Tuesday 20th January 2004

WRC Peugeot

French choose 307CC for their next rally jaunt

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Peugeot’s new WRC contender will compete for the first time shortly in the gruelling Monte Carlo Rally. This year, Peugeot’s two-time World Champion, Marcus Gronholm, will be joined by exciting Belgian driver ‘fast Freddy’ Loix.

The new car – based on the 307 CC – will replace the successful 206 WRC that has dominated the scene for so long. It uses an all-aluminium 2.0-litre engine that develops up to 300 bhp at 5,250 rpm with 390 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.

Peugeot Sport’s Technical Director, Michel Nandan says of the Monte Carlo Rally:

"However happy we may be with the way testing went over the winter, we are conscious that the 307 WRC is only at the beginning of its career and nothing can replace actual competition. That doesn't mean we will be in Monte Carlo just to make up the numbers though; Peugeot has its sights set on the world title at the end of the year and our drivers will be out to give it everything they've got. We'll see how it goes… "

[Venom]

Should be interesting to see how it goes. Looks like it's got a much longer wheelbase compared to the 206 WRC so I'd guess that'll cause them to have to approach a lot of the handling issues differently.

When is the Monte? I'm being lazy and can't remember but I think it's the end of next week, is that right?

[Venom]

Madmini said:

It's this weekend Fri Sat Sun Andy

Sweet, I wasn't sure whether it was this weekend or next. Haven't spotted the new slot listing for ITV yet but can't wait. This season is going to seem very od without Burns and McRae though. And Hollywood starting as defending champ?!!