is a huge increase in torque higher up the rev range, and significantly improved in-gear acceleration. This not only makes the Impreza more tractable for day-to-day road use, but also a far sharper tool on the race track.
New turbocharger and ‘breathe easy’ exhaust systems An all-new Cosworth turbocharging system features a new compressor design and wastegate actuator to supply up-rated boost pressure and deliver increased power. A unique exhaust system was developed to allow the engine to ‘breathe’ more easily and unleash its full potential. Larger capacity tubular manifolds and increased diameter downpipes speed up the evacuation of hot gases. The first catalyst is a nonrestrictive design and larger tail pipes give the exhaust note a unique tone. After the in-depth Cosworth performance upgrade which includes an ECU re-map, the boxer engine in the CS400 generates 33 per cent more power (400 ps at 5,750 rpm, compared with 300 ps at 6,000 rpm for the standard Impreza WRX STI), and 542 Nm of torque, while remaining within the torque capacity design limits of the original Impreza drivetrain.
Manual transmission and All-Wheel Drive system To handle the increased power of the Cosworth-tuned engine, the Impreza STI’s six-speed manual transmission has carbon synchromesh applied to the top three ratios and a short throw linkage for quicker shifting. There is also an upgraded single-plate clutch with a revised pressure plate, bearing and disc. The gearbox and final drive ratios are unchanged. The Cosworth Impreza’s full-time All-Wheel-Drive transmission with front and rear limited-slip differentials, features a 50/50 front to rear torque split as the default, however, the torque split is varied electronically according to changing conditions. The multimode Driver Control centre differential with viscous coupling senses which axle has the better grip and varies the split ratio in milliseconds to distribute torque accordingly, thus maximising traction and minimising the possibility of wheelspin.
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Fine-tuned suspension Improving the Cosworth Impreza’s handling, steering feel and driver feedback – without compromising ride comfort – was a primary target for the development team. Retaining Subaru’s original suspension layout and major components, Cosworth and a team of chassis engineers collaborated with Bilstein and Eibach technicians to tailor a ride/ handling/steering package that was ideally matched to the new model’s increased performance. Special Eibach coil springs and new Bilstein inserts, featuring unique damping characteristics, were manufactured to Cosworth’s specifications. The ride height was lowered by 15 mm at the front. The benefits of this fettling are twofold. Firstly, there is a big improvement in ride quality generally, making the Impreza easier to live with on a dayto-day basis. Secondly, its on-thelimit behaviour is more focused and composed. The damping upgrades mean that there is less pitch and roll when turning into corners, meaning that keen drivers can get back on the power earlier and make the most of the car’s Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system.
Upgraded ‘racing’ brakes enhance stopping power To match the new Impreza Cosworth’s supercar pace, Cosworth commissioned AP Racing to develop more powerful front brakes. Larger diameter (355 mm) ventilated front discs were adopted, with motorsportstyle six-pot callipers featuring bespoke pistons operating on larger brake pads. The difference in performance is immediately noticeable. The harder pads help to minimise fade, meaning that drivers can count on the AP stoppers for effective retardation time and time again. The standard Impreza WRX STI’s rear brake discs, overall brake balance and original ABS system have been retained.
‘Stand-out’ looks, plus new style wheels The outstanding performance of the Cosworth Impreza is reflected in its ‘stand-out’ appearance and standard Xenon headlamps. The lowered ride height and wider track give the car a whole new stance, which is reinforced by a front bumper that now incorporates fog lights, a new front lip spoiler, and upper and lower mesh grilles. Also added is a new rear bootlid spoiler. Discreet Cosworth badging is carried on the lower grille, front seats, brake callipers and floor mats. Individually numbered plaques are fitted on the engine and door sills. Each Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 is supplied with a numbered certificate of authenticity.
Although the new model’s alloy wheels are a similar overall size to those of the regular Impreza WRX STI model – 18 x 8.5 inch – they are lighter and stronger. Called ‘Pro Race’ and finished in anthracite the latest wheels from the Team Dynamics range were selected as compatible with the Subaru’s five-stud design. These wheels have a 43 mm offset (the standard STI wheel’s offset is 55 mm) and extend the track by 12 mm – improving handling and filling the car’s wheel arches more effectively for a more aggressive stance. The new wheels are fitted with high performance, low profile Michelin SP3 tyres chosen for their dry- and wetroad grip, durability, and low noise levels. Tyre size is 245/40 R18 and the tread pattern is directional.
Interior modifications and generous premium equipment Inside, the sporty new Recaro front seats, the rear seats and steering wheel are all re-trimmed in Cosworth-branded black leather. Also distinguishing the CS400 are Piano Black centre stack and trim accents, and the fitment of privacy glass. Standard features carried-over from the WRX STI model include: LED (lightemitting diode) tail lamps, front and rear electric windows, 10-speaker, six-disc radio/CD player, satellite navigation, Smart-entry and pushbutton start, plus front, side and curtain airbags.
Best of the web Our roundup of the most interesting, useful and often bizarre things we’ve found online.
Top Gear Cossie
The Stig, a CS400 and a hill... Mmmmm! The Stig takes the Impreza Cosworth through Harewood Hillclimb for TopGear’s upcoming Massive Hot Hatch Mega Test. http://stigCS400.notlong.com
Gran Turismo 5 Official HD Trailer
It’s been quite a while coming and despite not being a huge gamer, this looks phenomenal, an absolute must see! Even the WRC hatch makes an appearance! http://GT5.notlong.com
Electric Dreams
Are they a nightmare in the making? The Telegraph’s Mike Rutherford has a word in the ear of those thinking about buying an electric car and reveals the true cost of the inevitable battery replacement. http://electriccars.notlong.com
Drying Cloth Reviews Auto Express test to see which is the best drying cloth... with a surprising contender for top spot! http://cloths.notlong.com
Spotted something special?
Email: stu@sidc.co.uk
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ar.co.uk
www.autoc
autocar hints at diesel STi FORESTER TO THE RESCUE! The Evo’s old rival, Subaru’s Impreza STi, is also set to offer a diesel model in its next generation but it’s still likely to have a petrolpowered variant too. Due in 2012, the next-gen STi will get an enhanced version of the 2.0-litre turbodiesel offered in the current Impreza. Its flat four layout should make it easier for Subaru to maintain the STi’s reputation for fine handling, while delivering better fuel economy. Subaru isn’t about to drop turbocharged petrol engines just yet, though. Insiders say a downsized four-cylinder petrol unit, possibly based on the 1.5-litre flat four that powers base-model Imprezas, is under consideration.
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Subaru is one step behind Mitsubishi on the hybrid front, though. Although the company has this technology planned for the hot Impreza, it’s unlikely to appear until at least halfway through the next-gen model’s lifecycle.
As with the Evo, the Impreza’s revisions will mean a shake-up of the car’s motorsport activities. Instead of rallying, the Impreza is likely to switch to circuit racing. c/o www.autocar.co.uk
Subaru UK has supplied an All-Wheel Drive Subaru Forester 2.0 D XC to the Yorkhill Children’s Foundation. The Glasgow-based Foundation, which provides support and equipment for sick children and babies from all over Scotland, will use the Forester as a goanywhere ambulance support vehicle. The collaboration was co-ordinated by Colin McRae Vision and Subaru dealer Alex F. Noble & Son, which was set up in the aftermath of the helicopter accident that killed Britain’s first World Rally Champion. The gleaming new addition to the Foundation’s fleet was then collected from theMidlothian Subaru dealership. Shona Cardle, Chief Executive of Yorkhill Children’s Foundation, said: “The team in Yorkhill Hospital’s Paediatric Intensive Care Unit and everyone at Yorkhill Children’s Foundation are hugely grateful to both Subaru UK and the Colin McRae Vision for their support. This vehicle has made a significant difference to the life-saving work the hospital staff carry out, as they are now able to respond to more calls and provide even more critically ill children with the specialist treatment they need.”
ru.co.uk
www.suba
NEW SUBARU WEBSITE IS FASTER, MORE AGILE AND CRAMMED FULL OF EXTRAs
ays sidc trackd SIDC, working with our very own John Stewart, Track-masters, Mark Stevens (aka Stormy) and MLR’s Darin Frow have created 2010’s Trackday Calendar offering a stunning number of venue options. Mon 31st May Spa Sat 31st July* Cadwell Park Sat 21st Aug Castle Combe Sat 9th Oct* Snetterton Fri 18th Nov Oulton park For full details, please visit the 2010 Trackday Calendar for all the forthcoming SIDC / Triple Club trackdays at http://forums.sidc.co.uk/ index.php?act=announce&f=10&id=39 * Precedes Time Attack Round at the same circuit
sidc national
An all-new Subaru website incorporating unique multimedia technologies has taken up residence at www.subaru.co.uk Offering much improved interactive functionality and a brand new design, www.subaru.co.uk will be the only UK car manufacturer website that allows video content to be viewed on iPhones and other mobile devices. The use of HTML5 is being rolled out across the new site throughout the year and means image-rich content is very quick to load, in contrast to the Flash-heavy websites of many rival brands. As a further bonus for mobile users, Subaru will shortly be launching a dedicated mobile version of the site.
To help visitors find their ideal car, there’s a colour changer tool for every vehicle derivative, together with 360-degree animation. Visitors can compare the details of all cars in the Subaru range, and refine their choices using a range of relevant criteria, such as price, emissions and ground clearance. Subaru UK Marketing Director, Kenyon Neads, said: “Our new website, which is ahead of the competition in so many ways, makes it easier for people to find the Subaru that’s right for them based on their own specific needs. It also helps them to locate their nearest dealer and keep abreast of the latest Subaru developments. Most importantly, it does a great job of conveying why and how Subarus are unlike other cars”.
ndar events cale
Sun 5th Sept
Trax
Sat 18th Sept
Rallyday Castle Combe Circuit
Silverstone Circuit
Show & Shine will take place at Japfest, JTS & Trax.
For full details please check in the National Events Section on the forum at http://forums.sidc.co.uk/index. php?showforum=10
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Track Day teaser The 29th of May saw SIDC returning to the small circuit at Kames in Muirkirk, Scotland. Words Barry McGowan (badbaz)
images iain01
This event was the idea of fellow SIDC Member Graeme Bridges (gbsti). Being Graeme’s RO I was tasked with promoting it on the forum and he took care of the correspondence with the East Ayrshire Car Club (EACC) who run the venue. We gauged interest on the forum initially offering thirty places, split AM and PM, the intention was that thirty different drivers would fill the slots and get a little taste of circuit driving. It was more aimed at the track novice and for those who shy away from the longer, car busting circuits. In the end some drivers took AM and PM slots giving them a full days play. Smiles all round for those lucky few. Kames is a Motorsport Complex with an 800 metre sprint track and large tarmac paddock areas which are used for Autotests. The tarmac track was resurfaced in 2000 after a three year project, allowing running in either direction, giving two tracks with very different characters. The external and internal rally roads were professionally True Grip 14
upgraded to tar in 2006 to provide an excellent venue for Stage Rallies and for Rally Time Trials, which are currently proving to be very popular. For our introduction to Kames (for the majority) we stuck to the 800 metre sprint track, the rally section being a little ‘rougher’ and very tight in places with no run off. The day began cool and cloudy. After the ‘AM’ drivers arrived and had a quick blether we signed our lives away, had a driver briefing and a quick formation lap en mass in each direction before we took to the track in earnest. There were cars which compete in Sprint Championship Rounds at Kames (fully race prepared and trailored to the venue), modded road cars and standard ones. It was nice to see everyone ‘feel’ there way and despite some hairy moments for the drivers, everything looked relatively calm from the pits. Everyone had a great time, exploring the limits of their Imprezas in the relative safety of a circuit environment.
The passengers, of which there were many, seemed to have even more fun! It was great to see several youngsters there, practically begging to get into the faster machines. Several drivers had never even been to Kames, let alone driven it before and the immediate reaction after their first laps was that we will do this again - very soon. The circuit is comparatively easy on road cars as maximum speed, braking and time spent on full throttle are very short. It’s more of a handling circuit than outright power but I still managed to hit 90mph on the straight, according to my AVC-R which caught the peak value – fast enough! We had a short break for lunch which also saw the arrival of the drivers due to participate in the afternoon session. They had to complete the same formalities as the morning drivers and another slow speed convoy in both directions gave way to a great afternoon session. We didn’t even stick to our proposed lunch hour as everyone was so keen
to get moving! A little light rain started to fall, just enough to make the track a wee bit slippy. This persisted throughout the afternoon session and made things quite interesting. It’s a fantastic feeling to have your car four wheel drift out of corners under acceleration.
The day was a fantastic success and we are already well on our way to confirming Track Day Teaser 2 – The Sequel Look out for the announcement of a date on a forum near you!
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g ower slidin the art of p
South west, sideways Words & Images Stu Mason
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If I’m completely honest, I’ve never really been sure what to make of the driving experiences and track days that have exploded onto the scene over the last decade or so. I think my main issue is too much choice - to use the analogy ‘A kid in a sweet shop’ is an understatement, after all, I’ve had the best part of three decades craving some of the finest metal money can buy - all of which, completely unobtainable. That is, before track days appeared on the
scene and THAT for me is where the problem lies... I want Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Porsches and Astons, no, hold on. You know what, scrap that, I want to be going sideways through a forest in a scoob, no, no... wait, a MK1 Escort, I have a scoob after all. Ooooh, that’s a point, why not track my car, hmmmmn, tyres, brakes, insurance... eeek! Errr, nope, right first time, it has to be a supercar! That’s not going to work, I want to learn something, I want
to be able to use the experience and hopefully be a better driver as a result - rallying it is then, I can learn all about car control. No wait, how many times am I going to find myself doing 70 through the woods on a dirt track?!? Right, that’s it, decision made, it’s final - no going back - I’ll have a bag of space dust and a quarter of Rhubarb and Custard please!
I was lucky enough to find my salvation in an email out of the blue - an offer to spend the day with rally drivers Ian Ross and James Wozencroft going sideways in an Impreza at their sprint track at the Haynes Motor Museum at Sparkford from which they run Subaru Rally Experience.
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What struck me initially was their choice of battle weapons, an Impreza STi Type RA and two classic Impreza Sports. Now I own a newage Sport as my daily driver but I have to be honest, as much as I love mine, I’ve never really considered it powerful enough to get sideways around a track and that’s where the difference lies - the two Sports have been completely stripped and converted to rwd and the result is phenomenal! Now for the AWD purists out there (and until last weekend I counted myself as one of you), read on as I can honestly say that in all the years I’ve owned an Impreza, I can’t remember the last time I had so much fun in one! The day started shortly before 9:30am [despite me turning up closer to 8:30 after completely mis-judging the time it would take to get down from Bath!] with a brief introduction to rallying, car control and a run down on safety & the techniques we were to learn throughout the day. Now, although I knew the theory behind understeer & oversteer and the differences between them, all I could think was “Bugger, rwd! What the hell am I meant to do with that again?!?”. Suitably convinced that I knew nothing, I started to look around at the six other equally bemused looking faces - thank Christ for that, I wasn’t alone! Well, that was until it was pointed out that the bloke with the big camera was from the SIDC, at which point it seems, everyone assumed I knew what I was doing. Crap! I was starting to think this wasn’t going to turn out well at all! Now though was the time to find out - with the safety briefing out of the way it was straight out onto the track for the first training stage!!! True Grip 18
traction with the track. In power slide, the driver ‘simply’ slides the car out of the exit of a corner allowing the tires to lose their grip. It all sounds relatively straightforward in theory but having been guaranteed that we’ll have one or two spins along the way, I wasn’t so sure!!! The mornings aim was for handson training with our instructors teaching us the basic technique out on the track, upping the ante on each run, with the instructor advising the correct approach into corners, correct braking procedures and the most important ingredients, surface awareness and throttle control - all in the quest for one thing, the perfect power slide! Performing a power slide isn’t quite as extreme as drifting, where the car slides completely sideways around a corner after losing
After seeing a number of the other drivers go out [and surprisingly few spins], it was my turn and despite being completely unable to buckle my helmet [a running theme of the day] I was soon out on the track and finding out that whilst it seemed alien to be in a rwd Impreza, I was soon getting comfortable! With James at my side, I was guided through the steps needed to take the long, sweeping corner at the far side of the track; Hard on the brakes into the corner, turning the steering wheel to enter the corner a dab of clutch to upset the balance then
go sideways! Hats off to them. I know that if I were sat next to me, sideways around a corner, I would be absolutely papping it!!!!
floor it for maximum torque - wait for the car to go sideways, and then counter steer to exit the corner. I was doing it! I was power sliding!! The only thing was, to exit the drift, steering away from where I wanted to go just didn’t make sense in my mind which ended up in a near neck-breaking fishtail out of the corner and across the grass onto the apex of the next corner. I clearly had a lot to learn! At this stage, it dawns on me just how brave Ian and James are doing what they do. Okay, so they’ve been rallying for years but despite having brake and clutch control, they’re still in a car, with a complete novice, teaching them how to
As the morning went on and we all become much more familiar with the basic techniques, controlling the direction with the steering wheel, brakes, clutch and accelerator until the cars were sliding increasingly smoothly out of each corner. I had even managed to stop fishtailing - it was absolutely fantastic!!! I’m no expert but there has to be something about the balance of an Impreza that makes it so perfect for power sliding. Now admittedly as I got more and more comfortable, it did start to cross my mind that perhaps an STi with DCCD set to a rear bias would’ve removed the need for the rwd conversion on the Sports but I was soon doubting myself as we had our first taste of the handbrake turn!. This technique is generally used on very tight corners or hairpins which until now, we had largely avoided... e...
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The theory is that when approaching corner at speed, you release the accelerator, hammer down the clutch and pull the handbrakes to upset the balance of the rear end causing oversteer. At the same time, steering the car around the corner. Once the back end slides wide enough, it’s back on the throttle, dumping the clutch at the same time until the car regains rear traction. It’s at this stage that I started to feel the Sport come into its own - too much oversteer out of the corner and the car spins, too much power before or after and the car spins - even with the power of the humble Sport, there was more than enough power to cause quite a few spins! On my next run, I back in familiar territory, an AWD Impreza again! This time it was the track-prepped RA that is used by the instructors regularly on rallies, this car is the real thing and there was no way I was going to hold back, flat out from the ‘pit lane’ up towards the tyre chicane, hard on the brakes, feeding the power back in through the long sweeping corner down towards the first of the tight hairpins, it was all going so well - clutch down, off the accelerator, a dab of handbrake and turn tight into the corner and then I lost it - I was still in rwd mode and rather than smoothly kicking the rear of the car out, the RA was so planted to the tarmac that it shot straight across the apex and nearly stalled as I bogged it down trying to power out of the far side! Still, there was more track and I was certainly going to make the most of it! What fantastic fun and if it were wet, I could’ve spent all day in that car but by now I was getting the bug for rwd action!
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After a break for lunch [in amongst the complete back catalogue of almost every motorsport magazine since the 50’s] it was time to start linking some of the techniques together that we learnt in the morning. Into the corner, off the power, turn in, little kick on the power to start the slide and keep the car sliding through the corner and then sideways onto the next!!! At this stage I was really starting to get the hang of it and with the exception of my first real spins of the day, the afternoon was really starting to bring it all together, power sliding from one corner to the next almost without gaining traction in between then a tap of the handbrake into the hairpin. I really did all start to feel so natural and
HUGE Thanks To: Ian Ross and James Wozencroft of Subaru Rally Experience The Haynes International Motor Museum, Sparkford Clare (sp?), Naomi, Peter, Tom, Garth et al who made it such a fantastic day!
it was only as it all started flowing together that I started to see how loosing traction could actually increase speed and position through the corners as opposed to just being a bit of fun! Well, it really was time to find out as we were put head to head in timed laps in a special test where we were assessed on our new-found skills. Penalty points were awarded for hit markers and spins with the winner bringing in the overall fastest time. Now, I could tell you how hard I went for it and how, after a day of tuition, everything came together but to be honest, despite pushing hard, I was far too aware of the fact that this was my last run behind the wheel and I was going to enjoy
every second of it! Kicking the back of the car as far out as I could and linking through as many corners as possible was fantastic fun but it cost me time. Still, considering I hit a cone handbraking around a hairpin and managed to carry it with me for the remainder of the course (and gaining a 5 second penalty for my troubles) I was rather proud of my joint 3rd place! With the day coming to an end, we all went out with the instructors for a high speed passenger ride at competition speed to see exactly what can be done in a Sport with an expert at the wheel. The result was absolutely breathtaking! So fast, so sideways but the whole time, so controlled and elegant, it was unlike any passenger ride I’ve
ever experienced and the whole time James was making the effort to point out what he was doing and the effects his input was having on the car - not that I really took it all in, I was awestruck! With the trophy presentation and group photograph out of the way, I was desperately trying to conjure up reason to stay and just keep going round and round the track I’m hoping they won’t notice when a small tent occupied by a newly converted drift-junkie appears at the edge of the track... well, that’s the plan anyway! Rhubarb and Custard anyone?.
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ry special
a P1 annivers
Prodrive open day Words Stu Mason images Ben Bockett / Michael Jenkins
Sunday morning, 9th May, 7am and I’m wandering aimlessly around the house, coffee in one hand, flu tablets in the other, wondering whether I can shake myself free of the lurgy for the 1/2hr drive [which may as well have been the moon and back!] up to Prodrive HQ in Banbury to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of the iconic P1, which, having been unveiled by the late Richard Burns, hit Britain’s roads in 2000... who was I kidding, it wasn’t even a question!
Suitably dosed-up, I set out to follow the rest of our small [yet mighty] convoy through the Oxfordshire countryside to see over 100 P1’s, a further 300 Imprezas and meet some of the 1000 or so fans that joined in the commemorative event. The P1 was one of the most iconic in a range of limited edition Imprezas produced by Prodrive during the late 1990s and early 2000s. It was also the only road car to bear the Prodrive name.
The car was unveiled by England’s only World Rally Champion, the late Richard Burns, at the UK motorshow in 1999, but went on sale in 2000. Only a 1000 were produced, all in the same unique blue colour. The car was based on two door Japanese specification Impreza, but had significant modifications engineered by Prodrive to the suspension, drivetrain, trim and aerodynamics to make it one of the best point-topoint cars on British roads. Now rather than forcing you all to spend hours deciphering all my inane drivel, why not sit back and enjoy our special commemorative photo gallery... Mmmm P1s, enjoy!
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ry special
a P1 annivers
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s e d i R s ’ r e ad
sidc member cars
Re
Big'D's v3 JD M STi
Already having put in a very respectable 12.4 second run over the 1/4 mile at Santa Pod in late 2009, Big’D’s Ver 3 (97) WRX STi now boasts further weight reduction, a freshly mapped Simtek ECU, Antilag, Launch Control, parallel fuel rails, mini Fuel Lab fuel pressure regulator and 550cc Nismo injectors... roll on the 11 second runs!
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300 300's UK
Alzayuk
The UK300 was a joint project between Subaru and Prodrive, with styling work carried out by Peter Stevens (who designed the famous McLaren F1 and Subaru WRC cars). As the name suggests, it was only available in the UK and limited to 300 units... This is AlazayUK300’s, err, UK300 with the only changes being a Magnex decat and a green panel filter.
RS RIDES sidc READE
want a feature? Just send 4/5 high-resolution images and a brief spec of your ride to editor@sidc.co.uk True Grip 27
n Scoobies East anglia
Rolling road day Words Rachel Kier (Little Green Goblin) images Ben Bockett
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Early morning Sunday 21st March, the sun was shining and 6 sparkling scoobs met up ready to convoy to Zen Performance in Wellingborough... Paul and Andy were pretty much ready to go, just the last minute things left to do like making sure the kettles were filled and the food was laid out (including some absolutely gorgeous cakes kindly supplied by DaOne) the day had begun!
From that point onwards it was pretty much time to get on with the real business of the day – getting the cars onto the rollers! Woodcote (Nige) was the man with the clipboard for the day and ensured a constant flow of cars were ready for Zen to do their thing, I have to say a very big thank you to him for all his hard work – I’d spent several nightmare filled nights worrying whether I’d forgotten something important, whether anybody was going to turn up, whether I was going to let Paul down etc etc and by Nige doing all that he did I could finally relax and enjoy the day I’d spent several weeks organising. Just after 9.30 am Paul drove the first car onto the rollers, an immaculate type R owned by PhilDodd06 who had recently rebuilt his engine himself and wanted to see what power it was now producing – he wasn’t disappointed, 313bhp and 268 lbs of torque.
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Next up was Ace with his Uk STi – he always suspected his non PPP STi was just as good as one with it and now was the time to find out, a very big smile spread across his face when it produced 290bhp! Ace was followed by Tied Old Dad (JDM WRX) who gained 301 bhp and Van Diesel (MY 00 Uk Turbo) 254bhp. DaOne followed with his STi version 6 obtaining a mighty 422 bhp – everybody was much impressed with the figures, surely this was going to be the highest output of the day? The final car on before Paul and Andy had a well earned tea break was Leesta’s type 25 which gained 335 bhp. Whilst they guys were having their break it gave me and Nige a chance to have a wander about outside and the sight that greeted us was gobsmacking – four units worth of car parking spaces were full with Imprezas! People had turned up from far and wide not only to put their cars through their paces but many just to spectate and have a good old natter with friends – I can’t say exactly how many were there but a rough count gave in of excess of 40 scoobies – what a wonderful sight that was, it was at that point that I knew the day was going to turn out to be just fine. Tea break over and it was back to business. WhisperUk was ready and waiting with his UK turbo which achieved a very pleasing 241 bhp. At this point I would like to say a big thank you to the Oxon guys for making the effort to come over and enjoy the day with us, it’s occasions like this that reiterate just what a great club SIDC is. Next up was Bill, a friend and customer of Zen’s with his UK wagon, as his car was reversed onto the rollers none of us (except Paul and Bill of course) ever expected what we were just about to witness, there’s an old saying which states never to judge a book by it’s cover and if ever I was to witness 100% proof of this it was then – it produced a MASSIVE 474 bhp with 445 lbs of torque – talk about a wolf in sheep’s clothing! I think there were many dropped jaws to be seen when those figures popped
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up on the computer screen! Graham’s 2006 STI achieved 317 bhp and Smooth Mike’s Hawkeye STi 306 bhp, a figure that put an even bigger smile on his face than normal. Lunch time approached and as everyone was standing around discussing all things Subaru, Paul decided to surprise us all with a little treat of his own, the roller shutter doors to his second unit were lifted to reveal Zen’s “Green Goblin” Time Attack Impreza in all her glory. The barriers were dropped for photo opportunities and the engine fired up, despite witnessing this car on the track several times and seeing her whenever I’ve been at their premises in the past I never cease to be impressed at just what an awesome piece of mechanical genius she is! Back to the business of the day and Wayne (2002 STi) and Steve (’96 wagon) who had travelled all the way from Essex to be with us were next up, achieving 329 and 278 bhp respectively. Then came the time I had been slightly dreading all day – my turn!
I have to admit to feeling slight nauseous as Paul put “Ruby” onto the rollers but I knew she was in good hands and if the worst came to the worst she was in the perfect place for a rebuild! Thankfully my fears were unfounded as she produced a very pleasing 254 bhp and 244 lbs of torque – I was especially pleased when Paul said that they were very good figures for a 2003 WRX with PPP. The penultimate car on the rollers was Nige’s Type R and despite this being another one of our cars I didn’t have any worries with this one, Paul had done an absolutely immense rebuild for us last year after number 3 big end gave out as Nige was doing 130 mph at RAF Marham. I had 110% faith that he was going to be sound and he was, producing 332 bhp and 330 lbs of torque, only losing 1 bhp over our last set of figures before we’d had a sports cat fitted. Last but certainly not least was Paul (another customers of Paul’s – confused yet? lol) with his S-GT which rounded off the day nicely by achieving 259 bhp.
All in all I think it was an immensely enjoyable day not only for myself and Nige but for everyone involved and I’d just like to finish off by saying thank you to you all and of course an absolutely HUGE thank you to Paul, Liz and Andy from Zen as without them the day would not have been possible – thanks guys and roll on next year for part 2 of the SIDC/Zen Performance Rolling Road day!
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ection Technical s
BIG D’s
Engine Bay Guide (What does what and what goes where..!) Words Big ‘D’
images Big ‘D’
Have you ever lifted the bonnet on your Impreza only to put it straight back down again after seeing what’s under there? I am pretty sure that most of us have been there, even me. The idea behind this article is to help you locate and identify certain service points and components within the engine bay. Given the huge number of changes to the Impreza engine over the years it would be quite hard to cover them all so I have chosen the Classic shape Impreza as my subject, being the oldest and most likely to run into technical issues the Classic seems the most relevant choice.
1.
3.
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Service points As you can see from the picture looking into the engine bay, Subaru have made most the service points bright yellow to aid easy identification, they include: 1: Brake Fluid Res’ 2: Clutch Fluid Res’ 3: Engine oil dipstick 4: Engine oil fill point 5: Screenwash Bottle 6: Coolant system overflow bottle Not covered above: 7: The coolant system fill point 8: The gearbox dipstick.
2.
Fuel System
9. 5.
10.
9. Fuel filter, this is located on the passenger side inner wing and its obvious function is to filter out particulate contamination within the fuel system prior to the fuel getting to the injectors. 10. Fuel rail, this is wrapped around the outer edge of the intake manifold, its purpose is to carry fuel under pressure to the injectors. 11. Fuel injectors, these are fitted to the fuel rail and positioned one per cylinder, the function of the injector is to meter the timing and quantity of fuel allowed into each cylinder.
4.
6.
12. Fuel pressure regulator, it is located on the rear drivers side of the fuel rail, its purpose is to hold a positive fuel pressure within the fuel rail during any engine condition.
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ection Technical s
27.
8.
14.
26.
26.
20. 18.
28. 16.
22.
19. 21.
23.
Engine Sensors
Auxiliaries
Ignition
More often than not the cause behind your Impreza breaking down or showing you the dreaded ‘Check Engine’ light is a sensory issue, the above pictures show the location of the sensors which are most likely to cause issues.
22. Power steering pump, located on the front drivers side of the engine its function is to provide fluid pressure to assist you steering.
25. Depending on the model year of Impreza you own your Impreza may have individual coil packs or one main coil pack with leads to the plugs.
13. MAF (code 23) 14. o2 (code 32) 15. Engine temp (code 21) 16. Idle air control valve (code 24) 17. Knock sensor (code 22) 18. Map sensor (code 45) 19. Boost solenoid (code 44) 20. Cam position sensor (code 13) 21. Crank position sensor (code 11) To find out why your check engine light is on you can follow the instructions on how to read the fault codes on Scoobypedia or the Tech section of the forum.
23. Alternator, located on the front of the engine in the middle its function is to charge the battery and provide extra power whilst the engine is running. 24. Air con Pump, located on the front passenger side of the engine its function is to pump the refrigerant gas round the system to provide you with cold air whilst the A/C is on.
24.
Turbo and associated parts. 26. As you can see from the picture the turbo is located on the rear drivers side of the engine, the basic function of the turbo is to provide positive air pressure feed into the engine. 27. Attached directly to the turbo is the wastegate actuator, its function is to control the turbos output pressure by opening/closing the wastegate port.
29.
Need to know more? 30.
Why not ask Big ‘D’! In upcoming issues we’ll be publishing the guru’s solutions to some of the most common technical help requests from the forum and via True Grip in a new feature ‘Dear Big D’ If you’ve an issue you really need some help with, why not ask... just send an email to editor@sidc.co.uk including the subject title ‘Dear Big D’
25.
28. Located on the drivers side wing is the wastegate/boost control solenoid, the function of this solenoid is to control the servo air pressure which moves the wastegate actuator. 29. Probably the easiest item to identify in the engine bay is the intercooler, its function is to reduce the temperature of the compressed air leaving the turbo. 30. The dump/bypass valve is attached to the intercooler, this valve allows the pressure between the turbo and the intake manifold to be vented when the throttle is closed either back to the intake (factory) or to atmosphere if an aftermarket item is fitted.
You can also try... ...the legendary Scoobypedia! In partnership with SIDC, Scoobypedia is widely recognised as one of the resources of information of all things Subaru related. It’s the world-renowned Wiki knowledge base for anything Subaru, maintained by experts - you the community! www.scoobypedia.co.uk
In the next issue’s Technical Section... The Complete Guide to Boost What goes where and what, exactly, does what..! Dear Big D The guru answers your technical questions
I hope that what I have laid out for you here has been easy to follow and understand, for those who don’t know their Dump Valves from their Wastegates in the next issue I will look deeper into how the boost system on your Impreza works.
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be's spring Castle Com
Performance car action day Words Eddie Bunnett images Ben Bockett / Eddie Bunnett
As with previous years the organisation of the Stand for the first of 2 Action Days starts in earnest in the November prior to the Event. Threads up on SIDC and Scoobynet to the familiar sound of “What its not even Christmas yet!”. However as we all know time flies and so before we know it we have 40 plus people wanting to be on the Stand.
Well a couple of nights before the show it was time to pop up to Iain’s to go through the Trailor to see what could be taken and as it happens it was quite a lot so it was decided that we would go down to Combe the night before and set up what we could.
By the time we have spoken to Combe to book the Tickets and get a good stand spot it’s the end of Feb and only 6 or so weeks to go. This year we have an advantage as an SIDC Trailor is parked on Iain Duncan’s Drive ( Big D ) which is a spot my car has spent many an hour on having various bits fixed. Anyway I digress , this year it was decided that we will have a picnic so the cry went out asking everyone who is coming to bring some food more on this later.
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So the Friday before the show arrived so myself , Jacqui and Iain loaded up the cars and trotted down to Combe. When we got there there was a slight mix up with the Stand so in true Jacqui ( Scooby Princess ) style it got sorted. As we were right next door to BBS (Bath and Bristol Scoobies) then you just knew that the sight that greeted you as you came into the Paddock Area would be wall to wall Scoobies. The day of the Show came and with both Scooby Stands with 40 plus cars on it was certainly generating a lot of interest from Joe Public. After the Stand was set up the first task was to decide which car was to be put forward for Best Car in Show and to be honest it was a real no brainer as all of us plumped for Glynn’s (Glynn STI) Hawkeye S204.
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Next was to get the “Picnic” set up well you would have thought we were feeding the 25000 let alone the 5000 there was tons of stuff. Everyone really, really pitched in! Now those that know Iain know that he is always willing to sort any little problem with your Scooby out and today was no exception I don’t think he actually had more than 5 minutes to himself!
With the Front row of the Stand having Iain’s White Noise , Scooby Projects 400 + bhp P1’s plus Monki’s P1 the stand was attracting a lot of interest and with the Sun Shining brightly it contributed to a very busy day. Just before Lunch however Paul (Stinger) said fancied going for a wander. No probs so we ended up walking all the way around.
Luckily for me I had a Cap on because by the time we got back Paul was doing a very good impression of Sargeant Beetroot and it actually felt like we had crossed the Sahara. The picnic was a roaring success but as we had so much food we invited the BBS crew across to join the festivities and despite their huge appetites it just did not seem to be making a dent in the EU Food Mountain that we had. As the day drew on and most people unable to move because of the amount of food that was being eaten the judges for the Car of the Day arrived on our Stand to tell us that Glynn’s Car was judged to be Best in Show and the Judges admitted that it was a total no brainer and complimented the SIDC on always putting on a good display. We had a small problem though as Glynn was away from the Stand and after a couple of frantic calls to Kev (KJDMK1), he was finally located so they could go ahead with the presentation. As we started to pack up we realised that we still had a ton of food left so everyone was told to come and take some stuff away but despite that the Mountain had on shrunk to a Hill so in the end I was grabbing stuff and thrusting at people to take away and even took an item or 2 across to the BBS Stand just to get rid of it!!!
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THE UK'S PREMIER RALLY CAR SHOW
So with 40 Scoobies on SIDC , 40 next door on BBS, Warm weather , Great Track Action, loads of grub and good company we came away saying that this was the best Action Day we had done and roll on September 11th for the next one...
BL T Z
A few Thank You’s to finish with The Welsh Guys for their support on this as always , Smiley Kylie and the Guys from Berkshire , Big D for his incredible patience and help with setting up , taking down and transportation of the Stand equipment. Also to the guys from the South West Region who came. The Final Thanks has to go to Jacqui who spends all day at her desk at work looking at a computer then spends most of the evening at the Computer and the weeks leading up to this show so come August whilst I am supping a Beer in the Garden all I will hear coming from upstairs will be the tap tap tap of the keyboard , the Printer going and Jacqui saying “never again”.
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Unit 1, Prince William Way, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 5DD Tel: 01509 266400
www.scoobyworks.co.uk
Advertisement Feature
in association with
....TOTB NEWS BULLETIN.... So why should you attend TOTB IX, what's new?
The countdown begins Japanese Performance TOTB IX in association with Millers Oils is pleased to announce new ¼ mile drag sponsors Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes (PPG). Located in South Australia, PPG produce high-quality gear sets for use in race, rally and street to global standards. They provide products for all Japanese cars and will, no doubt, have a few cars at TOTB running their dogbox over the weekend of 7th/8th August 2010. PPG pride themsleves on their continued commitment to various race disciplines via sponsorship - "supporting the sport that supports us" Add the drag sponsorship to the eight Premium Performance Partners and TOTB IX is supported by some of the scene's top performance companies in the world.
PREMIUM PERFORMANCE PARTNERS
now With the event away, tickets s y a d 0 3 r e d n u le on are still availab performance www.japanese , so book magazine.co.uk sure you today to make count on receive a £5 dis all tickets.
The Team to Beat!
Last year's TOTB team winners - MLR - have just announced their competitors, whose intentions are to retain the team crown. Team Manager - Nigel Wilson has cherry-picked ten of the finest-tuned Evos available from the Register. Keeping their places in the team from last year are Paul Martin (Evo 6), Simon Norris (Evo 9) and Jason Hulbert (Evo 4). Some additions to the squad include: Robin Duxbury (Evo 8), Mat Goode (Evo 6) and Gary Hayward and his AP Tuning Evo 7, featured in last month's issue of Japanese Performance. In fact most of these drivers and their cars have been featured in our magazine over the past year, so if you enjoyed reading those articles and want to see the cars in action, then you won't get a better opportunity!
Well for starters we have expanded the event by opening up the iconic Elvington Airfield on Saturday 7th August. A limited number of you have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of greats such as Rocket Ronnie, Simon Norris and Olly Clark and pit your wits on the PPG ¼ Mile Drag Strip and Millers Oils Handling Circuit. So, basically, Saturday is the TOTB Boot Camp for new TOTB attendees. This is where the newcomers can gain the TOTB experience and is designed to bring on the next generation of TOTB competitors. Alternatively, perhaps you just missed out on your club's team selection! So, there are SIXTY entries available to Saturday's event. The track will also be available to Sunday's competitors for mapping and shakedown runs but times will not count for the Sunday.
Hi-de-Hi Campers! The birth of the Saturday event enables the organisers - Straightliners to allow you, the avid followers of TOTB to camp on site. Tickets can be purchased directly from the Japanese Performance website. You will pay only £35 for a weekend ticket including camping, so we guess that means that the wet wipes will be needed! For those camping, evening entertainment is being laid on by Straightliners, including a bar and food stands open until late. Trevor Duckworth from Straightliners says “The current entertainment package will include a live band, comedians and plenty of audience participation on stage. We are trying to bring a new feel to the event which will continue to grow over the next five years” Keep an eye out on www.totb.co.uk for any future developments. To buy your camping and weekend ticket visit www.japaneseperformancemagazine.co.uk
As previously announced in Japanese Performance, TWO LUCKY DRIVERS from the Saturday will gain entry to Sunday's main event. The driver who is fastest around the Millers Oils Handling Circuit and the driver quickest down the PPG 1/4 Mile Drag Strip will gain 'golden ticket' entry into Sunday's main event. At time of going to press, there are now just twenty entries still available for Saturday's event, so don't delay, register and pay at www.totb.co.uk
040JAP111
23/3/10
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We are pleased to offer all Subaru Impreza Drivers’ Club Members a 10% discount off labour and all stock parts and accessories
SIMPSONS OF SWINDON
Highworth, Swindon, Wiltshire SN6 7DE Tel: 01793 762234 www.simply-subaru.co.uk
Authorised Dealer
rs baru deale national su
MEMBER DISCOUNTS The following Subaru dealers offer discount to Members on the production of a valid Membership card. Always confirm the level of discount on parts, (some Prodrive parts may not be discounted at all dealers) labour or accessories with the dealer prior to work commencing, or ordering parts.
A F Noble & Son Penicuik 01968 678002 Adams Brothers Ltd Aylesbury 01296 434343 Aird Motors* Invernesshire 01463 782266 AMC (Chelmsford) Ltd Essex 01245 235030 Ashburton Motor Works Ltd Ashburton 01364 652302 Barry Curran Ltd Isle Of Man 01624 817050 Beechdale Derby Derby 01332 372555 Bell & Colvill (Horsley) Ltd West Horsley 01483 281000 Bramley Kensington* London 0208 838 3113 Bramley Kensington (Sales) Kensington 0207 937 8487 Bulldog Twyford Twyford 0118 932 1331 Carstins Ltd Coventry 01676 533145 Chandlers Grantham Grantham 01476 590077 Chandlers Horncastle* Horncastle 01507 527211 Cheam Motors (Ewell) Ltd Ewell 0208 394 2266 Christopher Neil Cheshire 01606 41481 Concept* Birmingham 0121 313 6100 Conders Subaru Cambridgeshire 01733 893704 Constitution Motors Ltd Norwich 01603 411111 Cotswolds* Witney 01993 776622 Cross Roads Garage (Tredington) Ltd Shipston-on-Stour 01608 661544 Culverwell Cars Robertsbridge 01580 880567 Cutlers Of Streetly* West Midlands 01 922 472250 Cvc (Cardiff) Cardiff 02920 222100 Davies Motors (Cardigan) Cardigan 01239 621222 Dennis Common Morpeth 01665 570542 Desmond Eastwood Motors Ltd Lisburn 02892 621293 Dicksons Of Inverness* Inverness 01463 712800 Donnelly Belfast 02890 375000 Eaglesham Garage Ltd* Eaglesham 01355 302685 Emg Bury St Edmunds Suffolk 01284 775900 Emg Spalding Spalding 01775 767651 Evans Halshaw Newcastle-upon-Tyne 0191 266 4055 F R Pulleyn Wigginton Garage Ltd* York 01904 690742 Fiskens Of Forfar Forfar 01307 462980 G C Stanbury & Son* Dulverton 01398 323545 Gatwick Crawley 01293 429800 Gilesgate Ltd Hexham 01434 605825 Gmd Car Sales Durham 01913 840070 Greenwood Manchester 0161 301 5000 H Robinson & Sons (Rochdale) Ltd Rochdale 01706 716655 Haddocks Colchester 01206 230331
Halleys Garage Ltd Milngavie 0141 956 1126 Heritage (Leicester) Ltd Leicester 0116 283 1052 Holdcroft (Staffordshire) Newcastle-under-Lyme 01782 617321 Hylton Of Shrewsbury Shrewsbury 01743 450 450 Hylton Of Worcester Worcester 01905 748414 Ian Grieve Falkirk 01324 605100 J N Royle & Son Ltd (Parts Only) Oswestry 01691 610216 James Haugh (Dumfries) Ltd Dumfrieshire 01387 255291 Jennings Middlesbrough 01642 209100 John Grose Suffolk 01394 383456 John R Weir Ltd Perth 01738 477700 Jordans* Hull 01482 222500 K T Green Ltd Nr Leeds 0113 284 3535 Keith Price Garages Ltd Abergavenny 01873 811555 Kendal Motor Village LA9 6DU 01539 736666 Kenneth Melville (Errol) Ltd* Errol 01821 670242 Le Mont Saint Garage Ltd 01481 264811 Lifestyle Tunbridge Wells 01892 510005 Listers Of Worcester* Worcester 01905 640512 Lucas Of Mansfield Ltd Mansfield 01623 624244 M & R Gair Shetland 01595 693246 Mantle’s (Trefeglwys) Ltd* Caersws 01686 430202 Marlborough Isleworth Motors Ltd* Isleworth 0208 568 1414 Maugers Garage Ltd Channel Islands 01534 861388 Mckeary Motors* Coleraine 02870 351081 Mkg 3000 Middlesex 0208 894 7504 Monks Heath Motors Ltd Macclesfield 01625 861544 Monty’s Of Sheffield Sheffield 0114 221 4333 Oaken Garage Wolverhampton 01902 844441 Pewsham Garage Wiltshire 01249 654429 Prosport Ltd* Stockport 0161 432 9999 Proven Motor Company Ltd Haslemere 01428 652554 Quenby Bros Ltd Baldock 01462 499930 R N Golden Ltd Huddersfield 01484 608060 Research Garage Group Ltd Nuneaton 02476 377170 Robert Bowett Motoring Leeds 0113 277 6099 S & S Services Heathfield 01292 880080 S G Petch (Richmond) Richmond 01748 825757 Sgt Select Maidenhead 01628 605353 Showells (Garages) Ltd Nr Stourbridge 01384 422488 Simpsons Of Swindon Swindon 01793 762234
Slip End Garage Ltd Bedfordshire 01582 456888 Soul Garages Limited Buckinghamshire 01234 244300 Sparshatts Of Botley Ltd Southampton 01489 785111 St Leger Doncaster 01302 571420 Stan Palmer Ltd Carlisle 01228 525051 T H White Ltd Cirencester 01285 653354 Threeways Garage Ltd Clwyd 01745 825847 Tiley Bristol Ltd Bristol 0117 923 1231 Town & County Motors Ltd Aberdeen 01224 874333 Triangle Of Chesterfield Ltd Chesterfield 01246 454545 Vale Motors Wincanton 01963 34034 Vospers Exeter Exeter 01392 203800 Vospers Of Truro Ltd Truro 01872 226226 Walldonway Ltd Larkfield 01732 870386 Webbers Hampshire 01256 300653 Welch Group Garages Ltd Cambridge 01223 843015 Westaway Motors Ltd Spratton 01604 847245 Williams Lancing 01903 753535 Willoughby Group Nottingham 0115 925 8282 *(Authorised Repairer Only)
A large number of specialist suppliers also offer discounts to Members on the production of a valid Membership card. These include The AA, Black Circles, Scoobyworld and many, many more. Check out the Membership /Club Enquiries section of the forums for a complete list.
True Grip 45
Laura
Laura. Adrian Flux Renewals Technician.
I’m as passionate about Imprezas as you are, which is why I think you’ll love our insurance deals. Adrian Flux Insurance Services has been built around the enthusiast markets. We have specialist teams dealing with your request, providing you with a tailor-made policy based on your own personal requirements and driving history. This means that when you ring us, we’ll always endeavour to find you the best possible rate available. So please call us today for a free, no obligation quote for your Impreza.
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