Vauxhalls last year in BTCC??????

[Sim_Da_BTCC_Man]

I've just been reading Auto Express online, and the Astra is due to be replaced in 2004! We already know the new Vectra is not suitable for the BTCC and the new astra doesn't look suitable either. :( Does this mean that this will be vauxhalls last year in the BTCC? does anyone know anything about this?

[Les]

I heard this at the end of last season that this would be the last (which is a ruddy shame)

[John]

I saw that on the website as well. The new Astra does look different to the current one but in what way is it unsuitable for the BTCC. Presumably it must be fairly similar size wise to the current one because the Corsa accounts for the needs of those who want a small car and the Vectra for those who want a big car.

Is it not a similar thing to the difference between the 306 and 307?

However, Vauxhall have been in the championship for a long time now and they may wish to bow out while they are seen as the dominent manufacturer and are reigning champions (as Ford did).

I hope they stay - but we'll have to see I guess

[Sim_Da_BTCC_Man]

I THINK the dimentions of that car are not suitable. I'm not sure. The engine sizes are regulation as far as I can see. I don't picture that as a BTCC car for some reason.

[Alan]

Yes there is a new Astra in 2004 - but not suitable for BTCC?

Some good pics in Autocar today and the words very much contradict the idea of not being suitable - a 240-250hp GSi version for example is suggested. Three door is 200mm lower than a Ford Focus.
Only possible downside is they speak of a torsion beam rear axle rather than an independant rear set up. Not sure but I think this could be a step backwards.

However - Vauxhall have been around in the BTCC for a long time, so maybe they will give this a rest for a year or two, which will be a pity.

[thommo_fan]

i've just read the article and i also can't see any reason why it would be unsuitable for the btcc.
in fact i think it would look awsome in the btcc, it does look a bit smaller then the current astra but still looks bigger then the honda civic.

unfortunately i think vauxhall will leave the btcc after this year whatever, if it hadn't been vauxhall's 100th birthday this year i think they would have quit the btcc at the end of last year.

but please stay for a couple more years at least vauxhall.

[Reynard]

Hmmm... The BTCC without Vauxhall would be hard to contemplate as they've been a fixture since 1989 when they ran a Class C Astra for John Cleland. Up until John retired, the two had been synonymous with each other and the BTCC. It would be like a house without the furniture with BOTH of them gone.

But I agree with Alan that the new powertrain specs for the Astra are potentially a step backwards in terms of technology - though not necessarily for general ROAD use.

Perhaps that is the reasoning behind the potential decision to not build a race car for 2004, especially if it doesn't lend itself for race set up and/or does not fully comply with the basic specifications demanded by TOCA.

[mark]

I always had the worry that this would inevitably come some time, looks like it could just be around the corner. I wouldn't say I'm surprised, Vaux certainly have held the spotlight for the last couple of years and to go out on a high as remaining champs would be good, but can't help but hope that they do stay on, or announce that they'll return after a break.

As for the new Astra not being suitable, we'll just have to wait and see, I've only just heard about it myself. It's due to be launched in a couple of weeks. I'm pretty sure that theres a Coupe planned again but in a few years I would imagine!

It's just a shame that we are in this situation where manufacturers are owned by others, therefore eliminating competition (why?) and that interest to race seems to be less so than 5/10 years ago prob due to economic climate and trying to cut costs etc etc.

Fingers crossed, they do carry on, as I for one won't be so interested in the BTCC if Vauxahll aren't competing. :(

[John]

If Vauxhall do pull out there should still be some privateer Astras about for a couple of years (eg with Nissan in 2000). Hopefully Vauxhall will then decide to return and all will be well!! :)

Also maybe this will attract new manufacturers who previously did not want to look 'outclassed' by the Astra domination.

Or am I just in an over optermistic mood today?!? ;)

[Amanda]

I heard that this was to be Vauxhall's last year in the BTCC but hope it is just a rumour! When Jimmy T wins back to back titles they might decide to stay!!!!! :D

[Mocko]

Originally posted by Sim_Da_BTCC_Man
We already know the new Vectra is not suitable for the BTCC

Why the hell not?!?

[Sim_Da_BTCC_Man]

Originally posted by Mocko
Why the hell not?!?

To big unfortunatly. :( We've had this debate before about wether it was in regulation.

[speedy king]

Originally posted by Amanda
I heard that this was to be Vauxhall's last year in the BTCC but hope it is just a rumour! When Jimmy T wins back to back titles they might decide to stay!!!!! :D

Too true!!!

[Ann]

I did hear something about this but hoped it wasn't true. Vauxhall may be winning everything in sight recently but we certainly wouldn't want to lose them.

[The Stig]

Don't necessarily think losing Vauxhall will sound the death knell for the BTCC, as long as the field sizes stay healthy. New participants may well take part if they aren't going to be blown away by dominant teams like Vauxhall. Some might consider it a valuable marketing option. Teams like Honda and MG will be thrilled by their success, which surely must convert into sales. For some forward thinking manufacturers, perhaps it is a question of timing, if or when to go racing Tourers.

[cav1995]

I've been wondering what Vauxhall wounld use in 2004 now for ages but never contemplated the idea of Vauxhall pulling out. That would be such a loss! Where does the rumour originate from?

[AussieV8]

Someone at Honda................ :D :p :cool: :rolleyes:

[cav1995]

Good Answer!

[Peter]

I am not worried about Vauxhall's situation for 2004. I have not read any articles or rumours, which imply that Vauxhall intend to leave.

Manufacturers enter a series to promote their product. Vauxhall is a brand which only exists in Britain. Thus I cannot think of a series more suitable for them than the premier nation racing series.

If the worst happens, Vauxhall will still be more than well represented with independents. There is also no doubt that there are a number of new manufacturers, looking to join for 2004- Ford and Seat spring to mind.

[AussieV8]

The sales are down here on the Vectra and so much for gettin a new one. Your Corsa is our Barina and I would have to agreed its a wee small for BTCC. :D