Australian Production Championships

The Australian Production Car Championship: Your Ultimate Guide

The Australian Production Car Championship (APC) is one of the premier motorsport events in Australia, offering drivers the chance to compete at a national level. With roots dating back to 1987, the APC has become a key fixture in the Australian racing calendar, known for its competitive spirit and diverse classes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history, structure, and requirements of the APC, and how RaceAway Track Time’s Arrive 'n' Drive package can get you on the grid.

RaceAway Track Time Mazda SP25 at Australian Production Cars Phillip Island

A Brief History of the Australian Production Car Championship

The APC was first contested in 1987, making it one of the longest-standing production car racing championships in Australia. Originally, the championship was determined by the results of two races at Winton Motor Raceway in Victoria. Over the years, the APCC has evolved, undergoing various rebrandings and format changes, including its stint as the Australian GT Production Car Championship.

In 2003, the championship reverted to its original name, and from 2008 to 2015, it was awarded under the Australian Manufacturers' Championship. Since 2016, it has been known as the Australian Production Car Series, continuing to draw significant interest from drivers and teams across the country.

The Structure of the APCC

The APCC is a national-level racing series sanctioned by Motorsport Australia, serving as a precursor to the Bathurst 6 Hour, one of Australia’s most challenging endurance races. The 2024 season includes six rounds, each offering unique challenges across some of the country’s most iconic tracks.

2024 APC Schedule

• Round 1: Sandown Raceway (February 9-11) - 4x 30-minute races

• Round 2: The Bend Motorsport Park (May 31-June 2) - 4x 1-hour races

• Round 3: Queensland Raceway (July 12-14) - 1x 3-hour "Fight in the Night"

• Round 4: Phillip Island (August 23-25) - 4x 1-hour races

• Round 5: Sydney Motorsport Park (October 18-20) - 4x 1-hour races

• Round 6: Bathurst International (November 8-10) - 4x 30-minute sprints

Each round features a mix of sprint and endurance races, testing the speed, strategy, and stamina of both drivers and cars. The Bathurst International is particularly notable, pushing competitors to their limits on the legendary Mount Panorama circuit.

Classes in the APC

The APCC features a wide range of production cars, categorised into several classes based on performance characteristics. This class structure ensures that cars of similar capabilities compete against each other, creating fair and exciting racing.

APC Classes

• Class X - Ultimate Performance: The top tier for the most powerful and advanced cars.

• Class A1 - Extreme Performance Forced Induction: High-performance cars with turbocharged engines.

• Class A2 - Extreme Performance Naturally Aspirated: High-performance cars with naturally aspirated engines.

• Class B1 - High Performance Forced Induction: Slightly less powerful turbocharged cars compared to Class A1.

• Class B2 - High Performance Naturally Aspirated: Naturally aspirated cars that offer strong performance.

• Class C - Performance: Mid-range performance cars.

• Class D - Production: Standard production cars with minimal modifications.

• Class E - Compact: Smaller, less powerful production cars.

These classes allow for a diverse field, with cars of all types able to compete within their performance bracket.

DOWNLOAD AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTION CARS TECHNICAL REGULATIONS

Licensing and Competitor Eligibility

To compete in the APC, drivers and teams must meet specific licensing and eligibility requirements as set by Motorsport Australia.

Licensing Requirements

• Minimum Age: Drivers must be at least 16 years old for cars with a weight/power ratio of less than 5.0 kg/kW, and 15 years old for cars with a weight/power ratio of more than 5.0 kg/kW.

• Driver License: A Motorsport Australia Circuit Licence with Provisional endorsement is required for cars with a weight/power ratio of more than 3.5 kg/kW. For more powerful cars, a Motorsport Australia Circuit Licence without Provisional endorsement is necessary.

• Mount Panorama: Competing at Mount Panorama (Bathurst) and Phillip Island requires a Motorsport Australia Circuit Licence without Provisional endorsement or higher.

Vehicle Eligibility

• Group 3E - Series Production Car Regulations: DOWNLOAD HERE

• Closed or Hardtop Automobiles

• Eligible Automobiles: Cars must appear on the List of Eligible Automobiles published by Motorsport Australia. Any cars not on this list can be considered upon application.

RaceAway Track Time Class E car Mazda SP25 at APC Phillip Island

Points and Awards

The APC uses a points system that rewards consistency and performance throughout the season.

Points System

• Outright Points: Drivers are awarded points based on their finishing position in each race, excluding Class I.

• Class Points: Points are also awarded based on a driver's performance relative to others in their class.

To be eligible for a series championship, drivers must compete in at least three rounds, including the final round. The series also includes awards such as the Sprint Cup and Enduro Cup, recognising performance in sprint and endurance races, respectively.

Tyre Regulations

Tyres are a crucial component of performance, and the APC has strict regulations governing their use.

Approved Tyres:

• Brands: Yokohama, Hankook, Michelin, and Nankang.

• Compounds: Only medium compounds are permitted, ensuring durability and consistent performance across the races.

• Usage: A maximum of 12 tyres per round, with one set required to be new.

These tyre regulations are designed to maintain parity and ensure that driver skill and car setup play the primary roles in determining race outcomes.

RaceAway’s Arrive 'n' Drive Package

For those looking to compete in the APC without the hassle of owning and preparing a car, RaceAway Track Time offers an Arrive 'n' Drive package. This package is ideal for drivers who want a turnkey solution to participate in this prestigious series.

Arrive 'n' Drive Package Inclusions

• Race Car Hire: Fully prepared and race-ready cars that meet the APC's stringent regulations.

• Support Team/Pit Crew: Professional assistance throughout the race weekend, ensuring that your car is in peak condition.

• Comprehensive Spares Package: We provide all the necessary spares to keep your car running smoothly.

• Dorian Hire and Post-Race Footage: Analyze your performance and improve your driving skills with detailed data and video footage.

• Event Catering: Enjoy meals and refreshments throughout the race weekend.

• Coaching by Phil Alexander: Benefit from the experience of a seasoned racing professional.

Our Mazda SP25, which recently secured a 2nd place finish in the Bathurst 6 Hour, is one of the cars available through this package. With its FIA-approved roll cage, 2.5L engine, and Motorsport Australia log book, this car is a proven contender in the APC.

RaceAway’s Pit Crew at Mount Panorama Arrive ‘n’ Drive

Why Choose the APC?

The Australian Production Car Championship is more than just a racing series; it's a stepping stone to higher levels of motorsport. Here’s why you should consider participating:

National-Level Competition

The APC offers the chance to compete at some of Australia’s most prestigious tracks, including Sandown Raceway, The Bend, and Mount Panorama. This national exposure is invaluable for drivers looking to make a name for themselves in motorsport.

Diverse Classes

With multiple classes based on car performance, the APC provides opportunities for a wide range of vehicles and driver skill levels. Whether you’re piloting a compact car or a high-performance machine, there’s a place for you in the APC.

Pathway to Endurance Racing

The APCC serves as a precursor to the Bathurst 6 Hour, one of the toughest endurance races in Australia. Success in the APC can pave the way for future participation in this iconic event.

Conclusion

The Australian Production Car Championship is a cornerstone of Australian motorsport, offering drivers the opportunity to compete at a national level in a variety of production cars. With its rich history, diverse classes, and challenging race formats, the APC provides a comprehensive and competitive racing experience.

RaceAway Track Time’s Arrive 'n' Drive package offers a seamless entry into this prestigious series, allowing you to focus on what matters most—racing. Whether you’re an experienced driver or new to the scene, the APC is an opportunity to test your skills, gain national exposure, and potentially pave the way to racing success.

For more information and to book your Arrive 'n' Drive package, enquire now ⤵️

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