This wasn't really a test, not for us anyway, We were invited to attend by Auto express who have been planning a feature in the History of the BTCC. Given our lack of funding and sponsorship, when someone says free day out with race car, on track, I didn't take long to say yes. Our Brief was that Matt Neal, currently leading this seasons BTCC championship, would be in attendance to drive a selection of Historic BTCC cars, ours being the oldest and smallest of the four which also included a Ford Capri, BMW M3 and a Rover SD1.

Following a short session in each car he would offer his opinion, and explain how the cars compare.

I think its fair to say that todays cars are a far cry form what most people drive on the roads, and at certain points in history the formula has gone from near standard to wildly exotic, and back again. Whilst our car is closing in on double its factory power output, it is basically built as it Left Dagenham.

No one else has ever driven my car before, so I was sincerely hoping I didnt get the keys thrown back at me after 1 lap, equally I've always wanted some feedback from another driver to find out if I'm doing things half right. After a quick explanation of the quirks of 40 year old saloon racer Matt set off for his test. Initial feedback was predictable, vague steering and slipwell nevergrip tyres, but as you'd expect from a professional, nothing to worry about once you know what you've got to deal with. There was a smile there too, so it can't have been too painful an experience.

We all had a good morning, I got half an hours free testing, which was useful having not been to Mallory before, and I think Matt quite enjoyed the change of seat, whether he could be persuaded to take a seat for a real race remains to be seen, but at least, being of a similar height he fits in the car . . . . . .Goodwood 2007 St Marys Trophy perhaps.

Thanks to Matt for his experience and advice, and to the BTCC press office for organising everything, historics should support the real thing more often, its what people want to see in my opinion, not that I'm biased !

And I can't round off without saying hello to Peter Mallet who also happened to be spending quality time on track now he's home at last !

 

 

 

If you would like more information about the team, please email us at
Info@Throbnozzle-Racing.co.uk
Thanks.