30 Jetta Diesels + 30 Amateur Drivers = SCCA’s Jetta TDI Cup
By Calvin Lewis
If diesels and racing don’t sound like a potent mix to you, you probably haven’t heard about Audi’s torque-monster R10. Now the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) is bringing diesel racing to the masses, accepting applications for their new Jetta TDI Cup.
The ‘Cup is a single-marque race-series featuring the up to 30 cars on track simultaneously — all race-prepped 2008 Jetta TDIs . Delivering only 170 HP – but nearly 300 ft-lbs of torque — these VW’s 2.0 liter clean diesel engines should make for some clean, green, tight racing action.
The series Jettas will also feature an FIA approved roll cage, 18″ x 8″ aluminum wheels, fully-independent racing suspension, ABS racing brakes, and VW’s sweet paddle-shift DSG transmissions. Drivers range in age from 16 to 26, and the SCCA is discouraging drivers holding a professional racing license beyond karting level from participation in order to encourage new comers and amateurs.
Winning drivers will snag a $1,500 prize, and the series point leader will pull down a cool $100,000 at the end of the season. Even better, if the points leader lands a professional contract within six months after the series end, VW will slip him (or her!) an additional $250,000.
The race venues aren’t yet available, but we do know drivers will have to pony up their own room and board. And if you’re considering filling out an application, you’ll have to cough up $35,000 for the season, plus you’ll need a valid passport and driver’s license. All applications must be received by February 1, 2008 and must include a video submission. (Think “…when drivers stop being polite and start getting real!”) So, if you feel like you’re up to the challenge, click the link below to sign up. (It’s a flash site, so click on the “road” icon at the bottom right of the VW Racing intro screen.)
Or, just sit back on the couch like us and start watching the TiVo guide for some awesome amateurs bashing it out in diesel VWs.
VW Racing [Volkswagen]
